India and South Korea on Friday signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his counterpart with an aim to intensify defence cooperation between the two countries.

"The ministers exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest. Two MoUs to further defence educational exchanges and extend logistical support to each other's navies were signed. These agreements will help enhance defence cooperation between India-Republic of Korea," the Office of Raksha Mantri (Ministry of Defence) tweeted.

Earlier in the day, the Defence Minister held bilateral talks with his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong-Doo where they reviewed defence cooperation between both countries.

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Republic of Korea: Defence Min Rajnath Singh had official talks with Jeong Kyeong-Doo, Min of National Defence of Republic of Korea. Also, two Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, to further defence educational exchanges&amp;extend logistical support to each other’s navies <a href="https://t.co/nMzGZ3k7VS">pic.twitter.com/nMzGZ3k7VS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169818118656380931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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During the meeting, both sides agreed that there was great potential to further boost defence ties.

"The Ministers noted that defence cooperation lies at the heart of the special strategic partnership between India and the ROK. They discussed the ongoing cooperation at Service to Service level and prospects for enhanced cooperation between India and Korea defence industries," the Ministry added.Singh is currently on a three-day visit to South Korea since Wednesday with an aim to intensify bilateral defence and security relations.

India is developing strong military hardware cooperation with South Korea as the Indian Army has already inducted the K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers (which has roots in South Korea's K-9 Thunder) built in partnership with the Indian firm Larsen and Toubro.&nbsp;

 
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India and South Korea on Friday signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his counterpart with an aim to intensify defence cooperation between the two countries.

India and South Korea on Friday signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his counterpart with an aim to intensify defence cooperation between the two countries. "The ministers exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest. Two MoUs to further defence educational exchanges and extend logistical support to each other's navies were signed. These agreements will help enhance defence cooperation between India-Republic of Korea," the Office of Raksha Mantri (Ministry of Defence) tweeted. Earlier in the day, the Defence Minister held bilateral talks with his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong-Doo where they reviewed defence cooperation between both countries. Republic of Korea: Defence Min Rajnath Singh had official talks with Jeong Kyeong-Doo, Min of National Defence of Republic of Korea. Also, two Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, to further defence educational exchanges&extend logistical support to each other’s navies pic.twitter.com/nMzGZ3k7VS — ANI (@ANI) September 6, 2019 × During the meeting, both sides agreed that there was great potential to further boost defence ties. "The Ministers noted that defence cooperation lies at the heart of the special strategic partnership between India and the ROK. They discussed the ongoing cooperation at Service to Service level and prospects for enhanced cooperation between India and Korea defence industries," the Ministry added.Singh is currently on a three-day visit to South Korea since Wednesday with an aim to intensify bilateral defence and security relations. India is developing strong military hardware cooperation with South Korea as the Indian Army has already inducted the K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers (which has roots in South Korea's K-9 Thunder) built in partnership with the Indian firm Larsen and Toubro.

India, South Korea ink 2 MoUs to boost defence cooperation

Calling for collective international action to check perpetrators of terrorism, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday advocated strong measures against those who support and finance terrorism and provide sanctuary to terrorists.

Calling for collective international action to check perpetrators of terrorism, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday advocated strong measures against those who support and finance terrorism and provide sanctuary to terrorists. He was delivering a keynote address at the `Seoul Defence Dialogue 2019` with the theme, `Building Peace Together: Challenges and Vision`, during his visit to the Republic of Korea (ROK). "Of the numerous security challenges that the world is facing, the gravest is that of terrorism. No country in the world is safe from terrorism and India has been actively pursuing counter-terrorism cooperation bilaterally, regionally and globally through UN and other forum," he said. The minister said that world politics today is in a state of flux and this has aggravated global and regional challenges to international peace and security. "New and emerging technologies have impacted the regional as well as global security environment," he said. "Our region is confronted with numerous traditional and non-traditional security threats such as terrorism, conflicts, transnational crimes, maritime threats, proliferation as well as the challenges of sustainable development, including the lack of energy, low intra-regional trade and lack of connectivity", he added. Singh emphasised that good relations with neighbours - both immediate and extended - are a priority for India`s foreign policy as part of its Neighbourhood First Policy. "A key feature of India`s Neighbourhood First Policy is also its engagement with its neighbours in sub-regional groupings of Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and Bay of Bengal initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), apart from a trilateral maritime co-operation format with Sri Lanka and Maldives to improve Maritime Domain Awareness and co-operation", he said. The minister expressed India`s support for peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula and its denuclearisation through dialogue and diplomacy. "Our quest for common prosperity and security requires us to evolve a common rules-based order for our region, the Indo-Pacific region. This order must be based on sovereignty and territorial integrity and equality of all nations, irrespective of size and strength. These rules and norms must be based on the consent of all", he said.

Rajnath calls for collective international action against terrorism, says it is gravest security challenge 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/issues-relating-to-article-370-internal-matter-of-india-rajnath-singh-to-us-secretary-of-defence-esper-244461">Defence Minister Rajnath Singh</a> and IAF Chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-cautious-and-alert-says-air-chief-bs-dhanoa-amid-indo-pak-tensions-244360">Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa</a> are scheduled to receive the first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-using-offset-money-of-rafale-deal-to-train-people-nirmala-sitharaman-236224">Rafale fighter jet</a> manufactured by French firm Dassault Aviation for India on September 20.

"As per plans, a large Indian contingent led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is being sent by the Central government to accept the Rafale plane in the third week of September," Defence officials told ANI.

India has signed a deal with France for the acquisition of 36 Rafale combat jets from France, which will start arriving India from May next year.

Defence Minister Singh and the IAF Chief will receive the first aircraft from the French authorities near the plane manufacturing plant in Bordeaux.

The officials said the Indian Rafale is far more advanced than the ones operating with the French Air Force and that is why the plane would continue to be used for training Indian pilots till May next year.

The Indian planes have been equipped with a lot of India specific enhancements, which have been fitted at a cost of around one billion euros.

Though small batches of Indian pilots have already trained on the French Air Force planes, the Indian Air Force would train 24 pilots in three different batches till next year May for flying the Indian Rafales.

The Indian Air Force will deploy one each squadron of the Rafale combat aircraft at its airbases in Ambala in Haryana and Hashimara in Bengal.

In September 2016, India signed a deal with the French government and Dassault Aviation to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets for over Euro 7.8 billion to arrest the fall of combat squadrons and meet urgent requirements on the eastern and western fronts.

The plan to deploy one squadron of the planes at the Saraswat air base in Uttar Pradesh did not work out due to land acquisition issues.

Ambala base has been housing Jaguar aircraft squadrons mainly looking after the Pakistan front but due to rapid deployment capabilities, the planes can be utilised on both the fronts in case of requirement.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa are scheduled to receive the first Rafale fighter jet manufactured by French firm Dassault Aviation for India on September 20.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa are scheduled to receive the first Rafale fighter jet manufactured by French firm Dassault Aviation for India on September 20. "As per plans, a large Indian contingent led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is being sent by the Central government to accept the Rafale plane in the third week of September," Defence officials told ANI. India has signed a deal with France for the acquisition of 36 Rafale combat jets from France, which will start arriving India from May next year. Defence Minister Singh and the IAF Chief will receive the first aircraft from the French authorities near the plane manufacturing plant in Bordeaux. The officials said the Indian Rafale is far more advanced than the ones operating with the French Air Force and that is why the plane would continue to be used for training Indian pilots till May next year. The Indian planes have been equipped with a lot of India specific enhancements, which have been fitted at a cost of around one billion euros. Though small batches of Indian pilots have already trained on the French Air Force planes, the Indian Air Force would train 24 pilots in three different batches till next year May for flying the Indian Rafales. The Indian Air Force will deploy one each squadron of the Rafale combat aircraft at its airbases in Ambala in Haryana and Hashimara in Bengal. In September 2016, India signed a deal with the French government and Dassault Aviation to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets for over Euro 7.8 billion to arrest the fall of combat squadrons and meet urgent requirements on the eastern and western fronts. The plan to deploy one squadron of the planes at the Saraswat air base in Uttar Pradesh did not work out due to land acquisition issues. Ambala base has been housing Jaguar aircraft squadrons mainly looking after the Pakistan front but due to rapid deployment capabilities, the planes can be utilised on both the fronts in case of requirement.

Rajnath Singh, IAF chief to visit France to receive first Indian Rafale fighter plane

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/moderate-rhetoric-with-india-donald-trump-tells-imran-khan-after-phone-call-with-pm-narendra-modi-244280">spoke to US secretary</a> of defence&nbsp;Mark Esper today as the two ministers discussed bilateral defence cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen and deepen the relations further.

During the phone call, Rajnath Singh invited US companies to invest in India's defence manufacturing sector under the "Make in India" programme.

Rajnath Singh raised the issue of cross-border terrorism affecting India and appreciated US support for India’s effort to maintain peace and stability in the region, the Ministry of Defence said.

Watch Video:

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Rajnath Singh said that issues relating to Article 370 are an internal matter of India which is&nbsp;aimed at improving growth and economic development, democracy and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Esper while speaking to Rajnath appreciated India’s position that the recent developments in Jammu &amp; Kashmir were an internal matter of India and hoped that any issue between India and Pakistan would be resolved bilaterally, the ministry of defence said in a statement.

