President Ram Nath Kovind addressed the Indian community in Santiago on Sunday and said it has integrated well into the Chilean society and established a good reputation for itself and for India.

“You have maintained your cultural roots and ethos here also. We tremendously value your involvement and initiatives organised by our government through our embassies. Such interaction defines the partnership between all of you and us back at home. This kind of partnership is not only of mutual benefit but is also a crucial building block on our route to the future,” the President said. &nbsp;

“I thank you for your partnership and projecting our shared values. You represent the route to help us achieve a better understanding of Chile and Chileans. And through your affinity with an interest in India you will be able to help us to project India in Chile,” he added.

During his speech, President Kovind noted that his state visit to Chile is important for many reasons. “I am the third Indian President to visit Chile,” he said. “The other reasons include, the 70th anniversary of India-Chile diplomatic relations, the 70th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev-the founder of Sikhism.”

President Kovind said that he will be paying tributes to the Father of the Nation at his statue in the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial in the Chilean capital later this evening and tomorrow he is scheduled to speak on the legacy and life of the Mahatma at the University of Chile.

“As the world around us is increasingly falling prey to negative forces of terrorism, violence and greed, universal messages of peace and tolerance by Guru Nanak Dev and Mahatma Gandhi are increasingly relevant, along with the examples of constitutional democracies based on the rule of law, equality and fundamental freedom represented by both India and Chile,” he added.

Chile went through its election process at the end of 2017, while India will be shortly going through general elections which will lead to the formation of the 70th Lok Sabha. Over 900 million electorates will cast their votes in what would be the largest democratic exercise on the planet, the President said.

"In 2022, India will commemorate the 75th anniversary of independence. The country is marching on a transformative journey towards a prosperous 21st century New India," the President stated.

The Government of India has implemented various initiatives such as the Make in India, Digital India, Smart Cities, Goods and Services Tax system, Clean Ganga Mission, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Jan Dhan Yojna, Ayushman Bharat (healthcare scheme), Ujjwala Yojana and many others aimed at unleashing a transformative economic growth and social change for ensuring that the roots of progress to reach out to all corners of the country and all sections of the society, he added.

“We have also made significant strides in science and technology with successful Mangalyaan Mission (MOM) and launching a record number of 104 satellites in a single mission. We have achieved major feeds in space explorations. We are now progressing towards mission Gaganyaan -the Indian human space flight,” President Kovind said.

“In our quest for development and progress, the overseas Indian community is an invaluable partner. We appreciate your contribution and cherish your success and achievements,” he added.

A number of initiatives such as the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Know India Programme, Scholarships for Diaspora Children and Bharat Ko Janiye quiz have been implemented for facilitating engagement with the Indian Diaspora. The Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi is a one-stop resource center for the Indian Diaspora. The Indian government has also rescued around 4000 people from different crisis-struck nations in the last four years, the President noted.

President Kovind further stated that he will be meeting his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera tomorrow and hoped to have fruitful and productive discussions that would benefit the bilateral relations between the two countries in a constructive and mutually beneficial way.

“In the preliminary discussions, we have already identified focal areas of mutual interest ranging from outer space to health. We are also keen to strengthen our business engagements from IT, solar energy, mining and beyond,” the President said.

President Kovind, who is on a three-day visit to Chile that culminates on April 4, is also slated to address the India-Chile Business Forum tomorrow. 
In his address to the diaspora here, the President asked the Indian community to communicate with their children in any regional languages of India in order to ensure that the upcoming generation does not forget its cultural and ethical roots.

President Kovind is currently on the last leg of his three-nation tour. Prior to Chile, the President visited Croatia and Bolivia from March 25th to March 30th. 
In his earlier trips, India and Bolivia signed eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) in diverse sectors, including culture, diplomatic visa, diplomatic academies, mining, space, traditional medicine, Bi-Oceanic Railway project, and International Solar Alliance (ISA).&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind addressed the Indian community in Santiago on Sunday and said it has integrated well into the Chilean society and established a good reputation for itself and for India.

