Imploring industry bodies to weed out "black sheeps" who give a bad name to the business community, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday asked various nations to reach a consensus to not provide shelter to fugitives involved in economic offences.

"In the wake of the economic offences by some individuals, I implore industry bodies to weed out black sheeps who give a bad name to the business community," he said at "The Huddle," a thought conclave held by 'The Hindu' here.

"Time also has come for various nations to arrive at a consensus in not providing shelter to economic fugitives," he added.

These remarks come in the wake of industrialist Vijay Mallya's possible extradition to India from the United Kingdom.

A UK court on December 10 last year had ordered the extradition of Mallya, who is wanted in India for alleged fraud and money laundering involving an estimated Rs 9,000 crore.

"It should be remembered that such economic offences pose a direct challenge to a nation's health and wealth," Naidu said.

Voicing concern about the disruptions in the functioning of Parliament and legislatures, Naidu said the time has come for political parties to evolve a code of conduct for their MPs and MLAs and ensure effective functioning if these Houses have to fulfil the aspirations of people.

"It is truly unfortunate that disorder and disruptions have become the order of the day," he said.

He said he also felt that political parties should not resort to populist, impractical and short-term promises to win elections as the country's economy would suffer in the long-term due to unproductive schemes.

 
"We need to empower people to stand on their feet, rather than making them increasingly dependent on governments," Naidu said.

The vice-president said the delicate balance between the executive, legislature and judiciary should be maintained at all times and nobody should encroach into the domain of the other.

"The wheels of democracy will run smoothly as long as each wing functions within its demarcated domain and not overstep into other's jurisdiction," he added.

Naidu said the other major challenge the country needs to address on a war footing is the deficiencies in infrastructure development and the central government is already addressing the issue by building road and highway networks, developing ports and promoting regional air connectivity.

The Public-Private Partnership projects have to be scaled up for accelerating the pace of infrastructure development and need to promote massive infrastructure projects for the country to compete with other countries, Naidu said.

On the media scenario in India, he said some of the news stories are slanted to suit the views of the management and media outlets are being started for commercial and political considerations, not for providing pure and unadulterated news to the people.

Mindless sensationalism and paid news are some of the concerns that media professionals themselves need to address, he added.

Media associations should also come out with a code of conduct for journalists to ensure professional integrity, the vice-president said.

Imploring industry bodies to weed out "black sheeps" who give a bad name to the business community, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday asked various nations to reach a consensus to not provide shelter to fugitives involved in economic offences.

Imploring industry bodies to weed out "black sheeps" who give a bad name to the business community, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday asked various nations to reach a consensus to not provide shelter to fugitives involved in economic offences. "In the wake of the economic offences by some individuals, I implore industry bodies to weed out black sheeps who give a bad name to the business community," he said at "The Huddle," a thought conclave held by 'The Hindu' here. "Time also has come for various nations to arrive at a consensus in not providing shelter to economic fugitives," he added. These remarks come in the wake of industrialist Vijay Mallya's possible extradition to India from the United Kingdom. A UK court on December 10 last year had ordered the extradition of Mallya, who is wanted in India for alleged fraud and money laundering involving an estimated Rs 9,000 crore. "It should be remembered that such economic offences pose a direct challenge to a nation's health and wealth," Naidu said. Voicing concern about the disruptions in the functioning of Parliament and legislatures, Naidu said the time has come for political parties to evolve a code of conduct for their MPs and MLAs and ensure effective functioning if these Houses have to fulfil the aspirations of people. "It is truly unfortunate that disorder and disruptions have become the order of the day," he said. He said he also felt that political parties should not resort to populist, impractical and short-term promises to win elections as the country's economy would suffer in the long-term due to unproductive schemes. "We need to empower people to stand on their feet, rather than making them increasingly dependent on governments," Naidu said. The vice-president said the delicate balance between the executive, legislature and judiciary should be maintained at all times and nobody should encroach into the domain of the other. "The wheels of democracy will run smoothly as long as each wing functions within its demarcated domain and not overstep into other's jurisdiction," he added. Naidu said the other major challenge the country needs to address on a war footing is the deficiencies in infrastructure development and the central government is already addressing the issue by building road and highway networks, developing ports and promoting regional air connectivity. The Public-Private Partnership projects have to be scaled up for accelerating the pace of infrastructure development and need to promote massive infrastructure projects for the country to compete with other countries, Naidu said. On the media scenario in India, he said some of the news stories are slanted to suit the views of the management and media outlets are being started for commercial and political considerations, not for providing pure and unadulterated news to the people. Mindless sensationalism and paid news are some of the concerns that media professionals themselves need to address, he added. Media associations should also come out with a code of conduct for journalists to ensure professional integrity, the vice-president said.

Nations should not give shelter to economic fugitives says Vice President Venkaiah Naidu

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday said political parties should focus on development instead of doling our freebies during the time of elections.&nbsp;

Addressing a function organised by the textiles ministry, he said, "Rather than focusing on freebies that too at the time of election, we should focus on long term growth stories, developmental stories so that the people can stand on their own. These temporary things will be temporary lollipops only."

Talking about the functioning of Parliament, particularly Rajya Sabha during the ongoing Winter Session, the Vice President and the Chairman of the Upper House said he is "pained by our inability to ensure convergence of different agendas into a national agenda".

"Parliamentary institutions cannot be held captive to the competitive agenda. The Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha, could not function for 14 days because of competition between two parties," Naidu said.&nbsp;

The Vice President noted that civility of proceedings in the parliamentary institutions is a parameter of an aspiring nation finding its feet and fulfilling its quest.&nbsp;

Stressing that before electing their political representatives people should look if "4 Cs" -- character, calibre, capacity and conduct -- are available, Naidu said unfortunately some politicians have brought in four other "Cs".

"Caste, community, cash and criminality. If these things influence the society, it's a gone case. We must bring back the agenda to development," he said.&nbsp;

Observing that discrimination on the basis of gender and social identities is prevalent even now, the Vice President called for a change in the mindset and commitment and go back to "our original roots where we used to give respect to women".

Talking about the role of the agriculture, Naidu said a huge population of the country is engaged in the sector.

He observed that the colonial rule created problems for india and the countrymen must let go of the colonial mindset. The Vice President exhorted people to go back to their roots and practice physical exercise, while promoting Indian heritage through their dressing sense.&nbsp;

"Our forefathers had so much knowledge. Years of civilisation have taught us so many things. Our dress, our food habits, our lifestyle and so many things. Unfortunately, because of colonial mindset we have abandoned them. Now the time has come to go back to roots," he said.&nbsp;

Observing that Yoga has now become an international attraction and brings unity between the body and the mind, Naidu said, "unfortunately, we have cynics in our country. What is Yoga, they are trying to connect it with religion, Yoga has no connection with any religion at all."&nbsp;

Citing an example, he said a boy told him Yoga is very good but he has a problem with doing "Surya" Namaskar. Naidu said he told the boy to do "Chandra" Namaskar if he has a problem doing "Surya" Namaskar.&nbsp;

"We have to change attitude. Merely bringing legislations, bringing new schemes alone will not suffice," Naidu said.&nbsp;

Naidu said the continued growth of the textiles sector can drive the economy to new heights.&nbsp;

However, he said, the sector has to improve supply chains and internal systems, focus on research and development, cost optimisation and command a higher share in export of top items traded in global markets.&nbsp;

"I would like the sector to focus on improving quality and then tapping the opportunities in the global market to increase India's share in exports," he said.&nbsp;

He urged the industry to discard outdated technology and focus on creating global brands.&nbsp;

"I understand that India's export performance has not been up to expectations for a variety of reasons. It cannot be a business as usual and the industry has to rise to the occasion and ensure that the share of India's exports reaches double digits," the Vice President said.&nbsp;

He urged the industry to diversify its products and tap newer markets, observing that the Indian textile industry is expected to reach $223 billion by 2021.&nbsp;