Both the ministers exchanged views on a range of issues relating&nbsp;to military-to-military cooperation, defence policy, R&amp;D cooperation, defence trade, technology and industrial cooperation.&nbsp;

Esper and Rajnath Singh expressed satisfaction on the first tri-service joint exercise planned for later this year and steps taken to operationalise agreements like LEMOA and COMCASA. 
&nbsp; 
On Monday, PM Modi had called<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-towards-regional-peace-pm-modi-to-president-trump-244225"> President Trump </a>to speak on similar lines with the Indian prime minister informing the US president that "certain nations" were spreading anti-India propaganda.&nbsp;

After the phone call with Modi, Trump called PM Imran Khan and discussed the need to reduce tensions and "moderate rhetoric with India over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir."

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to US secretary of defence Mark Esper today as the two ministers discussed bilateral defence cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen and deepen the relations further.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to US secretary of defence Mark Esper today as the two ministers discussed bilateral defence cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen and deepen the relations further. During the phone call, Rajnath Singh invited US companies to invest in India's defence manufacturing sector under the "Make in India" programme. Rajnath Singh raised the issue of cross-border terrorism affecting India and appreciated US support for India’s effort to maintain peace and stability in the region, the Ministry of Defence said. Watch Video: Rajnath Singh said that issues relating to Article 370 are an internal matter of India which is aimed at improving growth and economic development, democracy and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Esper while speaking to Rajnath appreciated India’s position that the recent developments in Jammu & Kashmir were an internal matter of India and hoped that any issue between India and Pakistan would be resolved bilaterally, the ministry of defence said in a statement. Both the ministers exchanged views on a range of issues relating to military-to-military cooperation, defence policy, R&D cooperation, defence trade, technology and industrial cooperation. Esper and Rajnath Singh expressed satisfaction on the first tri-service joint exercise planned for later this year and steps taken to operationalise agreements like LEMOA and COMCASA. On Monday, PM Modi had called President Trump to speak on similar lines with the Indian prime minister informing the US president that "certain nations" were spreading anti-India propaganda. After the phone call with Modi, Trump called PM Imran Khan and discussed the need to reduce tensions and "moderate rhetoric with India over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir."

Issues relating to Article 370 internal matter of India: Rajnath Singh to US secretary of defence Esper

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror.

"Why should there be talks? On what issues there would be talks? Talks with Pakistan would begin only after it stops patronising terrorism. If talks begin, it would now only be on the PoK and no other issue," he said.

The senior BJP leader was addressing a rally here ahead of flagging off "Jan Aashirvaad Yatra" of the Haryana BJP under the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

India has not been engaging with Pakistan since an attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016 by a Pakistan-based terror group, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together.

Slamming Pakistan for its efforts to internationalise the issue of Kashmir after New Delhi scrapped Jammu and Kashmir's special status by revoking Article 370, Singh said the neighbouring country was knocking doors of the international community to save itself.

"We have a neighbour. You people know who is it. We removed Article 370 and it is thinning down. It is not able to digest and is knocking the doors of the world seeking help to save itself. It is crying before them and saying please save me," Singh said without naming Pakistan.

Mentioning United States'&nbsp;response in the United Nations, Singh said the most powerful country's President refused to help Pakistan, saying it should talk to India.

"Hato, hato... Bharat se baat kariye... Yahan aane ki jaroorat nahi hai (back off... talk to India... no need to come here," Singh said referring to Trump's response to Pakistan.Since Imran Khan came to power, he has urged for a dialogue with India on various occasions.

However, with the government's decision to burry Article 370, Islamabad has now refused to propose a peace solution through dialogue.

Alleging that Pakistan was trying to break and destabilise India with its acts like Pulwama, Singh said the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been giving a befitting reply to all its nefarious actions.

He said the Pakistan which was denying any Indian action in Balakot, has now back-tracked with Prime Minister Imran Khan himself saying that India was planning to take a bigger action than Balakot.

"It means that Pakistani Prime Minister has acknowledged what India did in Balakot and the terrorists killed in a big number," he said.

Early this year, tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26.Singh said, the BJP was committed to its election manifesto and it was fulfilling all that was promised.

"Our Prime Minister took the decision and Article 370 was removed despite people saying if anyone would touch it, India will get divided," he said maintaining that the BJP was in politics not to form governments but to save the country.

He also slammed the apprehensions that there would be riots in the country if any government tries to touch Article 370.

"We don't do divisive politics. Those who practice it want to grab power for vote bank politics," he said, adding that now the two Union Territories Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh would taste the fruits of development along with the other parts of the country.

Pakistan has strongly condemned New Delhi's move on Kashmir. While Pakistan has been trying to amass international attention on the issue, India has called it an "internal matter."&nbsp;

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror.

PoK will be on top of the agenda if talks are held with Pakistan in future, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, adding that dialogue will only be held if the neighboring nation stops supporting terror. "Why should there be talks? On what issues there would be talks? Talks with Pakistan would begin only after it stops patronising terrorism. If talks begin, it would now only be on the PoK and no other issue," he said. The senior BJP leader was addressing a rally here ahead of flagging off "Jan Aashirvaad Yatra" of the Haryana BJP under the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. India has not been engaging with Pakistan since an attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016 by a Pakistan-based terror group, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together. Slamming Pakistan for its efforts to internationalise the issue of Kashmir after New Delhi scrapped Jammu and Kashmir's special status by revoking Article 370, Singh said the neighbouring country was knocking doors of the international community to save itself. "We have a neighbour. You people know who is it. We removed Article 370 and it is thinning down. It is not able to digest and is knocking the doors of the world seeking help to save itself. It is crying before them and saying please save me," Singh said without naming Pakistan. Mentioning United States' response in the United Nations, Singh said the most powerful country's President refused to help Pakistan, saying it should talk to India. "Hato, hato... Bharat se baat kariye... Yahan aane ki jaroorat nahi hai (back off... talk to India... no need to come here," Singh said referring to Trump's response to Pakistan.Since Imran Khan came to power, he has urged for a dialogue with India on various occasions. However, with the government's decision to burry Article 370, Islamabad has now refused to propose a peace solution through dialogue. Alleging that Pakistan was trying to break and destabilise India with its acts like Pulwama, Singh said the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been giving a befitting reply to all its nefarious actions. He said the Pakistan which was denying any Indian action in Balakot, has now back-tracked with Prime Minister Imran Khan himself saying that India was planning to take a bigger action than Balakot. "It means that Pakistani Prime Minister has acknowledged what India did in Balakot and the terrorists killed in a big number," he said. Early this year, tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan on February 26.Singh said, the BJP was committed to its election manifesto and it was fulfilling all that was promised. "Our Prime Minister took the decision and Article 370 was removed despite people saying if anyone would touch it, India will get divided," he said maintaining that the BJP was in politics not to form governments but to save the country. He also slammed the apprehensions that there would be riots in the country if any government tries to touch Article 370. "We don't do divisive politics. Those who practice it want to grab power for vote bank politics," he said, adding that now the two Union Territories Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh would taste the fruits of development along with the other parts of the country. Pakistan has strongly condemned New Delhi's move on Kashmir. While Pakistan has been trying to amass international attention on the issue, India has called it an "internal matter."

Now talks with Pakistan only on PoK: Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that India follows "no first use" policy regarding nuclear weapons but said what would happen in future will depend on "circumstances".

"On the question of nuclear policy, till today, we have a policy of no-first-use. What happens in future, will depend on circumstances," he said after paying homage to late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Pokhran in Rajasthan where the country conducted its second nuclear tests during the regime of the NDA government in 1998.

"In Pokhran, India emerged as a nuclear power. Despite all restraints, Atalji gave permission for the nuclear test. India was listed among those countries which have nuclear power. I paid homage to Atalji on his first death anniversary here," Singh said.

He also posted a tweet reiterating his statement.

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Pokhran is the area which witnessed Atal Ji’s firm resolve to make India a nuclear power and yet remain firmly committed to the doctrine of ‘No First Use’. India has strictly adhered to this doctrine. What happens in future depends on the circumstances.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1162276901055893504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The nuclear test was conducted in May, 1998, in Pokhran during the Vajpayee government and the "no first use" policy was enunicated by him. The policy in India's nuclear doctrine meant the country will not to use its nuclear weapon as a means of warfare unless attacked by an adversary using nuclear weapons.

Singh's statement comes in the wake of abrogation of Article 370. Pakistan has shown its hostility towards India's action, raising it with the United Nations (UN) on the international level. It has, however, dealt a diplomatic setback with the UN Security Council declining to hold a formal session on Kashmir with its participation.

The UNSC has, instead, scheduled a closed-door consultation at China's insistence. The consultation will take place on Friday evening.

Pakistan does not have a "no first use" policy. The country also went nuclear immediately after India conducted its tests. Pakistan in fact has used its nuclear assets as a blackmail tool that any aggression on part of India would lead to full scale war.