President Ram Nath Kovind addressed the Indian community in Santiago on Sunday and said it has integrated well into the Chilean society and established a good reputation for itself and for India. “You have maintained your cultural roots and ethos here also. We tremendously value your involvement and initiatives organised by our government through our embassies. Such interaction defines the partnership between all of you and us back at home. This kind of partnership is not only of mutual benefit but is also a crucial building block on our route to the future,” the President said. “I thank you for your partnership and projecting our shared values. You represent the route to help us achieve a better understanding of Chile and Chileans. And through your affinity with an interest in India you will be able to help us to project India in Chile,” he added. During his speech, President Kovind noted that his state visit to Chile is important for many reasons. “I am the third Indian President to visit Chile,” he said. “The other reasons include, the 70th anniversary of India-Chile diplomatic relations, the 70th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev-the founder of Sikhism.” President Kovind said that he will be paying tributes to the Father of the Nation at his statue in the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial in the Chilean capital later this evening and tomorrow he is scheduled to speak on the legacy and life of the Mahatma at the University of Chile. “As the world around us is increasingly falling prey to negative forces of terrorism, violence and greed, universal messages of peace and tolerance by Guru Nanak Dev and Mahatma Gandhi are increasingly relevant, along with the examples of constitutional democracies based on the rule of law, equality and fundamental freedom represented by both India and Chile,” he added. Chile went through its election process at the end of 2017, while India will be shortly going through general elections which will lead to the formation of the 70th Lok Sabha. Over 900 million electorates will cast their votes in what would be the largest democratic exercise on the planet, the President said. "In 2022, India will commemorate the 75th anniversary of independence. The country is marching on a transformative journey towards a prosperous 21st century New India," the President stated. The Government of India has implemented various initiatives such as the Make in India, Digital India, Smart Cities, Goods and Services Tax system, Clean Ganga Mission, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Jan Dhan Yojna, Ayushman Bharat (healthcare scheme), Ujjwala Yojana and many others aimed at unleashing a transformative economic growth and social change for ensuring that the roots of progress to reach out to all corners of the country and all sections of the society, he added. “We have also made significant strides in science and technology with successful Mangalyaan Mission (MOM) and launching a record number of 104 satellites in a single mission. We have achieved major feeds in space explorations. We are now progressing towards mission Gaganyaan -the Indian human space flight,” President Kovind said. “In our quest for development and progress, the overseas Indian community is an invaluable partner. We appreciate your contribution and cherish your success and achievements,” he added. A number of initiatives such as the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Know India Programme, Scholarships for Diaspora Children and Bharat Ko Janiye quiz have been implemented for facilitating engagement with the Indian Diaspora. The Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi is a one-stop resource center for the Indian Diaspora. The Indian government has also rescued around 4000 people from different crisis-struck nations in the last four years, the President noted. President Kovind further stated that he will be meeting his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera tomorrow and hoped to have fruitful and productive discussions that would benefit the bilateral relations between the two countries in a constructive and mutually beneficial way. “In the preliminary discussions, we have already identified focal areas of mutual interest ranging from outer space to health. We are also keen to strengthen our business engagements from IT, solar energy, mining and beyond,” the President said. President Kovind, who is on a three-day visit to Chile that culminates on April 4, is also slated to address the India-Chile Business Forum tomorrow. In his address to the diaspora here, the President asked the Indian community to communicate with their children in any regional languages of India in order to ensure that the upcoming generation does not forget its cultural and ethical roots. President Kovind is currently on the last leg of his three-nation tour. Prior to Chile, the President visited Croatia and Bolivia from March 25th to March 30th. In his earlier trips, India and Bolivia signed eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) in diverse sectors, including culture, diplomatic visa, diplomatic academies, mining, space, traditional medicine, Bi-Oceanic Railway project, and International Solar Alliance (ISA).

President Kovind addresses Indian community in Chile

Indian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bajrang-punia-sharath-kamal-harika-dronavalli-conferred-with-padma-shri-by-president-ram-nath-kovind-202562">Ram Nath Kovind</a> Friday said there was a need to draw upon the power of innovation to find solutions to concerns facing the country. 
 
President Kovind said India has to make efforts to promote an innovation culture and become an innovation society. 
 
'As we seek to meet important developmental goals and build a caring, inclusive and happy society, we have to draw upon the power of innovation to find solutions to our concerns in diverse domains such as health, education, food security, energy access, environmental protection, and national security,'&nbsp;Kovind said. 
 
He was speaking at the inauguration function of the Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FINE). 
 
During the function organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the National Innovation Foundation (NIF), he also presented national grassroots innovations awards. 
 
'We have to make all efforts to promote an innovation culture and become an innovation society. In the wider sense, an innovation culture can be a catalyst to help us reach our goals as a society and as a nation,'&nbsp;the President said. 
 
'To usher in such a culture calls for revitalizing every link in the innovation value chain. We need schools where children tinker rather than only memorise. We need work cultures where young talent looks up and questions rather than looks down and nods,'&nbsp;he said. 
 
'Of course, the government will continue to provide a facilitative environment. However, an innovative idea in itself is not enough. It is important to ensure that a creative idea gets the support it needs for it's maturing, diffusion and delivery on the ground,'&nbsp;he added. 
 
'Innovation itself is only the first of two key drivers to ensure that it becomes actionable. The second key driver is entrepreneurship, which needs to supplement innovation so as to deliver benefits to our fellow citizens,'&nbsp;Kovind said. 
 
'We need to build an ecosystem for converting innovations into enterprises. This necessarily requires support for start-ups and for incubating young innovators. It is critical to connect all the links of incubating innovations into enterprises by providing financial, mentoring and policy support,'&nbsp;he said. 
 