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday said political parties should focus on development instead of doling our freebies during the time of elections. Addressing a function organised by the textiles ministry, he said, "Rather than focusing on freebies that too at the time of election, we should focus on long term growth stories, developmental stories so that the people can stand on their own.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu Sunday said political parties should focus on development instead of doling our freebies during the time of elections. Addressing a function organised by the textiles ministry, he said, "Rather than focusing on freebies that too at the time of election, we should focus on long term growth stories, developmental stories so that the people can stand on their own. These temporary things will be temporary lollipops only." Talking about the functioning of Parliament, particularly Rajya Sabha during the ongoing Winter Session, the Vice President and the Chairman of the Upper House said he is "pained by our inability to ensure convergence of different agendas into a national agenda". "Parliamentary institutions cannot be held captive to the competitive agenda. The Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha, could not function for 14 days because of competition between two parties," Naidu said. The Vice President noted that civility of proceedings in the parliamentary institutions is a parameter of an aspiring nation finding its feet and fulfilling its quest. Stressing that before electing their political representatives people should look if "4 Cs" -- character, calibre, capacity and conduct -- are available, Naidu said unfortunately some politicians have brought in four other "Cs". "Caste, community, cash and criminality. If these things influence the society, it's a gone case. We must bring back the agenda to development," he said. Observing that discrimination on the basis of gender and social identities is prevalent even now, the Vice President called for a change in the mindset and commitment and go back to "our original roots where we used to give respect to women". Talking about the role of the agriculture, Naidu said a huge population of the country is engaged in the sector. He observed that the colonial rule created problems for india and the countrymen must let go of the colonial mindset. The Vice President exhorted people to go back to their roots and practice physical exercise, while promoting Indian heritage through their dressing sense. "Our forefathers had so much knowledge. Years of civilisation have taught us so many things. Our dress, our food habits, our lifestyle and so many things. Unfortunately, because of colonial mindset we have abandoned them. Now the time has come to go back to roots," he said. Observing that Yoga has now become an international attraction and brings unity between the body and the mind, Naidu said, "unfortunately, we have cynics in our country. What is Yoga, they are trying to connect it with religion, Yoga has no connection with any religion at all." Citing an example, he said a boy told him Yoga is very good but he has a problem with doing "Surya" Namaskar. Naidu said he told the boy to do "Chandra" Namaskar if he has a problem doing "Surya" Namaskar. "We have to change attitude. Merely bringing legislations, bringing new schemes alone will not suffice," Naidu said. Naidu said the continued growth of the textiles sector can drive the economy to new heights. However, he said, the sector has to improve supply chains and internal systems, focus on research and development, cost optimisation and command a higher share in export of top items traded in global markets. "I would like the sector to focus on improving quality and then tapping the opportunities in the global market to increase India's share in exports," he said. He urged the industry to discard outdated technology and focus on creating global brands. "I understand that India's export performance has not been up to expectations for a variety of reasons. It cannot be a business as usual and the industry has to rise to the occasion and ensure that the share of India's exports reaches double digits," the Vice President said. He urged the industry to diversify its products and tap newer markets, observing that the Indian textile industry is expected to reach $223 billion by 2021.

Political parties must focus on development rather than giving freebies: VP Naidu

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

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

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

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

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims.

The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said.

"The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news.

"The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only," he said.

On November 28, Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone of the Kartarpur corridor.

On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur.

Khan said that his government and the army wanted a "civilised relationship" with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step.

Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people.

Pakistan assured that it will keep improving the Kartarpur corridor and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary.

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.

The corridor is expected to be completed within six months.&nbsp;

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims. The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims. The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community. Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said. "The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news. "The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only," he said. On November 28, Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone of the Kartarpur corridor. On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur. Khan said that his government and the army wanted a "civilised relationship" with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step. Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people. Pakistan assured that it will keep improving the Kartarpur corridor and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary. The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev. The corridor is expected to be completed within six months.

Pakistan opens immigration centre at Kartarpur border

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday will lay the foundation stone for the construction of Dera Baba Nanak-Karatarpur Sahib road corridor.

The corridor will reach up to the international border with Pakistan. The foundation stone laying ceremony will be performed in the Mann village of Gurdaspur district in Punjab. Vice President Naidu will be accompanied by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has also announced that the party leadership and workers would take part in the ground-breaking ceremony of the proposed corridor to Shri Kartarpur Sahib on the Indian soil while singing hymns of Gurbani on November 26.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pak-agree-to-build-kartarpur-corridor-imran-khan-to-break-ground-on-november-28-178837">The decision to build the corridor</a> from Dera Baba Nanak to the International Border was taken on November 22 by the Union Cabinet. On the same day Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, had announced that Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan would be breaking ground for the Kartarpur corridor on November 28.

The development of the corridor will facilitate lakhs of pilgrims from India to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur on the banks of river Ravi, in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev spent 18 years.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had issued a Note Verbale to the Pakistani Government, urging it to develop a corridor with suitable facilities in its territory from the International Border to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib to facilitate the easy access and passage of Indian pilgrims throughout the year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while participating in the Gurpurab celebrations on November 23 had said that Kartarpur Corridor could be a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-will-act-as-a-bridge-for-people-of-india-and-pakistan-pm-modi-179055">reason to connect people</a>, adding that the incidents of 1947 should be left behind.

He had also added that if the Berlin Wall, which restricted the relationship between the people of East and West Germany could be pulled down, then the Kartarpur Corridor between India and Pakistan can also promote people to people contact.

The Pakistan Government on November 23, extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab cabinet minister and former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor on November 28.

The invitation was, however, declined by Swaraj citing her prior commitments pertaining to election campaigns. Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri would be representing the Indian government in the groundbreaking ceremony.

A day later, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also declined Pakistan's invitation to attend the Kartarpur Corridor foundation-laying ceremony to be held on November 28, citing continued terrorist attacks in his state and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan armed forces as the reason.

Interestingly, Punjab Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu has accepted the invitation and will be attending the opening ceremony of Kartarpur corridor. 
&nbsp;

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday will lay the foundation stone for the construction of Dera Baba Nanak-Karatarpur Sahib road corridor. The corridor will reach up to the international border with Pakistan.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday will lay the foundation stone for the construction of Dera Baba Nanak-Karatarpur Sahib road corridor. The corridor will reach up to the international border with Pakistan. The foundation stone laying ceremony will be performed in the Mann village of Gurdaspur district in Punjab. Vice President Naidu will be accompanied by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has also announced that the party leadership and workers would take part in the ground-breaking ceremony of the proposed corridor to Shri Kartarpur Sahib on the Indian soil while singing hymns of Gurbani on November 26. The decision to build the corridor from Dera Baba Nanak to the International Border was taken on November 22 by the Union Cabinet. On the same day Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, had announced that Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan would be breaking ground for the Kartarpur corridor on November 28. The development of the corridor will facilitate lakhs of pilgrims from India to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur on the banks of river Ravi, in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev spent 18 years. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had issued a Note Verbale to the Pakistani Government, urging it to develop a corridor with suitable facilities in its territory from the International Border to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib to facilitate the easy access and passage of Indian pilgrims throughout the year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while participating in the Gurpurab celebrations on November 23 had said that Kartarpur Corridor could be a reason to connect people, adding that the incidents of 1947 should be left behind. He had also added that if the Berlin Wall, which restricted the relationship between the people of East and West Germany could be pulled down, then the Kartarpur Corridor between India and Pakistan can also promote people to people contact. The Pakistan Government on November 23, extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab cabinet minister and former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor on November 28. The invitation was, however, declined by Swaraj citing her prior commitments pertaining to election campaigns. Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri would be representing the Indian government in the groundbreaking ceremony. A day later, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also declined Pakistan's invitation to attend the Kartarpur Corridor foundation-laying ceremony to be held on November 28, citing continued terrorist attacks in his state and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan armed forces as the reason. Interestingly, Punjab Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu has accepted the invitation and will be attending the opening ceremony of Kartarpur corridor.

Vice President Naidu to lay foundation of Kartarpur corridor today

India will be represented by Venkaiah Naidu at the commemoration ceremony of the centenary of the Armistice of World War I on 11th November.

The day marks the end of World War I with an armistice between allies and Germany. India has been keen to raise awareness about its role in the war.