India, on past two occasions, has been able to call off its neighbour's nuclear bluff by organising two surgical strikes inside Pakistan. The Balakot involved use of Air Force which was first by India after 1971 war. The only time India used Air Force was during the Kargil War, but that too, in a limited capacity. Singh's statement is full of significance and any move of India in the context is akin to completely re-calibrating the nuclear doctrine.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that India follows "no first use" policy regarding nuclear weapons but said what would happen in future will depend on "circumstances".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that India follows "no first use" policy regarding nuclear weapons but said what would happen in future will depend on "circumstances". "On the question of nuclear policy, till today, we have a policy of no-first-use. What happens in future, will depend on circumstances," he said after paying homage to late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Pokhran in Rajasthan where the country conducted its second nuclear tests during the regime of the NDA government in 1998. "In Pokhran, India emerged as a nuclear power. Despite all restraints, Atalji gave permission for the nuclear test. India was listed among those countries which have nuclear power. I paid homage to Atalji on his first death anniversary here," Singh said. He also posted a tweet reiterating his statement. Pokhran is the area which witnessed Atal Ji’s firm resolve to make India a nuclear power and yet remain firmly committed to the doctrine of ‘No First Use’. India has strictly adhered to this doctrine. What happens in future depends on the circumstances. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) August 16, 2019 × The nuclear test was conducted in May, 1998, in Pokhran during the Vajpayee government and the "no first use" policy was enunicated by him. The policy in India's nuclear doctrine meant the country will not to use its nuclear weapon as a means of warfare unless attacked by an adversary using nuclear weapons. Singh's statement comes in the wake of abrogation of Article 370. Pakistan has shown its hostility towards India's action, raising it with the United Nations (UN) on the international level. It has, however, dealt a diplomatic setback with the UN Security Council declining to hold a formal session on Kashmir with its participation. The UNSC has, instead, scheduled a closed-door consultation at China's insistence. The consultation will take place on Friday evening. Pakistan does not have a "no first use" policy. The country also went nuclear immediately after India conducted its tests. Pakistan in fact has used its nuclear assets as a blackmail tool that any aggression on part of India would lead to full scale war. India, on past two occasions, has been able to call off its neighbour's nuclear bluff by organising two surgical strikes inside Pakistan. The Balakot involved use of Air Force which was first by India after 1971 war. The only time India used Air Force was during the Kargil War, but that too, in a limited capacity. Singh's statement is full of significance and any move of India in the context is akin to completely re-calibrating the nuclear doctrine.

India's 'no first use' nuclear policy in future will depend on circumstances: Rajnath Singh

Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, on Tuesday, reacted strongly to National Conference (NC) MP Hasnain Masoodi`s statements in the Lok Sabha in which he had suggested that Article 370 was approved by BJP founder Syama Prasad Mukherjee.

"Since the member (Hasnain Masoodi) of the House has said Dr Syama Prasad Mukherjee brought the proposal for Article 370. Either the member should present a factual reference or he must apologise to the House," Singh said in the Lok Sabha today.

Earlier during the discussions, Masoodi had alleged that as per Gopalaswami Ayyangar, a member of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution, Mukherjee had agreed to Article 370 and urged the BJP to look into the matter.

"Today you (BJP) say no, when did we say this..you say this was temporary..you go and read Gopalaswami Ayyangar`s speech. 370 was made with Mukherjee`s approval," Masoodi had said.

The speeches were made during in the Lok Sabha during the discussions on the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill, 2019, which Home Minister Amit Shah had slated for discussion.

The central government in its decision on Monday scrapped the Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and barred people from the rest of the country from buying property there.&nbsp;

Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, on Tuesday, reacted strongly to National Conference (NC) MP Hasnain Masoodi`s statements in the Lok Sabha in which he had suggested that Article 370 was approved by BJP founder Syama Prasad Mukherjee.

Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, on Tuesday, reacted strongly to National Conference (NC) MP Hasnain Masoodi`s statements in the Lok Sabha in which he had suggested that Article 370 was approved by BJP founder Syama Prasad Mukherjee. "Since the member (Hasnain Masoodi) of the House has said Dr Syama Prasad Mukherjee brought the proposal for Article 370. Either the member should present a factual reference or he must apologise to the House," Singh said in the Lok Sabha today. Earlier during the discussions, Masoodi had alleged that as per Gopalaswami Ayyangar, a member of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution, Mukherjee had agreed to Article 370 and urged the BJP to look into the matter. "Today you (BJP) say no, when did we say this..you say this was temporary..you go and read Gopalaswami Ayyangar`s speech. 370 was made with Mukherjee`s approval," Masoodi had said. The speeches were made during in the Lok Sabha during the discussions on the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill, 2019, which Home Minister Amit Shah had slated for discussion. The central government in its decision on Monday scrapped the Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir and barred people from the rest of the country from buying property there.

Prove that Syama Prasad Mukherjee agreed to Article 370, else apologise: Rajnath Singh to Hasnain Masoodi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that there was a need to develop Hypersonic missile technologies in the country for the Indian Armed Forces.

"I am looking forward to new missile technology as you know that missile technology had grown rapidly. Several countries have even prepared air defence missile systems. It is necessary to develop Hypersonic missile technologies in the country for the defence capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces," he said.

The Defence Minister made the remarks during the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Bharat Dynamic Limited here.India had tested a Technology Demonstrator Vehicle in June this year.

Doubts were raised on the success of its test though the DRDO had stressed that the "missile was launched successfully."

Several nations in the world are said to be developing Hypersonic weapons. India's Brahmos-II missile which is said to be under development will also be a Hypersonic weapon.

The Defence Minister while speaking at the ceremony also took a swipe at Pakistan for naming its missiles after "attackers."

"When it comes to missile technology, sometimes people want to see the country's aggression in missile technology's development. Our neighbour names their missiles after attackers-Babur, Ghori, Ghaznavi missiles. Such names are kept so that Pakistan can project aggression," he said.

"In India, defence forces are not maintained to attack other nations. Our defence forces work for peace and stability at regional, continental, global levels...Missiles here are named Prithvi, Akash, Agni, Nag, Trishul, BrahMos. They invoke balance, patience and destruction if needed," he added.

The Defence Minister said that the government wants to take India's defence exports to a respectable position in 2025.

"Modernisation of Armed Forces is our priority. We want to fulfill all the requirements of Armed Forces through indigenous means," he said.

"DRDO is working on Akash-1s, Akash-NG, Astra, NPATGM, QRSAM and several other missile systems. All these missiles are being developed indigenously. I can say that it is because of BDL that India has the capability to face all the challenges coming from land, air and water. DRDO has successfully completed the trial of NAG anti-tank missile. Now, these missiles are moving to the production stage," the Defence Minister said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that there was a need to develop Hypersonic missile technologies in the country for the Indian Armed Forces. "I am looking forward to new missile technology as you know that missile technology had grown rapidly.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that there was a need to develop Hypersonic missile technologies in the country for the Indian Armed Forces. "I am looking forward to new missile technology as you know that missile technology had grown rapidly. Several countries have even prepared air defence missile systems. It is necessary to develop Hypersonic missile technologies in the country for the defence capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces," he said. The Defence Minister made the remarks during the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Bharat Dynamic Limited here.India had tested a Technology Demonstrator Vehicle in June this year. Doubts were raised on the success of its test though the DRDO had stressed that the "missile was launched successfully." Several nations in the world are said to be developing Hypersonic weapons. India's Brahmos-II missile which is said to be under development will also be a Hypersonic weapon. The Defence Minister while speaking at the ceremony also took a swipe at Pakistan for naming its missiles after "attackers." "When it comes to missile technology, sometimes people want to see the country's aggression in missile technology's development. Our neighbour names their missiles after attackers-Babur, Ghori, Ghaznavi missiles. Such names are kept so that Pakistan can project aggression," he said. "In India, defence forces are not maintained to attack other nations. Our defence forces work for peace and stability at regional, continental, global levels...Missiles here are named Prithvi, Akash, Agni, Nag, Trishul, BrahMos. They invoke balance, patience and destruction if needed," he added. The Defence Minister said that the government wants to take India's defence exports to a respectable position in 2025. "Modernisation of Armed Forces is our priority. We want to fulfill all the requirements of Armed Forces through indigenous means," he said. "DRDO is working on Akash-1s, Akash-NG, Astra, NPATGM, QRSAM and several other missile systems. All these missiles are being developed indigenously. I can say that it is because of BDL that India has the capability to face all the challenges coming from land, air and water. DRDO has successfully completed the trial of NAG anti-tank missile. Now, these missiles are moving to the production stage," the Defence Minister said.

Defence Minister emphasises on indigenous development of hypersonic missile technologies

Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah and Nitin Gadkari will be in the front row of the Lower House according to the seat allocation decided by the Lok Sabha secretariat on Wednesday.

Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani, who became a Lok Sabha member after defeating Congress President Rahul Gandhi, will also be in the front row as will Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.&nbsp;

Both were members of Rajya Sabha before being elected to the Lower House.

In the Opposition benches, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and DMK leader TR Baalu will be in the first row while Rahul Gandhi, who is MP from Wayanad, will continue to have his seat in the second row.

Seat number one in the Lower House is occupied by the Prime Minister.

Rajnath Singh, who is deputy leader of the BJP in Lok Sabha, will be seated next to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Singh had the same seat in the 16th Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Other ministers in the front row include DV Sadananda Gowda and Narendra Singh Tomar.

While a seat in the first row of Opposition benches is vacant as Deputy Speaker has not been elected, the seat next to it is for Congress leader in the House, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury.&nbsp;

Sonia Gandhi will be seated next to Baalu who will be seated with Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav.

