<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/changes-in-jk-will-enable-people-to-enjoy-similar-rights-as-others-in-india-president-kovind-243006">President Ram Nath Kovind</a>&nbsp;on Saturday inaugurated the presidential guest house at Raj Bhavan, which will serve as the accommodation for presidents and prime ministers during their visit to Mumbai.

The renovated VVIP Guest House 'Jal Kiran' will have four suites including the one for the president and the prime minister. The VVIP suite comprises a meeting hall, a drawing room and a sea-facing balcony.

President Kovind, Savita Kovind, Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Minister for Higher and Technical Education Vinod Tawde marked their presence during the event.

The president also unveiled a plaque in front of the refurbished and restored British-era twin cannons at Raj Bhavan.

Dating to the pre-World War I era, the cannons - 4.7 metres in length and 1.15 metre in diameter - were found under mud, 25 metres apart from each other, in the foothills of the Raj Bhavan promontory last year. On November 3, the canons were evacuated following a 12-hour operation.

The twins, each weighing 22 tonnes, were then lifted on to the Helipad Lawn and placed there until their restoration in the front of the Jal Vihar, the monumental banquet hall.

President Kovind will inaugurate the underground Bunker Museum at Raj Bhavan on Sunday morning.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday inaugurated the presidential guest house at Raj Bhavan, which will serve as the accommodation for presidents and prime ministers during their visit to Mumbai.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday inaugurated the presidential guest house at Raj Bhavan, which will serve as the accommodation for presidents and prime ministers during their visit to Mumbai. The renovated VVIP Guest House 'Jal Kiran' will have four suites including the one for the president and the prime minister. The VVIP suite comprises a meeting hall, a drawing room and a sea-facing balcony. President Kovind, Savita Kovind, Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Minister for Higher and Technical Education Vinod Tawde marked their presence during the event. The president also unveiled a plaque in front of the refurbished and restored British-era twin cannons at Raj Bhavan. Dating to the pre-World War I era, the cannons - 4.7 metres in length and 1.15 metre in diameter - were found under mud, 25 metres apart from each other, in the foothills of the Raj Bhavan promontory last year. On November 3, the canons were evacuated following a 12-hour operation. The twins, each weighing 22 tonnes, were then lifted on to the Helipad Lawn and placed there until their restoration in the front of the Jal Vihar, the monumental banquet hall. President Kovind will inaugurate the underground Bunker Museum at Raj Bhavan on Sunday morning.

President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurates presidential guest house in Mumbai

President Ram Nath Kovind will address the nation on Wednesday on the eve of the 73rd Independence Day.

The address will be broadcast from 7 pm onwards on the entire national network of All India Radio (AIR) and telecast over all channels of Doordarshan in Hindi followed by the English version, read a statement.

Broadcast of the address in Hindi and English on Doordarshan will be followed by broadcast in regional languages by regional channels of Doordarshan. AIR will broadcast regional language versions from 8 pm onwards on its respective regional networks.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind will address the nation on Wednesday on the eve of the 73rd Independence Day. The address will be broadcast from 7 pm onwards on the entire national network of All India Radio (AIR) and telecast over all channels of Doordarshan in Hindi followed by the English version, read a statement.

President Ram Nath Kovind will address the nation on Wednesday on the eve of the 73rd Independence Day. The address will be broadcast from 7 pm onwards on the entire national network of All India Radio (AIR) and telecast over all channels of Doordarshan in Hindi followed by the English version, read a statement. Broadcast of the address in Hindi and English on Doordarshan will be followed by broadcast in regional languages by regional channels of Doordarshan. AIR will broadcast regional language versions from 8 pm onwards on its respective regional networks.

President Ram Nath Kovind to address nation on eve of 73rd Independence Day

Former president Pranab Mukherjee was honoured with India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna by President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday.

Mukherjee was awarded the Bharat Ratna for his contribution to Indian politics.&nbsp;

Mukherjee's life-long political career spanned about five decades, during which he held various key posts in the Congress as well as in the governments led by Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, P V Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh.

The 83-year-old served as India's 13th President from 2012-2017, but prior to his election to the post, Mukherjee also served as the Union Finance Minister from 2009 to 2012.

As Finance Minister, Mukherjee signed the letter appointing Manmohan Singh as Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Born on December 11, 1935, in a Bengali family in Mirati, a village in Birbhum district in West Bengal, Mukherjee completed his Masters in Political Science and History and LLB degree from University of Calcutta.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee was honoured with India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna by President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday. Mukherjee was awarded the Bharat Ratna for his contribution to Indian politics.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee was honoured with India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna by President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday. Mukherjee was awarded the Bharat Ratna for his contribution to Indian politics. Mukherjee's life-long political career spanned about five decades, during which he held various key posts in the Congress as well as in the governments led by Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, P V Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh. The 83-year-old served as India's 13th President from 2012-2017, but prior to his election to the post, Mukherjee also served as the Union Finance Minister from 2009 to 2012. As Finance Minister, Mukherjee signed the letter appointing Manmohan Singh as Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Born on December 11, 1935, in a Bengali family in Mirati, a village in Birbhum district in West Bengal, Mukherjee completed his Masters in Political Science and History and LLB degree from University of Calcutta.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee receives Bharat Ratna

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benin-supports-indias-permanent-membership-to-unsc-during-kovinds-visit-239299">President Ram Nath Kovind</a> has been conferred with the National Order of Merit, the highest award of Guinea, during his official visit to the West African Nation.

The president dedicated the honour to the people of India, to their respect and regard for the Guinean people and to the long-standing mutual friendship between the two countries.

"May this recognition ever inspire us as we work together towards taking our relations to greater heights, and may this be our everlasting symbol for our mutual trust and confidence," Kovind said after being conferred with the honour by President of Guinea Alpha Conde.

The Indian president is currently on the last leg of his three-nation tour to West Africa. During his visit, India and Guinea signed three Memoranda of Understandings, including cooperation in the field of medicine and homoeopathy, renewable energy, and for participation in e-VidyaBharati and e-AarogyaBharat (e-VBAB) Network Project.

On Saturday, President Kovind and Conde held delegation-level talks aimed at further deepening relations between the two countries.

"Mr President, our discussions today convinced me that our ties can only get closer and stronger. We admire your leadership and your efforts in providing for inclusive growth for your people. We thank you for your efforts to further enhance our strong bilateral ties. India remains committed to deepening our friendship and cooperation. let us walk together in hand for peace and progress of our people," President Kovind added.

Meanwhile, the president&nbsp;returned home on Sunday after a successful week-long official tour to the West African nations of Benin, The Gambia, and Guinea.

President Ram Nath Kovind has been conferred with the National Order of Merit, the highest award of Guinea, during his official visit to the West African Nation.

President Ram Nath Kovind has been conferred with the National Order of Merit, the highest award of Guinea, during his official visit to the West African Nation. The president dedicated the honour to the people of India, to their respect and regard for the Guinean people and to the long-standing mutual friendship between the two countries. "May this recognition ever inspire us as we work together towards taking our relations to greater heights, and may this be our everlasting symbol for our mutual trust and confidence," Kovind said after being conferred with the honour by President of Guinea Alpha Conde. The Indian president is currently on the last leg of his three-nation tour to West Africa. During his visit, India and Guinea signed three Memoranda of Understandings, including cooperation in the field of medicine and homoeopathy, renewable energy, and for participation in e-VidyaBharati and e-AarogyaBharat (e-VBAB) Network Project. On Saturday, President Kovind and Conde held delegation-level talks aimed at further deepening relations between the two countries. "Mr President, our discussions today convinced me that our ties can only get closer and stronger. We admire your leadership and your efforts in providing for inclusive growth for your people. We thank you for your efforts to further enhance our strong bilateral ties. India remains committed to deepening our friendship and cooperation. let us walk together in hand for peace and progress of our people," President Kovind added. Meanwhile, the president returned home on Sunday after a successful week-long official tour to the West African nations of Benin, The Gambia, and Guinea.

