<p>Plans are underway for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Maldives next month. This will be PM Modi's first visit to the Maldives since the Muizzu government took charge in November 2023 and comes as both countries celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties. During the visit, focus is expected to be on the inauguration of India-supported projects in the country with a focus on wider stability of the Indian Ocean region – where both countries have been working with each other under initiatives like the Colombo Security Conclave.</p><p>The visit is seen against the backdrop of an upswing in ties after a period of stress in the ties in the aftermath of derogatory remarks by Maldivian ministers on the Indian prime minister. Last year, President Muizzu visited India, a visit that saw a ₹3,000 crore currency swap deal to support the Maldives' economic recovery.</p><p>India has been a key economic and infrastructure partner for the Maldives. It has been supporting the mega Greater Male Connectivity Project, the biggest infrastructure project of the country that aims to connect Male to Villingili, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi islands through a series of bridges, causeways, and roads. The project is crucial for the proposed Gulhifalhu Port and will be a major catalyst for the Maldivian economy in the future through jobs and economic activity. It is funded through a separate USD 400 million Line of Credit (LOC) and USD 100 million grant from India.</p><p>The last visit of PM Modi to the Maldives was in 2019. In fact, the Maldives, along with Sri Lanka, were part of his first overseas visit after taking the oath of office for his second term that year. During that visit, he addressed a session of the newly constituted People’s Majlis, and MoUs were signed in the field of hydrography, health, and the establishment of passenger-cum-cargo service by sea. PM also announced support for the restoration of Hukuru Miskiiy (Friday Mosque) in Malé.</p><p>India has been the first responder for the country, from the 2004 tsunami to the recent COVID-19 crisis. Delhi also provides the largest number of training for the Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF), meeting around 70 per cent of their defence training requirements. All in all, the Indian government has trained over 1500 MNDF trainees over the past 10 years.</p>

During the visit, focus is expected to be on the inauguration of India-supported projects in the country with a focus on wider stability of the Indian Ocean region – where both countries have been working with each other under initiatives like the Colombo Security Conclave.

Plans are underway for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Maldives next month. This will be PM Modi's first visit to the Maldives since the Muizzu government took charge in November 2023 and comes as both countries celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties. During the visit, focus is expected to be on the inauguration of India-supported projects in the country with a focus on wider stability of the Indian Ocean region – where both countries have been working with each other under initiatives like the Colombo Security Conclave. The visit is seen against the backdrop of an upswing in ties after a period of stress in the ties in the aftermath of derogatory remarks by Maldivian ministers on the Indian prime minister. Last year, President Muizzu visited India, a visit that saw a ₹3,000 crore currency swap deal to support the Maldives' economic recovery. India has been a key economic and infrastructure partner for the Maldives. It has been supporting the mega Greater Male Connectivity Project, the biggest infrastructure project of the country that aims to connect Male to Villingili, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi islands through a series of bridges, causeways, and roads. The project is crucial for the proposed Gulhifalhu Port and will be a major catalyst for the Maldivian economy in the future through jobs and economic activity. It is funded through a separate USD 400 million Line of Credit (LOC) and USD 100 million grant from India. The last visit of PM Modi to the Maldives was in 2019. In fact, the Maldives, along with Sri Lanka, were part of his first overseas visit after taking the oath of office for his second term that year. During that visit, he addressed a session of the newly constituted People’s Majlis, and MoUs were signed in the field of hydrography, health, and the establishment of passenger-cum-cargo service by sea. PM also announced support for the restoration of Hukuru Miskiiy (Friday Mosque) in Malé. India has been the first responder for the country, from the 2004 tsunami to the recent COVID-19 crisis. Delhi also provides the largest number of training for the Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF), meeting around 70 per cent of their defence training requirements. All in all, the Indian government has trained over 1500 MNDF trainees over the past 10 years.

<p>During the visit, focus is expected to be on the inauguration of India-supported projects in the country with a focus on wider stability of the Indian Ocean region – where both countries have been working with each other under initiatives like the Colombo Security Conclave.</p>

Indian PM Narendra Modi to travel to Maldives in July

<p>Sharmishta Panoli, a Social media influencer was arrested by the Kolkata police from Gurugram in Haryana on Friday (May 30) night. The arrest was made for allegedly uploading a video on social media that had communal overtones.</p><p><br>In the video that went viral, Panoli allegedly made communal remarks while accusing Bollywood actors of remaining silent on Operation Sindoor. According to the police, her video “derogatory and disrespectful" in nature was aimed at a particular religious community.</p><p><br>Geert Wilders, a member of the Dutch Parliament and the leader of the right-wing Party for Freedom, has said the influencer's arrest is a "disgrace for freedom of speech" and has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure she is freed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Free the brave Sharmishta Panoli! It's a disgrace for the freedom of speech that she was arrested. Don't punish her for speaking the truth about Pakistan and Muhammad. Help her @narendramodi," Wilders said in a post on X. The photo with the post read, “All eyes on Sharmistha.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Free the brave Sharmishta Panoli!<br><br>It’s a disgrace for the freedom of speech that she was arrested. <br><br>Don’t punish her for speaking the truth about Pakistan and Muhammad. <br><br>Help her <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/AmyMek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmyMek</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sharmishta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sharmishta</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IStandwithSharmishta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IStandwithSharmishta</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReleaseSharmistha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReleaseSharmistha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeSharmishta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeSharmishta</a> <a href="https://t.co/YhGSLhuyr2">pic.twitter.com/YhGSLhuyr2</a></p>&mdash; Geert Wilders (@geertwilderspvv) <a href="https://twitter.com/geertwilderspvv/status/1928899909043765424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Who is Sharmishta Panoli?</strong></p><p>Sharmishtha Panoli is 22 years of age and studies law at the Pune Law University. She has been active on social media for a while and has a strong following on her Instagram. Her public Instagram handle has over 93k followers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On 14 May 2025, she posted a video in response to a Pakistani social media user questioning India's position on the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people based on their religion.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In the clip, that went viral Panoli criticised Bollywood celebrities for remaining silent on Operation Sindoor that India carried out against terror camps in Pakistan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After facing backlash Panoli deleted the video and wrote, “I do hereby tender my UNCONDITIONAL APOLOGY. Whatever was put are my personal feelings and I never intentionally wanted to hurt anybody. So anybody is hurt, I'm sorry… Henceforth, I will be cautious in my public posts.”</p>

Dutch MP Geert Wilders condemns arrest of Indian influencer Sharmistha Panoli, urges PM Modi to ensure she is freed

Sharmishta Panoli, a Social media influencer was arrested by the Kolkata police from Gurugram in Haryana on Friday (May 30) night. The arrest was made for allegedly uploading a video on social media that had communal overtones. In the video that went viral, Panoli allegedly made communal remarks while accusing Bollywood actors of remaining silent on Operation Sindoor. According to the police, her video “derogatory and disrespectful" in nature was aimed at a particular religious community. Geert Wilders, a member of the Dutch Parliament and the leader of the right-wing Party for Freedom, has said the influencer's arrest is a "disgrace for freedom of speech" and has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure she is freed. "Free the brave Sharmishta Panoli! It's a disgrace for the freedom of speech that she was arrested. Don't punish her for speaking the truth about Pakistan and Muhammad. Help her @narendramodi," Wilders said in a post on X. The photo with the post read, “All eyes on Sharmistha.”

<p>In the video that went viral, Panoli allegedly made communal remarks while accusing Bollywood actors of remaining silent on Operation Sindoor</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (May 29) said that what happened to tourists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam was an attack on "humanity" and "brotherhood".</p><h2><strong>India's befitting reply to terrorism</strong></h2><p>Addressing the "Sikkim@50: Where Progress Meets Purpose and Nature Nurtures Growth" programme from Bagdogra in West Bengal through videoconference, the Indian PM said that the nation has given those responsible for the attack a befitting reply.</p><p>Describing tourism as a celebration of diversity, Modi said, "All you people of Sikkim understand the power of tourism well. Tourism is not just about entertainment but also a celebration of diversity."</p><p>"But what terrorists did in Pahalgam wasn't just an attack on India but on humanity and brotherhood," he stated.</p><p>"The terrorist snatched away the happiness of many families in India. They also conspired to divide India. But the whole world is seeing how India is more united than ever… We unitedly gave the terrorists a fitting reply through Operation Sindoor."</p><p>The Indian PM also said that India's befitting answer to the terror attack "exposed Pakistan".</p><p>"After we destroyed their terrorist hubs, Pakistan, in a fit of rage, attacked our civilians and army. This exposed Pakistan. By destroying many of their airbases, we showed them how precisely and swiftly India can act," said Prime Minister Modi.</p><h2><strong>Time for Sikkim to become an international tourist destination&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>Praising the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, PM Modi said that “in the last 50 years, Sikkim has become a model of nature and progress. In these 50 years, such stars have emerged from Sikkim who have illuminated India's sky.”</p><p>"The time has come for Sikkim to become a global tourist destination... Sikkim also has a vast potential for adventure and sports tourism... Our dream is to make Sikkim a hub of conferences, wellness, and concert tourism... I want the world's biggest artists to perform in the valleys of Gangtok. We conducted G20 meetings in Sikkim so the world could understand the state's potential," he added.</p>

Addressing the "Sikkim@50: Where Progress Meets Purpose and Nature Nurtures Growth" programme from Bagdogra in West Bengal through videoconference, the Indian PM said that the nation has given those responsible for the attack a befitting reply.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (May 29) said that what happened to tourists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam was an attack on "humanity" and "brotherhood". India's befitting reply to terrorism Addressing the "Sikkim@50: Where Progress Meets Purpose and Nature Nurtures Growth" programme from Bagdogra in West Bengal through videoconference, the Indian PM said that the nation has given those responsible for the attack a befitting reply. Describing tourism as a celebration of diversity, Modi said, "All you people of Sikkim understand the power of tourism well. Tourism is not just about entertainment but also a celebration of diversity." "But what terrorists did in Pahalgam wasn't just an attack on India but on humanity and brotherhood," he stated. "The terrorist snatched away the happiness of many families in India. They also conspired to divide India. But the whole world is seeing how India is more united than ever… We unitedly gave the terrorists a fitting reply through Operation Sindoor." The Indian PM also said that India's befitting answer to the terror attack "exposed Pakistan". "After we destroyed their terrorist hubs, Pakistan, in a fit of rage, attacked our civilians and army. This exposed Pakistan. By destroying many of their airbases, we showed them how precisely and swiftly India can act," said Prime Minister Modi. Time for Sikkim to become an international tourist destination Praising the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, PM Modi said that “in the last 50 years, Sikkim has become a model of nature and progress. In these 50 years, such stars have emerged from Sikkim who have illuminated India's sky.” "The time has come for Sikkim to become a global tourist destination... Sikkim also has a vast potential for adventure and sports tourism... Our dream is to make Sikkim a hub of conferences, wellness, and concert tourism... I want the world's biggest artists to perform in the valleys of Gangtok. We conducted G20 meetings in Sikkim so the world could understand the state's potential," he added.

<p>Addressing the "Sikkim@50: Where Progress Meets Purpose and Nature Nurtures Growth" programme from Bagdogra in West Bengal through videoconference, the Indian PM said that the nation has given those responsible for the attack a befitting reply.</p>

Pahalgam terror attack an assault on 'humanity' and 'brotherhood': PM Modi during Sikkim@50 programme

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while gathering a pool of people in Gujarat on Tuesday (May 27), said that terrorists in Kashmir should have been dealt with in 1947 itself if Congress had considered the advice of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Indian PM blamed the 1947 partition for the attack in Pahalgam on April 22 in which 26 people were killed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“When the Partition happened in 1947, the chains should have been cut at that time, but instead, the country was divided into three parts. Soon after, the first terrorist attack was reported in Kashmir, and Pakistan occupied one part of Kashmir," PM Modi said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“If we had killed these Mujahideens; if we had listened to Sardar Patel, he wanted the Army not to stop until we get back PoK,” Modi said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What was Sardar Patel's advice?</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, first Deputy Prime Minister and home minister of India, had argued in 1947 that the Indian Army should not cease its military actions until India reclaims Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). But, PM Modi said, Patel’s “counsel was ultimately disregarded".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"In 1947, when Mother India was partitioned into three parts... that very night, the first terror attack occurred on the soil of Kashmir. One part of Mother India was forcibly taken over by Pakistan in the name of 'mujahideen'. On that day, those so-called mujahideen should have been thrown into the pit of death," the PM said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"And it was Sardar Patel's wish that until POK is taken back, the army should not stop. But Sardar Sahib’s words were not followed," PM Modi added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The PM said since Patel's advice was not followed, the bloodshed by these "mujahideen has been continuing for the last 75 years." He also said that the Pahalgam attack was "just a distorted form of the same."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>'What were his ideological forefathers doing in 1947?'</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Responding to PM Modi's statement, Congress leader Pawan Khera alleged that it was PM Modi's "ideological forefathers" who were critical of Patel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"He has no idea of history or basic democratic courtesy. What were his ideological forefathers doing in 1947? They were criticising Patel, burning his effigies, and making cartoons of Sardar Patel, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, the famous cartoon of Ravan with ten heads. Don’t take the PM seriously," Khera said.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

'Terrorists should have been dealt with in 1947 but...': PM Modi says Sardar Patel's advice was IGNORED - Here's what he suggested

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while gathering a pool of people in Gujarat on Tuesday (May 27), said that terrorists in Kashmir should have been dealt with in 1947 itself if Congress had considered the advice of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Indian PM blamed the 1947 partition for the attack in Pahalgam on April 22 in which 26 people were killed. “When the Partition happened in 1947, the chains should have been cut at that time, but instead, the country was divided into three parts. Soon after, the first terrorist attack was reported in Kashmir, and Pakistan occupied one part of Kashmir," PM Modi said. “If we had killed these Mujahideens; if we had listened to Sardar Patel, he wanted the Army not to stop until we get back PoK,” Modi said. What was Sardar Patel's advice? Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, first Deputy Prime Minister and home minister of India, had argued in 1947 that the Indian Army should not cease its military actions until India reclaims Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). But, PM Modi said, Patel’s “counsel was ultimately disregarded". "In 1947, when Mother India was partitioned into three parts... that very night, the first terror attack occurred on the soil of Kashmir. One part of Mother India was forcibly taken over by Pakistan in the name of 'mujahideen'. On that day, those so-called mujahideen should have been thrown into the pit of death," the PM said. "And it was Sardar Patel's wish that until POK is taken back, the army should not stop. But Sardar Sahib’s words were not followed," PM Modi added. The PM said since Patel's advice was not followed, the bloodshed by these "mujahideen has been continuing for the last 75 years." He also said that the Pahalgam attack was "just a distorted form of the same." 'What were his ideological forefathers doing in 1947?' Responding to PM Modi's statement, Congress leader Pawan Khera alleged that it was PM Modi's "ideological forefathers" who were critical of Patel. "He has no idea of history or basic democratic courtesy. What were his ideological forefathers doing in 1947? They were criticising Patel, burning his effigies, and making cartoons of Sardar Patel, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, the famous cartoon of Ravan with ten heads. Don’t take the PM seriously," Khera said.

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while gathering a pool of people in Gujarat on Tuesday (May 27), said that terrorists in Kashmir should have been dealt with in 1947 itself if Congress had considered the advice of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his first Mann Ki Baat address following India’s targeted strikes on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 25) shared visuals of the destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba facilities during his radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’. The strikes, part of Operation Sindoor, showcased India’s decisive action against terror infrastructure. The Prime Minister, while highlighting the operation’s success, reaffirmed India’s commitment to maintaining national security and eliminating terror threats.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sharing this month&#39;s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a>. Do tune in! <a href="https://t.co/vYQSKQr48T">https://t.co/vYQSKQr48T</a></p>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1926511119897600324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>PM Modi said the Operation Sindoor has "injected new confidence and energy" into the fight against terrorism.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Operation Sindoor is the picture of our resolve, courage, and a changing India," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>PM Modi said the Operation Sindoor was a turning point in the global fight against terror and described it as a symbol of India's growing strength and clarity of purpose. "Today the entire country is united against terrorism, filled with anger and determination," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"This was the ultimate bravery of our soldiers, backed by the power of weapons, equipment, and technology made in India," the Prime Minister said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The precision and accuracy with which our forces destroyed the terrorist hideouts across the border is extraordinary. Operation Sindoor is not just a military mission; it is a picture of our resolve, courage and a transforming India and this picture has infused the whole country with a sense of patriotism and has painted it in the hues of the tricolour," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Below is a detailed breakdown of the terror camps destroyed:</strong></p><p><strong>Sawai Nala Camp, Muzaffarabad</strong></p><p>The Sawai Nala Camp, located in Muzaffarabad in POJK, is 30 kilometres from on Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar Sector. It was a key training facility of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, the main terror group implicated in the Pahalgam attack. This terror module was the germination centre for the attack on civilians and security forces in Sonmarg on 20 October 2024, Gulmarg on 24 October 2024 and the Pahalgam attack, the government said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Syedna Belal Camp, Muzaffarabad</strong></p><p>This terror camp of Jaish- e-Mohammad, founded by Maulana Masood Azhar, was being used as staging area for attacks, as well as to train terrorists in weapons, explosives and jungle cum survival techniques for carrying out such attacks across LoC in Kashmir.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Gulpur Camp, Kotli</strong></p><p>This base, 30 kilometres from the LoC, was used by LeT terrorists operating in Rajauri-Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;Terrorists trained in this base had carried out attacks in Poonch on 20 April 2023, and on pilgrims in a bus on 9 June 2024. &nbsp;This camp was frequently visited by Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, to give speeches of indoctrination and terror motivation.</p><p><br><strong>Abbas Camp, Kotli</strong></p><p>This camp is &nbsp;13 kilometres away from the LoC opposite Rajauri and the nerve centre for the training of suicide bombers of LeT. This camp has training infrastructure for about 50 terrorists, according to the Indian government.</p><p><br><strong>Barnala Camp, Bhimber</strong></p><p>Located 9 km from LoC opposite Rajauri-Poonch Sector, the camp was used for training terrorists in handling weapons, making improvised explosive devices (IED), as well as for jungle survival techniques.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Sarjal Camp, Sialkot</strong></p><p>This camp is located about 6 km from the International Border opposite Samba-Kathua.</p><p>The terrorists who killed four personnel of the Jammu and Kashmir Police in March 2025 were trained and launched from this camp, according to the Indian officials.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Mehmoona Joya Camp, Sialkot</strong></p><p>This camp, nearly 12 km from the International Boundary near Sialkot, was a key training facility of the Hizbul Mujahideen terror group. It was used as the control centre in the revival of terrorism in the Kathua and Jammu regions. The Pathankot Air Force Base attack was planned and directed from this camp.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Markaz Taiba, Muridke</strong></p><p>Located around 25 kilometres from the international boundary, this was the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba led by Hafiz Saeed. Terrorists trained in Muridke have been linked to the Mumbai attacks. Pakistan NSC authorises Army to undertake necessary actions to counter India's strike</p><p>Ajmal Kasab, the Pakistani terrorist captured alive and hanged by India after the Mumbai attack, had confessed to having received training at Muridke. Another conspirator of the Mumbai attack, David Coleman Headley, also got training at this camp.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Markaz Subhan, Bahawalpur</strong></p><p>This is the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammad, located around 100 km from the International Boundary. This camp was used for recruiting, training and indoctrinating JeM terrorists, and was frequently visited by Masood Azhar, who issued directions to their cadre.</p>

Mann Ki Baat: In his first address after Operation Sindoor, PM Modi shows pics of destroyed terrorist camps

In his first Mann Ki Baat address following India’s targeted strikes on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 25) shared visuals of the destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba facilities during his radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’. The strikes, part of Operation Sindoor, showcased India’s decisive action against terror infrastructure. The Prime Minister, while highlighting the operation’s success, reaffirmed India’s commitment to maintaining national security and eliminating terror threats.