'To be sure, NIF has done just this in many specific cases. But, my suggestion, for the consideration of all present here is to see if we can scale up the impact of our innovations to national and perhaps even global levels,'&nbsp;he said. 
 
Praising the NIF, he said it had made a big contribution to strengthen grassroots technological innovations and outstanding traditional knowledge since being established in 2000. 
 
The president appreciated the efforts of grassroots innovators who were given awards at the function.

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind Friday said there was a need to draw upon the power of innovation to find solutions to concerns facing the country. President Kovind said India has to make efforts to promote an innovation culture and become an innovation society.

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind Friday said there was a need to draw upon the power of innovation to find solutions to concerns facing the country. President Kovind said India has to make efforts to promote an innovation culture and become an innovation society. 'As we seek to meet important developmental goals and build a caring, inclusive and happy society, we have to draw upon the power of innovation to find solutions to our concerns in diverse domains such as health, education, food security, energy access, environmental protection, and national security,' Kovind said. He was speaking at the inauguration function of the Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FINE). During the function organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the National Innovation Foundation (NIF), he also presented national grassroots innovations awards. 'We have to make all efforts to promote an innovation culture and become an innovation society. In the wider sense, an innovation culture can be a catalyst to help us reach our goals as a society and as a nation,' the President said. 'To usher in such a culture calls for revitalizing every link in the innovation value chain. We need schools where children tinker rather than only memorise. We need work cultures where young talent looks up and questions rather than looks down and nods,' he said. 'Of course, the government will continue to provide a facilitative environment. However, an innovative idea in itself is not enough. It is important to ensure that a creative idea gets the support it needs for it's maturing, diffusion and delivery on the ground,' he added. 'Innovation itself is only the first of two key drivers to ensure that it becomes actionable. The second key driver is entrepreneurship, which needs to supplement innovation so as to deliver benefits to our fellow citizens,' Kovind said. 'We need to build an ecosystem for converting innovations into enterprises. This necessarily requires support for start-ups and for incubating young innovators. It is critical to connect all the links of incubating innovations into enterprises by providing financial, mentoring and policy support,' he said. 'To be sure, NIF has done just this in many specific cases. But, my suggestion, for the consideration of all present here is to see if we can scale up the impact of our innovations to national and perhaps even global levels,' he said. Praising the NIF, he said it had made a big contribution to strengthen grassroots technological innovations and outstanding traditional knowledge since being established in 2000. The president appreciated the efforts of grassroots innovators who were given awards at the function.

Use power of innovation to find solutions for India: President Ram Nath Kovind

India was going through "uncertain times" ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the Narendra Modi government after assuming power resolved to work towards a 'New India', giving hope to the people, President Ram Nath Kovind said Thursday.

Addressing the joint session of Parliament at the beginning of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2019-how-it-is-formulated-and-presented-194051">Budget Session,</a> he said the NDA government has been trying to pass the triple talaq bill to empower Muslim women so that they can live a life without fear.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/nine-landmark-budgets-and-their-impact-on-republic-of-india-194050">In pics: Nine landmark budgets and their impact on the Republic of India</a>

The government has been working to fulfil hopes and aspirations of all sections of people, he said.

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President: Compromising with security needs is not in interest of present &amp; future of country. New deals in last year, purchase of defence equipment raised morale of defence. After decades, Indian Air Force will use ultramodern Rafale aircraft in coming months&amp;strengthen itself. <a href="https://t.co/UvETm6GcEJ">pic.twitter.com/UvETm6GcEJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1090861520592953344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The country was going through times of uncertainty before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, and after the polls, my government resolved to make a New India," the president said.

Highlighting the government's achievements and various welfare schemes, Kovind said 21 crore poor people were covered under the PM's life insurance scheme, while over 2 crore households got power connection as part of the PM's Saubhagya scheme.&nbsp;

"Under Swachh Bharat initiative, the government has built nine crore toilets," he said.

The president also described 2019 as a significant year for democracy as the country is observing the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. 
Be it cities or villages, the government has worked towards strengthening the healthcare infrastructure, he said.

India was going through "uncertain times" ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the Narendra Modi government after assuming power resolved to work towards a 'New India', giving hope to the people, President Ram Nath Kovind said Thursday.

India was going through "uncertain times" ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the Narendra Modi government after assuming power resolved to work towards a 'New India', giving hope to the people, President Ram Nath Kovind said Thursday. Addressing the joint session of Parliament at the beginning of the Budget Session, he said the NDA government has been trying to pass the triple talaq bill to empower Muslim women so that they can live a life without fear. In pics: Nine landmark budgets and their impact on the Republic of India The government has been working to fulfil hopes and aspirations of all sections of people, he said. President: Compromising with security needs is not in interest of present & future of country. New deals in last year, purchase of defence equipment raised morale of defence. After decades, Indian Air Force will use ultramodern Rafale aircraft in coming months&strengthen itself. pic.twitter.com/UvETm6GcEJ — ANI (@ANI) January 31, 2019 × "The country was going through times of uncertainty before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, and after the polls, my government resolved to make a New India," the president said. Highlighting the government's achievements and various welfare schemes, Kovind said 21 crore poor people were covered under the PM's life insurance scheme, while over 2 crore households got power connection as part of the PM's Saubhagya scheme. "Under Swachh Bharat initiative, the government has built nine crore toilets," he said. The president also described 2019 as a significant year for democracy as the country is observing the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Be it cities or villages, the government has worked towards strengthening the healthcare infrastructure, he said.