India contributed hugely in both World War I and II in terms of manpower and resources and suffered from heavy losses.

India was also one of largest contributors of soldiers during World War I. Heads of State/Heads of Government of over 50 countries including US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin will join France's Macron at the ceremony to commemorate the armistice of World War I at Arc de Triomphe.&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "India’s participation at the Armistice Centenary ceremony will be a befitting tribute to the sacrifices made by these soldiers, underlining India’s historical contribution to global peace and security."

As part of the Armistice Centenary, the French Government will also be hosting the Paris Peace Forum, which will take place in Paris from 11-13 November 2018. The Forum is envisioned as a recurring, annual event to promote governance solutions in five key areas: Peace and Security, Environment, Development, New Technologies, and Inclusive Economy. The Vice President will speak at the high-level panel discussion titled, "Dialogue of the Continents on Global Governance.”

He will also inaugurate the Indian War Memorial at Villers Guislain on 10 November 2018. The memorial will have an Ashok Chakra and was announced by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during her France visit earlier this year.

In the run-up to the ceremony, India has also adopted marigold as the flower of remembrance. Poppy being widely used in Europe as the flower of remembrance and marigold being adopted in India. The Marigold is chosen because it is easily and widely available in India and also because saffron is often seen as the colour of sacrifice. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge laid a marigold wreath at India Gate during their visit in April 2016.&nbsp;

PM Modi in his visits abroad has been paying homage to Indians who laid lives in the World Wars. He visited the martyrs memorial at Neuve-Chapelle and paid homage to 10,000 Indian soldiers who died during World War I, he became the first Indian prime minister to do so. During his Israel trip, the Prime Minister visited the Indian cemetery in the Israeli city of Haifa and paid respect to Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I while protecting the city from the Ottomans.

India will be represented by Venkaiah Naidu at the commemoration ceremony of the centenary of the Armistice of World War I on 11th November. The day marks the end of World War I with an armistice between allies and Germany.

India will be represented by Venkaiah Naidu at the commemoration ceremony of the centenary of the Armistice of World War I on 11th November. The day marks the end of World War I with an armistice between allies and Germany. India has been keen to raise awareness about its role in the war. India contributed hugely in both World War I and II in terms of manpower and resources and suffered from heavy losses. India was also one of largest contributors of soldiers during World War I. Heads of State/Heads of Government of over 50 countries including US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin will join France's Macron at the ceremony to commemorate the armistice of World War I at Arc de Triomphe. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "India’s participation at the Armistice Centenary ceremony will be a befitting tribute to the sacrifices made by these soldiers, underlining India’s historical contribution to global peace and security." As part of the Armistice Centenary, the French Government will also be hosting the Paris Peace Forum, which will take place in Paris from 11-13 November 2018. The Forum is envisioned as a recurring, annual event to promote governance solutions in five key areas: Peace and Security, Environment, Development, New Technologies, and Inclusive Economy. The Vice President will speak at the high-level panel discussion titled, "Dialogue of the Continents on Global Governance.” He will also inaugurate the Indian War Memorial at Villers Guislain on 10 November 2018. The memorial will have an Ashok Chakra and was announced by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during her France visit earlier this year. In the run-up to the ceremony, India has also adopted marigold as the flower of remembrance. Poppy being widely used in Europe as the flower of remembrance and marigold being adopted in India. The Marigold is chosen because it is easily and widely available in India and also because saffron is often seen as the colour of sacrifice. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge laid a marigold wreath at India Gate during their visit in April 2016. PM Modi in his visits abroad has been paying homage to Indians who laid lives in the World Wars. He visited the martyrs memorial at Neuve-Chapelle and paid homage to 10,000 Indian soldiers who died during World War I, he became the first Indian prime minister to do so. During his Israel trip, the Prime Minister visited the Indian cemetery in the Israeli city of Haifa and paid respect to Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I while protecting the city from the Ottomans.

100 years of WWI: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu to represent India at Paris ceremony

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Wednesday said syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn "50 per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds."

He was interacting with students of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in Hyderabad.

The Vice President said the concept of examinations should be based on measuring the child's capacity simply to question the things around him or her.

Naidu urged the young students to never let their marks define or restrict them in any way.

"You are much more than the numbers on your report card," he told the students.

Along with physical fitness, schools should also encourage other extracurricular activities, an official release quoted the Vice President as saying.

"The syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn 50per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds," he said.

The Vice President said Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan has played a pivotal role in the education scenario of the country since its inception in 1938.

Mohammad Mahmood Ali, caretaker Deputy Chief Minister of Telangana and other dignitaries were present on the occasion, the release said. PTI&nbsp;

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Wednesday said syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn "50 per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Wednesday said syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn "50 per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds." He was interacting with students of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in Hyderabad. The Vice President said the concept of examinations should be based on measuring the child's capacity simply to question the things around him or her. Naidu urged the young students to never let their marks define or restrict them in any way. "You are much more than the numbers on your report card," he told the students. Along with physical fitness, schools should also encourage other extracurricular activities, an official release quoted the Vice President as saying. "The syllabi for school children in the country should be halved and students should learn 50per cent from their classrooms and the rest from playgrounds," he said. The Vice President said Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan has played a pivotal role in the education scenario of the country since its inception in 1938. Mohammad Mahmood Ali, caretaker Deputy Chief Minister of Telangana and other dignitaries were present on the occasion, the release said. PTI

Syllabi for school children should be halved; Venkaiah Naidu

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Wednesday that Goods and Service Tax (GST) and demonetisation were "revolutionary steps" taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards making the nation corruption free.

Praising Prime Minister Modi for introducing various central schemes for the development of the country, the Vice President said, "With the introduction of GST and demonetisation, the Prime Minister took revolutionary steps. The GST revenue in April has crossed Rs 1.4 lakh crore, indicating high hopes for the new tax regime."

Vice President Naidu was speaking at the 11th convocation ceremony of the Tripura University.

In his speech, he also emphasised on the role of the present Union government towards the infrastructural development in the northeastern states for better connectivity and business in the region and the neighbouring nations.

The 11th convocation of the Tripura University was held after five years. As many as 142 scholars rePhDd PhD&nbsp;degrees and about 400 students from many streams received gold and silver medals.

Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy, Education Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Vice-Chancellor Anjan Kumar Ghosh, Registrar Santi Deb Roy and other dignitaries were present in the Maharaja BB auditorium for the convocation.

Naidu emphasised on the role of the present Union government towards the infrastructural development in the northeastern states for better connectivity

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Wednesday that Goods and Service Tax (GST) and demonetisation were "revolutionary steps" taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards making the nation corruption free. Praising Prime Minister Modi for introducing various central schemes for the development of the country, the Vice President said, "With the introduction of GST and demonetisation, the Prime Minister took revolutionary steps. The GST revenue in April has crossed Rs 1.4 lakh crore, indicating high hopes for the new tax regime." Vice President Naidu was speaking at the 11th convocation ceremony of the Tripura University. In his speech, he also emphasised on the role of the present Union government towards the infrastructural development in the northeastern states for better connectivity and business in the region and the neighbouring nations. The 11th convocation of the Tripura University was held after five years. As many as 142 scholars rePhDd PhD degrees and about 400 students from many streams received gold and silver medals. Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy, Education Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Vice-Chancellor Anjan Kumar Ghosh, Registrar Santi Deb Roy and other dignitaries were present in the Maharaja BB auditorium for the convocation.

GST and demonetisation were revolutionary steps to make India corruption free: Venkaiah Naidu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate ‘Buddha Jayanti 2018’ celebrations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium&nbsp;later today.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended greetings on the occasion of Buddha Purnima.

"On Buddha Purnima, greetings to fellow citizens and to the global Buddhist community. Lord Buddha`s message of non-violence, love and compassion provides us the strength to work for the welfare of others. May his teachings guide us towards universal fraternity," the President said.&nbsp;

Modi said: "The teachings of Lord Buddha are extremely relevant in the 21st century.&nbsp;

"His was a life devoted to alleviating suffering and removing injustice from society. His compassion has endeared him to millions. Buddha Purnima greetings to everyone."