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 25) addressed the nation through his radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ for the first time since Operation Sindoor</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-entire-nation-is-united-against-terrorism-filled-with-anger-pm-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-1748152241622">Narendra Modi</a> hailed the introduction of "Sugar Boards" by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The move was in the backdrop of increasing cases of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and poor dietary habits among school students. CBSE launched this programme in schools across the country.</p><p>"You must have seen blackboards in schools, but now sugar boards are also being installed in some schools - not blackboard, but sugar board," said PM Modi.</p><p>The aim of the initiative is to educate students about the disadvantages of sugar and its impact on the body. Via this programme, the government wants to promote healthier habits, and ultimately reduce the burden of lifestyle diseases in the next generation.</p><p>The move came at a time when data showed that kids are consuming much more sugar than recommended. In recent guidelines by CBSE, children between 4 and 10 years of age derive about 13 per cent of their daily calories from sugar, while those aged 11 to 18 consume as much as 15 per cent.</p><p><strong>The function of Sugar Board</strong></p><p>As per the programme, all schools are required to install "Sugar Boards" - visually engaging displays that will be placed across campuses to raise awareness about the harmfull effects of sugar.</p><p>The "Sugar Boards" are designed to be eye-catching as well as educational. The board will have pictures, infographics, fun facts, and real-world comparisons to help students easily grasp the risks of high-sugar diets. &nbsp;</p><p>These are the messages that will be displayed on the &nbsp;“Sugar Boards”:</p><ol><li>How much sugar is safe to consume in a day</li><li>The actual sugar content in everyday snacks and drinks—from soft drinks and candies to biscuits and chips</li><li>The health risks of excessive sugar—such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, tooth decay, and low energy</li><li>Healthier alternatives—like choosing fruits over packaged sweets, drinking water instead of soda, and picking nourishing snacks<br>&nbsp;</li></ol>

What is Sugar Board? Health initiative by CBSE gets a mention by PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the introduction of "Sugar Boards" by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The move was in the backdrop of increasing cases of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and poor dietary habits among school students. CBSE launched this programme in schools across the country. "You must have seen blackboards in schools, but now sugar boards are also being installed in some schools - not blackboard, but sugar board," said PM Modi. The aim of the initiative is to educate students about the disadvantages of sugar and its impact on the body. Via this programme, the government wants to promote healthier habits, and ultimately reduce the burden of lifestyle diseases in the next generation. The move came at a time when data showed that kids are consuming much more sugar than recommended. In recent guidelines by CBSE, children between 4 and 10 years of age derive about 13 per cent of their daily calories from sugar, while those aged 11 to 18 consume as much as 15 per cent. The function of Sugar Board As per the programme, all schools are required to install "Sugar Boards" - visually engaging displays that will be placed across campuses to raise awareness about the harmfull effects of sugar. The "Sugar Boards" are designed to be eye-catching as well as educational. The board will have pictures, infographics, fun facts, and real-world comparisons to help students easily grasp the risks of high-sugar diets. These are the messages that will be displayed on the “Sugar Boards”: How much sugar is safe to consume in a day The actual sugar content in everyday snacks and drinks—from soft drinks and candies to biscuits and chips The health risks of excessive sugar—such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, tooth decay, and low energy Healthier alternatives—like choosing fruits over packaged sweets, drinking water instead of soda, and picking nourishing snacks

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the introduction of "Sugar Boards" by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).&nbsp;</p>

What is 'Sugar Board'? Health initiative by CBSE gets a mention by PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 25) during his monthly radio show "Mann ki Baat" linked the nation's anti-terror "Operation Sindoor" to the "Vocal for Local" initiative.</p><h2><strong>How are Operation Sindoor and Vocal for Local interconnected?</strong></h2><p>Addressing the public during Mann ki Baat's 122nd episode, PM Modi said that during the May 7 anti-terror strikes, code-named 'Operation Sindoor' India used 'Made in India' weapons, tools, and technology. He said that the strength of these weapons was a testament to "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India).</p><p>The Indian PM said that since the success of Operation Sindoor, "a new energy is visible in the whole country about Vocal for Local".</p><p>"Our engineers, our technicians, are all sweating in this victory. After this campaign, a new energy is visible in the entire country about 'Vocal for Local'. Many things touch the mind. A parent said that now we will only take toys made in India for our children. The patriotism will start from childhood."</p><p>He also said that some families have even taken an oath that they will spend their next holidays in one of the many picturesque places in India.</p><p>Appreciating the countrymen, PM Modi said, "This is the real strength of India is public participation".</p><p>He also urged the citizens of India to take a resolve "to give priority to things made in the country wherever possible."</p><p>"This is not just a matter of economic self-reliance; it is a sense of participation in the creation of the nation. One step of ours can become a huge contribution to India's progress," he noted.</p><p>Appreciating the countrymen for uniting against terrorism, PM Modi said: “Today, the entire nation is united against terrorism, filled with anger, but determined. Today, every India's resolution is to eliminate terrorism.”</p><p>"The bravery displayed by our forces during Operation Sindoor has made every Indian proud. Operation Sindoor has lent a new confidence and enthusiasm to the fight against terrorism across the world. Operation Sindoor has influenced the people of the country so much that many families have made it a part of their lives..." he added.</p>

Addressing the public during Mann ki Baat's 122nd episode, PM Modi said that the strength of 'Made in India' weapons was a testament to "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 25) during his monthly radio show "Mann ki Baat" linked the nation's anti-terror "Operation Sindoor" to the "Vocal for Local" initiative. How are Operation Sindoor and Vocal for Local interconnected? Addressing the public during Mann ki Baat's 122nd episode, PM Modi said that during the May 7 anti-terror strikes, code-named 'Operation Sindoor' India used 'Made in India' weapons, tools, and technology. He said that the strength of these weapons was a testament to "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India). The Indian PM said that since the success of Operation Sindoor, "a new energy is visible in the whole country about Vocal for Local". "Our engineers, our technicians, are all sweating in this victory. After this campaign, a new energy is visible in the entire country about 'Vocal for Local'. Many things touch the mind. A parent said that now we will only take toys made in India for our children. The patriotism will start from childhood." He also said that some families have even taken an oath that they will spend their next holidays in one of the many picturesque places in India. Appreciating the countrymen, PM Modi said, "This is the real strength of India is public participation". He also urged the citizens of India to take a resolve "to give priority to things made in the country wherever possible." "This is not just a matter of economic self-reliance; it is a sense of participation in the creation of the nation. One step of ours can become a huge contribution to India's progress," he noted. Appreciating the countrymen for uniting against terrorism, PM Modi said: “Today, the entire nation is united against terrorism, filled with anger, but determined. Today, every India's resolution is to eliminate terrorism.” "The bravery displayed by our forces during Operation Sindoor has made every Indian proud. Operation Sindoor has lent a new confidence and enthusiasm to the fight against terrorism across the world. Operation Sindoor has influenced the people of the country so much that many families have made it a part of their lives..." he added.

<p>Addressing the public during Mann ki Baat's 122nd episode, PM Modi said that the strength of 'Made in India' weapons was a testament to "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India).</p>

Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi says strength of Made in India weapons used during Operation Sindoor a testament to 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'

<p>In a heartening development for wildlife conservation in India, the Asiatic lion population in Gujarat has seen a remarkable rise of 32% over the last five years, increasing from 674 in 2020 to 891.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per the latest count, there are estimated 196 males, 330 females,140 sub-adults and 225 cubs, said the Gujarat forest department.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“In just the last five years, the population of lions in Gir, Gujarat, has increased from 674 to 891. The number of lions that emerged after the lion census is very encouraging,” the Prime Minister said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Many of you must be wondering how this animal census is conducted! This exercise is very challenging. You will be surprised to know that the Lion Census was conducted in 11 districts, in an area of 35 thousand square kilometres.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“For the census, the teams monitored these areas round the clock… twenty-four hours. Both verification and cross-verification were done in this entire campaign. This enabled the counting of lions to be completed with utmost precision,” the Prime Minister added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This growth not only highlights the success of conservation efforts but also signifies the expansion of the lions' habitat beyond the Gir National Park to cover a broader range across Gujarat.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday (May 25), attributed this success to community-led conservation initiatives, emphasising the pivotal role of local communities in safeguarding these majestic animals.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-entire-nation-is-united-against-terrorism-filled-with-anger-pm-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-1748152241622"><strong>'Entire nation is united against terrorism, filled with anger': PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>PM Modi praised the collective efforts of forest officials, wildlife enthusiasts, and local residents in ensuring a safe and thriving environment for the lions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Reports indicate that this population boom has been accompanied by an increase in the lion's geographical range, covering an area of approximately 30,000 square kilometers, a notable expansion from the earlier 22,000 square kilometers. This indicates that the lions are not just multiplying in numbers but are also reclaiming lost habitats and adapting to new areas.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Experts believe that the increase in the lion population is a testament to the robust conservation policies, including anti-poaching measures, improved wildlife corridors, and enhanced rescue operations in cases of conflict or distress. Additionally, the proactive involvement of local communities in conservation efforts, such as habitat protection and water management, has played a crucial role.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This remarkable growth in Gujarat’s lion population not only showcases India’s commitment to wildlife conservation but also stands as a global model of how human-wildlife coexistence can be nurtured and sustained.</p>

In last five years Gujarat lion population has risen from 674 to 891 PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat

In a heartening development for wildlife conservation in India, the Asiatic lion population in Gujarat has seen a remarkable rise of 32% over the last five years, increasing from 674 in 2020 to 891. As per the latest count, there are estimated 196 males, 330 females,140 sub-adults and 225 cubs, said the Gujarat forest department. “In just the last five years, the population of lions in Gir, Gujarat, has increased from 674 to 891. The number of lions that emerged after the lion census is very encouraging,” the Prime Minister said. “Many of you must be wondering how this animal census is conducted! This exercise is very challenging. You will be surprised to know that the Lion Census was conducted in 11 districts, in an area of 35 thousand square kilometres.” “For the census, the teams monitored these areas round the clock… twenty-four hours. Both verification and cross-verification were done in this entire campaign. This enabled the counting of lions to be completed with utmost precision,” the Prime Minister added. This growth not only highlights the success of conservation efforts but also signifies the expansion of the lions' habitat beyond the Gir National Park to cover a broader range across Gujarat. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday (May 25), attributed this success to community-led conservation initiatives, emphasising the pivotal role of local communities in safeguarding these majestic animals. Also Read: 'Entire nation is united against terrorism, filled with anger': PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat PM Modi praised the collective efforts of forest officials, wildlife enthusiasts, and local residents in ensuring a safe and thriving environment for the lions. Reports indicate that this population boom has been accompanied by an increase in the lion's geographical range, covering an area of approximately 30,000 square kilometers, a notable expansion from the earlier 22,000 square kilometers. This indicates that the lions are not just multiplying in numbers but are also reclaiming lost habitats and adapting to new areas. Experts believe that the increase in the lion population is a testament to the robust conservation policies, including anti-poaching measures, improved wildlife corridors, and enhanced rescue operations in cases of conflict or distress. Additionally, the proactive involvement of local communities in conservation efforts, such as habitat protection and water management, has played a crucial role. This remarkable growth in Gujarat’s lion population not only showcases India’s commitment to wildlife conservation but also stands as a global model of how human-wildlife coexistence can be nurtured and sustained.

<p>Gujarat has recorded a remarkable 32% increase in its Asiatic lion population over five years, with numbers climbing to 891 in 2025</p>

In last five years, Gujarat's lion population has risen from 674 to 891: PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat

<p>India Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his 50th visit to Varanasi since 2014 on Friday (April 11). While addressing over 50,000 people at the rally, PM Modi was seen speaking in Bhojpuri.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-pm-modi-had-said-about-2611-mastermind-tahawwur-rana-in-2011-8949537">What did PM Modi say about 26/11 mastermind Tahawwur Rana in 2011?</a></strong></p>
<p>"UP ke, hamre parivaar ke logan ke, hamaar pranam. Aap sab log yaha hame aapan aashirvad dela, ham ee prem ka karzdaar hayi. Kaashi hamaar hau, ham Kaashi ke hai. (Grretings to the people of UP, my family. You guys came and gave me your blessings. I'm indebted of your love. Kashi belongs to me, I belong to Kashi)," PM said in his address drawing cheerful response from people present there.&nbsp;</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: PM Narendra Modi greets the people of Varanasi in Bhojpuri.<br><br>He says, "Kashi belongs to me, I belong to Kashi." <a href="https://t.co/mhM3BbvZ7D">pic.twitter.com/mhM3BbvZ7D</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1910577329446740136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2><strong>'Kashi now at the centre of Purvanchal's economic map'</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-pm-modi-yunus-meet-turn-the-tide-for-india-bangladesh-relations-in-post-hasina-era-what-analysts-say-8934952">Can PM Modi-Yunus meet turn the tide for India-Bangladesh relations in post Hasina-era, what analysts say</a></strong></p>
<p>PM Modi talked about the development the city went through in last years.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"In the last 10 years, the development in Varanasi has picked up a new speed... Kashi is now at the centre of Purvanchal's economic map... Many infrastructure projects to boost connectivity, providing 'nal see jal' to every household, education, healthcare, and expansion of sports facilities, and the resolve to provide better facilities for every region, every family, and every youngster will be eased and facilitated with these projects inaugurated today, and will prove to be a milestone towards a 'Viksit Purvanchal'" he said.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-invites-indian-pm-modi-to-attend-80th-victory-day-parade-marking-end-of-ww2-8943152">Russia invites Indian PM Modi to attend 80th &lsquo;Victory Day&rsquo; parade marking end of WW2</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;Hanuman Jayanti will be celebrated tomorrow, and today I have received this chance to meet you all in Sankatmochan Maharaj's Kashi. People of Kashi have gathered here to celebrate the festival of development. Kashi is not just an ancient city, but also a developed one,&rdquo; PM Modi added.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-accuses-congress-of-appeasement-politics-says-waqf-amendment-act-will-ensure-dignity-for-all-8942090">PM Modi accuses Congress of appeasement politics, says Waqf Amendment Act will ensure dignity for all</a></strong></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

India news | India Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his 50th visit to Varanasi since 2014 on Friday (April 11). While addressing over 50,000 people at the rally, PM Modi was seen speaking in Bhojpuri.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his 50th visit to Varanasi since 2014 on Friday (April 11). While addressing over 50,000 people at the rally, PM Modi was seen speaking in Bhojpuri. Also read: What did PM Modi say about 26/11 mastermind Tahawwur Rana in 2011? "UP ke, hamre parivaar ke logan ke, hamaar pranam. Aap sab log yaha hame aapan aashirvad dela, ham ee prem ka karzdaar hayi. Kaashi hamaar hau, ham Kaashi ke hai. (Grretings to the people of UP, my family. You guys came and gave me your blessings. I'm indebted of your love. Kashi belongs to me, I belong to Kashi)," PM said in his address drawing cheerful response from people present there. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: PM Narendra Modi greets the people of Varanasi in Bhojpuri. He says, "Kashi belongs to me, I belong to Kashi." pic.twitter.com/mhM3BbvZ7D — ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2025 'Kashi now at the centre of Purvanchal's economic map' Also read: Can PM Modi-Yunus meet turn the tide for India-Bangladesh relations in post Hasina-era, what analysts say PM Modi talked about the development the city went through in last years. "In the last 10 years, the development in Varanasi has picked up a new speed... Kashi is now at the centre of Purvanchal's economic map... Many infrastructure projects to boost connectivity, providing 'nal see jal' to every household, education, healthcare, and expansion of sports facilities, and the resolve to provide better facilities for every region, every family, and every youngster will be eased and facilitated with these projects inaugurated today, and will prove to be a milestone towards a 'Viksit Purvanchal'" he said. Also read: Russia invites Indian PM Modi to attend 80th ‘Victory Day’ parade marking end of WW2 “Hanuman Jayanti will be celebrated tomorrow, and today I have received this chance to meet you all in Sankatmochan Maharaj's Kashi. People of Kashi have gathered here to celebrate the festival of development. Kashi is not just an ancient city, but also a developed one,” PM Modi added. Also read: PM Modi accuses Congress of appeasement politics, says Waqf Amendment Act will ensure dignity for all (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | 'Kashi belongs to me': PM Modi greets the people of Varanasi in Bhojpuri

<p><span>&nbsp;Actor Vicky Kaushal says he feels honoured by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's praise for his historical action drama film <em>Chhaava.</em></span></p>
<p><span>At the inaugural function of the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan (ABMSS) on Friday, Modi said Maharashtra and Mumbai have taken Marathi films and Hindi cinema to greater heights.</span></p>
<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pm-narendra-modi-applauds-vicky-kaushals-period-drama-8744685">'Chhaava is making waves throughout the country': PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's period drama</a></strong></p>
<p><span>"Aur in dino toh, 'Chhaava' ki dhoom machi hui hai. ('Chhaava' is making headlines everywhere right now)," Modi said about the movie, which has earned over Rs 300 crore globally since its release in theatres last week.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/chhaava-box-office-vicky-kaushals-movie-is-unstoppable-inches-closer-to-rs-2-billion-mark-globally-8733285">Chhaava box office: Vicky Kaushal's movie is unstoppable, inches closer to Rs 2 billion mark globally</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span>Chhaava stars Kaushal in the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was the son of Maratha empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.</span></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: During the inauguration of the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "In the country, the Marathi language has given us a very rich Dalit literature. Due to its modern thinking, Marathi literature has also created works&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/sQ9pdAnMIG">pic.twitter.com/sQ9pdAnMIG</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892922731857109258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p><span>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p><span>"Honoured beyond words! Grateful to Hon. PM Narendra Modi ji. #Chhaava," the actor wrote on Instagram alongside a video of Modi from the event.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/vicky-kaushals-chhaava-declared-tax-free-in-madhya-pradesh-and-goa-8740904">Vicky Kaushal&rsquo;s Chhaava declared tax-free in Madhya Pradesh and Goa</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span>Rashmika Mandanna, who stars as Yesubai in the movie, posted on her Instagram Stories, "Thank you so much @narendramodi sir, it's truly an honour." "Chhaava" is produced by producer Dinesh Vijan's Maddock films and the banner also shared a clip of Modi on its official Instagram handle.</span></p>
<p><span>"A historic honour! It is a great moment of pride as Honorable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji applauds 'Chhaava' and honours Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's sacrifice and legacy.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/swara-bhasker-calls-vicky-kaushals-chhaava-a-partly-fictionalised-filmy-torture-of-hindus-8737214">Swara Bhasker calls Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava a &lsquo;partly fictionalised filmy torture of Hindus&rsquo;, gets slammed</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span>"This moment fills us with immense gratitude.@maddockfilms, #DineshVijan, @laxman.Utekar, @vickykaushal09, and the entire team of the film are humbled by this special mention," the studio said.</span></p>
<p><span>"Chhaava" has been declared tax-free in Goa and Madhya Pradesh. It also stars Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Vineet Kumar Singh and Ashutosh Rana.</span></p>

Bollywood | Entertainment Chhaava stars Vicky Kaushal in the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was the son of Maratha empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Actor Vicky Kaushal says he feels honoured by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's praise for his historical action drama film Chhaava. At the inaugural function of the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan (ABMSS) on Friday, Modi said Maharashtra and Mumbai have taken Marathi films and Hindi cinema to greater heights. Also read: 'Chhaava is making waves throughout the country': PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's period drama "Aur in dino toh, 'Chhaava' ki dhoom machi hui hai. ('Chhaava' is making headlines everywhere right now)," Modi said about the movie, which has earned over Rs 300 crore globally since its release in theatres last week. Also read:Chhaava box office: Vicky Kaushal's movie is unstoppable, inches closer to Rs 2 billion mark globally Chhaava stars Kaushal in the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was the son of Maratha empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. #WATCH | Delhi: During the inauguration of the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "In the country, the Marathi language has given us a very rich Dalit literature. Due to its modern thinking, Marathi literature has also created works… pic.twitter.com/sQ9pdAnMIG — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2025 "Honoured beyond words! Grateful to Hon. PM Narendra Modi ji. #Chhaava," the actor wrote on Instagram alongside a video of Modi from the event. Also read: Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava declared tax-free in Madhya Pradesh and Goa Rashmika Mandanna, who stars as Yesubai in the movie, posted on her Instagram Stories, "Thank you so much @narendramodi sir, it's truly an honour." "Chhaava" is produced by producer Dinesh Vijan's Maddock films and the banner also shared a clip of Modi on its official Instagram handle. "A historic honour! It is a great moment of pride as Honorable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji applauds 'Chhaava' and honours Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's sacrifice and legacy. Also read:Swara Bhasker calls Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava a ‘partly fictionalised filmy torture of Hindus’, gets slammed "This moment fills us with immense gratitude.@maddockfilms, #DineshVijan, @laxman.Utekar, @vickykaushal09, and the entire team of the film are humbled by this special mention," the studio said. "Chhaava" has been declared tax-free in Goa and Madhya Pradesh. It also stars Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Vineet Kumar Singh and Ashutosh Rana.