President Ram Nath Kovind conferred with National Order of Merit, Guinea's highest award

President Ram Nath Kovind thanked his Beninese counterpart Patrice Talon for expressing support for India's candidature for permanent membership of the UN Security Council during bilateral talks here on Monday.

Kovind is currently on the first leg of his three-nation tour to Africa, where he reached the Beninese port city of Cotonou on Sunday. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Talon on Monday, following which the two sides held talks.

During the meeting, India offered Benin a fresh line of credit (LOC) amounting to&nbsp;100 million US dollars to finance development projects in the Western African nation. A string of initiatives was agreed upon by both the sides during the talks.

"To boost our economic partnership, we signed an agreement wherein India will help set up an Export Credit Agency in Benin. I also conveyed our decision to extend e-visa facility to Benin to give a boost to business and people-to-people ties," Kovind said after the meeting.

Several projects financed by Indian assistance are currently underway in Benin, including a project to supply safe drinking water to 103 villages.

The two sides also signed a Country Agreement for Benin to avail India's tele-education programme, e-Vidyabharati, and telemedicine initiative, e-Arogyabharati."Under these programmes, India is extending free tele-education courses to 15,000 students and telemedicine courses to 1,000 doctors and paramedics in Africa. Our training programme offered to Benin in both civilian and defence fields will be expanded as per the requirements of the Beninese side," a Ministry of External Affairs statement quoted Kovind as saying.

Bilateral trade between India and Benin has risen from $350 million to more than $800 million in the last decade.

With this, India has become Benin's largest trading partner.

"India's transformative growth and Benin's natural strengths complement each other," Kovind said.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind thanked his Beninese counterpart Patrice Talon for expressing support for India's candidature for permanent membership of the UN Security Council during bilateral talks here on Monday.

President Ram Nath Kovind thanked his Beninese counterpart Patrice Talon for expressing support for India's candidature for permanent membership of the UN Security Council during bilateral talks here on Monday. Kovind is currently on the first leg of his three-nation tour to Africa, where he reached the Beninese port city of Cotonou on Sunday. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Talon on Monday, following which the two sides held talks. During the meeting, India offered Benin a fresh line of credit (LOC) amounting to 100 million US dollars to finance development projects in the Western African nation. A string of initiatives was agreed upon by both the sides during the talks. "To boost our economic partnership, we signed an agreement wherein India will help set up an Export Credit Agency in Benin. I also conveyed our decision to extend e-visa facility to Benin to give a boost to business and people-to-people ties," Kovind said after the meeting. Several projects financed by Indian assistance are currently underway in Benin, including a project to supply safe drinking water to 103 villages. The two sides also signed a Country Agreement for Benin to avail India's tele-education programme, e-Vidyabharati, and telemedicine initiative, e-Arogyabharati."Under these programmes, India is extending free tele-education courses to 15,000 students and telemedicine courses to 1,000 doctors and paramedics in Africa. Our training programme offered to Benin in both civilian and defence fields will be expanded as per the requirements of the Beninese side," a Ministry of External Affairs statement quoted Kovind as saying. Bilateral trade between India and Benin has risen from $350 million to more than $800 million in the last decade. With this, India has become Benin's largest trading partner. "India's transformative growth and Benin's natural strengths complement each other," Kovind said.

Benin supports India's permanent membership to UNSC during Ram Nath Kovind's visit

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-ram-nath-kovind-hails-soldiers-on-20th-anniversary-of-indias-victory-in-kargil-war-238526">President Ram Nath Kovind</a>&nbsp;embarked on his first state visit to Benin, Guinea and The Gambia from Sunday&nbsp;with an aim to continue the momentum of India's engagement with Africa.

This will be the highest-level visit from India ever to the three West African countries. The President will be accompanied by Minister of State for MSME, Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, Pratap Chandra Sarangi, and Member of Parliament Dilip Ghosh.

President Kovind will arrive in Cotonou, the largest port city on the south coast of Benin, on Sunday afternoon. There, the President is scheduled to hold talks with the President of Benin, Patrice Talon, and will later travel to Porto Novo, the seat of Beninese Parliament, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

In a special honour extended to India by Benin, President Kovind will be addressing the National Assembly in Porto Novo. The President of Benin will also be hosting a banquet in the honour of President Kovind on the same day.

President Kovind will meet members of the Indian community at a reception hosted in his honour in Cotonou on July 30 before departing for The Gambia.

During his visit to The Gambia, the President will hold delegation talks with the President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, in capital Banjul on July 31.&nbsp;

As a special gesture, the National Assembly, which is currently in recess,&nbsp; 
will hold a special session for President Kovind's address on the same day.

The National Assembly building complex in Banjul is one of the prominent projects in West Africa built under Line of Credit extended by India.&nbsp;

President of The Gambia will be hosting a banquet in the honour of the Indian President.

The other elements of the visit include the inauguration of exhibitions on Mahatma Gandhi and Khadi and Indian community reception. President Kovind is further scheduled to depart for Guinea on August 1, the Ministry added.

President Kovind will reach Conakry, the capital of Guinea on August 1 where he will be received by President of the Republic of Guinea, Alpha Conde, and will be accorded a ceremonial welcome. There, the president is scheduled to hold delegation-level talks with President Conde on August 2.

President's visit to Benin, The Gambia and Guinea, will be his fourth visit to the African continent. "The visit of the President will further deepen our relations with the African nations," the statement added.

At a media briefing last Thursday, Vijay Thakur Singh, secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, said,&nbsp;"The upcoming visit of our Rashtrapati ji to West Africa is a reiteration of our growing relations with Africa and, especially the ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) and as all the three African countries - Benin, The Gambia and Guinea - are members of this group."

President Ram Nath Kovind embarked on his first state visit to Benin, Guinea and The Gambia from Sunday with an aim to continue the momentum of India's engagement with Africa.

President Ram Nath Kovind embarked on his first state visit to Benin, Guinea and The Gambia from Sunday with an aim to continue the momentum of India's engagement with Africa. This will be the highest-level visit from India ever to the three West African countries. The President will be accompanied by Minister of State for MSME, Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, Pratap Chandra Sarangi, and Member of Parliament Dilip Ghosh. President Kovind will arrive in Cotonou, the largest port city on the south coast of Benin, on Sunday afternoon. There, the President is scheduled to hold talks with the President of Benin, Patrice Talon, and will later travel to Porto Novo, the seat of Beninese Parliament, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. In a special honour extended to India by Benin, President Kovind will be addressing the National Assembly in Porto Novo. The President of Benin will also be hosting a banquet in the honour of President Kovind on the same day. President Kovind will meet members of the Indian community at a reception hosted in his honour in Cotonou on July 30 before departing for The Gambia. During his visit to The Gambia, the President will hold delegation talks with the President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, in capital Banjul on July 31. As a special gesture, the National Assembly, which is currently in recess, will hold a special session for President Kovind's address on the same day. The National Assembly building complex in Banjul is one of the prominent projects in West Africa built under Line of Credit extended by India. President of The Gambia will be hosting a banquet in the honour of the Indian President. The other elements of the visit include the inauguration of exhibitions on Mahatma Gandhi and Khadi and Indian community reception. President Kovind is further scheduled to depart for Guinea on August 1, the Ministry added. President Kovind will reach Conakry, the capital of Guinea on August 1 where he will be received by President of the Republic of Guinea, Alpha Conde, and will be accorded a ceremonial welcome. There, the president is scheduled to hold delegation-level talks with President Conde on August 2. President's visit to Benin, The Gambia and Guinea, will be his fourth visit to the African continent. "The visit of the President will further deepen our relations with the African nations," the statement added. At a media briefing last Thursday, Vijay Thakur Singh, secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, said, "The upcoming visit of our Rashtrapati ji to West Africa is a reiteration of our growing relations with Africa and, especially the ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) and as all the three African countries - Benin, The Gambia and Guinea - are members of this group."