DMK and Congress were allies in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Apart from DMK, leaders of Trinamool Congress and YSR Congress Party have also got front row seats.&nbsp;

Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah and Nitin Gadkari will be in the front row of the Lower House according to the seat allocation decided by the Lok Sabha secretariat on Wednesday.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah and Nitin Gadkari will be in the front row of the Lower House according to the seat allocation decided by the Lok Sabha secretariat on Wednesday. Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani, who became a Lok Sabha member after defeating Congress President Rahul Gandhi, will also be in the front row as will Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Both were members of Rajya Sabha before being elected to the Lower House. In the Opposition benches, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and DMK leader TR Baalu will be in the first row while Rahul Gandhi, who is MP from Wayanad, will continue to have his seat in the second row. Seat number one in the Lower House is occupied by the Prime Minister. Rajnath Singh, who is deputy leader of the BJP in Lok Sabha, will be seated next to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Singh had the same seat in the 16th Lok Sabha. Other ministers in the front row include DV Sadananda Gowda and Narendra Singh Tomar. While a seat in the first row of Opposition benches is vacant as Deputy Speaker has not been elected, the seat next to it is for Congress leader in the House, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury. Sonia Gandhi will be seated next to Baalu who will be seated with Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav. DMK and Congress were allies in the Lok Sabha elections. Apart from DMK, leaders of Trinamool Congress and YSR Congress Party have also got front row seats.

Smriti Irani, Ravi Shankar Prasad get front row seats in Lok Sabha

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who is on a three-day visit to Mozambique, on Monday handed over two Fast Interceptor boats to the that will be used for coastal surveillance.

The two India-made boats were handed over at a ceremony at the Mozambican Naval Headquarters with the handing-over certificate being signed by the Director-General, Coast Guards of India, K Natarajan, and Chief of Mozambican Navy.&nbsp;

A four-member Indian Coast Guard team will be assisting with training, support for maintenance and operation of the two boats.

The development comes as New Delhi has upped engagement on defence with Indian Ocean countries in the backdrop of growing Chinese influence here.&nbsp;

The official release from Defence Ministry said that the visit will 'witness the growing defence co-operation between Mozambique and India' and the 'potential such collaboration offers for enhancing security in the Indian Ocean Region.'

This is the first visit of Rajnath Singh abroad as Defence Minister and also the first-ever visit of Defence Minister of India to Mozambique.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who is on a three-day visit to Mozambique, on Monday handed over two Fast Interceptor boats to the that will be used for coastal surveillance.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who is on a three-day visit to Mozambique, on Monday handed over two Fast Interceptor boats to the that will be used for coastal surveillance. The two India-made boats were handed over at a ceremony at the Mozambican Naval Headquarters with the handing-over certificate being signed by the Director-General, Coast Guards of India, K Natarajan, and Chief of Mozambican Navy. A four-member Indian Coast Guard team will be assisting with training, support for maintenance and operation of the two boats. The development comes as New Delhi has upped engagement on defence with Indian Ocean countries in the backdrop of growing Chinese influence here. The official release from Defence Ministry said that the visit will 'witness the growing defence co-operation between Mozambique and India' and the 'potential such collaboration offers for enhancing security in the Indian Ocean Region.' This is the first visit of Rajnath Singh abroad as Defence Minister and also the first-ever visit of Defence Minister of India to Mozambique.

India hands over two fast interceptor boats to Mozambique

Upping focus on increasing ties with Africa, President Ram Nath Kovind is on a visit to West African country Benin while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in Mozambique.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind reached Porto-Novo on Sunday and will address the national assembly there on Monday. Benin is a signatory of India-led International Solar Alliance and New Delhi is the largest trading partner of the country with trade growing at 100 million dollars in last one year.&nbsp;

President Kovind is currently on a 3-nation tour of West African countries -Benin, Gambia and Guinea from July 28 to August 3. He will be received by President of Gambia in Banjul. President Kovind will address the national assembly of Gambia as well. In all 3 countries, he will be meeting with the Indian community members. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"Engagement with Africa is one of the priorities of foreign policy and we are looking at countries where high-level visits have not taken place", Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs said.

New Delhi has taken up several projects in Africa including two regional hospitals in Guinea with the help of Indian line of credit worth $35 million. The national assembly of Gambia has been build with the help of the Indian line of credit.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
This is the 10th foreign visit by the president since taking charge. After this visit, he will be travelling to 23 countries.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is on a 3-day visit to Mozambique. This is the first bilateral visit by any Indian Defence Minister to the East African country. On the first day, Rajnath Singh visited the headquarters of Forças Armadas de Defesa de Moçambique (FADM), the national armed forces of Mozambique.

He tweeted," India is willing to forge a strong bilateral relationship with Mozambique by increasing regular engagement and cooperation in multiple spheres."

PM Modi had visited the country in July 2016. There have been 29 visits at the level of President, Vice President and Prime Minister in last 5 years. Next year the India-Africa forum summit will take place in Africa.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Upping focus on increasing ties with Africa, President Ram Nath Kovind is on a visit to West African country Benin while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in Mozambique.

Upping focus on increasing ties with Africa, President Ram Nath Kovind is on a visit to West African country Benin while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in Mozambique. President Ram Nath Kovind reached Porto-Novo on Sunday and will address the national assembly there on Monday. Benin is a signatory of India-led International Solar Alliance and New Delhi is the largest trading partner of the country with trade growing at 100 million dollars in last one year. President Kovind is currently on a 3-nation tour of West African countries -Benin, Gambia and Guinea from July 28 to August 3. He will be received by President of Gambia in Banjul. President Kovind will address the national assembly of Gambia as well. In all 3 countries, he will be meeting with the Indian community members. "Engagement with Africa is one of the priorities of foreign policy and we are looking at countries where high-level visits have not taken place", Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs said. New Delhi has taken up several projects in Africa including two regional hospitals in Guinea with the help of Indian line of credit worth $35 million. The national assembly of Gambia has been build with the help of the Indian line of credit. This is the 10th foreign visit by the president since taking charge. After this visit, he will be travelling to 23 countries. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is on a 3-day visit to Mozambique. This is the first bilateral visit by any Indian Defence Minister to the East African country. On the first day, Rajnath Singh visited the headquarters of Forças Armadas de Defesa de Moçambique (FADM), the national armed forces of Mozambique. He tweeted," India is willing to forge a strong bilateral relationship with Mozambique by increasing regular engagement and cooperation in multiple spheres." PM Modi had visited the country in July 2016. There have been 29 visits at the level of President, Vice President and Prime Minister in last 5 years. Next year the India-Africa forum summit will take place in Africa.

India's Africa focus: President Kovind visits Benin, Defence Minister on trip to Mozambique

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday reiterated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not ask US President Donald Trump to mediate in the Kashmir issue.

"As S Jaishankar ji said Kashmir issue was not discussed in President Trump &amp; PM Modi meeting. There is no question of mediation in Kashmir issue as it will be against the Shimla agreement," said Singh.

On Tuesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/any-mediation-with-pakistan-will-require-end-to-cross-border-terrorism-s-jaishankar-on-trumps-remarks-on-kashmir-issue-237840">External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar</a>, in both the houses of Parliament, rejected Trump's claim that PM Modi discussed Kashmir issue with him. 
 
This is also a question of the nation's pride, he said. "We can accept everything. We can compromise on anything but we cannot compromise at the cost of our nation's pride."

"I would like to categorically assure the House that no such request has been made by PM Modi," Jaishankar said.

"It has been India's consistent position that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally. Any engagement with Pakistan would require an end to cross-border terrorism," Jaishankar told Parliamentarians.

On Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-offers-to-mediate-on-kashmir-issue-during-meeting-with-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-report-237780">Donald Trump said that PM Modi</a> had asked him to mediate on Kashmir while he was hosting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the Oval office.

"I was with Prime Minister Modi two weeks ago and we talked about this subject (Kashmir). And he actually said, 'would you like to be a mediator or arbitrator?' I said, 'where?' (PM Modi said) 'Kashmir'," Trump said.

Explaining his position, Trump said, "I would love to be a mediator, Its impossible to believe, two incredible countries that are very, very smart with very smart leadership can't solve a problem. But if you would want me to mediate or arbitrate, I would be willing to do." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday reiterated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not ask US President Donald Trump to mediate in the Kashmir issue. "As S Jaishankar ji said Kashmir issue was not discussed in President Trump & PM Modi meeting.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday reiterated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not ask US President Donald Trump to mediate in the Kashmir issue. "As S Jaishankar ji said Kashmir issue was not discussed in President Trump & PM Modi meeting. There is no question of mediation in Kashmir issue as it will be against the Shimla agreement," said Singh. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in both the houses of Parliament, rejected Trump's claim that PM Modi discussed Kashmir issue with him. This is also a question of the nation's pride, he said. "We can accept everything. We can compromise on anything but we cannot compromise at the cost of our nation's pride." "I would like to categorically assure the House that no such request has been made by PM Modi," Jaishankar said. "It has been India's consistent position that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally. Any engagement with Pakistan would require an end to cross-border terrorism," Jaishankar told Parliamentarians. On Monday, Donald Trump said that PM Modi had asked him to mediate on Kashmir while he was hosting Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the Oval office. "I was with Prime Minister Modi two weeks ago and we talked about this subject (Kashmir). And he actually said, 'would you like to be a mediator or arbitrator?' I said, 'where?' (PM Modi said) 'Kashmir'," Trump said. Explaining his position, Trump said, "I would love to be a mediator, Its impossible to believe, two incredible countries that are very, very smart with very smart leadership can't solve a problem. But if you would want me to mediate or arbitrate, I would be willing to do." (With inputs from agencies)

No question of mediation in Kashmir issue: Rajnath Singh on Donald Trump's claim

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said his recent visit to Kargil had renewed his confidence and respect for the Indian Army.