Vice-President&nbsp;Venkaiah Naidu has also extended his greetings to the people of the country on the occasion.&nbsp;

''I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, the birthday of Lord Buddha, today. Let us commit ourselves to follow the principles of universal love, compassion and tolerance shown by Lord Buddha,'' he tweeted. &nbsp;

Buddha Purnima is traditionally celebrated in majority of East Asia to commemorate the birth of Gautam Buddha, who later became the founder of Buddhism.

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Today afternoon, on Buddha Purnima, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> will join a programme at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/990784397564575745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, the birthday of Lord Buddha, today. 
Let us commit ourselves to follow the principles of universal love, compassion and tolerance shown by Lord Buddha. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BuddhaPurnima?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BuddhaPurnima</a> <a href="https://t.co/tSzaWzbzaq">pic.twitter.com/tSzaWzbzaq</a>
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&nbsp;

Modi hailed Buddha Purnima as a special day in his monthly radio programme Maan Ki Baat on Sunday and said throughout Asia, the teachings of Lord Buddha have enlightened people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate ‘Buddha Jayanti 2018’ celebrations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium later today. President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended greetings on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. "On Buddha Purnima, greetings to fellow citizens and to the global Buddhist community. Lord Buddha`s message of non-violence, love and compassion provides us the strength to work for the welfare of others. May his teachings guide us towards universal fraternity," the President said. Modi said: "The teachings of Lord Buddha are extremely relevant in the 21st century. "His was a life devoted to alleviating suffering and removing injustice from society. His compassion has endeared him to millions. Buddha Purnima greetings to everyone." Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu has also extended his greetings to the people of the country on the occasion. ''I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, the birthday of Lord Buddha, today. Let us commit ourselves to follow the principles of universal love, compassion and tolerance shown by Lord Buddha,'' he tweeted. Buddha Purnima is traditionally celebrated in majority of East Asia to commemorate the birth of Gautam Buddha, who later became the founder of Buddhism. Today afternoon, on Buddha Purnima, PM @narendramodi will join a programme at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 30, 2018 × I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, the birthday of Lord Buddha, today. Let us commit ourselves to follow the principles of universal love, compassion and tolerance shown by Lord Buddha. #BuddhaPurnima pic.twitter.com/tSzaWzbzaq — VicePresidentOfIndia (@VPSecretariat) April 30, 2018 ×

PM Modi to inaugurate Buddha Jayanti celebrations in Delhi today

Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu today said his decision to reject the impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra was "timely and not a hasty one" and came after over a month of due diligence, according to sources.

"Freedom of expression allows that but ultimately truth prevails. I have done the just thing in the best possible manner expected of me," sources quoted Naidu as saying, a day after he rejected the impeachment motion.

He said his decision was in strict conformity with the provisions of the Constitution and the Judges Inquiry Act of 1968.

"I have done my job and am satisfied with it," Naidu was quoted as telling a group of 10 Supreme Court lawyers who met him to compliment him over the decision.&nbsp

The Rajya Sabha chairman's office is not a mere post office but a constitutional functionary, Naidu, who is also the Vice-President, told the group.

According to sources, Naidu said the Chief Justice of India is the highest judicial functionary of the country and "any issue in public domain concerning him requires to be resolved at the earliest following prescribed procedures so as to prevent the atmosphere from being further vitiated".

Naidu yesterday rejected the notice by seven opposition parties, led by the Congress, to impeach the chief justice of India on five grounds of "misbehaviour", saying the allegations were neither "tenable nor admissible".

His order was slammed as "hasty, illegal and ill-informed" by the Congress.

Naidu said that he took the decision after over a month of due diligence.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu today said his decision to reject the impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra was "timely and not a hasty one" and came after over a month of due diligence, according to sources. "Freedom of expression allows that but ultimately truth prevails. I have done the just thing in the best possible manner expected of me," sources quoted Naidu as saying, a day after he rejected the impeachment motion. He said his decision was in strict conformity with the provisions of the Constitution and the Judges Inquiry Act of 1968. "I have done my job and am satisfied with it," Naidu was quoted as telling a group of 10 Supreme Court lawyers who met him to compliment him over the decision. The Rajya Sabha chairman's office is not a mere post office but a constitutional functionary, Naidu, who is also the Vice-President, told the group. According to sources, Naidu said the Chief Justice of India is the highest judicial functionary of the country and "any issue in public domain concerning him requires to be resolved at the earliest following prescribed procedures so as to prevent the atmosphere from being further vitiated". Naidu yesterday rejected the notice by seven opposition parties, led by the Congress, to impeach the chief justice of India on five grounds of "misbehaviour", saying the allegations were neither "tenable nor admissible". His order was slammed as "hasty, illegal and ill-informed" by the Congress.

Decision to reject impeachment motion against CJI was not hasty: Venkaiah Naidu

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu has rejected the impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra.

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"I have applied my mind to all five charges made out in impeachment motion and examined all annexed documents. All facts as stated in motion don't make out a case which can lead any reasonable mind to conclude that CJI on these facts can be ever held guilty of misbehavior,"&nbsp;ANI reported Naidu as saying.&nbsp;

Seven opposition parties led by the Congress had on Friday initiated an unprecedented step for the impeachment of the CJI, moving a notice accusing him of "misbehaviour" and "misuse" of authority.&nbsp;

Apart from the Congress, the group consisted of the CPI(M), CPI, NCP, SP, BSP and the Muslim League.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Naidu said the motion lacked substantial merit and that the allegations were neither "tenable nor admissible".&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The vice president in his order held that that the allegations emerging from the present case have a serious tendency of "undermining" the independence of the judiciary.

Naidu based his decision on the opinion of top legal and constitutional experts, including former secretary generals of Lok Sabha and other legal luminaries with whom he held extensive consultations.&nbsp;

He also held the views of top legal and constitutional experts, including former chief justices and judges, before taking the decision, sources said.

"This is a really important matter. We don't know what was the reason for the rejection. Congress and other opposition parties will talk to some legal experts and take <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-may-move-court-if-impeachment-notice-rejected-132066">the next step</a>," ANI&nbsp;reported the Congress' PL Punia as saying on Monday.

The Congress had on Sunday said Misra should consider recusing himself from performing judicial and administrative work till he was cleared of allegations of misconduct.

The Congress also attacked the BJP for coming out in "defence" of the CJI and said the ruling party was compromising the position and office of the chief justice as the neutral arbitrator and head of the judiciary.

The party was doing great a disservice to the independence of the judicial system, it said.

"The CJI must come out and tell the BJP not to politicise his office," Congress leader Randeep Surjewala told reporters here.

He further said the CJI did not belong to any political party and questioned why he had to be defended by members and ministers of the ruling BJP.

The Chief Justice of India should be above suspicion, Surjewala said, adding that if CJI Misra's conduct had come under a cloud, he should consider recusing himself from performing his judicial and administrative duties.

"Caesar's wife must be above suspicion. And that's why we left it to his (CJI) conscience. If his own conduct is under a cloud, should he not consider recusing himself from performing judicial and administrative duties and submit himself to the inquiry so that the high office and his individual integrity are cleared?" Surjewala asked.

This will ensure that the process of law is followed in an appropriate manner, the Congress leader added.&nbsp;

Further attacking the BJP over the issue, another Congress leader and Rajya Sabha member Vivek Tankha wondered how the BJP could relate the CJI to Odisha.

He is the chief justice of the entire nation and belongs to the entire country, Tankha said. 
Tankha, who is also an advocate, said as an MP, he was confident that the Rajya Sabha chairman would take an appropriate decision on the matter under the provisions of the Constitution.

"The country and citizens are looking for answers. And until then I feel the CJI should voluntarily submit himself for the inquiry," he said.

Speaking at the same press conference, senior advocate and nominated Rajya Sabha member K T S Tulsi said people took great pride in the integrity of judges.

But if there was even the slightest suspicion, it became the duty of Parliament to take note of that, he said.