President Ram Nath Kovind departs to visit three African countries

Anandiben Patel will take oath as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh here on July 29, officials said on Saturday.

As per an official statement, Patel will reach Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow on July 29 at 9:30 am. She will take oath as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh at 12:30 pm in Raj Bhawan.

On July 20, President Ram Nath Kovind had appointed Patel, who was serving as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, as the replacement for outgoing Governor Ram Naik.

Bihar Governor Lalji Tandon was transferred to Madhya Pradesh in place of Patel.

The President had also approved the appointments of former Union Ministers Jagdeep Dhankhar and Ramesh Bais as Governors of West Bengal and Tripura, respectively.

Dhankhar was appointed in place of Kesari Nath Tripathi as Governor of West Bengal.

Senior BJP leader from Uttar Pradesh Fagu Chauhan was appointed Governor of Bihar while former Intelligence Bureau officer and interlocutor for the Naga peace talks RN Ravi was named Governor of Nagaland.

Anandiben Patel will take oath as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh here on July 29, officials said on Saturday. As per an official statement, Patel will reach Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow on July 29 at 9:30 am.

Anandiben Patel will take oath as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh here on July 29, officials said on Saturday. As per an official statement, Patel will reach Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow on July 29 at 9:30 am. She will take oath as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh at 12:30 pm in Raj Bhawan. On July 20, President Ram Nath Kovind had appointed Patel, who was serving as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, as the replacement for outgoing Governor Ram Naik. Bihar Governor Lalji Tandon was transferred to Madhya Pradesh in place of Patel. The President had also approved the appointments of former Union Ministers Jagdeep Dhankhar and Ramesh Bais as Governors of West Bengal and Tripura, respectively. Dhankhar was appointed in place of Kesari Nath Tripathi as Governor of West Bengal. Senior BJP leader from Uttar Pradesh Fagu Chauhan was appointed Governor of Bihar while former Intelligence Bureau officer and interlocutor for the Naga peace talks RN Ravi was named Governor of Nagaland.

Anandiben Patel to take oath as Uttar Pradesh Governor on July 29

India remembered its fallen soldiers killed in 1999 war with Pakistan in northern Jammu and Kashmir's Kargil on its 20th anniversary on Friday (July 26).

India pays homage to those killed in Kargil war with Pakistan on 20th anniversary

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday saluted the ''grit and valour of those who defended India on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shell-shocked-20-years-on-a-witness-recall-bloody-kargil-war-238138">20th anniversary of India's victory in the Kargil War</a>.

''On Kargil Vijay Diwas, a grateful nation acknowledges the gallantry of our Armed Forces on the heights of Kargil in 1999. We salute the grit and valour of those who defended India, and record our everlasting debt to those who never returned,'' President tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
On Kargil Vijay Diwas, a grateful nation acknowledges the gallantry of our Armed Forces on the heights of Kargil in 1999. 
 
We salute the grit and valour of those who defended India, and record our everlasting debt to those who never returned. 
 
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1154564701700755456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi also remembers his time during the Kargil War in 1999.

''During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&amp;K as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable,'' PM Modi tweeted.

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During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. 
 
This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&amp;K as well as Himachal Pradesh. 
 
The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable. <a href="https://t.co/E5QUgHlTDS">pic.twitter.com/E5QUgHlTDS</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1154581533098795008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 20th-anniversary celebrations are being held at Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Jammu and Kashmir.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa and Ex-Army Chief General VP Malik participated in Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Kargil war victory at Kargil War Memorial.

Naik Deepchand from 1889 Missile regiment in Kargil War said, ''My battalion had fired 10,000 rounds during the war. I am proud of this fact. We had only one target in mind that is to defeat the enemy. I have come here to pay tribute to soldiers who lost their lives in Kargil War.''

The war memorial has around 500 tombstones with the name of soldiers inscribed in them.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;20 years of Kargil war

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-20-years-of-kargil-war-230138/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Indian armed forces had defeated Pakistan on July 26, 1999. Since then, the day is celebrated as ''Kargil Vijay Diwas''.

Air Chief on Thursday said that Indian Air Force has changed a lot since Kargil War and the biggest change is in its ability for reconnaissance and surveillance.

''Air Force has changed a lot in the last 20 years and the biggest change that I think had taken place is in our ability for reconnaissance and surveillance. We could not pick up the intrusion before the Kargil operation," said Dhanoa.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday saluted the ''grit and valour of those who defended India on 20th anniversary of India's victory in the Kargil War. ''On Kargil Vijay Diwas, a grateful nation acknowledges the gallantry of our Armed Forces on the heights of Kargil in 1999.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday saluted the ''grit and valour of those who defended India on 20th anniversary of India's victory in the Kargil War. ''On Kargil Vijay Diwas, a grateful nation acknowledges the gallantry of our Armed Forces on the heights of Kargil in 1999. We salute the grit and valour of those who defended India, and record our everlasting debt to those who never returned,'' President tweeted. On Kargil Vijay Diwas, a grateful nation acknowledges the gallantry of our Armed Forces on the heights of Kargil in 1999. We salute the grit and valour of those who defended India, and record our everlasting debt to those who never returned. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 26, 2019 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi also remembers his time during the Kargil War in 1999. ''During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&K as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable,'' PM Modi tweeted. During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&K as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable. pic.twitter.com/E5QUgHlTDS — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2019 × The 20th-anniversary celebrations are being held at Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Jammu and Kashmir. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa and Ex-Army Chief General VP Malik participated in Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Kargil war victory at Kargil War Memorial. Naik Deepchand from 1889 Missile regiment in Kargil War said, ''My battalion had fired 10,000 rounds during the war. I am proud of this fact. We had only one target in mind that is to defeat the enemy. I have come here to pay tribute to soldiers who lost their lives in Kargil War.'' The war memorial has around 500 tombstones with the name of soldiers inscribed in them. Watch: 20 years of Kargil war The Indian armed forces had defeated Pakistan on July 26, 1999. Since then, the day is celebrated as ''Kargil Vijay Diwas''. Air Chief on Thursday said that Indian Air Force has changed a lot since Kargil War and the biggest change is in its ability for reconnaissance and surveillance. ''Air Force has changed a lot in the last 20 years and the biggest change that I think had taken place is in our ability for reconnaissance and surveillance. We could not pick up the intrusion before the Kargil operation," said Dhanoa.

President Ram Nath Kovind hails soldiers on 20th anniversary of India's victory in Kargil War

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said there was a need to enhance legal literacy and simplify legal rules.

Delivering a special convocation address of the Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University here, he said that it is important to not only take justice to the people, but also to make it understandable to litigating parties in a language they know.

"Perhaps a system could be evolved whereby certified translated copies of judgements are made available by the High Courts in the local or regional language," Kovind said adding that he had made this suggestion in October 2017 while addressing the Valedictory Ceremony of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the High Court of Kerala in Kochi.

The President said he had visited Chhattisgarh and discussed the idea with the then Chief Justice of the High Court of Chhattisgarh Justice T. B.&nbsp;

Radhakrishnan, who now is the Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court and within a few days, the High Court of Chhattisgarh implemented the suggestion.

"Since then litigants can avail translated copies of the judgments of the High Court of Chhattisgarh in Hindi. I am happy to learn that some other High Courts have also responded to the suggestion positively. The language of certified copies could be Malayalam in the Kerala High Court or Tamil in the Madras High Court, as the case may be," Kovind said.