Speaking at a function organised by Veterans India here, Singh said, "During my visit to Kargil, I saw the tall peaks which our brave soldiers managed to win back after defeating Pakistani soldiers positioned on them during the Kargil war. I listened to all the stories of how our brave soldiers recaptured Kargil, I heard the names of brave personnel like Captain Vikram Batra who were ready to sacrifice their life for the nation. It made me respect them even more."

The Defence Minister had visited the Kargil War Memorial in Drass on Saturday and paid tributes to soldiers who had laid down their lives in the 1999 war with Pakistan.

Singh was in Jammu and Kashmir for a day-long visit ahead of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

"The courage showed by the Indian Army soldiers in other wars as well to protect the integrity of the nation is unparalleled to that of any other country in my opinion," Singh added.

He said that in his term as Defence Minister of the nation he will try to ensure that the ex-servicemen and serving personnel face no hardships.

"I will try to do whatever I can to ensure there are no questions raised on your honour and dedication and of that of the soldiers serving today," he added.

He also spoke about his decision of going to Siachen immediately after he took charge of his post in the Union Cabinet.

"On the second day of taking charge as Defence Minister, I went on a trip to Siachen after consulting the Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. My reason for undertaking this trip was to understand what it felt like to be a soldier standing on the border before I start taking decisions for their good," he said.

"It helped me make decisions for their welfare, it helped me keep them in the centre before taking any decision for their benefit," Singh added.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said his recent visit to Kargil had renewed his confidence and respect for the Indian Army. Speaking at a function organised by Veterans India here, Singh said, "During my visit to Kargil, I saw the tall peaks which our brave soldiers managed to win back after defeating Pakistani soldiers positioned on them during the Kargil war.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said his recent visit to Kargil had renewed his confidence and respect for the Indian Army. Speaking at a function organised by Veterans India here, Singh said, "During my visit to Kargil, I saw the tall peaks which our brave soldiers managed to win back after defeating Pakistani soldiers positioned on them during the Kargil war. I listened to all the stories of how our brave soldiers recaptured Kargil, I heard the names of brave personnel like Captain Vikram Batra who were ready to sacrifice their life for the nation. It made me respect them even more." The Defence Minister had visited the Kargil War Memorial in Drass on Saturday and paid tributes to soldiers who had laid down their lives in the 1999 war with Pakistan. Singh was in Jammu and Kashmir for a day-long visit ahead of Kargil Vijay Diwas. "The courage showed by the Indian Army soldiers in other wars as well to protect the integrity of the nation is unparalleled to that of any other country in my opinion," Singh added. He said that in his term as Defence Minister of the nation he will try to ensure that the ex-servicemen and serving personnel face no hardships. "I will try to do whatever I can to ensure there are no questions raised on your honour and dedication and of that of the soldiers serving today," he added. He also spoke about his decision of going to Siachen immediately after he took charge of his post in the Union Cabinet. "On the second day of taking charge as Defence Minister, I went on a trip to Siachen after consulting the Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. My reason for undertaking this trip was to understand what it felt like to be a soldier standing on the border before I start taking decisions for their good," he said. "It helped me make decisions for their welfare, it helped me keep them in the centre before taking any decision for their benefit," Singh added.

Kargil visit induced in me new-found respect for Indian Army: Rajnath Singh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/rajnath-singh-holds-high-level-meet-after-taking-charge-as-defence-minister-223394">Defence Minister Rajnath Singh</a> will visit Kargil on July 20 to pay tributes to soldiers who laid down their lives in the Kargil War.

On July 14, a `Victory Flame` was lit by Singh at the National War Memorial in Delhi, which will reach Drass in Jammu and Kashmir on July 26 to commemorate India`s victory over Pakistan in the Kargil conflict.

The flame would traverse through 11 towns and cities and finally culminate at Drass where it will be merged with the eternal flame at the Kargil War Memorial."I pay tribute to our soldiers who gave their lives for the country. I also pay respect to the family members of those soldiers," Singh had said on the occasion.

The event was also attended by Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Northern Army Commander Lt. Gen Ranbir Singh and several senior officers.

This year is the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War and the milestone is being celebrated grandly by the Indian Army to rekindle the pride and valour of all the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Kargil on July 20 to pay tributes to soldiers who laid down their lives in the Kargil War. On July 14, a `Victory Flame` was lit by Singh at the National War Memorial in Delhi, which will reach Drass in Jammu and Kashmir on July 26 to commemorate India`s victory over Pakistan in the Kargil conflict.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Kargil on July 20 to pay tributes to soldiers who laid down their lives in the Kargil War. On July 14, a `Victory Flame` was lit by Singh at the National War Memorial in Delhi, which will reach Drass in Jammu and Kashmir on July 26 to commemorate India`s victory over Pakistan in the Kargil conflict. The flame would traverse through 11 towns and cities and finally culminate at Drass where it will be merged with the eternal flame at the Kargil War Memorial."I pay tribute to our soldiers who gave their lives for the country. I also pay respect to the family members of those soldiers," Singh had said on the occasion. The event was also attended by Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Northern Army Commander Lt. Gen Ranbir Singh and several senior officers. This year is the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War and the milestone is being celebrated grandly by the Indian Army to rekindle the pride and valour of all the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay.

Rajnath Singh to visit Kargil on July 20

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday&nbsp;hailed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/big-win-for-india-icj-grants-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-236703">verdict of International Court of Justice on Kulbhushan Jadhav</a>.

Calling it a "big victory for India", Singh said, "International Court of Justice has directed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-verdict-today-at-international-court-of-justice-236670">Pakistan</a> to grant consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav."

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari termed the judgement as&nbsp;a "big diplomatic win" on Twitter.

"It's a big diplomatic win for India. I Congratulate our Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, Former EAM @SushmaSwaraj ji, and Senior Advocate Harish Salve for their tireless efforts in the matter of Mr Kulbhudhan Jadhav. @harishsalvee," he said.

"They brought this matter to the International Court and proved that he is innocent. We wish the son of Ma Bharti returns at the earliest," he added.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also welcomed the ICJ judgement on Jadhav and hoped&nbsp;for the return of the "son of soil".

Kejriwal said, "I warmly welcome the ICJ judgment staying the execution of Kulbhushan Jadhav &amp; granting consular access to India. Truth and justice prevails. This son of our soil must be back soon with his family."

Earlier former Union Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-welcomes-icjs-verdict-in-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-thanks-pm-modi-harish-salve-236715">Sushma Swaraj </a>had welcomed the judgement and called it "great victory" for India.

In a big win for India, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Wednesday gave&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-verdict-today-at-international-court-of-justice-236670">consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav</a>, who was arrested and given death sentence by Pakistan on charges of espionage.

Upholding India's stand that Pakistan has violated the 1963 Vienna Convention, the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kulbhushan-jadhav-case-what-is-the-international-court-of-justice-and-how-does-it-work-236692">&nbsp;ICJ&nbsp;</a>said that Jadhav's trial by a military court in Pakistan is not accepted thereby stopping his execution.

The death sentence by a Pakistani military court was questioned by India, which said its based on an "extracted confession".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kulbhushan-jadhav-a-profile-236673">Jadhav</a>, a former Indian navy commander, was arrested in Pakistan in March 2016 and convicted of spying.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday hailed the verdict of International Court of Justice on Kulbhushan Jadhav. Calling it a "big victory for India", Singh said, "International Court of Justice has directed Pakistan to grant consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday hailed the verdict of International Court of Justice on Kulbhushan Jadhav. Calling it a "big victory for India", Singh said, "International Court of Justice has directed Pakistan to grant consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav." Union Minister Nitin Gadkari termed the judgement as a "big diplomatic win" on Twitter. "It's a big diplomatic win for India. I Congratulate our Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, Former EAM @SushmaSwaraj ji, and Senior Advocate Harish Salve for their tireless efforts in the matter of Mr Kulbhudhan Jadhav. @harishsalvee," he said. "They brought this matter to the International Court and proved that he is innocent. We wish the son of Ma Bharti returns at the earliest," he added. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also welcomed the ICJ judgement on Jadhav and hoped for the return of the "son of soil". Kejriwal said, "I warmly welcome the ICJ judgment staying the execution of Kulbhushan Jadhav & granting consular access to India. Truth and justice prevails. This son of our soil must be back soon with his family." Earlier former Union Minister Sushma Swaraj had welcomed the judgement and called it "great victory" for India. In a big win for India, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Wednesday gave consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was arrested and given death sentence by Pakistan on charges of espionage. Upholding India's stand that Pakistan has violated the 1963 Vienna Convention, the ICJ said that Jadhav's trial by a military court in Pakistan is not accepted thereby stopping his execution. The death sentence by a Pakistani military court was questioned by India, which said its based on an "extracted confession". Jadhav, a former Indian navy commander, was arrested in Pakistan in March 2016 and convicted of spying.