"As MPs we are performing our duty with a very heavy heart but it is in the interest of the nation and interest of democracy that the inquiry should be held. And if no inquiry is held it would do much greater damage to the Supreme Court of the country," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The motion had been moved by seven opposition parties led by the Congress. The parties had accused the CJI of 'misbehaviour' and 'misuse' of authority

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu has rejected the impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra. × "I have applied my mind to all five charges made out in impeachment motion and examined all annexed documents. All facts as stated in motion don't make out a case which can lead any reasonable mind to conclude that CJI on these facts can be ever held guilty of misbehavior," ANI reported Naidu as saying. Seven opposition parties led by the Congress had on Friday initiated an unprecedented step for the impeachment of the CJI, moving a notice accusing him of "misbehaviour" and "misuse" of authority. Apart from the Congress, the group consisted of the CPI(M), CPI, NCP, SP, BSP and the Muslim League. Naidu said the motion lacked substantial merit and that the allegations were neither "tenable nor admissible". The vice president in his order held that that the allegations emerging from the present case have a serious tendency of "undermining" the independence of the judiciary. Naidu based his decision on the opinion of top legal and constitutional experts, including former secretary generals of Lok Sabha and other legal luminaries with whom he held extensive consultations. He also held the views of top legal and constitutional experts, including former chief justices and judges, before taking the decision, sources said. "This is a really important matter. We don't know what was the reason for the rejection. Congress and other opposition parties will talk to some legal experts and take the next step," ANI reported the Congress' PL Punia as saying on Monday. The Congress had on Sunday said Misra should consider recusing himself from performing judicial and administrative work till he was cleared of allegations of misconduct. The Congress also attacked the BJP for coming out in "defence" of the CJI and said the ruling party was compromising the position and office of the chief justice as the neutral arbitrator and head of the judiciary. The party was doing great a disservice to the independence of the judicial system, it said. "The CJI must come out and tell the BJP not to politicise his office," Congress leader Randeep Surjewala told reporters here. He further said the CJI did not belong to any political party and questioned why he had to be defended by members and ministers of the ruling BJP. The Chief Justice of India should be above suspicion, Surjewala said, adding that if CJI Misra's conduct had come under a cloud, he should consider recusing himself from performing his judicial and administrative duties. "Caesar's wife must be above suspicion. And that's why we left it to his (CJI) conscience. If his own conduct is under a cloud, should he not consider recusing himself from performing judicial and administrative duties and submit himself to the inquiry so that the high office and his individual integrity are cleared?" Surjewala asked. This will ensure that the process of law is followed in an appropriate manner, the Congress leader added. Further attacking the BJP over the issue, another Congress leader and Rajya Sabha member Vivek Tankha wondered how the BJP could relate the CJI to Odisha. He is the chief justice of the entire nation and belongs to the entire country, Tankha said. Tankha, who is also an advocate, said as an MP, he was confident that the Rajya Sabha chairman would take an appropriate decision on the matter under the provisions of the Constitution. "The country and citizens are looking for answers. And until then I feel the CJI should voluntarily submit himself for the inquiry," he said. Speaking at the same press conference, senior advocate and nominated Rajya Sabha member K T S Tulsi said people took great pride in the integrity of judges. But if there was even the slightest suspicion, it became the duty of Parliament to take note of that, he said. "As MPs we are performing our duty with a very heavy heart but it is in the interest of the nation and interest of democracy that the inquiry should be held. And if no inquiry is held it would do much greater damage to the Supreme Court of the country," he added. (With inputs from PTI)

Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu rejects impeachment motion against CJI Dipak Misra

Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday rejected the impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra given by the Congress-led opposition in the Upper House. Naidu rejected the notice citing lack of substantial merit in it.

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Naidu held extensive consultations with top legal and constitutional experts before taking the decision, sources said. The rejection of the notice comes a day after he held consultations with experts to determine the maintainability of the motion.

Seven opposition parties led by the Congress had last week moved a notice before him for impeachment of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) on five grounds of "misbehaviour". Apart from the Congress, the group consisted of the CPI(M), CPI, NCP, SP, BSP and the Muslim League. The motion was signed by 64 sitting members of the Rajya Sabha.

This is the first time ever that an impeachment notice was filed against a sitting CJI.

How is the Chief Justice of India impeached?

The CJI can be impeached like other Supreme Court judges and constitutional positions, in accordance with the steps laid out in Constitution of India. The opposition parties moved the impeachment motion in the Rajya Sabha under Article 217 read with article 124 (4) of the Constitution. As per Article 124 (4), "A Judge of the Supreme Court shall not be removed from his office except by an order of the President passed after an address by each House of Parliament supported by a majority of the total membership of that House and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of that House present and voting has been presented to the President in the same session for such removal on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity."

The impeachment motion requires signatures of 100 Lok Sabha MPs and 50 Rajya Sabha MPs it can be introduced in either of the two Houses.

The motion is presented to the Speaker in case it is introduced in Lok Sabha, and the Chairman of Rajya Sabha in case it is given in the Upper House. If the motion is accepted, a committee is formed to investigate the charges levelled against a Supreme Court judge or the CJI. The charges, if found true by the committee in its investigation, will be taken up for discussion in the House where the motion was introduced.

The motion will have to be passed by two-third majority after the discussion it is then presented in the other House where it has to again cross the special majority. Once the motion is successfully passed in both Houses of Parliament, it is sent to the President to remove the Chief Justice of India.

This is the first time ever that an impeachment motion was filed against a sitting CJI.

Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday rejected the impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra given by the Congress-led opposition in the Upper House. Naidu rejected the notice citing lack of substantial merit in it. × Naidu held extensive consultations with top legal and constitutional experts before taking the decision, sources said. The rejection of the notice comes a day after he held consultations with experts to determine the maintainability of the motion. Seven opposition parties led by the Congress had last week moved a notice before him for impeachment of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) on five grounds of "misbehaviour". Apart from the Congress, the group consisted of the CPI(M), CPI, NCP, SP, BSP and the Muslim League. The motion was signed by 64 sitting members of the Rajya Sabha. This is the first time ever that an impeachment notice was filed against a sitting CJI. How is the Chief Justice of India impeached? The CJI can be impeached like other Supreme Court judges and constitutional positions, in accordance with the steps laid out in Constitution of India. The opposition parties moved the impeachment motion in the Rajya Sabha under Article 217 read with article 124 (4) of the Constitution. As per Article 124 (4), "A Judge of the Supreme Court shall not be removed from his office except by an order of the President passed after an address by each House of Parliament supported by a majority of the total membership of that House and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of that House present and voting has been presented to the President in the same session for such removal on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity." The impeachment motion requires signatures of 100 Lok Sabha MPs and 50 Rajya Sabha MPs it can be introduced in either of the two Houses. The motion is presented to the Speaker in case it is introduced in Lok Sabha, and the Chairman of Rajya Sabha in case it is given in the Upper House. If the motion is accepted, a committee is formed to investigate the charges levelled against a Supreme Court judge or the CJI. The charges, if found true by the committee in its investigation, will be taken up for discussion in the House where the motion was introduced. The motion will have to be passed by two-third majority after the discussion it is then presented in the other House where it has to again cross the special majority. Once the motion is successfully passed in both Houses of Parliament, it is sent to the President to remove the Chief Justice of India.

Why the impeachment motion against CJI Dipak Misra was rejected by Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu

Shunning inter-faith taboos, the IAS couple Tina Dabi and Athar Amir Khan, who tied the knot earlier this month in Kashmir, hosted a grand wedding reception in Delhi on Saturday.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, and Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad attended the wedding reception of 2015 civil services examination topper Tina Dabi and second topper Athar Aamir-ul-Shafi Khan.

This is the couple's third wedding function. Firstly, both got married at a simple court ceremony in Rajasthan's Jaipur and then had a wedding in groom's home state Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

Hence, the third function took place in bride's hometown - Delhi.

The parents of the young couple were also seen during the reception in the national capital.

As the couple decided to tie the knot, a lot of criticism came on their way on account of a Dalit woman marrying a Kashmiri man.