The President said the need to make the provision of justice speedier and affordable places a great responsibility on the lawyer community.

An advocate, has a responsibility to the client, but also a duty to assist the court in delivery of justice.

"Our legal system has a reputation for being expensive and for being prone to delays. There are some who tend to use and abuse the instrument of adjournments as a tactic to slow down proceedings, rather than a response to a genuine emergency. This makes obtaining justice costly for the litigant.&nbsp;

It would be a travesty of our republican ethic if a poor person did not get the same access to the law as a rich person. The legal profession must continue to address this collectively," Kovind said.

The President conferred LL.D. (Honoris Causa) degrees on three eminent jurists -Justice (Retd) P. Sathasivam, former Chief Justice of India and currently Governor of Kerala; Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, Judge of the Supreme Court of India; and Justice Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani, Chief Justice of the Madras High Court - at the convocation.

&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said there was a need to enhance legal literacy and simplify legal rules. Delivering a special convocation address of the Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University here, he said that it is important to not only take justice to the people, but also to make it understandable to litigating parties in a language they know.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said there was a need to enhance legal literacy and simplify legal rules. Delivering a special convocation address of the Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University here, he said that it is important to not only take justice to the people, but also to make it understandable to litigating parties in a language they know. "Perhaps a system could be evolved whereby certified translated copies of judgements are made available by the High Courts in the local or regional language," Kovind said adding that he had made this suggestion in October 2017 while addressing the Valedictory Ceremony of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the High Court of Kerala in Kochi. The President said he had visited Chhattisgarh and discussed the idea with the then Chief Justice of the High Court of Chhattisgarh Justice T. B. Radhakrishnan, who now is the Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court and within a few days, the High Court of Chhattisgarh implemented the suggestion. "Since then litigants can avail translated copies of the judgments of the High Court of Chhattisgarh in Hindi. I am happy to learn that some other High Courts have also responded to the suggestion positively. The language of certified copies could be Malayalam in the Kerala High Court or Tamil in the Madras High Court, as the case may be," Kovind said. The President said the need to make the provision of justice speedier and affordable places a great responsibility on the lawyer community. An advocate, has a responsibility to the client, but also a duty to assist the court in delivery of justice. "Our legal system has a reputation for being expensive and for being prone to delays. There are some who tend to use and abuse the instrument of adjournments as a tactic to slow down proceedings, rather than a response to a genuine emergency. This makes obtaining justice costly for the litigant. It would be a travesty of our republican ethic if a poor person did not get the same access to the law as a rich person. The legal profession must continue to address this collectively," Kovind said. The President conferred LL.D. (Honoris Causa) degrees on three eminent jurists -Justice (Retd) P. Sathasivam, former Chief Justice of India and currently Governor of Kerala; Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, Judge of the Supreme Court of India; and Justice Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani, Chief Justice of the Madras High Court - at the convocation.

Need to simplify legal system: President Ram Nath Kovind

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended their greetings to everyone on the occasion of Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra.

"Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives," the official account of Rashtrapati Bhavan tweeted.

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Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1146600566673403904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Best wishes to everyone on the special occasion of the Rath Yatra. We pray to Lord Jagannath and seek his blessings for the good health, happiness and prosperity of everyone. Jai Jagannath," PM Modi tweeted.

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Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Bij, the Kutchi New Year. May the coming year bring joy and prosperity. May everyone’s aspirations be fulfilled!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1146630124374130688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The nine-day annual chariot festival began today in Puri, Bhubaneshwar.

Home Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat Chief minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitinbhai Patel offered prayers at the Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad.

In the Rath Yatra, three chariots for the deities- Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannatha and Devi Subhadra are constructed every year. These sacred carriers are prepared, decorated and assembled by the traditional artists.&nbsp;

The craftsmen follow strict rules to participate as servitors in preparing the chariots, which commence on the day of Akshay Tritiya.

Thousands of handcrafters work for several months and prepare everything from scratch. Starting from cutting the wood to painting it and putting different parts of Rath together, everything is done with complete authenticity.

The prime attractions of the Rath Yatra of Jagannatha are the elaborate chariots. The decorative wooden idols of the three deities are pulled and accompanied by chants and conches, which can be heard all around.

(With inputs from ANI)

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended their greetings to everyone on the occasion of Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. "Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended their greetings to everyone on the occasion of Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. "Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives," the official account of Rashtrapati Bhavan tweeted. Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 4, 2019 × "Best wishes to everyone on the special occasion of the Rath Yatra. We pray to Lord Jagannath and seek his blessings for the good health, happiness and prosperity of everyone. Jai Jagannath," PM Modi tweeted. Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Bij, the Kutchi New Year. May the coming year bring joy and prosperity. May everyone’s aspirations be fulfilled! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 4, 2019 × The nine-day annual chariot festival began today in Puri, Bhubaneshwar. Home Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat Chief minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitinbhai Patel offered prayers at the Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad. In the Rath Yatra, three chariots for the deities- Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannatha and Devi Subhadra are constructed every year. These sacred carriers are prepared, decorated and assembled by the traditional artists. The craftsmen follow strict rules to participate as servitors in preparing the chariots, which commence on the day of Akshay Tritiya. Thousands of handcrafters work for several months and prepare everything from scratch. Starting from cutting the wood to painting it and putting different parts of Rath together, everything is done with complete authenticity. The prime attractions of the Rath Yatra of Jagannatha are the elaborate chariots. The decorative wooden idols of the three deities are pulled and accompanied by chants and conches, which can be heard all around. (With inputs from ANI)

President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modi extend wishes on occasion of Jagannath Rath Yatra

Indian President hail Govt's achievements, In this video have a look at key takeaways.

Indian President hail Govt's achievements: Have a look at key takeaways

Germany's Ambassador to India - Walter Lindner - presented his credentials to India's President Ram Nath Kovind in Hindi last month, just before assuming office. WION spoke to the envoy about the many facets of his colourful personality - from his passion for music, to his love of being driven around new Delhi in a shiny red ambassador car. we'll bring you the full interview tomorrow at 8:30 pm on the diplomacy show, but for now, watch some highlights of the interview. this is the story of the German ambassador to India- Walter l Lindner.

On ‘The Diplomacy Show’, WION caught up with Walter J Lindner, Ambassador of Germ

On the occasion of the fifth Telangana State Formation Day, President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended their wishes to the people of the state.

"Greetings and good wishes to the people of Telangana on statehood day. My best wishes to all the residents of the state for a bright and prosperous future #PresidentKovind," official Twitter handle of the President of India said.

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Greetings and good wishes to the people of Telangana on statehood day. My best wishes to all the residents of the state for a bright and prosperous future <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1135014557485715456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Praying for Telangana's progress, PM Modi said in a tweet, "On Telangana's Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of this wonderful state. Telangana is known for its hardworking citizens who are making great contributions to our nation`s development. I pray for the progress of Telangana."

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On Telangana’s Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of this wonderful state. Telangana is known for its hardworking citizens who are making great contributions to our nation’s development. I pray for the progress of Telangana.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1135027438310830080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In another tweet the Prime Minister also greeted the people of Andhra Pradesh, saying, "Greetings to my sisters and brothers of Andhra Pradesh. From science to sports, education to enterprise, AP's contribution is immense. May the state prosper in the coming years."

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Greetings to my sisters and brothers of Andhra Pradesh. From science to sports, education to enterprise, AP’s contribution is immense. May the state prosper in the coming years.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1135027705651572737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The state of Telangana was formed in 2014 after its bifurcation from Andhra Pradesh. Home Minister Amit Shah also took to Twitter to wish the people of Telangana. "On their Statehood Day, I extend my warm wishes to our sisters and brothers of Telangana. I pray for the progress and prosperity of the state in the times to come," read his tweet.