It is no doubt a big victory for India: Rajnath Singh on ICJ verdict

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian and Chinese forces were observing "full restraint" at Doklam, where a standoff had taken place between the two sides in 2017, and noted that infrastructure was being ramped up along the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-should-india-do-if-china-sticks-to-its-wide-territorial-claims-209197">border with China </a>to ensure security.

Responding to a concern raised by Congress member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in Lok Sabha about alleged intrusion China at Demchok sector, Singh said that the government was fully aware of security requirements of the country.

He said that the security requirements are reviewed from time to time and appropriate decisions are taken.

He said both the countries are following existing agreements so that peace and tranquillity are ensured on the border.

"The infrastructure on India-China borders such as road, tunnel, railway line and airfield is being developed to ensure the country's security and integrity," he said.

Singh said that standoff at Doklam between the two countries that occurred in August 2017 was resolved and the government has already stated its position.

"Both sides are observing full restraint at Doklam," he said.

Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping had given strategic guidance to their forces following the Wuhan informal summit last year so that there is better dialogue, mutual confidence is created and management of border affairs improves.

He said that while there was dialogue at the political level between special representatives of two countries on outstanding issues related to the border, there were other mechanisms including Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) which has regular meetings.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian and Chinese forces were observing "full restraint" at Doklam, where a standoff had taken place between the two sides in 2017, and noted that infrastructure was being ramped up along the border with China to ensure security.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that the Indian and Chinese forces were observing "full restraint" at Doklam, where a standoff had taken place between the two sides in 2017, and noted that infrastructure was being ramped up along the border with China to ensure security. Responding to a concern raised by Congress member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in Lok Sabha about alleged intrusion China at Demchok sector, Singh said that the government was fully aware of security requirements of the country. He said that the security requirements are reviewed from time to time and appropriate decisions are taken. He said both the countries are following existing agreements so that peace and tranquillity are ensured on the border. "The infrastructure on India-China borders such as road, tunnel, railway line and airfield is being developed to ensure the country's security and integrity," he said. Singh said that standoff at Doklam between the two countries that occurred in August 2017 was resolved and the government has already stated its position. "Both sides are observing full restraint at Doklam," he said. Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping had given strategic guidance to their forces following the Wuhan informal summit last year so that there is better dialogue, mutual confidence is created and management of border affairs improves. He said that while there was dialogue at the political level between special representatives of two countries on outstanding issues related to the border, there were other mechanisms including Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) which has regular meetings.

Government ramping up infrastructure along border with China: Rajnath Singh

The Defence Ministry on Monday issued four tenders worth over Rs 15,000 crore for the acquisition of warships and craft for the Navy and the Coast Guard.

"While the RFP for 6 Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) has been issued to seven shipyards, RFPs for 8 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), 12 Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) and 8 Missile-cum-Ammunition Barges have been issued to shortlisted Indian shipyards," the ministry said in a release.

The RFP for hovercrafts also includes the initial requirement for six of these vessels of the Indian Army.

"In addition to the above, few more RFPs for more shipbuilding projects are likely to be issued in the next few months," the ministry said.

In order to make the process of qualifying the shipyards for the issue of RFPs for shipbuilding projects of various ships and craft of the Navy and the Coast Guard more objective and to encourage participation by a larger number of Indian shipyards, an exercise was undertaken by the ministry along with the Navy and the Coast Guard.

This led to the rationalisation of guidelines for the capacity assessment of shipyards that have been promulgated recently.

Rationalisation and promulgation of financial selection criteria have paved the way for issue of RFPs for a large number of shipbuilding projects that have been pending.

"In a significant move to encourage smaller shipyards, participation in the projects with the anticipated annual outflow of less than Rs 75 crore has been restricted to smaller shipyards having an average annual turnover less than Rs 500 crore," the release said.

In addition to a wide application in military and coastal surveillance, Air Cushion Vehicles have substantial potential in the commercial sector like civil transportation, disaster management and tourism.

Considering the need for absorbing the relevant design and construction technology for building these craft in India at affordable cost, a feature to encourage joint development of design by Indian shipyards in collaboration with a foreign design house of ACVs or by sourcing the design for construction of ACVs with substantial Indian content has been included in the RFP for ACVs.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Defence Ministry on Monday issued four tenders worth over Rs 15,000 crore for the acquisition of warships and craft for the Navy and the Coast Guard. "While the RFP for 6 Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) has been issued to seven shipyards, RFPs for 8 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), 12 Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) and 8 Missile-cum-Ammunition Barges have been issued to shortlisted Indian shipyards," the ministry said in a release.

The Defence Ministry on Monday issued four tenders worth over Rs 15,000 crore for the acquisition of warships and craft for the Navy and the Coast Guard. "While the RFP for 6 Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) has been issued to seven shipyards, RFPs for 8 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), 12 Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) and 8 Missile-cum-Ammunition Barges have been issued to shortlisted Indian shipyards," the ministry said in a release. The RFP for hovercrafts also includes the initial requirement for six of these vessels of the Indian Army. "In addition to the above, few more RFPs for more shipbuilding projects are likely to be issued in the next few months," the ministry said. In order to make the process of qualifying the shipyards for the issue of RFPs for shipbuilding projects of various ships and craft of the Navy and the Coast Guard more objective and to encourage participation by a larger number of Indian shipyards, an exercise was undertaken by the ministry along with the Navy and the Coast Guard. This led to the rationalisation of guidelines for the capacity assessment of shipyards that have been promulgated recently. Rationalisation and promulgation of financial selection criteria have paved the way for issue of RFPs for a large number of shipbuilding projects that have been pending. "In a significant move to encourage smaller shipyards, participation in the projects with the anticipated annual outflow of less than Rs 75 crore has been restricted to smaller shipyards having an average annual turnover less than Rs 500 crore," the release said. In addition to a wide application in military and coastal surveillance, Air Cushion Vehicles have substantial potential in the commercial sector like civil transportation, disaster management and tourism. Considering the need for absorbing the relevant design and construction technology for building these craft in India at affordable cost, a feature to encourage joint development of design by Indian shipyards in collaboration with a foreign design house of ACVs or by sourcing the design for construction of ACVs with substantial Indian content has been included in the RFP for ACVs.

Defence Ministry issues 4 tenders of over Rs 15,000 crore for Navy, Coast Guard vessels

Pakistan violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the Line of Control (LoC) in the last six months, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/navy-has-important-role-in-act-east-policy-rajnath-singh-231823">Defence Minister Rajnath Singh</a> said in a reply to a question in Rajya Sabha on Monday.

The Minister in his reply to a question by BJP leader Vijay Pal Singh Tomar also informed that four Army jawans were killed in these ceasefire violations (CFVs) by Pakistan.

Appropriate retaliation to the ceasefire violations, as required has been carried out by Indian Army, the Defence Minister said.

"All violations of ceasefire and infiltration are taken up with Pakistan authorities at the appropriate level through the established mechanism of hotlines, flag meeting, Directorate Generals of Military Operations talks as well as diplomatic channels between the two countries," he added.

In the month of March, 267 ceasefire violations took place. In the same month, a total of three Army jawans were killed. Another jawan was killed in the month of January.

The first three months of the year saw a spike in ceasefire violations. However, during the next three months, the number of ceasefire violations dropped.

Giving details of the CFVs, the minister said - 203 ceasefire violations took place in January, 215 in February, 267 in March, 234 in April, 221 in May and 108 in June.&nbsp;

Pakistan violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the Line of Control (LoC) in the last six months, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in a reply to a question in Rajya Sabha on Monday.

Pakistan violated the ceasefire 1,248 times along the Line of Control (LoC) in the last six months, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in a reply to a question in Rajya Sabha on Monday. The Minister in his reply to a question by BJP leader Vijay Pal Singh Tomar also informed that four Army jawans were killed in these ceasefire violations (CFVs) by Pakistan. Appropriate retaliation to the ceasefire violations, as required has been carried out by Indian Army, the Defence Minister said. "All violations of ceasefire and infiltration are taken up with Pakistan authorities at the appropriate level through the established mechanism of hotlines, flag meeting, Directorate Generals of Military Operations talks as well as diplomatic channels between the two countries," he added. In the month of March, 267 ceasefire violations took place. In the same month, a total of three Army jawans were killed. Another jawan was killed in the month of January. The first three months of the year saw a spike in ceasefire violations. However, during the next three months, the number of ceasefire violations dropped. Giving details of the CFVs, the minister said - 203 ceasefire violations took place in January, 215 in February, 267 in March, 234 in April, 221 in May and 108 in June.

1,248 ceasefire violations by Pakistan in last six months: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that he will leave "no stone unturned to lift the morale of armed forces".&nbsp;

Singh, who took charge as the defence minister earlier this month, said he is honoured to get "an opportunity to do something for the Armed Forces". Singh was responding to a tweet wherein he was thanked for&nbsp;restoring ration in kind for the families of the officers&nbsp;of the armed forces. "It is the least we can do," Singh tweeted.&nbsp;

"I will leave no stone unturned to lift the morale of armed forces and support their families. It is an honour for me to get an opportunity to do something for the Armed Forces," Singh tweeted out.&nbsp;

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. <a href="https://twitter.com/MajDPSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MajDPSingh</a>, it is the least we can do. 
 