Uncertainty prevailed before 2014 polls, Modi govt resolved to make New India: President Ram Nath Kovind

President Ram Nath Kovind will confer the national awards to 26 shortlisted children Tuesday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Women and Child Development Ministry said.

This year's award function was mired in controversy after the government dissociated itself from the NGO Indian Council for Child Welfare (ICCW) that has been organising the award since 1957 over financial embezzlement.

The ICCW had shortlisted 21 children for this year's national awards whose names have been sent to the Prime Minister's Office, but no response has been received, ICCW president Gita Siddhartha said.

The ministry, meanwhile, reinvented the national children's awards for this year and included bravery as one of the categories under the awards now called the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, 2019.

The different categories of award this time is innovation (six awards), scholaristic (three awards), social service (three awards), art and culture (five awards), sports (six awards) and bravery (three awards).

A total of 783 applications were received for the Baal Shakti Puruskar this year. Two individuals and three institutions will also be awarded under the National Child Welfare Awards category, now renamed as Bal Kalyan Puraskar.

The names of awardees were finalised by the National Selection Committee under the chairpersonship of WCD Minister Maneka Gandhi, the ministry said in a statement.

"These awards will be given in two main categories. The Bravery Awards have also been added to these awards now. The categories are as Bal Shakti Puraskar (erstwhile known as National Child Award), Bal Kalyan Puraskar (erstwhile known as National Child Welfare Award), Bal Shakti Puraskar," the statement said.

The award carries a medal, a cash prize of Rs 1,00,000, book vouchers worth Rs 10,000, a certificate and a citation.

The award for individual consists of a cash prize of Rs one lakh, medal, citation and a certificate to each awardee.

The award for institution consists Rs five lakh prize, medal, citation and a certificate.

The maximum number of awards would be three for the National Child Welfare Award (individual and institution both).

In order to popularise the scheme amongst the general public and make it more genial, this ministry has launched an award portal developed by NIC on August 1, 2018, for accepting the online applications.

A child who is a citizen of India and is residing in the country can apply for the National Child Award by registering on the web portal, filling the requisite information and attaching the relevant documents, the statement said.

In order to draw a response from the public, any citizen of India can nominate any child who has achieved excellence in any of the fields.

Individuals who are a citizen of India and have made an outstanding contribution for the cause of children in the field of child development, child protection and child welfare for not less than seven years and have a positive impact on the lives of children and institutions, who have done exceptional work for the cause of children in any field of child welfare for 10 years can apply for the National Child Welfare Award.

The logo for the award has been crowdsourced through a social media-based competition. The awards are being hosted prior to January 26 so as to ensure that children get to participate in the Republic Day Parade, the WCD Ministry added.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind will confer the national awards to 26 shortlisted children Tuesday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Women and Child Development Ministry said.

President Ram Nath Kovind will confer the national awards to 26 shortlisted children Tuesday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Women and Child Development Ministry said. This year's award function was mired in controversy after the government dissociated itself from the NGO Indian Council for Child Welfare (ICCW) that has been organising the award since 1957 over financial embezzlement. The ICCW had shortlisted 21 children for this year's national awards whose names have been sent to the Prime Minister's Office, but no response has been received, ICCW president Gita Siddhartha said. The ministry, meanwhile, reinvented the national children's awards for this year and included bravery as one of the categories under the awards now called the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, 2019. The different categories of award this time is innovation (six awards), scholaristic (three awards), social service (three awards), art and culture (five awards), sports (six awards) and bravery (three awards). A total of 783 applications were received for the Baal Shakti Puruskar this year. Two individuals and three institutions will also be awarded under the National Child Welfare Awards category, now renamed as Bal Kalyan Puraskar. The names of awardees were finalised by the National Selection Committee under the chairpersonship of WCD Minister Maneka Gandhi, the ministry said in a statement. "These awards will be given in two main categories. The Bravery Awards have also been added to these awards now. The categories are as Bal Shakti Puraskar (erstwhile known as National Child Award), Bal Kalyan Puraskar (erstwhile known as National Child Welfare Award), Bal Shakti Puraskar," the statement said. The award carries a medal, a cash prize of Rs 1,00,000, book vouchers worth Rs 10,000, a certificate and a citation. The award for individual consists of a cash prize of Rs one lakh, medal, citation and a certificate to each awardee. The award for institution consists Rs five lakh prize, medal, citation and a certificate. The maximum number of awards would be three for the National Child Welfare Award (individual and institution both). In order to popularise the scheme amongst the general public and make it more genial, this ministry has launched an award portal developed by NIC on August 1, 2018, for accepting the online applications. A child who is a citizen of India and is residing in the country can apply for the National Child Award by registering on the web portal, filling the requisite information and attaching the relevant documents, the statement said. In order to draw a response from the public, any citizen of India can nominate any child who has achieved excellence in any of the fields. Individuals who are a citizen of India and have made an outstanding contribution for the cause of children in the field of child development, child protection and child welfare for not less than seven years and have a positive impact on the lives of children and institutions, who have done exceptional work for the cause of children in any field of child welfare for 10 years can apply for the National Child Welfare Award. The logo for the award has been crowdsourced through a social media-based competition. The awards are being hosted prior to January 26 so as to ensure that children get to participate in the Republic Day Parade, the WCD Ministry added.