''Honoured beyond words': Vicky Kaushal after PM Modi praises Chhaava

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi encountered a technical snag at Deoghar airport in the Indian state of Jharkhand on Friday (Nov 15) afternoon. This led to a delay in PM Modi's return to New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The aircraft will now have to remain at the city airport until the technical issue is fixed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The plane was grounded for safety measures. Meanwhile, technical teams worked to identify and resolve the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This took place after PM Modi concluded his events in the poll-bound state and arrived at the Deoghar airport to return to the capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-assembly-election-kick-start-with-phase-1-polling-along-with-karnataka-bypolls-on-3-seats-775742"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Jharkhand assembly election kick starts with phase 1 polling along with Karnataka bypolls on 3 seats</strong></a></p>

<p>During his visit to Jharkhand, Modi addressed two rallies on the occasion of tribal icon Birsa Munda's anniversary, which is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These events came just days ahead of the second phase of polling for the Jharkhand Assembly Elections, which are scheduled for November 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a separate issue, the chopper of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who was also in Jharkhand, was grounded for nearly two hours due to a lack of clearance from the Air Traffic Control (ATC).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Jharkhand Assembly Election: Phase 1 Voting Today</strong></p>

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<p>The incident happened in Mahagama, where the Congress leader was scheduled to address a public rally. Later after two hours, Rahul’s chopper was given clearance to take off.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Congress claimed it was a "deliberate obstruction" by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), further alleging that the delay was politically motivated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, Rahul Gandhi's helicopter clearance was delayed due to PM Modi's poll rally in Bihar's Jamui.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The country’s top opposition leader has been kept waiting in the chopper for over an hour. They are not granting him permission to leave. I don’t understand why the BJP is doing this," Jharkhand Minister and Congress leader Dipika Pandey Singh said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi encountered a technical snag at Deoghar airport in the Indian state of Jharkhand on Friday (Nov 15) afternoon. This led to a delay in PM Modi's return to New Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi encountered a technical snag at Deoghar airport in the Indian state of Jharkhand on Friday (Nov 15) afternoon. This led to a delay in PM Modi's return to New Delhi. The aircraft will now have to remain at the city airport until the technical issue is fixed. The plane was grounded for safety measures. Meanwhile, technical teams worked to identify and resolve the issue. This took place after PM Modi concluded his events in the poll-bound state and arrived at the Deoghar airport to return to the capital. Also read: Jharkhand assembly election kick starts with phase 1 polling along with Karnataka bypolls on 3 seats During his visit to Jharkhand, Modi addressed two rallies on the occasion of tribal icon Birsa Munda's anniversary, which is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. These events came just days ahead of the second phase of polling for the Jharkhand Assembly Elections, which are scheduled for November 20. In a separate issue, the chopper of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who was also in Jharkhand, was grounded for nearly two hours due to a lack of clearance from the Air Traffic Control (ATC). Watch | Jharkhand Assembly Election: Phase 1 Voting Today × The incident happened in Mahagama, where the Congress leader was scheduled to address a public rally. Later after two hours, Rahul’s chopper was given clearance to take off. However, the Congress claimed it was a "deliberate obstruction" by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), further alleging that the delay was politically motivated. According to reports, Rahul Gandhi's helicopter clearance was delayed due to PM Modi's poll rally in Bihar's Jamui. "The country’s top opposition leader has been kept waiting in the chopper for over an hour. They are not granting him permission to leave. I don’t understand why the BJP is doing this," Jharkhand Minister and Congress leader Dipika Pandey Singh said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi's aircraft hit by technical snag at Jharkhand's Deoghar airport, plane grounded

<p>The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025. It was also an occasion to understand how India is playing a bigger role integrated into the Quad.</p>

<p>PM Modi is the seniormost leader among the Quad. It was gracious of India to have allowed the US to host the 2024 Summit, which was allotted to India. Now, New Delhi will host the 2025 Summit. It would be a readymade program for the new US president to visit India in their first year. Quad provides India more opportunities to meet with strategic partners annually. The Quad summit is a useful aggregation for India when, for instance, it attends the BRICS summit or holds the annual summit with Russia.</p>

<p>Politically, there are three important takeaways for India from this Quad Summit. First, the US has come around to recognizing that the UN and its security council need reform beyond what the US thought necessary. The Declaration talks about broad-based representation in the UN Security Council and the US is now more ready to support India and Japan.</p>

<p>Secondly, the Quad counter-terrorism working group met for the first time last year and will meet annually. Mitigating terrorism through information sharing, use of unmanned systems and finding new lines of collaboration are all good news for India, which has for long sought the US and its allies to take terrorism threats more seriously.</p>

<p>The third aspect is that without militarising the Quad, India has yet joined in efforts to have common understanding on maritime security. Working through a host of initiatives, Quad is expanding cooperation in maritime domain awareness, collaboration among coastguards, and increasing efforts for quicker and more effective HADR. India is now a clear partner of such Quad initiatives, and not just a recipient of support.</p>

<p>The Quad has positioned itself as a challenge to the Chinese view of the region. It engages ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum and the IORA for better and sustainable development. Thus, the Quad supports the free and open Indo-Pacific and check China's aggressive manoeuvres, which is India's aim as well.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/quad-summit-modi-attends-quad-leaders-summit-in-delaware-760818"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Quad Summit: Modi attends Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware</strong></a></p>

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<p>There are areas in which India is now directly contributing, and these need to be highlighted. The Quad Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) has performed well in raising awareness. Information is now collected and shared with greater frequency among the 24 countries who are currently benefiting. The Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean region in Gurugram, India is an indispensable part, particularly in dealing with countries of the IORA, in which India’s leadership is recognised. India will chair IORA in 2025.</p>

<p>India's view of the Indo-Pacific as including the Indian Ocean up to the shores of Africa is now better accepted. The US will work through its Central Command and AFRICOM, with Quad partners in the Indian Ocean and in Africa. A new maritime initiative for training in the Indo-Pacific ‘MAITRI’ will bring capacity-building efforts into the IPMDA. India will contribute trainings under ITEC program to countries in IOR.</p>

<p>The health sector brought vaccine diplomacy and a Quad Health Partnership. India has been at the fulcrum of the vaccine manufacturing. Further efforts to create vaccines for mpox and future pandemics would utilize Indian capabilities. India is contributing to the Cancer Moonshot dealing with cervical cancer. The Serum Institute of India, in partnership with Gavi, will support 40 million HPV vaccine doses. India will provide HPV sampling kits, and cervical cancer vaccines worth $7.5 million to the region. Through its $10 million commitment to the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health, India will offer technical assistance to interested countries for the adoption of its Digital Public Infrastructure that helps in cancer screening.</p>

<p>Infrastructure is an area where the Quad lags China. Various initiatives among India-Japan- US, the Japan-US- Australia or the G7 have not borne much fruit. China's BRI remains the dominant theme for infrastructure development in the<br />
region. Now the Quad is taking shorter steps towards quality infrastructure and three elements with Indian participation are visible.</p>

<p>Cable connectivity through a resilient partnership tasks Quad countries to provide maritime cable networks away from Chinese control. India has commissioned a feasibility study to determine how maritime cable networks can be facilitated by aggregating maintenance and repair capacities of the Quad partners in the Indo-Pacific. This will prevent vulnerabilities hitting the proposed networks and provide them with durability and reliability.</p>

<p>A Quad Ports of the Future Partnership aims to develop port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This will challenge Chinese domination of new ports in ASEAN countries, in Sri Lanka, Pakistan and in Africa, but would require considerable effort and investment. India will start this with a Quad regional ports and transportation conference in Mumbai in 2025. This would seek commonalities, resources and include the private sector to build effective port infrastructure ahead. The launch of a Quad Indo Pacific logistics network pilot project will support the ports initiative, as well as the HADR efforts.</p>

<p>The Quad infrastructure fellowships have started well and now cover 2200 experts. They will now work more closely with the India-led Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, particularly to enhance power sector resilience.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-meets-biden-from-setting-up-of-semiconductor-plant-to-shoring-up-drone-deal-heres-what-happened-760875"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi meets Biden: From setting up of semiconductor plant to shoring up drone deal, here's what happened</strong></a></p>

<p>The Quad is focusing more on critical and emerging technologies and India's interest in this is stoked by the emphasis on semiconductors, where complementarities are leveraged to create competition and add resilience to Quad's semiconductor supply chain.</p>

<p>To support climate and clean energy, India committed to invest $ 2 million in new solar projects in the island countries of Fiji in the South Pacific, and Comoros, Madagascar and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. The US has provided a $250 million DFC loan to Tata Power Solar to create a solar cell manufacturing facility. A similar loan of $500 billion, to First Solar to build a 3.3 GW solar module manufacturing facility in India is also mentioned in the Wilmington Declaration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian capabilities are now much better leveraged and integrated into the growing Quad functional collaboration matrix. As a developing country, India uses its development cooperation experience to advance Quad as a Global Force for Good.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></em></p>


The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025.

The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025. It was also an occasion to understand how India is playing a bigger role integrated into the Quad. PM Modi is the seniormost leader among the Quad. It was gracious of India to have allowed the US to host the 2024 Summit, which was allotted to India. Now, New Delhi will host the 2025 Summit. It would be a readymade program for the new US president to visit India in their first year. Quad provides India more opportunities to meet with strategic partners annually. The Quad summit is a useful aggregation for India when, for instance, it attends the BRICS summit or holds the annual summit with Russia. Politically, there are three important takeaways for India from this Quad Summit. First, the US has come around to recognizing that the UN and its security council need reform beyond what the US thought necessary. The Declaration talks about broad-based representation in the UN Security Council and the US is now more ready to support India and Japan. Secondly, the Quad counter-terrorism working group met for the first time last year and will meet annually. Mitigating terrorism through information sharing, use of unmanned systems and finding new lines of collaboration are all good news for India, which has for long sought the US and its allies to take terrorism threats more seriously. The third aspect is that without militarising the Quad, India has yet joined in efforts to have common understanding on maritime security. Working through a host of initiatives, Quad is expanding cooperation in maritime domain awareness, collaboration among coastguards, and increasing efforts for quicker and more effective HADR. India is now a clear partner of such Quad initiatives, and not just a recipient of support. The Quad has positioned itself as a challenge to the Chinese view of the region. It engages ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum and the IORA for better and sustainable development. Thus, the Quad supports the free and open Indo-Pacific and check China's aggressive manoeuvres, which is India's aim as well. Watch | Quad Summit: Modi attends Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware × There are areas in which India is now directly contributing, and these need to be highlighted. The Quad Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) has performed well in raising awareness. Information is now collected and shared with greater frequency among the 24 countries who are currently benefiting. The Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean region in Gurugram, India is an indispensable part, particularly in dealing with countries of the IORA, in which India’s leadership is recognised. India will chair IORA in 2025. India's view of the Indo-Pacific as including the Indian Ocean up to the shores of Africa is now better accepted. The US will work through its Central Command and AFRICOM, with Quad partners in the Indian Ocean and in Africa. A new maritime initiative for training in the Indo-Pacific ‘MAITRI’ will bring capacity-building efforts into the IPMDA. India will contribute trainings under ITEC program to countries in IOR. The health sector brought vaccine diplomacy and a Quad Health Partnership. India has been at the fulcrum of the vaccine manufacturing. Further efforts to create vaccines for mpox and future pandemics would utilize Indian capabilities. India is contributing to the Cancer Moonshot dealing with cervical cancer. The Serum Institute of India, in partnership with Gavi, will support 40 million HPV vaccine doses. India will provide HPV sampling kits, and cervical cancer vaccines worth $7.5 million to the region. Through its $10 million commitment to the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health, India will offer technical assistance to interested countries for the adoption of its Digital Public Infrastructure that helps in cancer screening. Infrastructure is an area where the Quad lags China. Various initiatives among India-Japan- US, the Japan-US- Australia or the G7 have not borne much fruit. China's BRI remains the dominant theme for infrastructure development in the region. Now the Quad is taking shorter steps towards quality infrastructure and three elements with Indian participation are visible. Cable connectivity through a resilient partnership tasks Quad countries to provide maritime cable networks away from Chinese control. India has commissioned a feasibility study to determine how maritime cable networks can be facilitated by aggregating maintenance and repair capacities of the Quad partners in the Indo-Pacific. This will prevent vulnerabilities hitting the proposed networks and provide them with durability and reliability. A Quad Ports of the Future Partnership aims to develop port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This will challenge Chinese domination of new ports in ASEAN countries, in Sri Lanka, Pakistan and in Africa, but would require considerable effort and investment. India will start this with a Quad regional ports and transportation conference in Mumbai in 2025. This would seek commonalities, resources and include the private sector to build effective port infrastructure ahead. The launch of a Quad Indo Pacific logistics network pilot project will support the ports initiative, as well as the HADR efforts. The Quad infrastructure fellowships have started well and now cover 2200 experts. They will now work more closely with the India-led Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, particularly to enhance power sector resilience. Also read | PM Modi meets Biden: From setting up of semiconductor plant to shoring up drone deal, here's what happened The Quad is focusing more on critical and emerging technologies and India's interest in this is stoked by the emphasis on semiconductors, where complementarities are leveraged to create competition and add resilience to Quad's semiconductor supply chain. To support climate and clean energy, India committed to invest $ 2 million in new solar projects in the island countries of Fiji in the South Pacific, and Comoros, Madagascar and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. The US has provided a $250 million DFC loan to Tata Power Solar to create a solar cell manufacturing facility. A similar loan of $500 billion, to First Solar to build a 3.3 GW solar module manufacturing facility in India is also mentioned in the Wilmington Declaration. Indian capabilities are now much better leveraged and integrated into the growing Quad functional collaboration matrix. As a developing country, India uses its development cooperation experience to advance Quad as a Global Force for Good. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Quad enlarges space for India

<p>Indian Prime Minister met his Ukrainian counterpart, President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Monday (Sep 23). The two leaders reaffirmed their stance for an early resolution of the war with the Indian PM showing readiness to assist in the efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was the third meeting between the two leaders in little over three months, with Zelensky stating that the two nations were developing their relations and "working together to strengthen cooperations across various fields. PM Modi took to his social media handles and posted about the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Met President @ZelenskyyUa in New York. We are committed to implementing the outcomes of my visit to Ukraine last month to strengthen bilateral relations. Reiterated India’s support for early resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and restoration of peace and stability," wrote PM Modi on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Met President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> in New York. We are committed to implementing the outcomes of my visit to Ukraine last month to strengthen bilateral relations. Reiterated India’s support for early resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and restoration of peace and stability. <a href="https://t.co/YRGelX1Gl5">pic.twitter.com/YRGelX1Gl5</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1838337654850556211?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is already the third bilateral meeting this year with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. We are actively developing our relations and working together to strengthen cooperation across various fields.<br />
<br />
The main focus of our conversation was on enhancing… <a href="https://t.co/cn7ao2Qp3f">pic.twitter.com/cn7ao2Qp3f</a></p>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1838349327653081228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Prime Minister reiterated India’s clear, consistent and constructive approach in favour of a peaceful resolution of the conflict through diplomacy and dialogue as well as engagement between all stakeholders," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to Monday's meeting, the two leaders had met in Kyiv last month when PM Modi arrived on a historic one-day visit which was the first ever by an Indian PM since the diplomatic relations between the two nations were established in 1992&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modis-us-visit-indian-pm-modi-attends-tech-ceos-round-table-in-us-761042"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi's US Visit: Indian PM Modi attends tech CEOs round table in US</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Zelensky's victory plan&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The meeting came a day after Kyiv stated that Zelensky was to present a "victory plan" to US President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former prez, Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Victory Plan envisages quick and concrete steps by our strategic partners - from now until the end of December," said Zelensky.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-to-present-victory-plan-to-biden-harris-and-trump-during-us-visit-761147" target="_blank"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Zelensky to present victory plan to Biden, Harris and Trump during US visit</strong></a></p>

<p>When asked about Zelensky's initiative, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "We believe that one should not analyse media reports. If information about it appears in official sources we will of course scrutinise it. There is a lot of contradictory and unreliable information on it out there, so we are very cautious about this."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister met his Ukrainian counterpart, President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Monday (Sep 23).