Earlier on Saturday, Telangana state Chief Minister Office tweeted, "Telangana enters into the sixth year completing five years of unprecedented progress! Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao expressed happiness that the State has become a role model for the rest of the country and extended greetings on the momentous occasion. #TelanganaFormationDay."

As part of celebrations, the state's capital city, Hyderabad, is all decked up with festive lighting.

All the important government buildings including the Telangana Assembly and Secretariat have been decorated with colourful lights and flower garlands.

Telangana was officially formed on 2 June 2014.

Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief K Chandrashekar Rao was elected as the first Chief Minister of the state, following elections in which the party secured a majority.&nbsp;

On the occasion of the fifth Telangana State Formation Day, President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended their wishes to the people of the state.

On the occasion of the fifth Telangana State Formation Day, President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended their wishes to the people of the state. "Greetings and good wishes to the people of Telangana on statehood day. My best wishes to all the residents of the state for a bright and prosperous future #PresidentKovind," official Twitter handle of the President of India said. Greetings and good wishes to the people of Telangana on statehood day. My best wishes to all the residents of the state for a bright and prosperous future #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) June 2, 2019 × Praying for Telangana's progress, PM Modi said in a tweet, "On Telangana's Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of this wonderful state. Telangana is known for its hardworking citizens who are making great contributions to our nation`s development. I pray for the progress of Telangana." On Telangana’s Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of this wonderful state. Telangana is known for its hardworking citizens who are making great contributions to our nation’s development. I pray for the progress of Telangana. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 2, 2019 × In another tweet the Prime Minister also greeted the people of Andhra Pradesh, saying, "Greetings to my sisters and brothers of Andhra Pradesh. From science to sports, education to enterprise, AP's contribution is immense. May the state prosper in the coming years." Greetings to my sisters and brothers of Andhra Pradesh. From science to sports, education to enterprise, AP’s contribution is immense. May the state prosper in the coming years. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 2, 2019 × The state of Telangana was formed in 2014 after its bifurcation from Andhra Pradesh. Home Minister Amit Shah also took to Twitter to wish the people of Telangana. "On their Statehood Day, I extend my warm wishes to our sisters and brothers of Telangana. I pray for the progress and prosperity of the state in the times to come," read his tweet. Earlier on Saturday, Telangana state Chief Minister Office tweeted, "Telangana enters into the sixth year completing five years of unprecedented progress! Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao expressed happiness that the State has become a role model for the rest of the country and extended greetings on the momentous occasion. #TelanganaFormationDay." As part of celebrations, the state's capital city, Hyderabad, is all decked up with festive lighting. All the important government buildings including the Telangana Assembly and Secretariat have been decorated with colourful lights and flower garlands. Telangana was officially formed on 2 June 2014. Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief K Chandrashekar Rao was elected as the first Chief Minister of the state, following elections in which the party secured a majority.

President Kovind, PM Modi extend wishes on Telangana statehood day

The decisive mandate to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-pm-modis-right-hand-man-is-indias-new-home-minister-223085">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> is a call of the people for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/cabinet-20-most-ministers-retain-earlier-ministries-check-complete-list-223154">new India </a>where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said.

He was addressing a banquet in honour of the heads and representatives of foreign governments attending the swearing-in-ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday.

Kovind said the verdict is an affirmation of Modi's visionary leadership to build a New India, not in a distant future, but here and now.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-20-rajnath-singh-is-defence-minister-amit-shah-home-nirmala-sitharaman-gets-finace-223084">Modi 2.0: Rajnath Singh is Defence Minister, Amit Shah Home; Nirmala Sitharaman gets Finance</a>

"This mandate is a call from our people for an India where there is progress for all and no one is left behind; an India that is on course to eliminating extreme poverty in the coming decade, and to realising the potential in every girl-child; an India that is at work to harness new-age technology and the limitless energy of its youth," he said.

It calls for an India that wishes to connect deeper with its rich cultural past even as it draws the contours of its promising future, and an India that is fast transforming itself as an engine of global growth and a centre of global power-relations, the president said.

Kovind said aspirations run high in our people.

"They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said.

Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfil these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said.

Watch- Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home

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Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone.

"As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said.

Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/modi-20-prominent-faces-of-the-58-member-ministerial-team-222972">In pics: Prominent faces of the 58-member ministerial team</a>

"This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said.

Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar.

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet.

The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday.

Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

Kovind said aspirations run high in our people.

"They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said.

Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfill these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said.

Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone.

"As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said.

Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said.

"This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said.

Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar.

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet.

The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday.

Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

The decisive mandate to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a call of the people for a new India where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said.

The decisive mandate to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a call of the people for a new India where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said. He was addressing a banquet in honour of the heads and representatives of foreign governments attending the swearing-in-ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday. Kovind said the verdict is an affirmation of Modi's visionary leadership to build a New India, not in a distant future, but here and now. Also read: Modi 2.0: Rajnath Singh is Defence Minister, Amit Shah Home; Nirmala Sitharaman gets Finance "This mandate is a call from our people for an India where there is progress for all and no one is left behind; an India that is on course to eliminating extreme poverty in the coming decade, and to realising the potential in every girl-child; an India that is at work to harness new-age technology and the limitless energy of its youth," he said. It calls for an India that wishes to connect deeper with its rich cultural past even as it draws the contours of its promising future, and an India that is fast transforming itself as an engine of global growth and a centre of global power-relations, the president said. Kovind said aspirations run high in our people. "They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said. Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfil these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said. Watch- Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home × Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone. "As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said. Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said. In pics: Prominent faces of the 58-member ministerial team "This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said. Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet. The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday. Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet. Kovind said aspirations run high in our people. "They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said. Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfill these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said. Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone. "As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said. Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said. "This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said. Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet. The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday. Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

Strong mandate is a call from our people for new India: President Ram Nath Kovind

Heeraben Modi, mother of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was overwhelmed with emotions as she watched his son <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-takes-oath-as-prime-minister-for-second-time-222847">taking oath for the second term</a> today.

She watched the live telecast on television at her house in Gandhinagar and applauded&nbsp;when President Ram Nath Kovind administered the oath of office to Modi.

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Ahmedabad: Heeraben Modi, mother of PM Narendra Modi watching the swearing in ceremony <a href="https://t.co/KLwXtMLuRN">pic.twitter.com/KLwXtMLuRN</a>
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Modi's swearing-in ceremony took place at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi with the presence of many world leaders, celebrities and politicians.

After the results for Lok Sabha elections were announced Modi visited his home state Gujarat and sought blessings from his mother in Gandhinagar.

Watch:&nbsp;Narendra Modi takes oath as Prime Minister for second consecutive term

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The oath ceremony comes a week after the BJP's massive win in the Lok Sabha elections - the party won 303 of the 542 seats which went to polls and its NDA allies took the tally to 354.

Heeraben Modi, mother of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was overwhelmed with emotions as she watched his son taking oath for the second term today. She watched the live telecast on television at her house in Gandhinagar and applauded when President Ram Nath Kovind administered the oath of office to Modi.

Heeraben Modi, mother of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was overwhelmed with emotions as she watched his son taking oath for the second term today. She watched the live telecast on television at her house in Gandhinagar and applauded when President Ram Nath Kovind administered the oath of office to Modi. Ahmedabad: Heeraben Modi, mother of PM Narendra Modi watching the swearing in ceremony pic.twitter.com/KLwXtMLuRN — ANI (@ANI) May 30, 2019 × Modi's swearing-in ceremony took place at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi with the presence of many world leaders, celebrities and politicians. After the results for Lok Sabha elections were announced Modi visited his home state Gujarat and sought blessings from his mother in Gandhinagar. Watch: Narendra Modi takes oath as Prime Minister for second consecutive term The oath ceremony comes a week after the BJP's massive win in the Lok Sabha elections - the party won 303 of the 542 seats which went to polls and its NDA allies took the tally to 354.