As the Raksha Mantri, I will leave no stone unturned to lift the morale of India’s Armed forces and support their families. 
 
It is an honour for me to get an opportunity to do something for the Armed Forces. <a href="https://t.co/If8phj8oM9">https://t.co/If8phj8oM9</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1141022083373137920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Singh's statement came when security forces in the state of Jammu and Kashmir have suffered nearly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-4-terrorists-10-security-personnel-killed-in-7-days-228363">10 casualties in the last seven days</a> while eliminating four terrorists in two districts of Anantnag and Pulwama.&nbsp;

Right after assuming office earlier this month, Singh held a meeting with the top military brass. After taking charge, the former home minister held a meeting with Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa and newly appointed Navy chief Karambir Singh.

On June 3, Singh visited the world's highest battlefield - the Siachen Glacier - where he interacted with Army troops and paid tributes to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

"I salute your spirit, your valour from the bottom of my heart. Jawans and officers in the Armed forces have a sense of pride, that is the strongest sentiment in the heart of any human," Singh had said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that he will leave "no stone unturned to lift the morale of armed forces". Singh, who took charge as the defence minister earlier this month, said he is honoured to get "an opportunity to do something for the Armed Forces".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that he will leave "no stone unturned to lift the morale of armed forces". Singh, who took charge as the defence minister earlier this month, said he is honoured to get "an opportunity to do something for the Armed Forces". Singh was responding to a tweet wherein he was thanked for restoring ration in kind for the families of the officers of the armed forces. "It is the least we can do," Singh tweeted. "I will leave no stone unturned to lift the morale of armed forces and support their families. It is an honour for me to get an opportunity to do something for the Armed Forces," Singh tweeted out. . @MajDPSingh, it is the least we can do. As the Raksha Mantri, I will leave no stone unturned to lift the morale of India’s Armed forces and support their families. It is an honour for me to get an opportunity to do something for the Armed Forces. https://t.co/If8phj8oM9 — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 18, 2019 × Singh's statement came when security forces in the state of Jammu and Kashmir have suffered nearly 10 casualties in the last seven days while eliminating four terrorists in two districts of Anantnag and Pulwama. Right after assuming office earlier this month, Singh held a meeting with the top military brass. After taking charge, the former home minister held a meeting with Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa and newly appointed Navy chief Karambir Singh. On June 3, Singh visited the world's highest battlefield - the Siachen Glacier - where he interacted with Army troops and paid tributes to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. "I salute your spirit, your valour from the bottom of my heart. Jawans and officers in the Armed forces have a sense of pride, that is the strongest sentiment in the heart of any human," Singh had said.

Will leave no stone unturned to lift morale of armed forces: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the situation and took note of preparations made by the Indian Coast Guard as well as the Navy to combat '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-vayu-not-to-hit-gujarat-will-pass-nearby-from-veraval-porbandar-dwarka-imd-226711">very severe cyclonic storm'&nbsp;Vayu</a>.

"Indian Navy Ships in Chennai, Gomati and Deepak at Mumbai have been embarked with High availability disaster recovery (HADR)/ Relief Material, and are ready to be deployed at short notice. In addition, 5000 litres of drinking water is also being embarked on board the Indian Navy ships. Seven Indian Navy aircraft and three helicopters are standby for deployment," Singh said on Thursday.

Moreover, two diving and rescue teams and three medical teams are on standby to render necessary assistance.

"Preparations have been made to set up a community kitchen at Dwarka and Porbandar. Aircraft and helicopters will be deployed for the damage assessment and search and rescue operations as required," he added.

Earlier today, Additional Chief Secretary of Revenue Department Pankaj Kumar informed that Cyclone Vayu will pass from Gujarat coastal region in the afternoon, adding that the state government is on alert and people in sensitive areas have been evacuated to safer places.

Flight services have been suspended at airports in Porbandar, Diu, Bhavnagar, Keshod and Kandla, while several trains have been diverted. The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea till June 15.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the situation and took note of preparations made by the Indian Coast Guard as well as the Navy to combat 'very severe cyclonic storm' Vayu.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the situation and took note of preparations made by the Indian Coast Guard as well as the Navy to combat 'very severe cyclonic storm' Vayu. "Indian Navy Ships in Chennai, Gomati and Deepak at Mumbai have been embarked with High availability disaster recovery (HADR)/ Relief Material, and are ready to be deployed at short notice. In addition, 5000 litres of drinking water is also being embarked on board the Indian Navy ships. Seven Indian Navy aircraft and three helicopters are standby for deployment," Singh said on Thursday. Moreover, two diving and rescue teams and three medical teams are on standby to render necessary assistance. "Preparations have been made to set up a community kitchen at Dwarka and Porbandar. Aircraft and helicopters will be deployed for the damage assessment and search and rescue operations as required," he added. Earlier today, Additional Chief Secretary of Revenue Department Pankaj Kumar informed that Cyclone Vayu will pass from Gujarat coastal region in the afternoon, adding that the state government is on alert and people in sensitive areas have been evacuated to safer places. Flight services have been suspended at airports in Porbandar, Diu, Bhavnagar, Keshod and Kandla, while several trains have been diverted. The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea till June 15.

Cyclone Vayu: Rajnath Singh reviews preparations of Indian Coast Guard, Navy

The BJP Wednesday announced its parliamentary party executive committee with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its leader in Lok Sabha and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh as the deputy leader.

In Rajya Sabha, Union minister Thaawarchand Gehlot, a veteran dalit face of the BJP, has been appointed as leader of the house and his cabinet colleague Piyush Goyal as the deputy leader.

Gehlot replaced senior BJP leader and former Union minister Arun Jaitley as leader of the house in Rajya Sabha. Jaitley had requested the leadership to relieve him from key positions in view of his poor health.

Union minister Smriti Irani's induction as a special invitee in the BJP's parliamentary party executive committee underscores elevation in her stature within the party after she defeated Congress president Rahul Gandhi from the Amethi parliamentary constituency.

The party has appointed Sanjay Jaiswal as its chief whip. It also appointed for the first time three women MPs as its whips for women parliamentarians.

Besides these three women whips, 15 other whips for Lok Sabha have also been appointed for parliamentarians from different states. In Lok Sabha, the BJP's strength has increased to 303.

Other special invitees from Lok Sabha to the BJP's parliamentary party executive are Nitin Gadkari, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Arjun Munda, Narendra Singh Tomar and Jual Oram.

The BJP has also appointed six whips for the upper house, where it is the single largest party with 70 members.

Special invitees to the committee from Rajya Sabha are J P Nadda, Om Prakash Mathur, Nirmala Sitharaman, Dharmedndra Pradhan and Prakash Javadekar.

BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya has been reappointed as in-charge of the party's parliamentary office and Balasubrahmanyam Kumarsu as secretary.

The newly constituted BJP parliamentary party executive committee marks a generational shift in the party as party veterans L K Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, who have been its members for a long time, are not part of it, as both are not MPs.&nbsp;

Besides them, senior leaders Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj are also not its members.

The first meeting of the executive will be held on June 16 at 3:30 pm, a day before the commencement of Parliament session. The government has also called an all-party meeting in the morning of June 16 which will be chaired by the prime minister.&nbsp;

The BJP Wednesday announced its parliamentary party executive committee with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its leader in Lok Sabha and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh as the deputy leader.

The BJP Wednesday announced its parliamentary party executive committee with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its leader in Lok Sabha and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh as the deputy leader. In Rajya Sabha, Union minister Thaawarchand Gehlot, a veteran dalit face of the BJP, has been appointed as leader of the house and his cabinet colleague Piyush Goyal as the deputy leader. Gehlot replaced senior BJP leader and former Union minister Arun Jaitley as leader of the house in Rajya Sabha. Jaitley had requested the leadership to relieve him from key positions in view of his poor health. Union minister Smriti Irani's induction as a special invitee in the BJP's parliamentary party executive committee underscores elevation in her stature within the party after she defeated Congress president Rahul Gandhi from the Amethi parliamentary constituency. The party has appointed Sanjay Jaiswal as its chief whip. It also appointed for the first time three women MPs as its whips for women parliamentarians. Besides these three women whips, 15 other whips for Lok Sabha have also been appointed for parliamentarians from different states. In Lok Sabha, the BJP's strength has increased to 303. Other special invitees from Lok Sabha to the BJP's parliamentary party executive are Nitin Gadkari, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Arjun Munda, Narendra Singh Tomar and Jual Oram. The BJP has also appointed six whips for the upper house, where it is the single largest party with 70 members. Special invitees to the committee from Rajya Sabha are J P Nadda, Om Prakash Mathur, Nirmala Sitharaman, Dharmedndra Pradhan and Prakash Javadekar. BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya has been reappointed as in-charge of the party's parliamentary office and Balasubrahmanyam Kumarsu as secretary. The newly constituted BJP parliamentary party executive committee marks a generational shift in the party as party veterans L K Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, who have been its members for a long time, are not part of it, as both are not MPs. Besides them, senior leaders Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj are also not its members. The first meeting of the executive will be held on June 16 at 3:30 pm, a day before the commencement of Parliament session. The government has also called an all-party meeting in the morning of June 16 which will be chaired by the prime minister.