Indian Prime Minister met his Ukrainian counterpart, President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Monday (Sep 23). The two leaders reaffirmed their stance for an early resolution of the war with the Indian PM showing readiness to assist in the efforts. This was the third meeting between the two leaders in little over three months, with Zelensky stating that the two nations were developing their relations and "working together to strengthen cooperations across various fields. PM Modi took to his social media handles and posted about the meeting. "Met President @ZelenskyyUa in New York. We are committed to implementing the outcomes of my visit to Ukraine last month to strengthen bilateral relations. Reiterated India’s support for early resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and restoration of peace and stability," wrote PM Modi on X (formerly Twitter). Met President @ZelenskyyUa in New York. We are committed to implementing the outcomes of my visit to Ukraine last month to strengthen bilateral relations. Reiterated India’s support for early resolution of the conflict in Ukraine and restoration of peace and stability. pic.twitter.com/YRGelX1Gl5 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 23, 2024 × This is already the third bilateral meeting this year with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi @narendramodi. We are actively developing our relations and working together to strengthen cooperation across various fields. The main focus of our conversation was on enhancing… pic.twitter.com/cn7ao2Qp3f — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 23, 2024 × "Prime Minister reiterated India’s clear, consistent and constructive approach in favour of a peaceful resolution of the conflict through diplomacy and dialogue as well as engagement between all stakeholders," it added. Prior to Monday's meeting, the two leaders had met in Kyiv last month when PM Modi arrived on a historic one-day visit which was the first ever by an Indian PM since the diplomatic relations between the two nations were established in 1992 Watch | PM Modi's US Visit: Indian PM Modi attends tech CEOs round table in US × Zelensky's victory plan The meeting came a day after Kyiv stated that Zelensky was to present a "victory plan" to US President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former prez, Donald Trump. "The Victory Plan envisages quick and concrete steps by our strategic partners - from now until the end of December," said Zelensky. Also read: Zelensky to present victory plan to Biden, Harris and Trump during US visit When asked about Zelensky's initiative, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "We believe that one should not analyse media reports. If information about it appears in official sources we will of course scrutinise it. There is a lot of contradictory and unreliable information on it out there, so we are very cautious about this." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi meets Ukraine's Zelensky in US, reaffirms India's commitment to resolution of war

<p>Former chief minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, Sunday (Sep 22) launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming the PM conspired to prove that he is corrupt. In his first public address following his release from jail in a graft case linked to liquor policy, Kejriwal said at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar that PM Modi hatched a major conspiracy against top Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders.</p>

<p>“Prime Minister Narendra Modi conspired against us. He conspired to prove me and (AAP leader) Manish Sisodia corrupt. He tried to taint our image," Kejriwal charged.</p>

<p>He stressed that he had been running the Delhi government for the last decade with ‘honesty’ and claimed that the PM’s only plan to win against him ‘was to attack his honesty’. "I resigned because I am not hungry for the chief minister's chair. I am not here to earn money, but to change the politics of the country," the AAP supremo said.</p>

<p>He added that he suffered a lot and felt sad whenever the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would call him corrupt.</p>

<p>"If Arvind Kejriwal is dishonest, would he have made electricity free? If he is dishonest, would he have made bus fares for women free? If he was dishonest, would he have built schools for children? If he was dishonest, would he have made treatment in hospitals free? The BJP is in power in 22 states. Have they made electricity or bus ride free for women in any of the states?" the AAP chief said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiq7KrmvdaIAxVhUWwGHT19NsQQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-murmu-appoints-atishi-as-delhis-new-chief-minister-swearing-in-today-760678" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-murmu-appoints-atishi-as-delhis-new-chief-minister-swearing-in-today-760678&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiq7KrmvdaIAxVhUWwGHT19NsQQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">President Murmu appoints Atishi as Delhi's new Chief Minister</a></strong></p>

<p>Delhi's former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia also talked about his sufferings upon his arrest, and claimed efforts were made to drive a wedge between him and Kejriwal.</p>

<p>"They tried to break me. I was told that Arvind Kejriwal had framed me. They told the court that Arvind Kejriwal named Manish Sisodia. I was told in the jail, 'name Kejriwal, you will be saved'," the AAP leader said at the event.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiq7KrmvdaIAxVhUWwGHT19NsQQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-not-today-bjp-congress-question-arvind-kejriwal-over-resignation-gimmick-758820" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-not-today-bjp-congress-question-arvind-kejriwal-over-resignation-gimmick-758820&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiq7KrmvdaIAxVhUWwGHT19NsQQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">‘Why not today?’: BJP, Congress slam Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal over resignation ‘gimmick’</a></strong></p>

<p>Assembly elections are due in Delhi in February next year, and Kejriwal has announced that he will return as chief minister only after receiving a fresh mandate from the people. Till then, AAP leader Atishi has been given the charge to lead the Delhi government as chief minister.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former chief minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, Sunday (Sep 22) launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming the PM conspired to prove that he is corrupt.

Former chief minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, Sunday (Sep 22) launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming the PM conspired to prove that he is corrupt. In his first public address following his release from jail in a graft case linked to liquor policy, Kejriwal said at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar that PM Modi hatched a major conspiracy against top Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi conspired against us. He conspired to prove me and (AAP leader) Manish Sisodia corrupt. He tried to taint our image," Kejriwal charged. He stressed that he had been running the Delhi government for the last decade with ‘honesty’ and claimed that the PM’s only plan to win against him ‘was to attack his honesty’. "I resigned because I am not hungry for the chief minister's chair. I am not here to earn money, but to change the politics of the country," the AAP supremo said. He added that he suffered a lot and felt sad whenever the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would call him corrupt. "If Arvind Kejriwal is dishonest, would he have made electricity free? If he is dishonest, would he have made bus fares for women free? If he was dishonest, would he have built schools for children? If he was dishonest, would he have made treatment in hospitals free? The BJP is in power in 22 states. Have they made electricity or bus ride free for women in any of the states?" the AAP chief said. Also read: President Murmu appoints Atishi as Delhi's new Chief Minister Delhi's former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia also talked about his sufferings upon his arrest, and claimed efforts were made to drive a wedge between him and Kejriwal. "They tried to break me. I was told that Arvind Kejriwal had framed me. They told the court that Arvind Kejriwal named Manish Sisodia. I was told in the jail, 'name Kejriwal, you will be saved'," the AAP leader said at the event. Also read: ‘Why not today?’: BJP, Congress slam Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal over resignation ‘gimmick’ Assembly elections are due in Delhi in February next year, and Kejriwal has announced that he will return as chief minister only after receiving a fresh mandate from the people. Till then, AAP leader Atishi has been given the charge to lead the Delhi government as chief minister. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Arvind Kejriwal claims PM Modi hatched ‘conspiracy’ against him, attacked his ‘honesty’

<p>BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after the alleged circulation of a protest poster targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New York on Saturday.</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI, the BJP leader said, "After Rahul Gandhi's return after playing politics with his sponsored pawns, I feel that the same group in America is now showing this hate advertisement against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is an objectionable poster."</p>

<p>"It is a hate advertisement and it is beyond doubt that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi got the meeting and support of those forces who are declared enemies of India. Are they the same group showing this hate advertisement?" said Trivedi.</p>

<p>BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya also took to his social media handle on X and shared the poster that read, "Protest: Modi, You're Not Welcome in New York" and called on people to "raise your voice against a decade of oppression."</p>

<p>The BJP IT cell head accused the Congress leader of indulging in "divisive anti-India politics," including hobnobbing with agencies and collaborating with forces inimical to India's interest.</p>

<p>Malviya alleged that Gandhi's overseas engagements have consistently been detrimental to India's image.</p>

<p>"Every time Rahul Gandhi goes abroad, he indulges in the most divisive anti-India politics, including hobnobbing with agencies and collaborating with forces inimical to India's interest. He has gone to the extent of pleading with Western powers to interfere in Indian politics," read the post by Malviya.</p>

<p>"The Congress will never succeed is a different matter. But now, Sam Pitroda and his cohorts, are planning a protest against the Prime Minister, when he visits New York. Rahul Gandhi should remember he is seeking political relevance in India and the people of Bharat will give him a befitting reply, when the time comes," added the post.</p>

<p>Modi embarked on a three-day visit to the US to attend key international meetings, including a Quad summit and a United Nations General Assembly address.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, PM Modi arrived at Philadelphia International Airport on Saturday morning (local time) on the first day of his three-day visit to the United States.</p>

<p>Philadelphia was the site of the First and Second Continental Congresses and the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister said that his meeting with President Biden will allow the two countries to review and identify new pathways to further deepen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after the alleged circulation of a protest poster targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New York on Saturday.

BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after the alleged circulation of a protest poster targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New York on Saturday. Speaking to ANI, the BJP leader said, "After Rahul Gandhi's return after playing politics with his sponsored pawns, I feel that the same group in America is now showing this hate advertisement against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is an objectionable poster." "It is a hate advertisement and it is beyond doubt that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi got the meeting and support of those forces who are declared enemies of India. Are they the same group showing this hate advertisement?" said Trivedi. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya also took to his social media handle on X and shared the poster that read, "Protest: Modi, You're Not Welcome in New York" and called on people to "raise your voice against a decade of oppression." The BJP IT cell head accused the Congress leader of indulging in "divisive anti-India politics," including hobnobbing with agencies and collaborating with forces inimical to India's interest. Malviya alleged that Gandhi's overseas engagements have consistently been detrimental to India's image. "Every time Rahul Gandhi goes abroad, he indulges in the most divisive anti-India politics, including hobnobbing with agencies and collaborating with forces inimical to India's interest. He has gone to the extent of pleading with Western powers to interfere in Indian politics," read the post by Malviya. "The Congress will never succeed is a different matter. But now, Sam Pitroda and his cohorts, are planning a protest against the Prime Minister, when he visits New York. Rahul Gandhi should remember he is seeking political relevance in India and the people of Bharat will give him a befitting reply, when the time comes," added the post. Modi embarked on a three-day visit to the US to attend key international meetings, including a Quad summit and a United Nations General Assembly address. Meanwhile, PM Modi arrived at Philadelphia International Airport on Saturday morning (local time) on the first day of his three-day visit to the United States. Philadelphia was the site of the First and Second Continental Congresses and the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The Prime Minister said that his meeting with President Biden will allow the two countries to review and identify new pathways to further deepen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: BJP attacks Rahul Gandhi over 'hate advertisment' targeting Modi's US visit

<p><strong>PM Modi's US trip itinerary:</strong> Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21)&nbsp;to Monday (Sep 23)&nbsp;where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware.</p>

<p>PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Biden as well as other&nbsp;leaders of the powerful alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There will be an opportunity to have a substantive engagement between the prime minister and President Biden, where they will have the opportunity to review the comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a media briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a day of meetings, PM Modi will attend an evening reception before jetting off to New York from&nbsp;Philadelphia International Airport&nbsp;at night. Once in the Big Apple, PM Modi will rest and recover&nbsp;before addressing a gathering of the Indian diaspora on Sunday (Sep 22) at the&nbsp;Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, Nassau County on Long Island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later in the evening, he will hold a roundtable with the CEOs of the top companies, as has been the trend in his previous US visits. Building better entrepreneur connections has been one of the cornerstones of PM Modi's leadership in the last decade.</p>

<p>“PM Modi will also be attending a Business Roundtable with CEOs of leading US companies in the cutting-edge areas of Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology,” the MEA&nbsp;said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-to-meet-pm-modi-during-us-visit-calls-him-a-fantastic-man-759800"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump to Meet PM Modi During US Visit, Calls Him 'A Fantastic Man'</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>UNGA address&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A day later, he will address the&nbsp;‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The theme of the Summit is 'Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow'. A few more bilateral meetings have also been fixed for PM Modi on the day, the details of which are yet to be provided.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although it has not been confirmed by the MEA, it is believed that former US President Donald Trump will be meeting the Indian PM.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-vows-to-restore-jks-statehood-promises-monetary-assistance-to-farmers-women-760118"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi vows to restore J&amp;K's statehood, promises monetary assistance to farmers, women</strong></a></p>

<p>The Republican leader earlier this week made the announcement while&nbsp;campaigning in Michigan. PM Modi is a "fantastic man", said Trump, at the same time calling India a "very big abuser" of trade ties.</p>

<p>"So when India, which is a very big abuser. He (Modi) happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he's fantastic. I mean, fantastic man. A lot of these leaders are fantastic."</p>

<p>After concluding the meetings, PM Modi will depart for New Delhi from the JFK International Airport on Monday evening, reaching the national capital on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


PM Modi's US trip itinerary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21) to Monday (Sep 23) where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware.

PM Modi's US trip itinerary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21) to Monday (Sep 23) where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware. PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Biden as well as other leaders of the powerful alliance. "There will be an opportunity to have a substantive engagement between the prime minister and President Biden, where they will have the opportunity to review the comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a media briefing. After a day of meetings, PM Modi will attend an evening reception before jetting off to New York from Philadelphia International Airport at night. Once in the Big Apple, PM Modi will rest and recover before addressing a gathering of the Indian diaspora on Sunday (Sep 22) at the Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, Nassau County on Long Island. Later in the evening, he will hold a roundtable with the CEOs of the top companies, as has been the trend in his previous US visits. Building better entrepreneur connections has been one of the cornerstones of PM Modi's leadership in the last decade. “PM Modi will also be attending a Business Roundtable with CEOs of leading US companies in the cutting-edge areas of Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology,” the MEA said. Watch | Donald Trump to Meet PM Modi During US Visit, Calls Him 'A Fantastic Man' × UNGA address A day later, he will address the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The theme of the Summit is 'Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow'. A few more bilateral meetings have also been fixed for PM Modi on the day, the details of which are yet to be provided. Although it has not been confirmed by the MEA, it is believed that former US President Donald Trump will be meeting the Indian PM. Also read | PM Modi vows to restore J&K's statehood, promises monetary assistance to farmers, women The Republican leader earlier this week made the announcement while campaigning in Michigan. PM Modi is a "fantastic man", said Trump, at the same time calling India a "very big abuser" of trade ties. "So when India, which is a very big abuser. He (Modi) happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he's fantastic. I mean, fantastic man. A lot of these leaders are fantastic." After concluding the meetings, PM Modi will depart for New Delhi from the JFK International Airport on Monday evening, reaching the national capital on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the residence of Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud on Wednesday (Sep 11) to partake in the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Images and videos of PM Modi being greeted by the CJI and his wife and later conducting the 'pooja' (worship) have gone viral on social media. However, not everyone is seemingly impressed by the optics of the meet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Clad in his usual attire with a traditional Maharashtrian cap, PM Modi offered prayers to Lord Ganesha who is celebrated with fervour across the country during the 10-day festival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Joined Ganesh Puja at the residence of CJI, Justice DY Chandrachud Ji. May Bhagwan Shri Ganesh bless us all with happiness, prosperity and wonderful health," PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter).</p>

<p>As soon as the clips of PM Modi and the CJI together went viral, Opposition leaders as well as former judiciary members came out with their criticism.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Joined Ganesh Puja at the residence of CJI, Justice DY Chandrachud Ji.<br />
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May Bhagwan Shri Ganesh bless us all with happiness, prosperity and wonderful health. <a href="https://t.co/dfWlR7elky">pic.twitter.com/dfWlR7elky</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1833908774051926135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Senior lawyer Indira Jaising said she had "lost all confidence" in the independence of the judiciary and urged the bar association to condemn the move.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Chief Justice of India has compromised the separation of powers between the Executive and Judiciary. Lost all confidence in the independence of the CJI. The SCBA must condemn this publicly displayed compromise of the Independence of the CJI from the Executive," wrote Jaising.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Chief Justice of India has compromised the separation of powers between the Executive and Judiciary. Lost all confidence in the independence of the CJI . The SCBA must condemn this publicly displayed compromise of Independence of the CJI from the Executive <a href="https://twitter.com/KapilSibal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KapilSibal</a> <a href="https://t.co/UXoIxVxaJt">https://t.co/UXoIxVxaJt</a></p>
— Indira Jaising (@IJaising) <a href="https://twitter.com/IJaising/status/1833912829075947777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Head of executive, PM Modi, met head of judiciary, CJI Chandrachud, to celebrate Ganpati festival right before Maharashtra Elections.<br />
<br />
In a functioning democracy, Executive and Judiciary are supposed to maintain distance.<br />
<br />
But we don’t have a functioning democracy so it’s Okay. <a href="https://t.co/eTCFPBC9Wa">pic.twitter.com/eTCFPBC9Wa</a></p>
— Nehr_who? (@Nher_who) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nher_who/status/1833920896404521428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan also condemned the meeting between the heads of two branches of the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Shocking that CJI Chandrachud allowed Modi to visit him at his residence for a private meeting," said Bhushan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sends a very bad signal to the judiciary which is tasked with the responsibility of protecting fundamental right of citizens from the executive &amp; ensuring that the govt acts within bounds of Constitution," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shocking that CJI Chandrachud allowed Modi to visit him at his residence for a private meeting. Sends a very bad signal to the judiciary which is tasked with the responsibility of protecting fundamental right of citizens from the executive &amp; ensuring that the govt acts within… <a href="https://t.co/mstxulCI2P">https://t.co/mstxulCI2P</a></p>
— Prashant Bhushan (@pbhushan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/pbhushan1/status/1834051640208376316?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Narendra Modi appears to have<br />
dug up some filth against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CJI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CJI</a><br />
DY Chandrachud maybe through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pegasus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pegasus</a> , that he went to the laters house armed with a Cameraman for Ganesh Chaturthi Puja knowing very well the SM will play to his galleries the next morning. <a href="https://t.co/r1aU1944ox">pic.twitter.com/r1aU1944ox</a></p>
— Ravinder Kapur. (@RavinderKapur2) <a href="https://twitter.com/RavinderKapur2/status/1834084121515090008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Shiv Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also criticised the meeting and sarcastically commented that the CJI would hopefully conclude the hearings related to Article 10.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Okay.<br />
After the festivities are over hopefully CJI will deem fit and be slightly freer to conclude the hearing on Maharashtra and the blatant disregard of Article 10 of the Constitution in Maharashtra.<br />
Oh wait, elections round the corner anyway, it can be adjourned for another… <a href="https://t.co/tw0C1Smr5s">https://t.co/tw0C1Smr5s</a></p>
— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankac19/status/1833901563313561866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I wonder how this visit materialized. Was it the CJI's 'Padharo Mhare Desh' to Modi or did Modi make an offer of a visit that the CJI could not refuse? <a href="https://t.co/oQY5xE72GS">pic.twitter.com/oQY5xE72GS</a></p>
— Karthik 🇮🇳 (@beastoftraal) <a href="https://twitter.com/beastoftraal/status/1834063705140502796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">People say the CJI is a great legal mind. He obviously has original views on separation of State &amp; Church. All I can think about is the spectacle of two of our nation's most powerful men, while Manipur burns. Waiting for the enlightened to take suo moto notice of the rapes,… <a href="https://t.co/LquwlCGfuC">https://t.co/LquwlCGfuC</a></p>
— Saba Naqvi (@_sabanaqvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/_sabanaqvi/status/1833935114188857572?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The festival concludes&nbsp;on September 17 when devotees across the country will bid farewell to Lord Ganesha by immersing his idols.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the residence of Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud on Wednesday (Sep 11) to partake in the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the residence of Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud on Wednesday (Sep 11) to partake in the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Images and videos of PM Modi being greeted by the CJI and his wife and later conducting the 'pooja' (worship) have gone viral on social media. However, not everyone is seemingly impressed by the optics of the meet. Clad in his usual attire with a traditional Maharashtrian cap, PM Modi offered prayers to Lord Ganesha who is celebrated with fervour across the country during the 10-day festival. "Joined Ganesh Puja at the residence of CJI, Justice DY Chandrachud Ji. May Bhagwan Shri Ganesh bless us all with happiness, prosperity and wonderful health," PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter). As soon as the clips of PM Modi and the CJI together went viral, Opposition leaders as well as former judiciary members came out with their criticism. Joined Ganesh Puja at the residence of CJI, Justice DY Chandrachud Ji. May Bhagwan Shri Ganesh bless us all with happiness, prosperity and wonderful health. pic.twitter.com/dfWlR7elky — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 11, 2024 × Senior lawyer Indira Jaising said she had "lost all confidence" in the independence of the judiciary and urged the bar association to condemn the move. "Chief Justice of India has compromised the separation of powers between the Executive and Judiciary. Lost all confidence in the independence of the CJI. The SCBA must condemn this publicly displayed compromise of the Independence of the CJI from the Executive," wrote Jaising. Chief Justice of India has compromised the separation of powers between the Executive and Judiciary. Lost all confidence in the independence of the CJI . The SCBA must condemn this publicly displayed compromise of Independence of the CJI from the Executive @KapilSibal https://t.co/UXoIxVxaJt — Indira Jaising (@IJaising) September 11, 2024 × Head of executive, PM Modi, met head of judiciary, CJI Chandrachud, to celebrate Ganpati festival right before Maharashtra Elections. In a functioning democracy, Executive and Judiciary are supposed to maintain distance. But we don’t have a functioning democracy so it’s Okay. pic.twitter.com/eTCFPBC9Wa — Nehr_who? (@Nher_who) September 11, 2024 × Former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan also condemned the meeting between the heads of two branches of the government. "Shocking that CJI Chandrachud allowed Modi to visit him at his residence for a private meeting," said Bhushan. "Sends a very bad signal to the judiciary which is tasked with the responsibility of protecting fundamental right of citizens from the executive & ensuring that the govt acts within bounds of Constitution," he added. Shocking that CJI Chandrachud allowed Modi to visit him at his residence for a private meeting. Sends a very bad signal to the judiciary which is tasked with the responsibility of protecting fundamental right of citizens from the executive & ensuring that the govt acts within… https://t.co/mstxulCI2P — Prashant Bhushan (@pbhushan1) September 12, 2024 × Narendra Modi appears to have dug up some filth against #CJI DY Chandrachud maybe through #Pegasus , that he went to the laters house armed with a Cameraman for Ganesh Chaturthi Puja knowing very well the SM will play to his galleries the next morning. pic.twitter.com/r1aU1944ox — Ravinder Kapur. (@RavinderKapur2) September 12, 2024 × Shiv Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also criticised the meeting and sarcastically commented that the CJI would hopefully conclude the hearings related to Article 10. Okay. After the festivities are over hopefully CJI will deem fit and be slightly freer to conclude the hearing on Maharashtra and the blatant disregard of Article 10 of the Constitution in Maharashtra. Oh wait, elections round the corner anyway, it can be adjourned for another… https://t.co/tw0C1Smr5s — Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) September 11, 2024 × I wonder how this visit materialized. Was it the CJI's 'Padharo Mhare Desh' to Modi or did Modi make an offer of a visit that the CJI could not refuse? pic.twitter.com/oQY5xE72GS — Karthik 🇮🇳 (@beastoftraal) September 12, 2024 × People say the CJI is a great legal mind. He obviously has original views on separation of State & Church. All I can think about is the spectacle of two of our nation's most powerful men, while Manipur burns. Waiting for the enlightened to take suo moto notice of the rapes,… https://t.co/LquwlCGfuC — Saba Naqvi (@_sabanaqvi) September 11, 2024 × The festival concludes on September 17 when devotees across the country will bid farewell to Lord Ganesha by immersing his idols. (With inputs from agencies)