A delighted Heeraben watches son Narendra Modi take oath as PM

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning

In this segment WION exclusively speaks to Mr. Sumanth C. Raman, Senior Journalist from Chennai over PM Narendra Modi's claim to stake new govt. Watch this video for complete details.

WION Exclusive: In Conversation with Mr. Sumanth C. Raman, Senior Journalist from Chennai

PM Modi speaks after meeting President Ram Nath Kovind. Watch this video to listen to his words.

PM Modi speaks after meeting President Ram Nath Kovind

Watch how NDA also gives letter of support to President Kovind to form govt. Watch this video for the complete details.

NDA gives letter of support to President Kovind to form govt

Watch how PM Modi meets President Ram Nath Kovind to stake claim to form a new govt. Watch this video for complete details.

PM Modi meets President Kovind to stake claim to form govt

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Ram Nath Kovind at the&nbsp;Rashtrapati Bhavan&nbsp;on Saturday to stake claim to form the government.&nbsp;

An NDA delegation led by BJP President Amit Shah handed over a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-stakes-claim-to-form-the-government-swearing-in-likely-on-may-30-221611">letter&nbsp;to the President stating </a>that Narendra Modi had been elected leader of the BJP Parliamentary Party.&nbsp;

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An NDA delegation, led by Amit Shah, President, BJP, and comprising Prakash Singh Badal, Rajnath Singh, Nitish Kumar, Ram Vilas Paswan, Sushma Swaraj, Uddhav Thakeray, Nitin Gadkari, K. Palaniswami, Conrad Sangma and Neiphiu Rio, called on the President <a href="https://t.co/DaWfDOoEsC">pic.twitter.com/DaWfDOoEsC</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1132303965226274818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Letters of support from NDA constituent parties were also handed over to the President.

The delegation also comprised Prakash Singh Badal, Rajnath Singh, Nitish Kumar, Ram Vilas Paswan, Sushma Swaraj, Uddhav Thakeray, Nitin Gadkari, K. Palaniswami, Conrad Sangma and Neiphiu Rio, called on president. &nbsp;

Rashtrapati Bhavan said exercising powers vested in him under Article 75 (1) of the Constitution of India, President appointed Narendra Modi to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/2019-elections-united-people-and-gave-positive-mandate-pm-modi-at-parliamentary-meet-221608">office of Prime Minister</a> of India.&nbsp;

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A letter stating that <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> had been elected leader of the BJP Parliamentary Party was handed over to the President. Letters of support from NDA constituent parties were also handed over to the President
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1132304215160737793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The President also requested Modi to advise him about the names of others to be appointed members of the Union Council of Ministers and to indicate the date and time of the swearing-in-ceremony to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.&nbsp;

Watch: NDA Elects Narendra Modi as its Parliamentary Party Leader

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The swearing-in ceremony is likely to take place on May 30.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday to stake claim to form the government. An NDA delegation led by BJP President Amit Shah handed over a letter to the President stating that Narendra Modi had been elected leader of the BJP Parliamentary Party.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday to stake claim to form the government. An NDA delegation led by BJP President Amit Shah handed over a letter to the President stating that Narendra Modi had been elected leader of the BJP Parliamentary Party. An NDA delegation, led by Amit Shah, President, BJP, and comprising Prakash Singh Badal, Rajnath Singh, Nitish Kumar, Ram Vilas Paswan, Sushma Swaraj, Uddhav Thakeray, Nitin Gadkari, K. Palaniswami, Conrad Sangma and Neiphiu Rio, called on the President pic.twitter.com/DaWfDOoEsC — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 25, 2019 × Letters of support from NDA constituent parties were also handed over to the President. The delegation also comprised Prakash Singh Badal, Rajnath Singh, Nitish Kumar, Ram Vilas Paswan, Sushma Swaraj, Uddhav Thakeray, Nitin Gadkari, K. Palaniswami, Conrad Sangma and Neiphiu Rio, called on president. Rashtrapati Bhavan said exercising powers vested in him under Article 75 (1) of the Constitution of India, President appointed Narendra Modi to the office of Prime Minister of India. A letter stating that @narendramodi had been elected leader of the BJP Parliamentary Party was handed over to the President. Letters of support from NDA constituent parties were also handed over to the President — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 25, 2019 × The President also requested Modi to advise him about the names of others to be appointed members of the Union Council of Ministers and to indicate the date and time of the swearing-in-ceremony to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Watch: NDA Elects Narendra Modi as its Parliamentary Party Leader × The swearing-in ceremony is likely to take place on May 30.

Modi stakes claim to form government, swearing-in likely on May 30

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said Ram Nath Kovind was made President of the country to balance caste equations ahead of the assembly election in Gujarat in 2017.

"People even say that Ram Nath Kovind was made president considering Gujarat assembly elections in 2017. I was reading an article. He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) was afraid that he was not going to form the government in Gujarat. BJP chief Amit Shah might have given him suggestion after which it was decided to make Ram Nath Kovind the president," Gehlot told reporters here at a press conference.

Kovind was elected President in July 2017 and Gujarat assembly elections were held in December in the year.

"(Lal Krishna) Advani was left out though he had to become the president. People of the country had expectation that he (Advani) will get the honour which he deserved but was deprived. Though it is BJP's internal issue, I am discussing it because I read an article," the Rajasthan chief minister added.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the BJP on Wednesday demanded an apology from Gehlot, for his comments against President Ram Nath Kovind, claiming that he was elected to the highest constitutional post due to his caste.

The party also urged the Election Commission (EC) to take strict action against the Congress leader.

"We demand an apology from the Congress leader Ashok Gehlot for his comment that Kovind was made President because of his caste," BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said at the party headquarters.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said Ram Nath Kovind was made President of the country to balance caste equations ahead of the assembly election in Gujarat in 2017.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said Ram Nath Kovind was made President of the country to balance caste equations ahead of the assembly election in Gujarat in 2017. "People even say that Ram Nath Kovind was made president considering Gujarat assembly elections in 2017. I was reading an article. He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) was afraid that he was not going to form the government in Gujarat. BJP chief Amit Shah might have given him suggestion after which it was decided to make Ram Nath Kovind the president," Gehlot told reporters here at a press conference. Kovind was elected President in July 2017 and Gujarat assembly elections were held in December in the year. "(Lal Krishna) Advani was left out though he had to become the president. People of the country had expectation that he (Advani) will get the honour which he deserved but was deprived. Though it is BJP's internal issue, I am discussing it because I read an article," the Rajasthan chief minister added. Meanwhile, the BJP on Wednesday demanded an apology from Gehlot, for his comments against President Ram Nath Kovind, claiming that he was elected to the highest constitutional post due to his caste. The party also urged the Election Commission (EC) to take strict action against the Congress leader. "We demand an apology from the Congress leader Ashok Gehlot for his comment that Kovind was made President because of his caste," BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said at the party headquarters.

Ram Nath Kovind made President because of his caste: Ashok Gehlot

A row erupted on Friday after several former army officers denied writing a letter to President Ram Nath Kovind in which concerns were raised by over 150 veterans over 'politicization' of the armed forces. Watch video to know more

India Election Watch: Mysterious Veterans letter to President raises uproar

Indian President pays tribute to the fallen heroes of the country

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday (local time) met and discussed wide-ranging issues of mutual interest with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera and the two sides signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of mining, culture and disability.

President Kovind who arrived in Chile on a three-day visit is on the last leg of his three-nation tour that included Bolivia and Croatia.

During bilateral talks between the leaders, Chile announced that it will allow visa-free entry to Indian nationals holding a valid visa of the United States of America.