President Kovind to confer national awards to 26 children today

The makers of Kangana Ranaut starrer 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' on Friday held a special screening of the forthcoming film for President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, New Delhi.

On the occasion, President Kovind felicitated the cast and crew of the film.

"President Kovind watched a special screening of the film 'Manikarnika', based on the life of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre; felicitated the cast and crew of the film," read a post from the official Twitter handle of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

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President Kovind watched a special screening of the film 'Manikarnika', based on the life of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre; felicitated the cast and crew of the film. <a href="https://t.co/o1AwNwz9av">pic.twitter.com/o1AwNwz9av</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1086280793486327808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Also present at the screening were senior BJP leader LK Advani and CBFC chairman Prasoon Joshi.

The film, which also stars Atul Kulkarni, Jisshu Sengupta and Danny Denzongpa, is slated to hit the big screens on January 25.

The makers of Kangana Ranaut starrer 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' on Friday held a special screening of the forthcoming film for President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, New Delhi.

The makers of Kangana Ranaut starrer 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' on Friday held a special screening of the forthcoming film for President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, New Delhi. On the occasion, President Kovind felicitated the cast and crew of the film. "President Kovind watched a special screening of the film 'Manikarnika', based on the life of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre; felicitated the cast and crew of the film," read a post from the official Twitter handle of Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Kovind watched a special screening of the film 'Manikarnika', based on the life of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre; felicitated the cast and crew of the film. pic.twitter.com/o1AwNwz9av — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 18, 2019 × Also present at the screening were senior BJP leader LK Advani and CBFC chairman Prasoon Joshi. The film, which also stars Atul Kulkarni, Jisshu Sengupta and Danny Denzongpa, is slated to hit the big screens on January 25.

President Kovind felicitates cast of 'Manikarnika' at special screening

A special screening of Kangana Ranaut-starrer 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi'&nbsp;will be organised for President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here. 
ZEE Entertainment Enterprises has arranged the screening on Friday. 
 
"We are extremely honoured, glad and proud that the President will be watching this film before its theatrical release. I congratulate team ZEE Studios for getting this opportunity and I wish them all the success," Punit Goenka, Managing Director and CEO of ZEE Entertainment Enterprises, said in a statement. 
&nbsp; 
Led by the company`s movies business -- ZEE Studios, the screening will be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. The screening will be attended by the movie`s cast as well. 
 
'Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi' captures the life story of Rani Laxmibai. Kangana will be bringing her life alive on the big screen.

Kangana says Rani Laxmibai is a national hero.&nbsp;"Our entire team is really looking forward to present `Manikarnika...` -- a story about Rani Laxmibai`s strength and bravery for an Independent India, to the most important entity of the Republic of India -- our President," said the actress, who has directed the film with Krish.&nbsp; 
 
The film also stars Ankita Lokhande, Atul Kulkarni, Vaibhav Tatwawaadi, Danny Denzongappa, Suresh Oberoi and Jisshu Sengupta in key roles.&nbsp; 
Produced by Zee Studios in association with Kamal Jain and Nishant Pitti, the movie will release on January 25.

A special screening of Kangana Ranaut-starrer 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' will be organised for President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here. ZEE Entertainment Enterprises has arranged the screening on Friday.

A special screening of Kangana Ranaut-starrer 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' will be organised for President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here. ZEE Entertainment Enterprises has arranged the screening on Friday. "We are extremely honoured, glad and proud that the President will be watching this film before its theatrical release. I congratulate team ZEE Studios for getting this opportunity and I wish them all the success," Punit Goenka, Managing Director and CEO of ZEE Entertainment Enterprises, said in a statement. Led by the company`s movies business -- ZEE Studios, the screening will be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. The screening will be attended by the movie`s cast as well. 'Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi' captures the life story of Rani Laxmibai. Kangana will be bringing her life alive on the big screen. Kangana says Rani Laxmibai is a national hero. "Our entire team is really looking forward to present `Manikarnika...` -- a story about Rani Laxmibai`s strength and bravery for an Independent India, to the most important entity of the Republic of India -- our President," said the actress, who has directed the film with Krish. The film also stars Ankita Lokhande, Atul Kulkarni, Vaibhav Tatwawaadi, Danny Denzongappa, Suresh Oberoi and Jisshu Sengupta in key roles. Produced by Zee Studios in association with Kamal Jain and Nishant Pitti, the movie will release on January 25.