'Judiciary compromised': Section of netizens fume after PM Modi celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi at CJI's residence

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday morning (Jul 8)&nbsp;embarked on an official visit to Russia to meet President Vladimir Putin as well as attend the 22nd India-Russia annual summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his departing note, PM Modi emphasised that India seeks to play a supportive role for a peaceful and stable region.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I look forward to reviewing all aspects of bilateral cooperation with my friend President Vladimir Putin and sharing perspectives on various regional and global issues. We seek to play a supportive role for a peaceful and stable region,” an official statement released by the PM on his website stated.</p>

<p>"The Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia has advanced over the past ten years, including in the areas of energy, security, trade, investment, health, education, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Watch: PM Modi leaves for Russia <a href="https://t.co/didzAz6Vgo">pic.twitter.com/didzAz6Vgo</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1810190146572091841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-key-partner-russia-on-july-8-9-set-to-hold-22nd-bilateral-annual-summit-737810" target="_blank"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi to visit key partner Russia on July 8-9, set to hold 22nd bilateral annual summit</strong></a></p>

<p>This will be PM Modi's first visit to Russia since the&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict started in 2022. Additionally, it's his first bilateral visit in his third stint as the prime minister of India.</p>

<p>Modi's last official trip to Russia came in 2019 when he visited the&nbsp;Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. To this day, he remains the only Indian PM to travel to Russia's Far East region where Moscow has been attempting to drum up investments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi's visit is crucial for Putin as it comes at the same time as when&nbsp;leaders of the 32 nations in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) will be meeting in Washington DC from July 9-11 to celebrate 75 years of the anti-Russia military alliance.</p>

<p>The Western world has been attempting to make Putin a pariah since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war but New Delhi has steadfastly stood in its corner while batting for a peaceful resolution to the problem.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-to-hold-talks-with-russian-president-vladimir-putin-738010" target="_blank"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian PM to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-17="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-to-hold-talks-with-russian-president-vladimir-putin-738010/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Modi's Austria trip</strong></h2>

<p>Following his Russia trip, PM Modi will embark on another historic visit to Austria where he will become the first Indian PM to visit the European nation in more than 40 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister in over 40 years," said PM Modi.</p>

<p>"Together with the Austrian Chancellor, I look forward to exchanging views with business leaders from both sides to explore mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities."</p>

<p>PM Modi will also interact with the diaspora in the country, whom he praised for their professionalism and conduct.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday morning (Jul 8) embarked on an official visit to Russia to meet President Vladimir Putin as well as attend the 22nd India-Russia annual summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday morning (Jul 8) embarked on an official visit to Russia to meet President Vladimir Putin as well as attend the 22nd India-Russia annual summit. In his departing note, PM Modi emphasised that India seeks to play a supportive role for a peaceful and stable region. “I look forward to reviewing all aspects of bilateral cooperation with my friend President Vladimir Putin and sharing perspectives on various regional and global issues. We seek to play a supportive role for a peaceful and stable region,” an official statement released by the PM on his website stated. "The Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia has advanced over the past ten years, including in the areas of energy, security, trade, investment, health, education, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges." Watch: PM Modi leaves for Russia pic.twitter.com/didzAz6Vgo — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) July 8, 2024 × Also read | PM Modi to visit key partner Russia on July 8-9, set to hold 22nd bilateral annual summit This will be PM Modi's first visit to Russia since the Russia-Ukraine conflict started in 2022. Additionally, it's his first bilateral visit in his third stint as the prime minister of India. Modi's last official trip to Russia came in 2019 when he visited the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. To this day, he remains the only Indian PM to travel to Russia's Far East region where Moscow has been attempting to drum up investments. PM Modi's visit is crucial for Putin as it comes at the same time as when leaders of the 32 nations in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) will be meeting in Washington DC from July 9-11 to celebrate 75 years of the anti-Russia military alliance. The Western world has been attempting to make Putin a pariah since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war but New Delhi has steadfastly stood in its corner while batting for a peaceful resolution to the problem. Watch | Indian PM to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin Modi's Austria trip Following his Russia trip, PM Modi will embark on another historic visit to Austria where he will become the first Indian PM to visit the European nation in more than 40 years. "This is the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister in over 40 years," said PM Modi. "Together with the Austrian Chancellor, I look forward to exchanging views with business leaders from both sides to explore mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities." PM Modi will also interact with the diaspora in the country, whom he praised for their professionalism and conduct. (With inputs from agencies)

'Seek to play a...': PM Modi's message as he leaves for two-day Russia visit

<p>The Indian cricket team has been accorded a warm welcome on arrival in the nation as wishes continue to pour on Rohit Sharma’s men for having clinched the T20 World Cup in the West Indies last weekend. After receiving a warm welcome from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde felicitated the players. Mumbai players part of the T20 World Cup winning squad Rohit, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shivam Dube and Suryakumar Yadav were key attractions of the ceremony held at the central hall of the Maharashtra Assembly.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mumbai | Team India captain Rohit Sharma speaks in Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan as Indian men's cricket team members are being felicitated by CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis<br />
<br />
(Source: Maharashtra Assembly) <a href="https://t.co/I51K2KqgDV">pic.twitter.com/I51K2KqgDV</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1809192068390191160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>During the programme, Indian captain Rohit cracked a joke that had everyone laughing while he addressed the guests in the central hall where all the members of the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council had gathered. Speaking in Marathi, Rohit stated that had Suryakumar Yadav not clutched onto the catch, he would have made him sit out in the future.</p>

<p>"After Surya caught the ball, he told me that the ball sat in his hand. Thank goodness, it sat in his hand. Otherwise, I would have sat him out," Rohit said while speaking in the central hall of the Maharashtra Assembly on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-mothers-love-made-rohit-sharma-blush-upon-arrival-in-mumbai-watch-738240">How mother’s love made Rohit Sharma blush upon arrival in Mumbai – WATCH</a></p>

<p>The newly crowned champions of the T20 format on Friday were felicitated by CM Eknath Shinde in a brief ceremony. Rohit and Co got a fitting welcome from the Mumbai crowd on Thursday while they were earlier felicitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the same day.</p>

<h2><strong>Team India felicitated by CM Shinde</strong></h2>

<p>Having won the T20 World Cup and returned to Mumbai on Thursday, CM Shinde took time from his busy Assembly session to felicitate the Indian team. He was seen meeting with players including T20 World Cup-winning captain and local lad Sharma along with Yashasvi Jaiswal and others. The felicitation saw the players being greeted with shawls and idols of Lord Ganesha while a cash prize of INR 110 million ($1.32 million) was also announced for the players by the state’s de facto head.</p>


The Indian cricket team has been accorded a warm welcome on arrival in the nation as wishes continue to pour on Rohit Sharma’s men for having clinched the T20 World Cup in the West Indies last weekend.

The Indian cricket team has been accorded a warm welcome on arrival in the nation as wishes continue to pour on Rohit Sharma’s men for having clinched the T20 World Cup in the West Indies last weekend. After receiving a warm welcome from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde felicitated the players. Mumbai players part of the T20 World Cup winning squad Rohit, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shivam Dube and Suryakumar Yadav were key attractions of the ceremony held at the central hall of the Maharashtra Assembly. #WATCH | Mumbai | Team India captain Rohit Sharma speaks in Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan as Indian men's cricket team members are being felicitated by CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis (Source: Maharashtra Assembly) pic.twitter.com/I51K2KqgDV — ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2024 × During the programme, Indian captain Rohit cracked a joke that had everyone laughing while he addressed the guests in the central hall where all the members of the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council had gathered. Speaking in Marathi, Rohit stated that had Suryakumar Yadav not clutched onto the catch, he would have made him sit out in the future. "After Surya caught the ball, he told me that the ball sat in his hand. Thank goodness, it sat in his hand. Otherwise, I would have sat him out," Rohit said while speaking in the central hall of the Maharashtra Assembly on Friday. ALSO READ | How mother’s love made Rohit Sharma blush upon arrival in Mumbai – WATCH The newly crowned champions of the T20 format on Friday were felicitated by CM Eknath Shinde in a brief ceremony. Rohit and Co got a fitting welcome from the Mumbai crowd on Thursday while they were earlier felicitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the same day. Team India felicitated by CM Shinde Having won the T20 World Cup and returned to Mumbai on Thursday, CM Shinde took time from his busy Assembly session to felicitate the Indian team. He was seen meeting with players including T20 World Cup-winning captain and local lad Sharma along with Yashasvi Jaiswal and others. The felicitation saw the players being greeted with shawls and idols of Lord Ganesha while a cash prize of INR 110 million ($1.32 million) was also announced for the players by the state’s de facto head.

‘Otherwise I would have made him sit out’: Rohit Sharma cracks joke on Suryakumar’s sensational catch

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Italy on Friday (Jun 14) to attend the G7 Outreach Summit. This is PM Modi's first foreign trip after becoming prime minister for the third term. While boarding the plane on Thursday, he said India would focus on artificial intelligence, energy, Africa and the Mediterranean.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi meets Macron</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>PM Modi met French President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;on the sidelines of the G7 summit&nbsp;and discussed ways to further bolster the bilateral ties and exchanged views on global issues.</p>

<p>Taking to his official X account, PM Modi said that he had an "excellent meeting" with Macron. "This is our fourth meeting in one year, indicating the priority we accord to strong India-French ties. Our talks covered numerous subjects such as defence, security, technology, AI, Blue Economy and more. We also discussed how to encourage innovation and research among the youth. I conveyed my best wishes to him on the hosting of the Paris Olympics, which begins next month," PM Modi wrote.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">J'ai eu une excellente réunion avec mon ami le Président <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. Il s'agit de notre quatrième rencontre en un an, ce qui indique la forte priorité que nous accordons aux liens solides entre l'Inde et la France. Nos échanges ont porté sur de nombreux sujets tels que la… <a href="https://t.co/rDsy5FPCHu">pic.twitter.com/rDsy5FPCHu</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1801568390470885568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>PM Modi's meeting with Sunak</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>PM Modi also met his British counterpart Rishi Sunak. On his X account, he wrote: It was a delight to meet PM @RishiSunak in Italy. I reiterated my commitment to further strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the third term of the NDA Government. There is great scope to deepen ties in sectors like semiconductors, technology and trade. We also talked about further cementing ties in the defence sector."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It was a delight to meet PM <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishiSunak</a> in Italy. I reiterated my commitment to further strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the third term of the NDA Government. There is great scope to deepen ties in sectors like semiconductors, technology and trade.… <a href="https://t.co/ehjhFY89cE">pic.twitter.com/ehjhFY89cE</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1801565043919643070?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>PM Modi meets Zelensky</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi said that he had a very productive meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He added that India is eager to cement bilateral relations with Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Regarding the ongoing hostilities, reiterated that India believes in a human-centric approach and believes that the way to peace is through dialogue and diplomacy," the prime minister said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Had a very productive meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. India is eager to further cement bilateral relations with Ukraine. Regarding the ongoing hostilities, reiterated that India believes in a human-centric approach and believes that the way to peace is through… <a href="https://t.co/XOKA0AHYGs">pic.twitter.com/XOKA0AHYGs</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1801572899771302043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Pope greets PM Modi</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Pope Francis joined on Friday (June 14) the outreach session of the G7 leaders' summit in Borgo Egnazia, in the southern Italian region of Puglia, to lead discussions on artificial intelligence.</p>

<p>It is the first time in history that a pontiff has taken part in a meeting of the Group of Seven wealthy democracies, comprising Britain, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the United States and the European Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He greeted PM Modi and other leaders at the summit. PM Modi taking to X wrote, "Met Pope Francis on the sidelines of the&nbsp;<br />
@G7 Summit. I admire his commitment to serve people and make our planet better. Also invited him to visit India."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Met Pope Francis on the sidelines of the <a href="https://twitter.com/G7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@G7</a> Summit. I admire his commitment to serve people and make our planet better. Also invited him to visit India. <a href="https://twitter.com/Pontifex?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pontifex</a> <a href="https://t.co/BeIPkdRpUD">pic.twitter.com/BeIPkdRpUD</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1801636845459227083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Italy on Friday (Jun 14) to attend the G7 Outreach Summit. This is PM Modi's first foreign trip after becoming prime minister for the third term.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Italy on Friday (Jun 14) to attend the G7 Outreach Summit. This is PM Modi's first foreign trip after becoming prime minister for the third term. While boarding the plane on Thursday, he said India would focus on artificial intelligence, energy, Africa and the Mediterranean. PM Modi meets Macron PM Modi met French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G7 summit and discussed ways to further bolster the bilateral ties and exchanged views on global issues. Taking to his official X account, PM Modi said that he had an "excellent meeting" with Macron. "This is our fourth meeting in one year, indicating the priority we accord to strong India-French ties. Our talks covered numerous subjects such as defence, security, technology, AI, Blue Economy and more. We also discussed how to encourage innovation and research among the youth. I conveyed my best wishes to him on the hosting of the Paris Olympics, which begins next month," PM Modi wrote. J'ai eu une excellente réunion avec mon ami le Président @EmmanuelMacron. Il s'agit de notre quatrième rencontre en un an, ce qui indique la forte priorité que nous accordons aux liens solides entre l'Inde et la France. Nos échanges ont porté sur de nombreux sujets tels que la… pic.twitter.com/rDsy5FPCHu — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 14, 2024 × PM Modi's meeting with Sunak PM Modi also met his British counterpart Rishi Sunak. On his X account, he wrote: It was a delight to meet PM @RishiSunak in Italy. I reiterated my commitment to further strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the third term of the NDA Government. There is great scope to deepen ties in sectors like semiconductors, technology and trade. We also talked about further cementing ties in the defence sector." It was a delight to meet PM @RishiSunak in Italy. I reiterated my commitment to further strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the third term of the NDA Government. There is great scope to deepen ties in sectors like semiconductors, technology and trade.… pic.twitter.com/ehjhFY89cE — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 14, 2024 × PM Modi meets Zelensky PM Modi said that he had a very productive meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He added that India is eager to cement bilateral relations with Ukraine. "Regarding the ongoing hostilities, reiterated that India believes in a human-centric approach and believes that the way to peace is through dialogue and diplomacy," the prime minister said. Had a very productive meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. India is eager to further cement bilateral relations with Ukraine. Regarding the ongoing hostilities, reiterated that India believes in a human-centric approach and believes that the way to peace is through… pic.twitter.com/XOKA0AHYGs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 14, 2024 × Pope greets PM Modi Pope Francis joined on Friday (June 14) the outreach session of the G7 leaders' summit in Borgo Egnazia, in the southern Italian region of Puglia, to lead discussions on artificial intelligence. It is the first time in history that a pontiff has taken part in a meeting of the Group of Seven wealthy democracies, comprising Britain, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the United States and the European Union. He greeted PM Modi and other leaders at the summit. PM Modi taking to X wrote, "Met Pope Francis on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. I admire his commitment to serve people and make our planet better. Also invited him to visit India." Met Pope Francis on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. I admire his commitment to serve people and make our planet better. Also invited him to visit India. @Pontifex pic.twitter.com/BeIPkdRpUD — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 14, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

G7 summit: PM Modi meets Macron, Sunak, Zelensky on sidelines, discusses bilateral ties and global issues

<p>After the NDA alliance seized a third term in power, Indian President Droupadi Murmu hosted a dinner on Wednesday (June 5) at Rashtrapati Bhavan for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the outgoing council of ministers.</p>

<p>The event also saw the presence of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat among others.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-gears-up-for-6-launchesyr-of-its-largest-rocket-lvm3-729187">ISRO gears up for 6 launches per year of its largest rocket LVM3</a></p>

<p>President Murmu's office announced in a post on X social media platform writing, “President Droupadi Murmu hosted a dinner for the outgoing Union Council of Ministers, led by Prime Minister @narendramodi, at Rashtrapati Bhavan."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Murmu has accepted the Cabinet's recommendation to dissolve the 17th Lok Sabha with immediate effect. She signed the order to dissolve the 17th Lok Sabha by exercising the powers granted to her under Sub-clause (b) of Clause (2) of Article 85 of the Constitution.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-invites-sri-lankas-wickremesinghe-bangladeshi-pm-sheikh-hasina-for-oath-taking-ceremony-729175">Modi invites Sri Lanka's Wickremesinghe, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina for oath-taking ceremony</a></p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Indian Prime Minister Modi had submitted his resignation to President Murmu, who accepted it and requested that he continue his duties until the new government is established.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nda-meet-outcomes-what-are-the-likely-demands-of-jdu-and-tdp-from-modi-729193">NDA Meet Outcomes: What are the likely demands of JDU and TDP from Modi?</a></strong></p>

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<p>"The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, met the President today and tendered his resignation along with the Council of Ministers," read an official statement.</p>

<h2><strong>NDA secures majority&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a majority in the 18th Lok Sabha elections by surpassing the 272 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. BJP on its own won 240 seats and hence could not get an outright majority. After PM Modi held a meeting which saw the presence of all of NDA allies as well, he was unanimously elected as the NDA leader.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After the NDA alliance seized a third term in power, Indian President Droupadi Murmu hosted a dinner on Wednesday (June 5) at Rashtrapati Bhavan for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the outgoing council of ministers.