Dabi came into limelight after she became the first ever Dalit girl to top the UPSC examination in her first attempt itself. However, Athar cleared the exams and ranked second in his second attempt.&nbsp

Shunning inter-faith taboos, the IAS couple Tina Dabi and Athar Amir Khan, who tied the knot earlier this month in Kashmir, hosted a grand wedding reception in Delhi on Saturday

Shunning inter-faith taboos, the IAS couple Tina Dabi and Athar Amir Khan, who tied the knot earlier this month in Kashmir, hosted a grand wedding reception in Delhi on Saturday. Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, and Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad attended the wedding reception of 2015 civil services examination topper Tina Dabi and second topper Athar Aamir-ul-Shafi Khan. This is the couple's third wedding function. Firstly, both got married at a simple court ceremony in Rajasthan's Jaipur and then had a wedding in groom's home state Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. Hence, the third function took place in bride's hometown - Delhi. The parents of the young couple were also seen during the reception in the national capital. As the couple decided to tie the knot, a lot of criticism came on their way on account of a Dalit woman marrying a Kashmiri man. Dabi came into limelight after she became the first ever Dalit girl to top the UPSC examination in her first attempt itself. However, Athar cleared the exams and ranked second in his second attempt.

Vice president Naidu, Lok Sabha Speaker bless IAS toppers Tina Dabi-Athar Amir Khan on their wedding reception

Rajya Sabha Chairman on Wednesday reacted over the ruckus that was created in the Upper House of the Parliament. The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2 pm after the Opposition created an uproar over the ongoing SC/ST Act row.&nbsp

The Parliament was adjourned without transacting any legislative business due to which the chairman expressed his views. Naidu noted that the patience of the country is being tested.

"We have not transacted any bills. The country wants development, you are testing the patience of the people of the country. Please understand that the entire country is agitated with what is happening in the House," Naidu said while adjourning the House till 2 pm.

Twelve newly-elected and re-elected Member of Parliament took oath in the House earlier today. Congress-led opposition began sloganeering while the Chairman urged them to maintain order and eventually adjourned the House till 2 pm.&nbsp

"I've allowed every issue, you are not discussing, unfortunately. It is the misfortune of the people of India. Chairman allows discussion, the government agrees but we are not able to have a discussion. I do not understand what is this. This is no good. This is murdering democracy. The entire country is agitated, depressed," Naidu said.&nbsp

Parliament's budget session comes to end in a couple of days. So far, both the houses have not transacted substantial business owing to repeated disruptions over a range of issues.&nbsp

&nbsp

So far, both the houses have not transacted substantial business owing to repeated disruptions over a range of issues

Rajya Sabha Chairman on Wednesday reacted over the ruckus that was created in the Upper House of the Parliament. The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2 pm after the Opposition created an uproar over the ongoing SC/ST Act row. The Parliament was adjourned without transacting any legislative business due to which the chairman expressed his views. Naidu noted that the patience of the country is being tested. "We have not transacted any bills. The country wants development, you are testing the patience of the people of the country. Please understand that the entire country is agitated with what is happening in the House," Naidu said while adjourning the House till 2 pm. Twelve newly-elected and re-elected Member of Parliament took oath in the House earlier today. Congress-led opposition began sloganeering while the Chairman urged them to maintain order and eventually adjourned the House till 2 pm. "I've allowed every issue, you are not discussing, unfortunately. It is the misfortune of the people of India. Chairman allows discussion, the government agrees but we are not able to have a discussion. I do not understand what is this. This is no good. This is murdering democracy. The entire country is agitated, depressed," Naidu said. Parliament's budget session comes to end in a couple of days. So far, both the houses have not transacted substantial business owing to repeated disruptions over a range of issues.

This is murdering democracy, the entire country is agitated: Venkaiah Naidu reacts to Rajya Sabha disruptions

India's Vice president and Rajya Sabha chairman M Venkaiah Naidu told Congress member Renuka Chowdhury on Thursday to lose weight and instead increase the weight of her party.

The remarks were made during Chowdhury's farewell speech which led to Naidu's quick wit reply, leaving the house in a laugh.

“He (Naidu) knows me from many kilos before. Sir, many people worry about my weight but in this job, you need to throw your weight around,” Chowdhury said.

To this, Naidu responded: “My simple suggestion is, reduce your weight and make efforts to increase the weight of the party”.&nbsp;

"Sir, the Congress is fine," Chowdhury retorted.

In another such moment, Chowdhury recalled that during her political journey in the Upper House, she was fortunate for being "the entire Opposition's united candidate to contest against Najma Heptullah for the Deputy Chair here".

This led Naidu to immediately quip: "That would have solved many problems."

Chowdhury said from Shah Bano to Surpanakha, she has been a witness to history in the making in the House.

“The lot of women have not improved tremendously. It is a pathetic 11% even now (women’s strength in Rajya Sabha). I really think we need more women,” she said.

Rajni Patil, also of the Congress, said it was destiny that she did not get a full tenure either in the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha, to which Naidu said, “then you go to Lok Sabha again,” which again evoked laughter across the House.

She also alleged discrimination against women members of Parliament, calling for a change in the mindset and urged the ruling dispensation for early passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill.

In February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken a dig at Congress lawmaker Renuka Chowdhury during his speech in the Rajya Sabha, comparing her loud laughter in the House to that from Ramayana, leaving her fuming.

(With inputs from PTI)

The remarks were made during Chowdhury's farewell speek which lead to Naidu's quick wit reply, leaving the house in a laugh

India's Vice president and Rajya Sabha chairman M Venkaiah Naidu told Congress member Renuka Chowdhury on Thursday to lose weight and instead increase the weight of her party. The remarks were made during Chowdhury's farewell speech which led to Naidu's quick wit reply, leaving the house in a laugh. “He (Naidu) knows me from many kilos before. Sir, many people worry about my weight but in this job, you need to throw your weight around,” Chowdhury said. To this, Naidu responded: “My simple suggestion is, reduce your weight and make efforts to increase the weight of the party”. "Sir, the Congress is fine," Chowdhury retorted. In another such moment, Chowdhury recalled that during her political journey in the Upper House, she was fortunate for being "the entire Opposition's united candidate to contest against Najma Heptullah for the Deputy Chair here". This led Naidu to immediately quip: "That would have solved many problems." Chowdhury said from Shah Bano to Surpanakha, she has been a witness to history in the making in the House. “The lot of women have not improved tremendously. It is a pathetic 11% even now (women’s strength in Rajya Sabha). I really think we need more women,” she said. Rajni Patil, also of the Congress, said it was destiny that she did not get a full tenure either in the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha, to which Naidu said, “then you go to Lok Sabha again,” which again evoked laughter across the House. She also alleged discrimination against women members of Parliament, calling for a change in the mindset and urged the ruling dispensation for early passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill. In February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken a dig at Congress lawmaker Renuka Chowdhury during his speech in the Rajya Sabha, comparing her loud laughter in the House to that from Ramayana, leaving her fuming. (With inputs from PTI)

Vice president Venkaiah Naidu tells Renuka Chowdhury to 'reduce weight'

Amid&nbsp;wide debate over consumption of beef in the nation, vice president Venkaiah Naidu talked about people eating beef and celebrating it as a festival.

Naidu said &#39;&#39;you want to eat beef, eat. why festival?&quot;.

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You want to eat Beef, eat. Why Festival? Similarly a Kiss Festival, if you wish to Kiss why you need a festival or anyone&#39;s permission. Then you have Afzal Guru. People chanting his name. What is happening? He tried to explode our parliament: VP Venkaiah Naidu <a href="https://t.co/m9ggvoYZQA">pic.twitter.com/m9ggvoYZQA</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/965488262835064832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Naidu talking about beef festival could be directed to the reports of July 2017 when&nbsp;students of IIT-Madras held a beef festival inside the campus to protest against the cattle slaughter ban.

A similar incident of people holding beef festival was also reported from Aizawl in Mizoram, India.

In past Venkaiah Naidu has addressed the beef issue; while stressing on how food is an individual&#39;s choice he said that he is a strict non-vegetarian and nobody told him to what to eat or what not.