'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' to be screened for President Ram Nath Kovind

President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday appointed Justice Dinesh Maheshwari, chief justice of Karnataka High Court and Sanjiv Khanna, judge of Delhi High Court, to be a judge of the Supreme Court of India with effect from the date they assume charge of their office, reported news agency ANI.

The five-member SC Collegium had on January 11 recommended the elevation of the two to the top court.

The apex court is presently functioning with 26 judges as against the sanctioned strength of 31, leaving five clear vacancies.

While recommending the names of Justices Maheshwari and Justice Khanna, the Collegium took into consideration the combined seniority on an all-India basis of Chief Justices and senior puisne judges of High Courts, apart from their merit and integrity.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday appointed Justice Dinesh Maheshwari, chief justice of Karnataka High Court and Sanjiv Khanna, judge of Delhi High Court, to be a judge of the Supreme Court of India with effect from the date they assume charge of their office, reported news agency ANI.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday appointed Justice Dinesh Maheshwari, chief justice of Karnataka High Court and Sanjiv Khanna, judge of Delhi High Court, to be a judge of the Supreme Court of India with effect from the date they assume charge of their office, reported news agency ANI. The five-member SC Collegium had on January 11 recommended the elevation of the two to the top court. The apex court is presently functioning with 26 judges as against the sanctioned strength of 31, leaving five clear vacancies. While recommending the names of Justices Maheshwari and Justice Khanna, the Collegium took into consideration the combined seniority on an all-India basis of Chief Justices and senior puisne judges of High Courts, apart from their merit and integrity.

President Kovind appoints Dinesh Maheshwari, Sanjiv Khanna as Supreme Court judges

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/if-trump-and-kim-can-meet-why-not-other-countries-nepal-on-stalled-saarc-summit-189572">Nepal Army </a>Chief General Purna Chandra Thapa will be reaching here on a four-day long visit to India, beginning January 12.&nbsp;

During the visit General Thapa shall interact with senior Indian Army hierarchy and visit formations based at Jaipur and Lucknow, Defence Ministry said in a statement on Friday.

"Chief of the Army Staff, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/seek-assurance-from-india-on-currency-notes-of-higher-denomination-nepal-foreign-minister-to-wion-189396">Nepal Army will be visiting India</a> from January 12 to 15, 2019, on his first official bilateral visit after taking over the command of the Nepal Army," said the statement, adding "the visit symbolises the deep-rooted military to military ties and shall be a platform to further strengthen the defence cooperation between the two armies."

Based on an age-old tradition existing between the armies of both countries, the Nepal Army Chief will be conferred with the Honorary Rank of 'General of Indian Army' by President Ram Nath Kovind on January 12 at Darbar Hall of the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

"During the visit, General Purna Chandra Thapa shall be interacting with senior Indian Army hierarchy and shall be visiting formations based at Jaipur and Lucknow," the statement further added.

During the visit General Thapa shall interact with senior Indian Army hierarchy and visit formations based at Jaipur and Lucknow, Defence Ministry said in a statement on Friday.

Nepal Army Chief General Purna Chandra Thapa will be reaching here on a four-day long visit to India, beginning January 12. During the visit General Thapa shall interact with senior Indian Army hierarchy and visit formations based at Jaipur and Lucknow, Defence Ministry said in a statement on Friday. "Chief of the Army Staff, Nepal Army will be visiting India from January 12 to 15, 2019, on his first official bilateral visit after taking over the command of the Nepal Army," said the statement, adding "the visit symbolises the deep-rooted military to military ties and shall be a platform to further strengthen the defence cooperation between the two armies." Based on an age-old tradition existing between the armies of both countries, the Nepal Army Chief will be conferred with the Honorary Rank of 'General of Indian Army' by President Ram Nath Kovind on January 12 at Darbar Hall of the Rashtrapati Bhawan. "During the visit, General Purna Chandra Thapa shall be interacting with senior Indian Army hierarchy and shall be visiting formations based at Jaipur and Lucknow," the statement further added.

Nepal army chief on four-day India visit from January 12

Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg will land in New Delhi on Monday for a 3-day visit, making her the first foreign leader to visit India in 2019. Solberg will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and hold talks with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, the main day of engagement. She will leave on Wednesday.

"Business cooperation, sustainable use of the oceans and implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals will feature high on the Prime Minister’s agenda," a statement from the Norwegian embassy said.