Welcoming Chile’s decision President Kovind said it would promote both cultural and business ties between the two countries.

Thanking Pinera for his strong condemnation of the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, President Kovind noted that the two countries have also agreed to work together to strengthen the global response to defeat and destroy terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

In addition, both India and Chile agreed to explore opportunities for other cooperation in the defence, space research and explorations.

On the same day, President Kovind addressed students and faculty of the University of Chile on the topic 'Gandhi for the Young'. The University also presented a Rectoral Medal to the President.

Researchers from the University of Chile briefed the President on "Strategy for the development of a space programme for Chile". The President interacted with scientists, including those who were involved in building Chile's nanosatellite, which India Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched in 2017.

President Kovind also addressed the India-Chile Business roundtable in Santiago and said that Chile is India’s window to Latin America and to the Pacific Alliance. The

President invited Chile's sovereign funds to invest in the Indian infrastructure sector.

President emplaned for India later in the day.

"As we depart from Chile, the First Lady and I would like to thank President @sebastianpinera and the friendly people of Chile for their warmth and affection. May our ties grow as tall as the Andes and Himalayas," the President posted on his official twitter handle.

Prior to Chile, the President visited Croatia and Bolivia from March 25 to March 30.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday (local time) met and discussed wide-ranging issues of mutual interest with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera and the two sides signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of mining, culture and disability.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday (local time) met and discussed wide-ranging issues of mutual interest with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera and the two sides signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of mining, culture and disability. President Kovind who arrived in Chile on a three-day visit is on the last leg of his three-nation tour that included Bolivia and Croatia. During bilateral talks between the leaders, Chile announced that it will allow visa-free entry to Indian nationals holding a valid visa of the United States of America. Welcoming Chile’s decision President Kovind said it would promote both cultural and business ties between the two countries. Thanking Pinera for his strong condemnation of the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, President Kovind noted that the two countries have also agreed to work together to strengthen the global response to defeat and destroy terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In addition, both India and Chile agreed to explore opportunities for other cooperation in the defence, space research and explorations. On the same day, President Kovind addressed students and faculty of the University of Chile on the topic 'Gandhi for the Young'. The University also presented a Rectoral Medal to the President. Researchers from the University of Chile briefed the President on "Strategy for the development of a space programme for Chile". The President interacted with scientists, including those who were involved in building Chile's nanosatellite, which India Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched in 2017. President Kovind also addressed the India-Chile Business roundtable in Santiago and said that Chile is India’s window to Latin America and to the Pacific Alliance. The President invited Chile's sovereign funds to invest in the Indian infrastructure sector. President emplaned for India later in the day. "As we depart from Chile, the First Lady and I would like to thank President @sebastianpinera and the friendly people of Chile for their warmth and affection. May our ties grow as tall as the Andes and Himalayas," the President posted on his official twitter handle. Prior to Chile, the President visited Croatia and Bolivia from March 25 to March 30.

India, Chile hold bilateral talks, exchange MoUs in mining, culture, disability

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia&nbsp;held wide-ranging talks with his&nbsp;counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change.

During the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bolivia-sign-eight-memorandum-of-understandings-206624">bilateral talks between both Presidents</a>, Bolivia extended its support for India's membership as a non-permanent member of United Nations Security Council.&nbsp;

"There was an acknowledgement that current membership of UNSC is not reflective of realities of the twenty-first century and President Evo Morales expressed full understanding of India's aspiration to be a member of UNSC. He extended support for India's membership as a non-permanent member," Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary of Ministry of Exrernal Affairs said on Saturday.

Bolivian President also condemned the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"Bolivian President strongly condemned Pulwama attack and denounced cross border terrorism. There was an assertion that terrorism in all its forms constitutes a threat to humanity," Singh added in the press briefing in the national capital.

Bolivia-India also called for early finalisation of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, Singh informed.

The President is on a three-nation tour to strengthen India's ties in key sectors such as trade, investment and renewable energy. He was in Croatia from March 25-28.&nbsp;

On March 30, he will head to Chile to hold talks with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Piera.

President's visit to Bolivia was the first-ever presidential-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet, "In first ever Presidential level visit between India and Bolivia wide ranging discussions were held between #PresidentKovind and Bolivian President Evo Morales on political economic and cultural issues including space, mining, IT, pharmaceutical and traditional medicines".

Kovind, during his three-day visit to Bolivia, will also participate in an India-Bolivia business meet, address university students and interact with the Indian community.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia held wide-ranging talks with his counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change.

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia held wide-ranging talks with his counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change. During the bilateral talks between both Presidents, Bolivia extended its support for India's membership as a non-permanent member of United Nations Security Council. "There was an acknowledgement that current membership of UNSC is not reflective of realities of the twenty-first century and President Evo Morales expressed full understanding of India's aspiration to be a member of UNSC. He extended support for India's membership as a non-permanent member," Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary of Ministry of Exrernal Affairs said on Saturday. Bolivian President also condemned the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir. "Bolivian President strongly condemned Pulwama attack and denounced cross border terrorism. There was an assertion that terrorism in all its forms constitutes a threat to humanity," Singh added in the press briefing in the national capital. Bolivia-India also called for early finalisation of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, Singh informed. The President is on a three-nation tour to strengthen India's ties in key sectors such as trade, investment and renewable energy. He was in Croatia from March 25-28. On March 30, he will head to Chile to hold talks with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Piera. President's visit to Bolivia was the first-ever presidential-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet, "In first ever Presidential level visit between India and Bolivia wide ranging discussions were held between #PresidentKovind and Bolivian President Evo Morales on political economic and cultural issues including space, mining, IT, pharmaceutical and traditional medicines". Kovind, during his three-day visit to Bolivia, will also participate in an India-Bolivia business meet, address university students and interact with the Indian community. (With inputs from agencies)

Bolivia supports India's bid for non-permanent member in UN Security Council

Indian and Bolivia on Friday (local time) signed eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) in diverse sectors including culture space and medicine.

"We are happy to have Bolivia as a partner in the International Solar Alliance and welcome the signing of the framework agreement establishing the bond. In addition, we have signed eight MoUs in the fields of culture, Visa waiver arrangement for diplomats, the exchange between diplomatic academies, mining, space, traditional medicine, the establishment of Centre of Excellence in IT and Bi-Oceanic Railway project," said President Kovind.

President Kovind who is on three-nation visit reached Bolivia on Thursday.

He also received the highest state honour of Bolivia-Condor de los Andes en el Grado de Gran Collar from President of Bolivia Evo Morales, in Sucre.

President Kovind, accompanied by his wife, Savita Kovind and a delegation of around 100 ministerial officials, inspected the Guard of Honour during a ceremonial welcome at the airport. He was also presented with the key of the city of Santa Cruz.

"I am very happy to be in the beautiful land of Bolivia. A country rich in traditions and diversity, with people proud of their country," the President noted.

"Bolivia is a landlocked country, it is rich in mineral resources. It has large deposits of lithium, gold, silver and gas reserves. Bolivia's lithium and our needs for mobility and storage provide natural synergies. A delegation of companies had visited and has had discussions with Bolivian companies and we also see that as Bolivia would embark on the industrialisation of its resources, India could be a partner that could provide know-how technology and skills. Some of our companies are already in Bolivia largely in sectors of IT and even in vehicles we have companies, who are in like, TATA Motors, Bajaj Auto, Mahindra &amp; Mahindra, they have business links in Bolivia," read the external ministry statement.

"India has emerged as a major export destination for Bolivia and Bolivia is India's ninth largest trading partner in Latin America and the Caribbean region. Indian imports are USD 667 million and our exports are $105 million. Our main exports are vehicles and pharmaceutical products. We also provide capacity building support to prepare Bolivia and slots even in IT as well as training of diplomats," the statement noted.