He also added&nbsp;that &quot;similarly,&nbsp;a kiss festival, if you wish to kiss why you need a festival or anyone&#39;s permission.&quot;

While addressing a public gathering he also slammed people for &#39;chanting&#39; Afzal Guru&#39;s name.

He said, &quot;then you have Afzal Guru. People chanting his name. What is happening? He tried to explode our parliament.&quot;

Security was tightened and restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir on February 8 as it was the death anniversary of parliament attack convict Afzal Guru.

&nbsp;

Naidu talking about beef festival could be directed to the reports of July 2017 when students of IIT-Madras held a beef festival inside the campus to protest against the cattle slaughter ban

Amid wide debate over consumption of beef in the nation, vice president Venkaiah Naidu talked about people eating beef and celebrating it as a festival. Naidu said ''you want to eat beef, eat. why festival?". You want to eat Beef, eat. Why Festival? Similarly a Kiss Festival, if you wish to Kiss why you need a festival or anyone's permission. Then you have Afzal Guru. People chanting his name. What is happening? He tried to explode our parliament: VP Venkaiah Naidu pic.twitter.com/m9ggvoYZQA — ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2018 × Naidu talking about beef festival could be directed to the reports of July 2017 when students of IIT-Madras held a beef festival inside the campus to protest against the cattle slaughter ban. A similar incident of people holding beef festival was also reported from Aizawl in Mizoram, India. In past Venkaiah Naidu has addressed the beef issue; while stressing on how food is an individual's choice he said that he is a strict non-vegetarian and nobody told him to what to eat or what not. He also added that "similarly, a kiss festival, if you wish to kiss why you need a festival or anyone's permission." While addressing a public gathering he also slammed people for 'chanting' Afzal Guru's name. He said, "then you have Afzal Guru. People chanting his name. What is happening? He tried to explode our parliament." Security was tightened and restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir on February 8 as it was the death anniversary of parliament attack convict Afzal Guru.

You want to eat beef, eat. Why have a festival? Venkaiah Naidu

Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu noticed the significance of Goods and Service Tax on Tuesday.

Naidu noted that the tax is in place to strengthen the economy.

While speaking at the inaugural session on a seminar on &#39;Contemporary issues and challenges in Finance, Marketing and Taxation&#39; in Hyderabad, the vice president noted that the tax &quot;reveals the cost to the manufacturer and benefits the consumer by the reduction in price.&quot;&nbsp;

He noted that it is not only the producers who benefit from GST, the retailers will also reap benefits as no sales without a bill eliminates corruption.&nbsp;

&quot;5.9 million people have registered to file GST and 20.2 million people pay taxes. Microfinance, cashless payments are increasing and strengthening the economy. Everybody is responsible for making the change and we should take everyone&#39;s opinion,&quot; he added.

&quot;Even after 70 years of independence there prevails discrimination in our country. In spite of the development of technology, we have to remember our guru. Google cannot replace guru. We should not forget our originality although we learn many other languages. We should love our mother tongue,&quot; added Naidu.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu noticed the significance of Goods and Service Tax on Tuesday

Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu noticed the significance of Goods and Service Tax on Tuesday. Naidu noted that the tax is in place to strengthen the economy. While speaking at the inaugural session on a seminar on 'Contemporary issues and challenges in Finance, Marketing and Taxation' in Hyderabad, the vice president noted that the tax "reveals the cost to the manufacturer and benefits the consumer by the reduction in price." He noted that it is not only the producers who benefit from GST, the retailers will also reap benefits as no sales without a bill eliminates corruption. "5.9 million people have registered to file GST and 20.2 million people pay taxes. Microfinance, cashless payments are increasing and strengthening the economy. Everybody is responsible for making the change and we should take everyone's opinion," he added. "Even after 70 years of independence there prevails discrimination in our country. In spite of the development of technology, we have to remember our guru. Google cannot replace guru. We should not forget our originality although we learn many other languages. We should love our mother tongue," added Naidu. (With inputs from PTI)

'GST is in place to strengthen the economy,' says Vice President Venkaiah Naidu

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu, on Saturday, sent a privilege notice against Congress President Rahul Gandhi to Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan for further action, holding that &quot;prima facie there is an issue of privilege&quot;.&nbsp;

&quot;On examination, prima facie there is an issue of privilege,&quot; Naidu said while referring the privilege notice to the Lok Sabha speaker.&nbsp;

Senior BJP MP Bhupendra Yadav had raised an issue of breach of privilege last month against the Congress President.

In his notice, Yadav had said that Gandhi twisted the spelling of Jaitley&rsquo;s surname to &#39;Jaitlie&#39;&nbsp;and it was highly derogatory.

&quot;Dear Mr Jaitlie - thank you for reminding India that our PM never means what he says or says what he means. #BJPLies,&quot; Rahul Gandhi had said while putting out a video of the prime minister&#39;s speech against his predecessor and Jaitley s remarks made in Rajya Sabha.

According to reports, the Rajya Sabha chairperson&#39;s office said that the &ldquo;the breach of privilege stands on the grounds that it imputed motives to the intent, character and conduct of the Leader of the House Arun Jaitley by the way the spelling of Mr. Jaitley has been twisted (it was spelt as Jaitlie in Mr. Gandhi&rsquo;s tweets).&rdquo;

The BJP member said the Congress President had &quot;deliberately twisted&quot; the spelling of Jaitley&#39;s surname to &#39;Jaitlie&#39;, which was &quot;highly derogatory&quot;.

The Congress president, Yadav said, has deliberately misinterpreted the proceedings of Rajya Sabha in order to &quot;malign the government, which constitutes an affront to the dignity of the House&quot;.

He also alleged that it is a deliberate attempt at vitiating the political atmosphere of the country.

Sources further said that the matter was likely to be referred to the privilege committee.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

In his notice, Yadav had said that Gandhi twisted the spelling of Jaitley?s surname to ?Jaitlie? and it was highly derogatory

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu, on Saturday, sent a privilege notice against Congress President Rahul Gandhi to Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan for further action, holding that "prima facie there is an issue of privilege". "On examination, prima facie there is an issue of privilege," Naidu said while referring the privilege notice to the Lok Sabha speaker. Senior BJP MP Bhupendra Yadav had raised an issue of breach of privilege last month against the Congress President. In his notice, Yadav had said that Gandhi twisted the spelling of Jaitley’s surname to 'Jaitlie' and it was highly derogatory. "Dear Mr Jaitlie - thank you for reminding India that our PM never means what he says or says what he means. #BJPLies," Rahul Gandhi had said while putting out a video of the prime minister's speech against his predecessor and Jaitley s remarks made in Rajya Sabha. According to reports, the Rajya Sabha chairperson's office said that the “the breach of privilege stands on the grounds that it imputed motives to the intent, character and conduct of the Leader of the House Arun Jaitley by the way the spelling of Mr. Jaitley has been twisted (it was spelt as Jaitlie in Mr. Gandhi’s tweets).” The BJP member said the Congress President had "deliberately twisted" the spelling of Jaitley's surname to 'Jaitlie', which was "highly derogatory". The Congress president, Yadav said, has deliberately misinterpreted the proceedings of Rajya Sabha in order to "malign the government, which constitutes an affront to the dignity of the House". He also alleged that it is a deliberate attempt at vitiating the political atmosphere of the country. Sources further said that the matter was likely to be referred to the privilege committee. (With inputs from PTI)

Venkaiah Naidu sends privilege notice against Rahul Gandhi to Lok Sabha

Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu on Friday directed ministers to not use the term &#39;beg&#39; while tabling the listed official papers in the House.

Normally, the ministers say &quot;I beg to lay the papers ... listed against my name in today&#39;s order paper.&quot;

Naidu had on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-say-beg-we-are-a-free-nation-vice-president-venkaiah-naidu-to-ministers-26825">opening day of the Winter Session</a> of Parliament advised the ministers and members to shed the &quot;imperial mindset&quot; of using &quot;I beg to lay...&quot; the papers in the House.