Solberg's other engagements include an address at the Indian-Norwegian Business Summit, the opening of Norway's "green" embassy compound, and a visit to a school in Ghaziabad with a special emphasis on efforts to further education for girls.&nbsp;

Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue.

"The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Solberg will provide an opportunity to the two sides to review the progress in bilateral cooperation and discuss ways to further expand the multifaceted partnership in areas of common interest," a statement from India's Ministry of External Affairs said.&nbsp;

The new Norwegian embassy building — it will be inaugurated by Solberg, Modi and Minister of State for External affairs Gen VK Singh will attend — will be one of the few building in India to make use of geothermal wells to regulate temperature. The solar panels installed at the building will produce 200 kwh of energy a day.&nbsp;

Modi has met Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi a football. The football had SDG — sustainable development goals — inscribed on it. Last year, Modi met Solberg during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17, 2018.

More than 100 Norwegian companies have invested in India in areas such as ship building, petroleum-related services, hydropower, clean energy and IT services. Several major Indian companies are also present in Norway.&nbsp;

A total of 12,924 Indians (9,485 PIOs and 3,439 NRIs) live in Norway.&nbsp;

According to figures from Norway's Immigration Department, India has become the leading source of skilled foreign professionals working in Norway. Between 2005 and 2014, the number of skilled professionals from India working in Norway went up from 100 to about 2,000.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg will land in New Delhi on Monday for a 3-day visit, making her the first foreign leader to visit India in 2019. Solberg will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and hold talks with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, the main day of engagement.

Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg will land in New Delhi on Monday for a 3-day visit, making her the first foreign leader to visit India in 2019. Solberg will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and hold talks with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, the main day of engagement. She will leave on Wednesday. "Business cooperation, sustainable use of the oceans and implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals will feature high on the Prime Minister’s agenda," a statement from the Norwegian embassy said. Solberg's other engagements include an address at the Indian-Norwegian Business Summit, the opening of Norway's "green" embassy compound, and a visit to a school in Ghaziabad with a special emphasis on efforts to further education for girls. Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue. "The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Solberg will provide an opportunity to the two sides to review the progress in bilateral cooperation and discuss ways to further expand the multifaceted partnership in areas of common interest," a statement from India's Ministry of External Affairs said. The new Norwegian embassy building — it will be inaugurated by Solberg, Modi and Minister of State for External affairs Gen VK Singh will attend — will be one of the few building in India to make use of geothermal wells to regulate temperature. The solar panels installed at the building will produce 200 kwh of energy a day. Modi has met Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi a football. The football had SDG — sustainable development goals — inscribed on it. Last year, Modi met Solberg during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17, 2018. More than 100 Norwegian companies have invested in India in areas such as ship building, petroleum-related services, hydropower, clean energy and IT services. Several major Indian companies are also present in Norway. A total of 12,924 Indians (9,485 PIOs and 3,439 NRIs) live in Norway. According to figures from Norway's Immigration Department, India has become the leading source of skilled foreign professionals working in Norway. Between 2005 and 2014, the number of skilled professionals from India working in Norway went up from 100 to about 2,000.

Norway PM to land in India on Monday, green solutions will be on her agenda

President Ram Nath Kovind has given his assent to Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018, which will supersede the Medical Council of India (MCI) and pave the way for strengthened medical education in the country.

The Ordinance will also pave way for the creation of a Board of Governors (BoG), who will be tasked with implementing much-required reforms in the field of medical education, enhanced tertiary care and expanded access to medical education in underserved areas.

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, JP Nadda, while welcoming the approval of the ordinance, said that the Centre is committed to improving health care for all, particularly the poor and deprived sections.

"For years, poor people have to travel from far of places to Delhi for getting tertiary care facility at AIIMS. Priority of the government is to expand quality tertiary healthcare facilities in all parts of the country. With the announcement of 14 new AIIMS over the past 4 years, the total number of AIIMS will go up to 22. Further, super speciality blocks are being set up in 54 medical colleges at a cost of around Rs 9,000 crores. 82 new medical colleges costing Rs 16,000 crores are being set up under a centrally sponsored scheme to ensure that there is at least one college for every three parliamentary constituencies," he added.

Based on the 92nd Report of March 2016 of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare and recommendations of a group of experts under late Professor Ranjit Roy Chaudhary, the government introduced the National Medical Commission Bill, 2017 in Lok Sabha on December 29, 2017.

The Bill provides for simplification of procedures and is expected to spur rapid growth in the number of UG and PG seats in the country besides enhancing the governance and quality of medical education.

The NMC Bill provides for distribution of functions among four autonomous boards whose members would be persons of proven ability selected through a transparent process.

The Bill was taken up for consideration on January 1 this year and was referred to a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare for examination.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee presented its 109th Report on the Bill to the House on March 20.