After the NDA alliance seized a third term in power, Indian President Droupadi Murmu hosted a dinner on Wednesday (June 5) at Rashtrapati Bhavan for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the outgoing council of ministers. The event also saw the presence of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat among others. Also Read | ISRO gears up for 6 launches per year of its largest rocket LVM3 President Murmu's office announced in a post on X social media platform writing, “President Droupadi Murmu hosted a dinner for the outgoing Union Council of Ministers, led by Prime Minister @narendramodi, at Rashtrapati Bhavan." Murmu has accepted the Cabinet's recommendation to dissolve the 17th Lok Sabha with immediate effect. She signed the order to dissolve the 17th Lok Sabha by exercising the powers granted to her under Sub-clause (b) of Clause (2) of Article 85 of the Constitution. Also Read | Modi invites Sri Lanka's Wickremesinghe, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina for oath-taking ceremony Earlier in the day, Indian Prime Minister Modi had submitted his resignation to President Murmu, who accepted it and requested that he continue his duties until the new government is established. Watch | NDA Meet Outcomes: What are the likely demands of JDU and TDP from Modi? × "The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, met the President today and tendered his resignation along with the Council of Ministers," read an official statement. NDA secures majority The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a majority in the 18th Lok Sabha elections by surpassing the 272 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. BJP on its own won 240 seats and hence could not get an outright majority. After PM Modi held a meeting which saw the presence of all of NDA allies as well, he was unanimously elected as the NDA leader. (With inputs from agencies)

President Droupadi Murmu hosts dinner for outgoing Council of Ministers

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jun 5) met President Droupadi Murmu and tendered his resignation along with the Council of Ministers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Murmu acepted the resignation and requested PM Modi and the Union Council of Ministers to continue in office till the new Government is formed.</p>

<p>This is a customary move that will pave way for the dissolution of the 17th Lok Sabha, which ran from the year 2019 to 2024.</p>

<p>The development came after the Cabinet meeting, chaired by PM Modi, was held in New Delhi on Wednesday (Jun 5).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Prime Minister tendered his resignation along with the Union Council of Ministers. The President accepted the resignation and requested the Prime Minister and the Union Council of Ministers… <a href="https://t.co/1ZeSwQFU1y">pic.twitter.com/1ZeSwQFU1y</a></p>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1798276979189485935?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tdp-chief-chandrababu-naidu-extends-support-to-bjp-affirms-i-am-in-nda-728928">TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu extends support to BJP, affirms 'I am in NDA'</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's swearing-in to take place on June 8</strong></h2>

<p>The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal-United (JDU), the political parties that are also dubbed as the potential "kingmakers", have reportedly given a go-ahead to the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, as per news agency ANI.</p>

<p>Both parties are expected to submit the letters of formal support to the saffron party during a meeting of the alliance.</p>

<p>The meeting of the newly elected MPs of the BJP-led NDA is expected to be held on June 7 in the national capital, reported news agency ANI citing sources.</p>

<p>As per the sources, talks will be held around the government formation by the NDA.</p>

<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) witnessed unexpected Lok Sabha election results on Tuesday (Jun 4) where the saffron party failed to get a full majority, lower than what it anticipated.</p>

<p>As per the data released by Election Commission of India, BJP emerged victorious in 240 Lok Sabha constituencies, while Congress won 99.</p>

<p>This pushes the BJP into a situation where it will have to rely on the support of other parties in its coalition as it falls 32 seats short of the 272 majority mark.</p>

<p>The tally for the saffron party was much lower this time than what was recorded in 2019.</p>

<p>In 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP won 303 seats, whereas in 2014, the party won 282 seats.</p>

<p>The Congress, on the other hand, demonstrated growth as it won 99 seats as compared to 52 that it won in 2019 and 44 seats in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jun 5) met President Droupadi Murmu and tendered his resignation along with the Council of Ministers. President Murmu acepted the resignation and requested PM Modi and the Union Council of Ministers to continue in office till the new Government is formed.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Jun 5) met President Droupadi Murmu and tendered his resignation along with the Council of Ministers. President Murmu acepted the resignation and requested PM Modi and the Union Council of Ministers to continue in office till the new Government is formed. This is a customary move that will pave way for the dissolution of the 17th Lok Sabha, which ran from the year 2019 to 2024. The development came after the Cabinet meeting, chaired by PM Modi, was held in New Delhi on Wednesday (Jun 5). Prime Minister @narendramodi called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Prime Minister tendered his resignation along with the Union Council of Ministers. The President accepted the resignation and requested the Prime Minister and the Union Council of Ministers… pic.twitter.com/1ZeSwQFU1y — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) June 5, 2024 × Also read: TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu extends support to BJP, affirms 'I am in NDA' PM Modi's swearing-in to take place on June 8 The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal-United (JDU), the political parties that are also dubbed as the potential "kingmakers", have reportedly given a go-ahead to the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, as per news agency ANI. Both parties are expected to submit the letters of formal support to the saffron party during a meeting of the alliance. The meeting of the newly elected MPs of the BJP-led NDA is expected to be held on June 7 in the national capital, reported news agency ANI citing sources. As per the sources, talks will be held around the government formation by the NDA. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) witnessed unexpected Lok Sabha election results on Tuesday (Jun 4) where the saffron party failed to get a full majority, lower than what it anticipated. As per the data released by Election Commission of India, BJP emerged victorious in 240 Lok Sabha constituencies, while Congress won 99. This pushes the BJP into a situation where it will have to rely on the support of other parties in its coalition as it falls 32 seats short of the 272 majority mark. The tally for the saffron party was much lower this time than what was recorded in 2019. In 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP won 303 seats, whereas in 2014, the party won 282 seats. The Congress, on the other hand, demonstrated growth as it won 99 seats as compared to 52 that it won in 2019 and 44 seats in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: PM Modi resigns ahead of oath-taking ceremony on June 8

<p>India Prime Minister Narendra Modi has won the Varanasi constituency in Uttar Pradesh — a comfortable win but the overall result was not so satisfying for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as they had expected a resounding win with the alliance winning more than 400 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) hasn't been able to cross the 300 mark even as the counting for the Lok Sabha elections is underway towards conclusion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Election Commission of India confirmed that PM Modi has defeated Congress candidate Ajay Rai by a margin of 1,52,513 votes. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-results-2024-rahul-gandhis-resounding-victory-in-wayanad-defies-modis-predictions-728688">Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: Rahul Gandhi's resounding victory in Wayanad defies Modi's predictions</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>PM Modi received 6,12,970 votes while Ajay Rai received 4,60,457 votes. Bahujan Samaj Party candidate Ather Jamal Lari was in the third position with 33,766 votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Jun 4) evening, PM Modi thanked the voters for expressing their "trust" in the NDA for the third consecutive time. He said, "This is an unprecedented moment in the history of India. I thank my family for this love and blessings. I assure the countrymen that to fulfil their aspirations, we will move forward with new energy, new enthusiasm and new resolves."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I express my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all the workers for the dedication and tireless hard work they have done," PM Modi further wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-results-2024-what-if-kingmakers-naidu-nitish-abandon-nda-728701">Lok Sabha election results 2024: What if kingmakers Naidu, Nitish abandon NDA?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">People have placed their faith in NDA, for a third consecutive time! This is a historical feat in India’s history.<br />
<br />
I bow to the Janata Janardan for this affection and assure them that we will continue the good work done in the last decade to keep fulfilling the aspirations of…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1797990498554048771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Following the defeat, Congress candidate Ajay Rai, thanked the people of Varanasi for their support. He&nbsp;added&nbsp;that PM Modi had to face difficulty even in winning by a margin of 1,50,000 votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Everyone has been campaigning for him and despite that PM Modi was trailing for the last three hours. He had to face difficulty even in winning by a margin of 1,50,000. The people of Kashi have shown that their support is with their brother (me)," Rai told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


India Prime Minister Narendra Modi has won the Varanasi constituency in Uttar Pradesh — a comfortable win but the overall result was not so satisfying for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as they had expected a resounding win with the alliance winning more than 400 seats.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi has won the Varanasi constituency in Uttar Pradesh — a comfortable win but the overall result was not so satisfying for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as they had expected a resounding win with the alliance winning more than 400 seats. BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) hasn't been able to cross the 300 mark even as the counting for the Lok Sabha elections is underway towards conclusion. The Election Commission of India confirmed that PM Modi has defeated Congress candidate Ajay Rai by a margin of 1,52,513 votes. Also read: Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: Rahul Gandhi's resounding victory in Wayanad defies Modi's predictions PM Modi received 6,12,970 votes while Ajay Rai received 4,60,457 votes. Bahujan Samaj Party candidate Ather Jamal Lari was in the third position with 33,766 votes. On Tuesday (Jun 4) evening, PM Modi thanked the voters for expressing their "trust" in the NDA for the third consecutive time. He said, "This is an unprecedented moment in the history of India. I thank my family for this love and blessings. I assure the countrymen that to fulfil their aspirations, we will move forward with new energy, new enthusiasm and new resolves." "I express my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all the workers for the dedication and tireless hard work they have done," PM Modi further wrote. Also read: Lok Sabha election results 2024: What if kingmakers Naidu, Nitish abandon NDA? People have placed their faith in NDA, for a third consecutive time! This is a historical feat in India’s history. I bow to the Janata Janardan for this affection and assure them that we will continue the good work done in the last decade to keep fulfilling the aspirations of… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 4, 2024 × Watch this report: × Following the defeat, Congress candidate Ajay Rai, thanked the people of Varanasi for their support. He added that PM Modi had to face difficulty even in winning by a margin of 1,50,000 votes. "Everyone has been campaigning for him and despite that PM Modi was trailing for the last three hours. He had to face difficulty even in winning by a margin of 1,50,000. The people of Kashi have shown that their support is with their brother (me)," Rai told ANI. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi wins from Varanasi, defeats Ajay Rai of Congress by over 150,000 votes

<p>Indian Prime Minister on Friday (Mar 22) arrived in Bhutan amid heightened political temperature back home. The two-day visit will end on Saturday. The visit was earlier postponed on Thursday due to bad weather conditions in the Himalayan nation.&nbsp;Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay received the Indian leader as he landed at the Paro Airport and addressed him as his elder brother in a post on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">भूटान में आपका स्वागत है, मेरे बड़े भाई। <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji <a href="https://t.co/Kjc87llncg">pic.twitter.com/Kjc87llncg</a></p>
— Tshering Tobgay (@tsheringtobgay) <a href="https://twitter.com/tsheringtobgay/status/1771016918981607673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to a report by The Hindu, PM Modi will receive Bhutan’s highest civilian award, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo.&nbsp;Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck will present the award to PM Modi to appreciate his efforts towards strengthening India-Bhutan ties and also for providing the first round of 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines in 2021.</p>

<p>According to the Indian government, the visit reaffirms India’s commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First Policy'.</p>

<p>PM Modi’s visit comes after Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay visited India from March 14 to 18.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-king-highlights-railway-project-with-india-in-national-day-speech-670464"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Bhutan's King highlights railway project with India in National Day speech</strong></a></p>

<p>According to India’s foreign ministry, India and Bhutan share a “unique and enduring” partnership steeped in “mutual trust, understanding and goodwill”.</p>

<p>PM Modi is expected to boost New Delhi’s support for Bhutan’s 13th five-year plan, including considering a request for an economic stimulus programme. The two nations are supposed to further cement their cooperation in sectors like hydropower, infrastructure, health, education, digital connectivity and even space.</p>

<p>However, no major policy decisions are expected from the trip due to limitations imposed by the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), governed by the Election Commission of India (ECI).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister on Friday (Mar 22) arrived in Bhutan amid heightened political temperature back home. The two-day visit will end on Saturday. The visit was earlier postponed on Thursday due to bad weather conditions in the Himalayan nation.

Indian Prime Minister on Friday (Mar 22) arrived in Bhutan amid heightened political temperature back home. The two-day visit will end on Saturday. The visit was earlier postponed on Thursday due to bad weather conditions in the Himalayan nation. Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay received the Indian leader as he landed at the Paro Airport and addressed him as his elder brother in a post on X. भूटान में आपका स्वागत है, मेरे बड़े भाई। @narendramodi Ji pic.twitter.com/Kjc87llncg — Tshering Tobgay (@tsheringtobgay) March 22, 2024 × According to a report by The Hindu, PM Modi will receive Bhutan’s highest civilian award, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo. Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck will present the award to PM Modi to appreciate his efforts towards strengthening India-Bhutan ties and also for providing the first round of 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines in 2021. According to the Indian government, the visit reaffirms India’s commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First Policy'. PM Modi’s visit comes after Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay visited India from March 14 to 18. Also read: Bhutan's King highlights railway project with India in National Day speech According to India’s foreign ministry, India and Bhutan share a “unique and enduring” partnership steeped in “mutual trust, understanding and goodwill”. PM Modi is expected to boost New Delhi’s support for Bhutan’s 13th five-year plan, including considering a request for an economic stimulus programme. The two nations are supposed to further cement their cooperation in sectors like hydropower, infrastructure, health, education, digital connectivity and even space. However, no major policy decisions are expected from the trip due to limitations imposed by the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), governed by the Election Commission of India (ECI). (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi arrives in Bhutan for two-day visit, receives highest civilian award

<p>The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 21) night conducted a&nbsp;meeting and approved the Fair and&nbsp;Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane for the next season (2024-25) at Rs&nbsp;340 per quintal at sugar recovery rate of 10.25 per cent.</p>

<p>Hours after the announcement, PM Modi said his government was fully committed to fulfilling every welfare-related resolution.</p>

<p>"Our government is committed to fulfilling every resolution related to the welfare of our farmer brothers and sisters across the country," PM Modi wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In this context, a historic increase in the price of sugarcane purchase has been approved. This step will benefit crores of our sugarcane-producing farmers," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">देशभर के अपने किसान भाई-बहनों के कल्याण से जुड़े हर संकल्प को पूरा करने के लिए हमारी सरकार प्रतिबद्ध है। इसी कड़ी में गन्ना खरीद की कीमत में ऐतिहासिक बढ़ोतरी को मंजूरी दी गई है। इस कदम से हमारे करोड़ों गन्ना उत्पादक किसानों को लाभ होगा।<a href="https://t.co/Ap14Lrjw8Z">https://t.co/Ap14Lrjw8Z</a> <a href="https://t.co/nDEY8SAC3D">https://t.co/nDEY8SAC3D</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1760517483092447385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Notably, the new "historic price of sugarcane" is approximately eight per cent higher than FRP for the current season 23-24. The revised FRO will come into effect from October 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“With this approval, sugar mills will pay FRP of sugarcane @ Rs&nbsp;340/quintal at recovery of 10.25 per cent. With each increase of recovery by 0.1 per cent, farmers will get additional price of Rs&nbsp;3.32 while the same amount will be deducted on reduction of recovery by 0.1 per cent," the government stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"However, Rs&nbsp;315.10/quintal is the minimum price of sugarcane which is at recovery of 9.5 per cent. Even if sugar recovery is lesser, farmers are assured of FRP at Rs&nbsp;315.10/quintal," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cabinet in a press release informed that the fresh FRP had been determined based on the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and after consultation with state governments and other stakeholders.</p>

<p>Additionally, it is the highest FRP for sugarcane to be announced by the Modi government since coming to power nearly 10 years ago. The crop is mainly grown in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/farmers-protest-agitating-farmers-say-govt-proposal-not-in-their-best-interest-692048"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Farmers Protest: Agitating farmers say govt proposal 'not in their best interest'</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Farmers' protest halted</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement of the increase in FRP came on the same day as when the protesting farmers on the periphery of the capital city of New Delhi, demanding an agreement on&nbsp;Minimum Support Price (MSP), halted their march for two days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-protesting-farmers-suspend-delhi-chalo-march-for-two-days-692429"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Protesting farmers in India suspend ‘Delhi Chalo’ march for two days</strong></a></p>