Following this, President Kovind will be visiting Chile on March 30, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Indian and Bolivia on Friday (local time) signed eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) in diverse sectors including culture space and medicine. "We are happy to have Bolivia as a partner in the International Solar Alliance and welcome the signing of the framework agreement establishing the bond.

Indian and Bolivia on Friday (local time) signed eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) in diverse sectors including culture space and medicine. "We are happy to have Bolivia as a partner in the International Solar Alliance and welcome the signing of the framework agreement establishing the bond. In addition, we have signed eight MoUs in the fields of culture, Visa waiver arrangement for diplomats, the exchange between diplomatic academies, mining, space, traditional medicine, the establishment of Centre of Excellence in IT and Bi-Oceanic Railway project," said President Kovind. President Kovind who is on three-nation visit reached Bolivia on Thursday. He also received the highest state honour of Bolivia-Condor de los Andes en el Grado de Gran Collar from President of Bolivia Evo Morales, in Sucre. President Kovind, accompanied by his wife, Savita Kovind and a delegation of around 100 ministerial officials, inspected the Guard of Honour during a ceremonial welcome at the airport. He was also presented with the key of the city of Santa Cruz. "I am very happy to be in the beautiful land of Bolivia. A country rich in traditions and diversity, with people proud of their country," the President noted. "Bolivia is a landlocked country, it is rich in mineral resources. It has large deposits of lithium, gold, silver and gas reserves. Bolivia's lithium and our needs for mobility and storage provide natural synergies. A delegation of companies had visited and has had discussions with Bolivian companies and we also see that as Bolivia would embark on the industrialisation of its resources, India could be a partner that could provide know-how technology and skills. Some of our companies are already in Bolivia largely in sectors of IT and even in vehicles we have companies, who are in like, TATA Motors, Bajaj Auto, Mahindra & Mahindra, they have business links in Bolivia," read the external ministry statement. "India has emerged as a major export destination for Bolivia and Bolivia is India's ninth largest trading partner in Latin America and the Caribbean region. Indian imports are USD 667 million and our exports are $105 million. Our main exports are vehicles and pharmaceutical products. We also provide capacity building support to prepare Bolivia and slots even in IT as well as training of diplomats," the statement noted. Following this, President Kovind will be visiting Chile on March 30, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

India, Bolivia sign eight Memorandum of Understandings

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday embarked on a state visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile to hold talks with the leaders of these countries and strengthen ties in trade, investment and renewable energy.

India will be conducting separate bilateral forums with Croatia, Bolivia and Chile during President Kovind's visit to these countries, from March 25 to April 2, a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs said.

"The large business delegations joining in the bilateral business forums organized as part of the visit of President, indicate the increasing interest of Indian companies in expanding business ties with these countries," the statement read.

President Kovind will first visit Croatia from March 25 to 28 in what would be the first visit by an Indian president to the European country. He is scheduled to participate in the India-Croatia Business Forum and deliver an address at the University of Zagreb.

In Bolivia from March 28 to 30, the President will hold restricted and delegation-level talks with his Bolivian counterpart Evo Morales. This is the first high-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

"Bolivia's Lithium and our needs for eMobility and eStorage provide natural synergies. As Bolivia embarks on the industrialization of its resources, India is a willing partner for know-how, technology and skills. In the Financial Year 2017-18, the bilateral trade grew by 205% to reach US$ 772 million," the statement outlined.

On March 30, President Kovind will head to Chile. The visit comes at a time when the 70th year of establishment of India-Chile diplomatic relations is being celebrated.

Besides holding talks with Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera, President Kovind is scheduled to participate in a business meet and address the University of Chile.

"President's state visits to the three countries would reinvigorate bilateral ties and provide new direction to multi-faceted development of our bilateral relations," the MEA statement noted.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday embarked on a state visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile to hold talks with the leaders of these countries and strengthen ties in trade, investment and renewable energy.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday embarked on a state visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile to hold talks with the leaders of these countries and strengthen ties in trade, investment and renewable energy. India will be conducting separate bilateral forums with Croatia, Bolivia and Chile during President Kovind's visit to these countries, from March 25 to April 2, a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs said. "The large business delegations joining in the bilateral business forums organized as part of the visit of President, indicate the increasing interest of Indian companies in expanding business ties with these countries," the statement read. President Kovind will first visit Croatia from March 25 to 28 in what would be the first visit by an Indian president to the European country. He is scheduled to participate in the India-Croatia Business Forum and deliver an address at the University of Zagreb. In Bolivia from March 28 to 30, the President will hold restricted and delegation-level talks with his Bolivian counterpart Evo Morales. This is the first high-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. "Bolivia's Lithium and our needs for eMobility and eStorage provide natural synergies. As Bolivia embarks on the industrialization of its resources, India is a willing partner for know-how, technology and skills. In the Financial Year 2017-18, the bilateral trade grew by 205% to reach US$ 772 million," the statement outlined. On March 30, President Kovind will head to Chile. The visit comes at a time when the 70th year of establishment of India-Chile diplomatic relations is being celebrated. Besides holding talks with Chilean counterpart Sebastian Pinera, President Kovind is scheduled to participate in a business meet and address the University of Chile. "President's state visits to the three countries would reinvigorate bilateral ties and provide new direction to multi-faceted development of our bilateral relations," the MEA statement noted.

President Ram Nath Kovind embarks on state visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile

Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose has been appointed as India's first Lokpal by President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday, ANI news agency reported.

Justice Ghose, who retired from the Supreme Court in May 2017, is a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

Former SSB chief Archana Ramasundaram and former Maharashtra Chief Secretary Dinesh Kumar Jain are named as non-judicial members of Lokpal.&nbsp;

President&nbsp;also appointed&nbsp;Justice Dilip B Bhosale, Justice P K Mohanty, Justice Abhilasha Kumari and Justice AK Tripathi as judicial members.

These appointments were recommended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led selection committee and approved by President Ram Nath Kovind.

The Lokpal Act, which envisages the establishment of anti-graft body Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in states to look into cases of corruption against certain categories of public servants, was passed in 2013.&nbsp;

According to rules, there is provision for a chairperson and a maximum of eight members in the Lokpal panel. Of these, four need to be judicial members.

Not less than 50 per cent of the members of the Lokpal shall be from amongst the persons belonging to the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, minorities and women, the rules say.

Upon selection, the chairperson and members shall hold office for a term of five years or till they attain 70 years of age.

(With inputs from PTI)

Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose has been appointed as India's first Lokpal by President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday, ANI news agency reported. Justice Ghose, who retired from the Supreme Court in May 2017, is a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose has been appointed as India's first Lokpal by President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday, ANI news agency reported. Justice Ghose, who retired from the Supreme Court in May 2017, is a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Former SSB chief Archana Ramasundaram and former Maharashtra Chief Secretary Dinesh Kumar Jain are named as non-judicial members of Lokpal. President also appointed Justice Dilip B Bhosale, Justice P K Mohanty, Justice Abhilasha Kumari and Justice AK Tripathi as judicial members. These appointments were recommended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led selection committee and approved by President Ram Nath Kovind. The Lokpal Act, which envisages the establishment of anti-graft body Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in states to look into cases of corruption against certain categories of public servants, was passed in 2013. According to rules, there is provision for a chairperson and a maximum of eight members in the Lokpal panel. Of these, four need to be judicial members. Not less than 50 per cent of the members of the Lokpal shall be from amongst the persons belonging to the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, minorities and women, the rules say. Upon selection, the chairperson and members shall hold office for a term of five years or till they attain 70 years of age. (With inputs from PTI)

Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose appointed as India's first Lokpal

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