BJP forms new parliamentary party executive; PM Modi leader in Lok Sabha, Rajnath Singh his deputy 

New home minister and BJP president Amit Shah has emerged as a clear number two in PM Modi's&nbsp;2.0 government. All-powerful and important <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-s-jaishankar-enter-cabinet-committee-on-security-224609">Cabinet Committees</a> reconstituted by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi are either headed by him or Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is present in most of the ministries whereas presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is limited to two sub committees. In fact, Rajnath Singh is absent from both Cabinet Committee of Political Affairs and Cabinet Committee of Parliamentary Affairs.

The Cabinet Committee of appointments which deals with the appointment of senior bureaucrats and constitutional bodies only constitutes of Prime Minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-pm-modis-right-hand-man-is-indias-new-home-minister-223085">Amit Shah</a>. The Cabinet Committees on Parliamentary Affairs and Accommodation is being headed by Amit Shah himself.

The character of Cabinet Committee of Security remains the same where along with Prime Minister, all top four ministers are present including Rajnath Singh. Rajnath Singh is also part of Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.

Additionally, the Prime Minister has created Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth and Cabinet Committee on Skill Development and Employment which are being headed by Prime Minister Modi himself.

In most of the Cabinet Committees, Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Railways and Commerce Minister Piyush Goel have been well represented.

New home minister and BJP president Amit Shah has emerged as a clear number two in PM Modi's 2.0 government. All-powerful and important Cabinet Committees reconstituted by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi are either headed by him or Amit Shah.

New home minister and BJP president Amit Shah has emerged as a clear number two in PM Modi's 2.0 government. All-powerful and important Cabinet Committees reconstituted by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi are either headed by him or Amit Shah. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is present in most of the ministries whereas presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is limited to two sub committees. In fact, Rajnath Singh is absent from both Cabinet Committee of Political Affairs and Cabinet Committee of Parliamentary Affairs. The Cabinet Committee of appointments which deals with the appointment of senior bureaucrats and constitutional bodies only constitutes of Prime Minister and Amit Shah. The Cabinet Committees on Parliamentary Affairs and Accommodation is being headed by Amit Shah himself. The character of Cabinet Committee of Security remains the same where along with Prime Minister, all top four ministers are present including Rajnath Singh. Rajnath Singh is also part of Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs. Additionally, the Prime Minister has created Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth and Cabinet Committee on Skill Development and Employment which are being headed by Prime Minister Modi himself. In most of the Cabinet Committees, Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Railways and Commerce Minister Piyush Goel have been well represented.

Home Minister Amit Shah emerges as clear number 2 in Modi government 2.0

In his first visit as Defence Minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-leaves-for-siachen-will-review-security-situation-along-the-borders-223743">Rajnath Singh on Monday visited the world's highest battlefield - the Siachen Glacier</a> - where he interacted with Army troops and paid tributes to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

"I salute your spirit, your valour from the bottom of my heart. Jawans and officers in the Armed forces have a sense of pride, that is the strongest sentiment in the heart of any human," Singh said while addressing personnel at the Siachen Base Camp.

In a series of tweets, Rajnath lauded the personnel for performing their duty with great courage despite unfavourable terrain.

"Visited a forward post and Siachen base camp today and interacted with the Army personnel serving in this region which is also known as the 'the highest battlefield in the world'," he wrote.

"Our soldiers in Siachen are performing their duty with great courage and fortitude even in extreme conditions and treacherous terrain. I salute their vigour and valour," Rajnath added in another tweet.

The Defence Minister praised the troops and said he will send thank you notes to the parents of the personnel deployed in the area.

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Paid tributes to the martyred soldiers who sacrificed their lives while serving in Siachen. 
 
More than 1100 soldiers have made supreme sacrifice defending the Siachen Glacier. 
 
The nation will always remain indebted to their service and sacrifice. <a href="https://t.co/buWxgv6Nmg">pic.twitter.com/buWxgv6Nmg</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1135466644862464001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I am proud of all Army personnel serving in Siachen who are leaving no stone unturned to defend our motherland. I am also proud of their parents who have sent their children to serve the nation by joining the Armed forces. I will personally send a thank you note to them," another tweet from Rajnath read.

"Paid tributes to the martyred soldiers who sacrificed their lives while serving in Siachen. More than 1100 soldiers have made supreme sacrifice defending the Siachen Glacier. The nation will always remain indebted to their service and sacrifice," read another tweet by Singh.

The Defence Minister is accompanied by Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Northern Army Commander Lt General Ranbir Singh and other senior officials from the Defence Ministry.

Rajnath is in Siachen to review the security situation along the borders with Pakistan. Later in the day, he will visit Srinagar and meet Indian Army personnel there.

Watch: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaches 'highest battleground' Siachen

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/defence-minister-rajnath-singh-reaches-the-highest-battleground-siachen-223869/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During the day-long visit, the Minister would be briefed about the security situation in the Kashmir valley and the counterinsurgency operations being carried out by the security forces.

After taking over as the Defence Minister on June 1, Rajnath had asked the officers-in-charge of different departments to prepare a detailed presentation for him on the ongoing projects and programmes and brief him on them soon.

The officers have also been asked to complete the projects in a time-bound manner to move effectively towards modernising the armed forces. 
&nbsp;

In his first visit as Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh on Monday visited the world's highest battlefield - the Siachen Glacier - where he interacted with Army troops and paid tributes to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

In his first visit as Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh on Monday visited the world's highest battlefield - the Siachen Glacier - where he interacted with Army troops and paid tributes to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. "I salute your spirit, your valour from the bottom of my heart. Jawans and officers in the Armed forces have a sense of pride, that is the strongest sentiment in the heart of any human," Singh said while addressing personnel at the Siachen Base Camp. In a series of tweets, Rajnath lauded the personnel for performing their duty with great courage despite unfavourable terrain. "Visited a forward post and Siachen base camp today and interacted with the Army personnel serving in this region which is also known as the 'the highest battlefield in the world'," he wrote. "Our soldiers in Siachen are performing their duty with great courage and fortitude even in extreme conditions and treacherous terrain. I salute their vigour and valour," Rajnath added in another tweet. The Defence Minister praised the troops and said he will send thank you notes to the parents of the personnel deployed in the area. Paid tributes to the martyred soldiers who sacrificed their lives while serving in Siachen. More than 1100 soldiers have made supreme sacrifice defending the Siachen Glacier. The nation will always remain indebted to their service and sacrifice. pic.twitter.com/buWxgv6Nmg — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 3, 2019 × "I am proud of all Army personnel serving in Siachen who are leaving no stone unturned to defend our motherland. I am also proud of their parents who have sent their children to serve the nation by joining the Armed forces. I will personally send a thank you note to them," another tweet from Rajnath read. "Paid tributes to the martyred soldiers who sacrificed their lives while serving in Siachen. More than 1100 soldiers have made supreme sacrifice defending the Siachen Glacier. The nation will always remain indebted to their service and sacrifice," read another tweet by Singh. The Defence Minister is accompanied by Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Northern Army Commander Lt General Ranbir Singh and other senior officials from the Defence Ministry. Rajnath is in Siachen to review the security situation along the borders with Pakistan. Later in the day, he will visit Srinagar and meet Indian Army personnel there. Watch: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaches 'highest battleground' Siachen During the day-long visit, the Minister would be briefed about the security situation in the Kashmir valley and the counterinsurgency operations being carried out by the security forces. After taking over as the Defence Minister on June 1, Rajnath had asked the officers-in-charge of different departments to prepare a detailed presentation for him on the ongoing projects and programmes and brief him on them soon. The officers have also been asked to complete the projects in a time-bound manner to move effectively towards modernising the armed forces.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh interacts with troops in Siachen

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said the security of health services in the country was as important as securing the borders of the country.

Addressing a gathering after inaugurating Yashoda Cancer Hospital in Sanjay Nagar and Raj Nagar area here, Singh noted the present set-up for medical services in the country was not "adequate".

He said private investment in the sector should be promoted through public-private partnership ventures.

The medical faculty (doctors and nurses) to population ratio was poor and needed urgent improvement, he said at the function, which was his first public meet in Ghaziabad after the 2019 Lok Sabha results were declared.

He said the government is mulling over increasing the health budget.

Speaking on the defence sector, Singh said countrymen are living safely due to the efforts of the Army and paramilitary forces.

He said police, intelligence and other forces were working in tandem to check terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Lastly, the defence minister noted that communalism is dangerous for the country.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said the security of health services in the country was as important as securing the borders of the country. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating Yashoda Cancer Hospital in Sanjay Nagar and Raj Nagar area here, Singh noted the present set-up for medical services in the country was not "adequate".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said the security of health services in the country was as important as securing the borders of the country. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating Yashoda Cancer Hospital in Sanjay Nagar and Raj Nagar area here, Singh noted the present set-up for medical services in the country was not "adequate". He said private investment in the sector should be promoted through public-private partnership ventures. The medical faculty (doctors and nurses) to population ratio was poor and needed urgent improvement, he said at the function, which was his first public meet in Ghaziabad after the 2019 Lok Sabha results were declared. He said the government is mulling over increasing the health budget. Speaking on the defence sector, Singh said countrymen are living safely due to the efforts of the Army and paramilitary forces. He said police, intelligence and other forces were working in tandem to check terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Lastly, the defence minister noted that communalism is dangerous for the country.

Security and health services equally important for the nation: Rajnath Singh

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