<p>As per reports, the temporary suspension was ordered by farmer leaders after a&nbsp;protester reportedly died and about 12 police personnel were injured on Wednesday as thousands of Indian farmers resumed their march to the capital, following a failed fifth round&nbsp;of talks with the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 21) night conducted a meeting and approved the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane for the next season (2024-25) at Rs 340 per quintal at sugar recovery rate of 10.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 21) night conducted a meeting and approved the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane for the next season (2024-25) at Rs 340 per quintal at sugar recovery rate of 10.25 per cent. Hours after the announcement, PM Modi said his government was fully committed to fulfilling every welfare-related resolution. "Our government is committed to fulfilling every resolution related to the welfare of our farmer brothers and sisters across the country," PM Modi wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). "In this context, a historic increase in the price of sugarcane purchase has been approved. This step will benefit crores of our sugarcane-producing farmers," he added. देशभर के अपने किसान भाई-बहनों के कल्याण से जुड़े हर संकल्प को पूरा करने के लिए हमारी सरकार प्रतिबद्ध है। इसी कड़ी में गन्ना खरीद की कीमत में ऐतिहासिक बढ़ोतरी को मंजूरी दी गई है। इस कदम से हमारे करोड़ों गन्ना उत्पादक किसानों को लाभ होगा।https://t.co/Ap14Lrjw8Z https://t.co/nDEY8SAC3D — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 22, 2024 × Notably, the new "historic price of sugarcane" is approximately eight per cent higher than FRP for the current season 23-24. The revised FRO will come into effect from October 1. “With this approval, sugar mills will pay FRP of sugarcane @ Rs 340/quintal at recovery of 10.25 per cent. With each increase of recovery by 0.1 per cent, farmers will get additional price of Rs 3.32 while the same amount will be deducted on reduction of recovery by 0.1 per cent," the government stated. "However, Rs 315.10/quintal is the minimum price of sugarcane which is at recovery of 9.5 per cent. Even if sugar recovery is lesser, farmers are assured of FRP at Rs 315.10/quintal," it added. The cabinet in a press release informed that the fresh FRP had been determined based on the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and after consultation with state governments and other stakeholders. Additionally, it is the highest FRP for sugarcane to be announced by the Modi government since coming to power nearly 10 years ago. The crop is mainly grown in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka. Watch | Farmers Protest: Agitating farmers say govt proposal 'not in their best interest' Farmers' protest halted The announcement of the increase in FRP came on the same day as when the protesting farmers on the periphery of the capital city of New Delhi, demanding an agreement on Minimum Support Price (MSP), halted their march for two days. Also read | Protesting farmers in India suspend ‘Delhi Chalo’ march for two days As per reports, the temporary suspension was ordered by farmer leaders after a protester reportedly died and about 12 police personnel were injured on Wednesday as thousands of Indian farmers resumed their march to the capital, following a failed fifth round of talks with the government. (With inputs from agencies)

'Historic increase in price': PM Modi lauds cabinet's hike in sugarcane FRP

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first world leader whose&nbsp;YouTube channel has crossed the 20 million (two&nbsp;crore) subscribers mark. Regarding views and subscribers, PM Modi has far surpassed the YouTube channels of his Indian and global contemporaries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi's channel has amassed a cumulative 4.5 billion video views&nbsp;with the quality of videos and their upload frequency remaining consistent over the years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, it was in February last year that PM Modi's YouTube channel crossed the 10 million subscription mark. The three most popular videos on his channel have garnered a combined 175 million views.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For&nbsp;comparison, PM Modi's US counterpart Joe Biden has only 794,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel. Second on the list behind PM Modi is former Brazil president Jair Bolsonaro who has 6.4 million subscribers, followed by&nbsp;Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador with 4.1 million subscribers.&nbsp;Indonesia President Joko Widodo also fares in the list with 3.2 million subscribers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-tops-list-of-most-popular-global-leaders-with-76-rating-667810"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi tops list of most popular global leaders with 76% rating</strong></a></p>

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<p>The 20 million subscribers mark is not only a testament to PM Modi's appeal but also underscores the growing significance of digital platforms in shaping political discourse.</p>

<p>PM Modi was one of the first leaders to tap into the power of the internet during his 2014 electoral victory. Since then, his team has worked continuously to expand his digital footprint.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's approval rating</strong></h2>

<p>His outreach through the digital domain is one of the reasons for his global popularity. A latest survey conducted by Morning Consult whose results were published earlier this month showed that PM Modi remained at the top in&nbsp;global leadership approval, boasting of an impressive 76 per cent rating.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', within India, 76 per cent of respondents expressed approval for PM Modi's leadership, while 18 per cent held a contrary opinion, and six per cent abstained from providing feedback.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-dominates-global-leader-approval-ratings-tops-the-chart-with-impressive-76-percent-667794"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, tops the chart with impressive 76 per cent</strong></a></p>

<p>The second-highest approval rating is held by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at 66 per cent, followed by Switzerland President Alain Berset with 58 per cent.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first world leader whose YouTube channel has crossed the 20 million (two crore) subscribers mark. Regarding views and subscribers, PM Modi has far surpassed the YouTube channels of his Indian and global contemporaries.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first world leader whose YouTube channel has crossed the 20 million (two crore) subscribers mark. Regarding views and subscribers, PM Modi has far surpassed the YouTube channels of his Indian and global contemporaries. PM Modi's channel has amassed a cumulative 4.5 billion video views with the quality of videos and their upload frequency remaining consistent over the years. Notably, it was in February last year that PM Modi's YouTube channel crossed the 10 million subscription mark. The three most popular videos on his channel have garnered a combined 175 million views. For comparison, PM Modi's US counterpart Joe Biden has only 794,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel. Second on the list behind PM Modi is former Brazil president Jair Bolsonaro who has 6.4 million subscribers, followed by Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador with 4.1 million subscribers. Indonesia President Joko Widodo also fares in the list with 3.2 million subscribers. Watch | Indian PM Modi tops list of most popular global leaders with 76% rating × The 20 million subscribers mark is not only a testament to PM Modi's appeal but also underscores the growing significance of digital platforms in shaping political discourse. PM Modi was one of the first leaders to tap into the power of the internet during his 2014 electoral victory. Since then, his team has worked continuously to expand his digital footprint. PM Modi's approval rating His outreach through the digital domain is one of the reasons for his global popularity. A latest survey conducted by Morning Consult whose results were published earlier this month showed that PM Modi remained at the top in global leadership approval, boasting of an impressive 76 per cent rating. As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', within India, 76 per cent of respondents expressed approval for PM Modi's leadership, while 18 per cent held a contrary opinion, and six per cent abstained from providing feedback. Also read | PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, tops the chart with impressive 76 per cent The second-highest approval rating is held by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at 66 per cent, followed by Switzerland President Alain Berset with 58 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s YouTube channel crosses 20 million subscribers; highest among global leaders

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the Opposition has been giving a "political spin" to the Parliament security breach — an event which should have been unequivocally condemned by everyone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi's remarks came in the aftermath of unprecedented scenes of protests and bulk suspensions in Parliament over the security breach incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On December 13, two men disrupted the Indian Parliament when they set off a smoke canister inside the legislature in a major security breach after jumping onto the floor of the Lower House of the Parliament from an overhead visitors' gallery. They were carrying canisters which started emitting yellow smoke, which led to chaos in the House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspension-spree-continues-another-50-mps-booted-out-from-indian-parliament-671231">Indian Parliament suspension spree continues: 49 more MPs ejected, total rises to 141</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Quoting party sources, news agency ANI reported that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership said while addressing the Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday that the ongoing protests both inside and outside the Parliament were the Opposition's way of venting out its frustration&nbsp;after being routed in three of the five states that went to polls last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the last BJP's Parliamentary Party meeting, PM Modi said: "Whatever happened in Parliament recently, those who believe in democracy will not accept such an act. This act should have been condemned."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "However, unfortunately, what I have been witnessing is that the Opposition is letting out its frustration of losing in the election and giving a political spin to the entire act."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India's opposition bloc key meet underway amidst the mass suspension of MPs from Parliament&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>BJP's Parliamentary Party includes all its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members, and usually meets every week during sessions. The one that happened on Tuesday was probably the last of the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi said the act of the Opposition of giving "muted and indirect support" to the Parliament security breach is worrisome.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bjp-veterans-lk-advani-mm-joshi-requested-not-to-come-for-ram-temple-event-671185">BJP veterans LK Advani, MM Joshi ‘requested not to come’ for Ram Temple event</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Opposition lawmakers have been disrupting the proceedings in both Houses demanding a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath, a total of 141 Members of Parliament, 95 from Lok Sabha and 46 from Rajya Sabha, were suspended since December 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Opposition members coming out in defence of the accused in the Parliament breach incident and making statements such as 'what else could they have done' is worrisome and condemnable," the sources quoted PM Modi as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the Opposition has been giving a "political spin" to the Parliament security breach — an event which should have been unequivocally condemned by everyone.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the Opposition has been giving a "political spin" to the Parliament security breach — an event which should have been unequivocally condemned by everyone. PM Modi's remarks came in the aftermath of unprecedented scenes of protests and bulk suspensions in Parliament over the security breach incident. On December 13, two men disrupted the Indian Parliament when they set off a smoke canister inside the legislature in a major security breach after jumping onto the floor of the Lower House of the Parliament from an overhead visitors' gallery. They were carrying canisters which started emitting yellow smoke, which led to chaos in the House. Also read: Indian Parliament suspension spree continues: 49 more MPs ejected, total rises to 141 Quoting party sources, news agency ANI reported that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership said while addressing the Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday that the ongoing protests both inside and outside the Parliament were the Opposition's way of venting out its frustration after being routed in three of the five states that went to polls last month. At the last BJP's Parliamentary Party meeting, PM Modi said: "Whatever happened in Parliament recently, those who believe in democracy will not accept such an act. This act should have been condemned." He added, "However, unfortunately, what I have been witnessing is that the Opposition is letting out its frustration of losing in the election and giving a political spin to the entire act." Watch: India's opposition bloc key meet underway amidst the mass suspension of MPs from Parliament × BJP's Parliamentary Party includes all its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members, and usually meets every week during sessions. The one that happened on Tuesday was probably the last of the year. PM Modi said the act of the Opposition of giving "muted and indirect support" to the Parliament security breach is worrisome. Also read: BJP veterans LK Advani, MM Joshi ‘requested not to come’ for Ram Temple event The Opposition lawmakers have been disrupting the proceedings in both Houses demanding a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the incident. In the aftermath, a total of 141 Members of Parliament, 95 from Lok Sabha and 46 from Rajya Sabha, were suspended since December 14. "The Opposition members coming out in defence of the accused in the Parliament breach incident and making statements such as 'what else could they have done' is worrisome and condemnable," the sources quoted PM Modi as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi says Oppn frustrated after polls rout, hence giving ‘political spin’ to parliament security breach

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi comforted the Indian Team that came second in the race for the world title on Sunday in Ahmedabad. The Men in Blue, the only unbeaten team entering the World Cup 2023 final, lost to Australia by six wickets, owing to an incredible 137 by Travis Head.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi, who was present at the gigantic stadium in Motera named after him, posted on X, saying he acknowledged the outstanding performances of the Indian players throughout the tournament, which brought immense pride to the country.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/social-media-in-awe-of-travis-heads-incredible-world-cup-winning-feat-check-out-latest-reactions-from-x-660554">Praises for Travis Head, sympathy for India, here’s how X reacted to Australia’s World Cup win in Ahmedabad</a></strong></p>

<p>He posted, “Dear Team India, Your talent and determination through the World Cup was noteworthy. You've played with great spirit and brought immense pride to the nation.&nbsp;We stand with you today and always.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Team India,<br />
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Your talent and determination through the World Cup was noteworthy. You've played with great spirit and brought immense pride to the nation.<br />
<br />
We stand with you today and always.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1726269827017515059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>India crumbled under pressure</h2>

<p>In the lead-up to this marquee clash between two powerhouses in world cricket, India was the team to beat. Their unparalleled and unprecedented run leading to the final convinced everyone why the hosts should stand tall. However, destiny had other plans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the most crucial match of the World Cup, India batted first after losing the toss. They lost three wickets inside the first ten overs, including that of captain Rohit Sharma. Though Virat Kohli and KL Rahul impressed with their respective fifties on a tired track, India failed to put on a fighting total, getting all out on 240.</p>

<p>India was on the top of Australia in the second innings, picking three wickets inside the Powerplay. That, however, wasn’t enough as Travis Head came up with a stellar show when it mattered the most, slamming his second World Cup hundred, perhaps the most crucial one, to see his team home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marnus Labuschagne also contributed with a stunning fifty as Australia beat India by six wickets to win the World Cup for the record sixth time.</p>

<h3>Modi lauds stunning Australia</h3>

<p>In another post, PM Modi lauded the world champions Australia for delivering on the D-Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He wrote, “Congratulations to Australia on a magnificent World Cup victory! Theirs was a commendable performance through the tournament, culminating in a splendid triumph. Compliments to Travis Head for his remarkable game today.”&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to Australia on a magnificent World Cup victory! Theirs was a commendable performance through the tournament, culminating in a splendid triumph. Compliments to Travis Head for his remarkable game today.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1726269692774601121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, India and Australia will next face each other in the five-match T20I series, starting November 23 in Vizag.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi comforted the Indian Team that came second in the race for the world title on Sunday in Ahmedabad. The Men in Blue, the only unbeaten team entering the World Cup 2023 final, lost to Australia by six wickets, owing to an incredible 137 by Travis Head.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi comforted the Indian Team that came second in the race for the world title on Sunday in Ahmedabad. The Men in Blue, the only unbeaten team entering the World Cup 2023 final, lost to Australia by six wickets, owing to an incredible 137 by Travis Head. Modi, who was present at the gigantic stadium in Motera named after him, posted on X, saying he acknowledged the outstanding performances of the Indian players throughout the tournament, which brought immense pride to the country. ALSO READ: Praises for Travis Head, sympathy for India, here’s how X reacted to Australia’s World Cup win in Ahmedabad He posted, “Dear Team India, Your talent and determination through the World Cup was noteworthy. You've played with great spirit and brought immense pride to the nation. We stand with you today and always.” Dear Team India, Your talent and determination through the World Cup was noteworthy. You've played with great spirit and brought immense pride to the nation. We stand with you today and always. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 19, 2023 × India crumbled under pressure In the lead-up to this marquee clash between two powerhouses in world cricket, India was the team to beat. Their unparalleled and unprecedented run leading to the final convinced everyone why the hosts should stand tall. However, destiny had other plans. In the most crucial match of the World Cup, India batted first after losing the toss. They lost three wickets inside the first ten overs, including that of captain Rohit Sharma. Though Virat Kohli and KL Rahul impressed with their respective fifties on a tired track, India failed to put on a fighting total, getting all out on 240. India was on the top of Australia in the second innings, picking three wickets inside the Powerplay. That, however, wasn’t enough as Travis Head came up with a stellar show when it mattered the most, slamming his second World Cup hundred, perhaps the most crucial one, to see his team home. Marnus Labuschagne also contributed with a stunning fifty as Australia beat India by six wickets to win the World Cup for the record sixth time. Modi lauds stunning Australia In another post, PM Modi lauded the world champions Australia for delivering on the D-Day. He wrote, “Congratulations to Australia on a magnificent World Cup victory! Theirs was a commendable performance through the tournament, culminating in a splendid triumph. Compliments to Travis Head for his remarkable game today.” Congratulations to Australia on a magnificent World Cup victory! Theirs was a commendable performance through the tournament, culminating in a splendid triumph. Compliments to Travis Head for his remarkable game today. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 19, 2023 × Meanwhile, India and Australia will next face each other in the five-match T20I series, starting November 23 in Vizag.

We stand with you today and always: PM Modi's message to Team India after World Cup final loss

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Indonesia on Thursday (September 7) where he will be attending the ASEAN-India and the East Asia summits.<br />
<br />
In the summits, the prime minister will be discussing the future contours of the partnership of India with the countries, which are located in the strategically important region.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-leaves-for-indonesia-to-take-part-in-asean-india-summit-east-asia-summit-633034">Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Indonesia to take part in ASEAN-India Summit, East Asia Summit</a></p>

<p>"Good morning. We have just arrived here at Jakarta International Airport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is about to depart from the plane. He's been given a warm ceremonial welcome here at Jakarta Airport," said External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a video he shared on social media platform X, earlier known as Twitter.</p>

<p>"This is very early in the morning, but he has a packed schedule here. A few hours later, he goes for the India-ASEAN summit and thereafter for the East Asia summit. There are important engagements. Both these activities entail. He will thereafter come back here and take the flight back to New Delhi. So literally a few hours in Jakarta, but we look forward to a very productive day. Prime Minister has come here despite the busy schedule for the G 20 that starts effectively on Friday evening and just emphasizes the importance that you attached to this visit. We will continue to bring you updates on this visit as it unfolds," he stated.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, PM Modi posted on X, “Landed in Jakarta. Looking forward to the ASEAN-related meetings and to working with various leaders for making a better planet.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Landed in Jakarta. Looking forward to the ASEAN related meetings and to working with various leaders for making a better planet. <a href="https://t.co/aKpwLnk3ky">pic.twitter.com/aKpwLnk3ky</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1699548364961153109?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Engagement with ASEAN an important pillar of India's 'Act East' policy: PM</strong></h2>

<p>Before his departure from New Delhi, Modi said that India's comprehensive strategic partnership with the ASEAN nations injected new dynamism into the ties of the group with New Delhi.<br />
<br />
During his visit to Jakarta, Modi will participate in the ASEAN-India Summit and will also attend the East Asia Summit.<br />
<br />
Immediately after the meeting ends, PM Modi will return to India, which is hosting the G20 Summit in New Delhi on September 9 and 10.<br />
<br />
"Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India's 'Act East' policy," said Modi, in his departure statement.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi reacts to 'India-Bharat' row</strong></p>

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<p>“My first engagement will be the 20th ASEAN-India Summit. I look forward to discussing with ASEAN leaders the future contours of our partnership, which has entered its fourth decade. Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership entered into last year has injected new dynamism in our ties,” PM Modi said.</p>

<p>“After that, I will be attending the 18th East Asia Summit. This forum provides a useful opportunity to deliberate on issues of importance to the region including food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. I look forward to exchanging views with other EAS Leaders on practical co-operation measures to collectively address these global challenges,” the prime minister added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Indonesia on Thursday (September 7) where he will be attending the ASEAN-India and the East Asia summits. In the summits, the prime minister will be discussing the future contours of the partnership of India with the countries, which are located in the strategically important region.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Indonesia on Thursday (September 7) where he will be attending the ASEAN-India and the East Asia summits. In the summits, the prime minister will be discussing the future contours of the partnership of India with the countries, which are located in the strategically important region. ALSO READ | Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Indonesia to take part in ASEAN-India Summit, East Asia Summit "Good morning. We have just arrived here at Jakarta International Airport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is about to depart from the plane. He's been given a warm ceremonial welcome here at Jakarta Airport," said External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a video he shared on social media platform X, earlier known as Twitter. "This is very early in the morning, but he has a packed schedule here. A few hours later, he goes for the India-ASEAN summit and thereafter for the East Asia summit. There are important engagements. Both these activities entail. He will thereafter come back here and take the flight back to New Delhi. So literally a few hours in Jakarta, but we look forward to a very productive day. Prime Minister has come here despite the busy schedule for the G 20 that starts effectively on Friday evening and just emphasizes the importance that you attached to this visit. We will continue to bring you updates on this visit as it unfolds," he stated. Meanwhile, PM Modi posted on X, “Landed in Jakarta. Looking forward to the ASEAN-related meetings and to working with various leaders for making a better planet.” Landed in Jakarta. Looking forward to the ASEAN related meetings and to working with various leaders for making a better planet. pic.twitter.com/aKpwLnk3ky — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 6, 2023 × Engagement with ASEAN an important pillar of India's 'Act East' policy: PM Before his departure from New Delhi, Modi said that India's comprehensive strategic partnership with the ASEAN nations injected new dynamism into the ties of the group with New Delhi. During his visit to Jakarta, Modi will participate in the ASEAN-India Summit and will also attend the East Asia Summit. Immediately after the meeting ends, PM Modi will return to India, which is hosting the G20 Summit in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. "Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India's 'Act East' policy," said Modi, in his departure statement. WATCH | Indian PM Modi reacts to 'India-Bharat' row “My first engagement will be the 20th ASEAN-India Summit. I look forward to discussing with ASEAN leaders the future contours of our partnership, which has entered its fourth decade. Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership entered into last year has injected new dynamism in our ties,” PM Modi said. “After that, I will be attending the 18th East Asia Summit. This forum provides a useful opportunity to deliberate on issues of importance to the region including food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. I look forward to exchanging views with other EAS Leaders on practical co-operation measures to collectively address these global challenges,” the prime minister added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi lands in Indonesia to participate in ASEAN-India, East Asia summits