The Ministry, after examining the recommendations, obtained approval of the Cabinet on March 28 for moving official amendments. Thereafter, the Bill was pending in the Lok Sabha.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court in its judgment dated May 2, 2016, issued directions to the central government to constitute an Oversight Committee with the authority to oversee all statutory functions of the MCI till a new legislation comes in.

In 2017, another Oversight Committee (OC) was set up with the approval of the Supreme Court after the expiry of the one year term of the first OC.

This OC was chaired by Dr VK Paul and included eminent doctors including Directors of AIIMS Delhi, PGI Chandigarh, and NIMHANS.

On July 6, the OC cited instances of non-compliance of their instructions by MCI and said that MCI has not only misinterpreted orders of the Supreme Court but has also challenged the authority of the OC. Subsequently, all members of the OC resigned.

In such circumstances, when the Supreme Court-mandated Oversight Committee is unable to function due to non-cooperation of MCI and the NMC Bill is pending in Parliament and its passage is likely to take some time, certain immediate steps were required to be taken.

Accordingly, an ordinance to supersede the MCI was promulgated, with powers of the council vested in a Board of Governors (BoG).

The BoG will continue to perform till a Council is constituted as per the provision of the Act in one year time.

The Board members include persons of eminence in the medical field namely Dr&nbsp;VK Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, Dr&nbsp;Randeep Guleria, Director, AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr&nbsp;Jagat Ram, Director, PGIMER, Chandigarh, Dr&nbsp;BN Gangadhar, Director, NIMHANS, Bangalore, Dr&nbsp;Nikhil Tandon, Professor, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, AIIMS, New Delhi who were the members of second OC.

President Ram Nath Kovind has given his assent to Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018, which will supersede the Medical Council of India (MCI) and pave the way for strengthened medical education in the country.

President Ram Nath Kovind has given his assent to Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018, which will supersede the Medical Council of India (MCI) and pave the way for strengthened medical education in the country. The Ordinance will also pave way for the creation of a Board of Governors (BoG), who will be tasked with implementing much-required reforms in the field of medical education, enhanced tertiary care and expanded access to medical education in underserved areas. Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, JP Nadda, while welcoming the approval of the ordinance, said that the Centre is committed to improving health care for all, particularly the poor and deprived sections. "For years, poor people have to travel from far of places to Delhi for getting tertiary care facility at AIIMS. Priority of the government is to expand quality tertiary healthcare facilities in all parts of the country. With the announcement of 14 new AIIMS over the past 4 years, the total number of AIIMS will go up to 22. Further, super speciality blocks are being set up in 54 medical colleges at a cost of around Rs 9,000 crores. 82 new medical colleges costing Rs 16,000 crores are being set up under a centrally sponsored scheme to ensure that there is at least one college for every three parliamentary constituencies," he added. Based on the 92nd Report of March 2016 of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare and recommendations of a group of experts under late Professor Ranjit Roy Chaudhary, the government introduced the National Medical Commission Bill, 2017 in Lok Sabha on December 29, 2017. The Bill provides for simplification of procedures and is expected to spur rapid growth in the number of UG and PG seats in the country besides enhancing the governance and quality of medical education. The NMC Bill provides for distribution of functions among four autonomous boards whose members would be persons of proven ability selected through a transparent process. The Bill was taken up for consideration on January 1 this year and was referred to a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare for examination. The Parliamentary Standing Committee presented its 109th Report on the Bill to the House on March 20. The Ministry, after examining the recommendations, obtained approval of the Cabinet on March 28 for moving official amendments. Thereafter, the Bill was pending in the Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court in its judgment dated May 2, 2016, issued directions to the central government to constitute an Oversight Committee with the authority to oversee all statutory functions of the MCI till a new legislation comes in. In 2017, another Oversight Committee (OC) was set up with the approval of the Supreme Court after the expiry of the one year term of the first OC. This OC was chaired by Dr VK Paul and included eminent doctors including Directors of AIIMS Delhi, PGI Chandigarh, and NIMHANS. On July 6, the OC cited instances of non-compliance of their instructions by MCI and said that MCI has not only misinterpreted orders of the Supreme Court but has also challenged the authority of the OC. Subsequently, all members of the OC resigned. In such circumstances, when the Supreme Court-mandated Oversight Committee is unable to function due to non-cooperation of MCI and the NMC Bill is pending in Parliament and its passage is likely to take some time, certain immediate steps were required to be taken. Accordingly, an ordinance to supersede the MCI was promulgated, with powers of the council vested in a Board of Governors (BoG). The BoG will continue to perform till a Council is constituted as per the provision of the Act in one year time. The Board members include persons of eminence in the medical field namely Dr VK Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, Dr Randeep Guleria, Director, AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr Jagat Ram, Director, PGIMER, Chandigarh, Dr BN Gangadhar, Director, NIMHANS, Bangalore, Dr Nikhil Tandon, Professor, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, AIIMS, New Delhi who were the members of second OC.

President Kovind approves Ordinance to supersede Indian Medical Council

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