<p>US Congressman Michael Waltz, who was in attendance at Red Fort for India's Independence Day celebrations, has applauded the growing partnership between New Delhi and Washington.</p>

<p>Waltz, who is the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, spoke to WION correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New Delhi on Tuesday (Aug 15) and described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address on Independence Day as "detailed, and very forward-looking".</p>

<p>Highlighting the depth of the India-US relationship, he said, "The trajectory is only getting higher and stronger."</p>

<p>He underscored this growth across various sectors, including "pharmaceuticals, biotech, space, maritime shipping, energy, renewable energy, and liquid natural gas."</p>

<p>He also spoke about the Khalistan violence and the growing challenge posed by the Chinese Communist Party.</p>

<p><strong>Here are excerpts</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION: Since you were at Red Fort listening to Indian PM Modi’s speech, can you describe what stood out to you the most? </strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz:</strong> Well, it was a beautiful, amazing setting and what a historic setting. I mean the place of India's first Independence Day speech by Nehru, the first prime minister. But I think what really jumped out at me was to hear Prime Minister Modi's vision for India to be a fully developed nation by the 100th year anniversary, by 2047. It was very detailed, it was very forceful, very forward-looking. I thought it was a great speech and it was an honour to be there.</p>

<p><strong>WION: What's your assessment of the India-US relationship?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz:</strong> Well, I think the trajectory is only getting higher and going stronger and it's across so many spheres. It's in pharmaceuticals, biotech, space, maritime shipping, energy, renewable energy and liquid natural gas and of course, military and defence. So, there are many industries that relationships coming together. I think that is evidenced by Prime Minister Modi having only been the only the fifth ever world leader to have a joint address to Congress twice. And then now the president coming here for the G20. That high level of engagement, I think speaks to the strength of the relationship.</p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see the diaspora playing an important role in connecting the two countries?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz:</strong> Well, I've grown up with Indian-American families my whole life, I've been to two Indian weddings. I think the cultural bond is really the glue between the two countries. India has such a historic, rich culture. But then the Indian Americans brought that culture to the United States, which is a melting pot of all different cultures. So, I think it's those people-to-people contacts that are so important.</p>

<p><strong>WION: What’s your take on sustainability and climate change</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz:</strong> I think we all have a long way to go. And the way to get there is through a balanced energy portfolio. It can't be just solar or wind. It has to be nuclear, hydrogen, hydro, and oil and gas for modern economies to keep growing and to have the energy to support it. I think you need all of the above approaches and not one just over the other. And I think our countries are working well to achieve that.</p>

<p><strong>WION: We saw Khalistani extremists indulging in violence against the Indian consulate in US and in other countries. What's your take on that?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz:</strong> Both the Democrat and Republican, who are the co-chair of the house India caucus, apart from myself and representative Ro Khanna, have condemned that violence. It's unacceptable. There's no place for it. It is just unacceptable.</p>

<p><strong>WION: There’s also the visa issue. Is the India caucus doing anything to reduce the long waiting time to get US visa?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz: </strong>I'm the co-chair of the India caucus and also on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. We have oversight of the US State Department. We've had a number of hearings and pushed the State Department to issue visas faster. And they have brought the time down, which they announced during Prime Minister Modi's visit, but it needs to come down further. We are looking for highly educated, STEM-focused engineer workforce types of positions in the United States and in our universities. The Indian economy is growing and from a technological standpoint, I think we need to get those times down and we're working hard to do that.</p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see India’s ‘Make in India’ policy, focusing on local manufacturing?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz: </strong>I certainly support it. I think every strong economy and strong democracy wants to be able to defend itself and to be able to make that equipment. But it's not just the co-production which I support. It's also conducting joint exercises, like the Malabar exercise, that's happening right now in Australia with the Australian, Indian and the US, militaries all working together. So how do we employ that equipment in our training, operations, tactics and planning together, which I think will help stabilise the Indo-Pacific and serve to deter a very aggressive Chinese Communist Party from many of the bad actions it's currently taking right now.</p>

<p><strong>WION: What’s your assessment of an increasingly aggressive China?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz</strong>: It's not just the Chinese people who are the victims of an aggressive, authoritarian Chinese Communist Party,&nbsp;it's also Taiwan, the South China Sea, the Philippines, India, Tibet, the United States and Australia. This is really a destabilising force across the Indo-Pacific, and I think like-minded democracies working in partnership together, whether that's co-production of defence, working together in space, IT, or technology across the board will deter that type of aggression and make it clear to the Chinese Communist Party that they can't get away with it.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Do you think Taiwan is the next theatre of war, given how the situation has been? How do you see India and Taiwan engaging?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz:</strong> We're seeing more and more aggression from the Chinese Communist Party towards Taiwan. This is a thriving democracy, a technological leader in its own right. And yet we're seeing more and more... we almost saw a blockade of Taiwan during Speaker Pelosi's visit which, again, is unacceptable. These are things that need to be worked out diplomatically, not militarily, and certainly not through the threat of violence. I hope the United States and India continue to work together as a stabilizing force across all of the Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Pakistan is also a cause of concern for India, especially terrorism. What's your take on terrorism getting support from the government in many senses in their own sovereign territory?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz: </strong>I've said to my Pakistani counterparts many times that terrorism cannot be a tool of foreign policy. And whether that's through Lashkar-e-Taiba or other types of terrorist groups, it's just unacceptable. And the Pakistani government and the Pakistani military and intelligence services have to move past that and will continue to press them to move in the right direction and not use terrorism as an instrument.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Is Russia a concern for the India-US relationship? India shares cordial relations with Russia. What's your assessment of that?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz:</strong> I certainly am understanding of the long history of the India-Russia relationship. But I think going forward, I hope, through time, that relationship moves in different directions. India is a growing powerhouse of democracy and economy, while Putin has shown that he is moving Russia in the wrong direction, sadly. So, whether that is moving from a military standpoint or equipment supplies or from an energy supply standpoint, (India) moving away (from Russia) is going to take time. That's a long-standing relationship economically and militarily and it's going to take time to move in a different direction, but I think it's moving. The trend is a positive one over time.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Do you think that the Quad grouping can provide an effective maritime security in the wider Indo-Pacific, and keep it free and open?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz: </strong>The Quad relationship is broader than just military. I mean, the most recent, you know, big deliverable or achievement was actually an educational exchange. So it's education, it's in technology, it's in space, it's in pharmaceuticals, but it's also in the military as well. And that's where these exercises are so important of learning, how each other does planning, does operations and how we can work together, and I do think that it will be a stabilising force. Australia, Japan, the United States and India together are a very powerful combination. They are all going to operate independently in their own interest, but also come together when it makes sense.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Today marks the completion of two years since Kabul fell to the Taliban. Do you think President Biden has many things to answer for that?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz</strong>: I think the withdrawal was handled very badly. We now have a situation where terrorists control an entire country. Many of those terrorists, the Taliban, and the Haqqani Network, have a long history with the Pakistani ISI—the intelligence services. And I think that's a danger for the region. It's a danger to the world. And unfortunately, I fear the first place that will be felt is in India. So, I do think that was a mistake. But we will continue to push for accountability of what mistakes were made, and how we stabilise and work with India and other allies to hopefully keep those bad actors within Afghanistan.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Certain NATO weapons have fallen in the hands of ISIS (K) in Afghanistan</strong></p>

<p><strong>Michael Waltz:&nbsp;</strong> I fear they are spreading all over the region. And frankly, it was&nbsp;a mistake.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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US Congressman Michael Waltz, who was in attendance at Red Fort for India's Independence Day celebrations, has applauded the growing partnership between New Delhi and Washington.

US Congressman Michael Waltz, who was in attendance at Red Fort for India's Independence Day celebrations, has applauded the growing partnership between New Delhi and Washington. Waltz, who is the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, spoke to WION correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New Delhi on Tuesday (Aug 15) and described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address on Independence Day as "detailed, and very forward-looking". Highlighting the depth of the India-US relationship, he said, "The trajectory is only getting higher and stronger." He underscored this growth across various sectors, including "pharmaceuticals, biotech, space, maritime shipping, energy, renewable energy, and liquid natural gas." He also spoke about the Khalistan violence and the growing challenge posed by the Chinese Communist Party. Here are excerpts WION: Since you were at Red Fort listening to Indian PM Modi’s speech, can you describe what stood out to you the most? Michael Waltz: Well, it was a beautiful, amazing setting and what a historic setting. I mean the place of India's first Independence Day speech by Nehru, the first prime minister. But I think what really jumped out at me was to hear Prime Minister Modi's vision for India to be a fully developed nation by the 100th year anniversary, by 2047. It was very detailed, it was very forceful, very forward-looking. I thought it was a great speech and it was an honour to be there. WION: What's your assessment of the India-US relationship? Michael Waltz: Well, I think the trajectory is only getting higher and going stronger and it's across so many spheres. It's in pharmaceuticals, biotech, space, maritime shipping, energy, renewable energy and liquid natural gas and of course, military and defence. So, there are many industries that relationships coming together. I think that is evidenced by Prime Minister Modi having only been the only the fifth ever world leader to have a joint address to Congress twice. And then now the president coming here for the G20. That high level of engagement, I think speaks to the strength of the relationship. WION: How do you see the diaspora playing an important role in connecting the two countries? Michael Waltz: Well, I've grown up with Indian-American families my whole life, I've been to two Indian weddings. I think the cultural bond is really the glue between the two countries. India has such a historic, rich culture. But then the Indian Americans brought that culture to the United States, which is a melting pot of all different cultures. So, I think it's those people-to-people contacts that are so important. WION: What’s your take on sustainability and climate change Michael Waltz: I think we all have a long way to go. And the way to get there is through a balanced energy portfolio. It can't be just solar or wind. It has to be nuclear, hydrogen, hydro, and oil and gas for modern economies to keep growing and to have the energy to support it. I think you need all of the above approaches and not one just over the other. And I think our countries are working well to achieve that. WION: We saw Khalistani extremists indulging in violence against the Indian consulate in US and in other countries. What's your take on that? Michael Waltz: Both the Democrat and Republican, who are the co-chair of the house India caucus, apart from myself and representative Ro Khanna, have condemned that violence. It's unacceptable. There's no place for it. It is just unacceptable. WION: There’s also the visa issue. Is the India caucus doing anything to reduce the long waiting time to get US visa? Michael Waltz: I'm the co-chair of the India caucus and also on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. We have oversight of the US State Department. We've had a number of hearings and pushed the State Department to issue visas faster. And they have brought the time down, which they announced during Prime Minister Modi's visit, but it needs to come down further. We are looking for highly educated, STEM-focused engineer workforce types of positions in the United States and in our universities. The Indian economy is growing and from a technological standpoint, I think we need to get those times down and we're working hard to do that. WION: How do you see India’s ‘Make in India’ policy, focusing on local manufacturing? Michael Waltz: I certainly support it. I think every strong economy and strong democracy wants to be able to defend itself and to be able to make that equipment. But it's not just the co-production which I support. It's also conducting joint exercises, like the Malabar exercise, that's happening right now in Australia with the Australian, Indian and the US, militaries all working together. So how do we employ that equipment in our training, operations, tactics and planning together, which I think will help stabilise the Indo-Pacific and serve to deter a very aggressive Chinese Communist Party from many of the bad actions it's currently taking right now. WION: What’s your assessment of an increasingly aggressive China? Michael Waltz: It's not just the Chinese people who are the victims of an aggressive, authoritarian Chinese Communist Party, it's also Taiwan, the South China Sea, the Philippines, India, Tibet, the United States and Australia. This is really a destabilising force across the Indo-Pacific, and I think like-minded democracies working in partnership together, whether that's co-production of defence, working together in space, IT, or technology across the board will deter that type of aggression and make it clear to the Chinese Communist Party that they can't get away with it. WION: Do you think Taiwan is the next theatre of war, given how the situation has been? How do you see India and Taiwan engaging? Michael Waltz: We're seeing more and more aggression from the Chinese Communist Party towards Taiwan. This is a thriving democracy, a technological leader in its own right. And yet we're seeing more and more... we almost saw a blockade of Taiwan during Speaker Pelosi's visit which, again, is unacceptable. These are things that need to be worked out diplomatically, not militarily, and certainly not through the threat of violence. I hope the United States and India continue to work together as a stabilizing force across all of the Indo-Pacific. WION: Pakistan is also a cause of concern for India, especially terrorism. What's your take on terrorism getting support from the government in many senses in their own sovereign territory? Michael Waltz: I've said to my Pakistani counterparts many times that terrorism cannot be a tool of foreign policy. And whether that's through Lashkar-e-Taiba or other types of terrorist groups, it's just unacceptable. And the Pakistani government and the Pakistani military and intelligence services have to move past that and will continue to press them to move in the right direction and not use terrorism as an instrument. WION: Is Russia a concern for the India-US relationship? India shares cordial relations with Russia. What's your assessment of that? Michael Waltz: I certainly am understanding of the long history of the India-Russia relationship. But I think going forward, I hope, through time, that relationship moves in different directions. India is a growing powerhouse of democracy and economy, while Putin has shown that he is moving Russia in the wrong direction, sadly. So, whether that is moving from a military standpoint or equipment supplies or from an energy supply standpoint, (India) moving away (from Russia) is going to take time. That's a long-standing relationship economically and militarily and it's going to take time to move in a different direction, but I think it's moving. The trend is a positive one over time. WION: Do you think that the Quad grouping can provide an effective maritime security in the wider Indo-Pacific, and keep it free and open? Michael Waltz: The Quad relationship is broader than just military. I mean, the most recent, you know, big deliverable or achievement was actually an educational exchange. So it's education, it's in technology, it's in space, it's in pharmaceuticals, but it's also in the military as well. And that's where these exercises are so important of learning, how each other does planning, does operations and how we can work together, and I do think that it will be a stabilising force. Australia, Japan, the United States and India together are a very powerful combination. They are all going to operate independently in their own interest, but also come together when it makes sense. WION: Today marks the completion of two years since Kabul fell to the Taliban. Do you think President Biden has many things to answer for that? Michael Waltz: I think the withdrawal was handled very badly. We now have a situation where terrorists control an entire country. Many of those terrorists, the Taliban, and the Haqqani Network, have a long history with the Pakistani ISI—the intelligence services. And I think that's a danger for the region. It's a danger to the world. And unfortunately, I fear the first place that will be felt is in India. So, I do think that was a mistake. But we will continue to push for accountability of what mistakes were made, and how we stabilise and work with India and other allies to hopefully keep those bad actors within Afghanistan. WION: Certain NATO weapons have fallen in the hands of ISIS (K) in Afghanistan Michael Waltz: I fear they are spreading all over the region. And frankly, it was a mistake. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Trajectory is getting higher and stronger: US Congressman Michael Waltz on India-US ties

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on a crucial visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week as part of his broader diplomatic tour that will see him travel to France.</p>

<p>The PM will be in France on July 13 and will be the chief guest at the Bastille Day parade.</p>

<p>The UAE visit marks PM Modi's fifth trip to the Gulf country since assuming office in 2014 and underscores the growing significance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.</p>

<p>He has been to UAE in June 2022, August 2019, February 2018, and August 2015.</p>

<p>During his previous visit in June 2022, Prime Minister Modi met Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President and ruler of Abu Dhabi, to express condolences on the passing of former President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.</p>

<p>This gesture showcased the deepening personal rapport between the leaders and their commitment to further enhancing ties between India and the UAE.</p>

<p>The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and the UAE last year has played a pivotal role in boosting bilateral trade.</p>

<p>Over the past year, the agreement has had a significant impact on India's exports to the UAE, both in terms of oil and non-oil products. The trade volume between the two nations has reached historic highs, surging from $72.9 billion in the fiscal year 2021-2022 to $84.5 billion in the fiscal year 2022-2023, marking a remarkable year-on-year increase of 16 per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-video-shows-doomsday-shelf-cloud-formation-over-haridwar-what-is-it-614346"><strong>I</strong>ndia: Video shows ‘Doomsday’ shelf cloud formation over Haridwar. What is it?</a></p>

<p>In addition to economic cooperation, defence interaction between India and the UAE has witnessed steady growth. Regular exchanges at the highest levels, including service chiefs, functional-level engagements, and military education exchanges, have further strengthened bilateral defence cooperation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-you-know-which-countries-have-worlds-strongest-military-this-is-where-india-stands-614344">Do you know which countries have world’s strongest military? This is where India stands</a></p>

<p>Both countries have regularly conducted joint naval exercises and port calls, fostering mutual trust and camaraderie among their armed forces. An annual defence dialogue provides a platform to discuss and enhance security and defence cooperation between India&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp; UAE.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on a crucial visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week as part of his broader diplomatic tour that will see him travel to France.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on a crucial visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week as part of his broader diplomatic tour that will see him travel to France. The PM will be in France on July 13 and will be the chief guest at the Bastille Day parade. The UAE visit marks PM Modi's fifth trip to the Gulf country since assuming office in 2014 and underscores the growing significance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations. He has been to UAE in June 2022, August 2019, February 2018, and August 2015. During his previous visit in June 2022, Prime Minister Modi met Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President and ruler of Abu Dhabi, to express condolences on the passing of former President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This gesture showcased the deepening personal rapport between the leaders and their commitment to further enhancing ties between India and the UAE. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and the UAE last year has played a pivotal role in boosting bilateral trade. Over the past year, the agreement has had a significant impact on India's exports to the UAE, both in terms of oil and non-oil products. The trade volume between the two nations has reached historic highs, surging from $72.9 billion in the fiscal year 2021-2022 to $84.5 billion in the fiscal year 2022-2023, marking a remarkable year-on-year increase of 16 per cent. Also read | India: Video shows ‘Doomsday’ shelf cloud formation over Haridwar. What is it? In addition to economic cooperation, defence interaction between India and the UAE has witnessed steady growth. Regular exchanges at the highest levels, including service chiefs, functional-level engagements, and military education exchanges, have further strengthened bilateral defence cooperation. Also read | Do you know which countries have world’s strongest military? This is where India stands Both countries have regularly conducted joint naval exercises and port calls, fostering mutual trust and camaraderie among their armed forces. An annual defence dialogue provides a platform to discuss and enhance security and defence cooperation between India and the UAE. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit UAE this week

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