He had said that instead they should say &quot;I rise to present the papers listed against my name...&quot;

However, today when Minister of State for Law and Justice P P Chaudhary used the term &quot;beg&quot; while laying papers, Naidu reminded him of the advise.

&quot;No begging please,&quot; Naidu told Chaudhary.

He said probably Chaudhary was not present when he had made the suggestion earlier and advised him to avoid using the word &quot;I beg&quot; while laying the papers.

&quot;Just rise to say you are laying papers,&quot; he told him and added &quot;it would be good if begging word is avoided.&quot;

No minister or member has used the word since Naidu&#39;s advise on December 15.

Chaudhary took the cue and did not use the word when he was called to lay a different set of papers shortly later.

During the paper tabling process, Naidu also chided members for speaking while seated.

He then went about conducting the Zero Hour as a strict headmaster reminding members not to deviate from their topics.

Mentioning an incident during Question Hour yesterday when B K Hariprasad of Congress used certain phrases, Naidu said he has decided to close the matter after the member met him this morning and said his remarks were made on the spur of the moment and he held the Chair in high esteem.

Incidentally, Hariprasad&#39;s remarks find no mention in the official record of the proceedings of yesterday.

Naidu had on the opening day of the Winter Session advised the ministers and members to shed the "imperial mindset" of using "I beg to lay..." the papers in the House.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu on Friday directed ministers to not use the term 'beg' while tabling the listed official papers in the House. Normally, the ministers say "I beg to lay the papers ... listed against my name in today's order paper." Naidu had on the opening day of the Winter Session of Parliament advised the ministers and members to shed the "imperial mindset" of using "I beg to lay..." the papers in the House. He had said that instead they should say "I rise to present the papers listed against my name..." However, today when Minister of State for Law and Justice P P Chaudhary used the term "beg" while laying papers, Naidu reminded him of the advise. "No begging please," Naidu told Chaudhary. He said probably Chaudhary was not present when he had made the suggestion earlier and advised him to avoid using the word "I beg" while laying the papers. "Just rise to say you are laying papers," he told him and added "it would be good if begging word is avoided." No minister or member has used the word since Naidu's advise on December 15. Chaudhary took the cue and did not use the word when he was called to lay a different set of papers shortly later. During the paper tabling process, Naidu also chided members for speaking while seated. He then went about conducting the Zero Hour as a strict headmaster reminding members not to deviate from their topics. Mentioning an incident during Question Hour yesterday when B K Hariprasad of Congress used certain phrases, Naidu said he has decided to close the matter after the member met him this morning and said his remarks were made on the spur of the moment and he held the Chair in high esteem. Incidentally, Hariprasad's remarks find no mention in the official record of the proceedings of yesterday.

'No begging please': Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu reminds ministers

Former prime minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/atal-bihari-vajpayee-turns-93-vice-president-naidu-pm-modi-wish-him-27630">Atal Bihari Vajpayee</a> turned 93 on Monday.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished him on his birthday.

&quot;His phenomenal as well as visionary leadership made India more developed and further raised our prestige at the world stage. I pray for his good health,&quot; Modi tweeted.

Wishing him on his birthday, Naidu posted a poem by Vajpayee which urged people to remain united and not to give up hope in tough times.

The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has decided to free 93 prisoners on the occasion of Vajpayee&#39;s birthday.

&quot;These prisoners have completed their tenure in jail but could not be released due to non-payment of fine imposed on them,&quot; Principal Secretary (Home) Arvind Kumar said in an order issued here.

Vajpayee was elected to Lok Sabha from Lucknow in 1991, 1996, 1998, 1999 and 2004. He is the first and the only non-Congress leader who completed his full term as prime minister.

Born in 1924, he entered politics during the Quit India movement in 1942. He was also the first external affairs minister to deliver a speech in the UN Assembly in Hindi.

&nbsp;

Vajpayee was elected to Lok Sabha from Lucknow in 1991, 1996, 1998, 1999 and 2004. He is the first and the only non- Congress leader who completed his full term as prime minister.

Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee turned 93 on Monday. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished him on his birthday. "His phenomenal as well as visionary leadership made India more developed and further raised our prestige at the world stage. I pray for his good health," Modi tweeted. Wishing him on his birthday, Naidu posted a poem by Vajpayee which urged people to remain united and not to give up hope in tough times. The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has decided to free 93 prisoners on the occasion of Vajpayee's birthday. "These prisoners have completed their tenure in jail but could not be released due to non-payment of fine imposed on them," Principal Secretary (Home) Arvind Kumar said in an order issued here. Vajpayee was elected to Lok Sabha from Lucknow in 1991, 1996, 1998, 1999 and 2004. He is the first and the only non-Congress leader who completed his full term as prime minister. Born in 1924, he entered politics during the Quit India movement in 1942. He was also the first external affairs minister to deliver a speech in the UN Assembly in Hindi.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee turns 93; Vice-President Naidu, PM Modi wish him

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu brought minor changes in the conduct of the Rajya Sabha on the first day on Friday after taking over as its Chairman, asking ministers and members not to use colonial terms while laying papers on the table.

Presiding over the Upper House proceedings on the opening day of the Winter Session of Parliament, Naidu said no one should use the word &quot;I beg to&quot; while laying papers on the table.

&quot;Just say I raise to lay on the table&quot; the listed papers, he said. &quot;No need to beg... this is independent India.&quot;

He made the observation after the ministers called to lay the listed papers on the table, began their sentences by saying &quot;I beg to lay on the table the papers listed against my name in today&#39;s revised list of business.&quot;

Naidu was however quick to clarify that this was only a suggestion and not an order.

This was not only the change that Naidu brought in on the first day as the presiding officer of the House. He also stood up while reading out obituary references.

His predecessors Hamid Ansari and Bhairon Singh Shekhawat used to read the obituary references while being seated.

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan too stands while reading out obituary references.

Naidu took over as the Vice President of India in August.

Vice President is also the presiding officer of the Rajya Sabha.

Presiding over the Upper House proceedings on the opening day of the Winter Session of Parliament, Naidu said no one should use the word "I beg to" while laying papers on the table.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu brought minor changes in the conduct of the Rajya Sabha on the first day on Friday after taking over as its Chairman, asking ministers and members not to use colonial terms while laying papers on the table. Presiding over the Upper House proceedings on the opening day of the Winter Session of Parliament, Naidu said no one should use the word "I beg to" while laying papers on the table. "Just say I raise to lay on the table" the listed papers, he said. "No need to beg... this is independent India." He made the observation after the ministers called to lay the listed papers on the table, began their sentences by saying "I beg to lay on the table the papers listed against my name in today's revised list of business." Naidu was however quick to clarify that this was only a suggestion and not an order. This was not only the change that Naidu brought in on the first day as the presiding officer of the House. He also stood up while reading out obituary references. His predecessors Hamid Ansari and Bhairon Singh Shekhawat used to read the obituary references while being seated. Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan too stands while reading out obituary references. Naidu took over as the Vice President of India in August. Vice President is also the presiding officer of the Rajya Sabha.

Don't say 'beg', we are a free nation: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu to ministers

Rebel JD(U) Members of Parliament (MPs) Sharad Yadav and Ali Anwar were disqualified from the Rajya Sabha on Monday night after the Rajya Sabha chairman Venkaiah Naidu agreed to the Janata Dal (United)&#39;s contention that the two senior leaders had &quot;voluntarily given up&quot; their membership by defying their party&#39;s directives and attending events of opposition parties.

Venkaiah Naidu in his communication said the two leaders ceased to be Rajya Sabha members with immediate effect.

The Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) had asked for Sharad Yadav and Ali Anwar to be disqualified for attending a rally of opposition parties led by the JD(U) in Patna in violation of its direction.

Sharad Yadav had crossed over into the camp of Rashtriya Janata Dal chief and former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav after JD(U) president and Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar dumped the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) of the Congress and the RJD the in Bihar and allied with the BJP.

Sharad Yadav was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year and his term was scheduled to end in 2022. Anwar Ali&#39;s term was to end early next year.

The former JD(U) president, who is at present in Gujarat to campaign against the BJP, is expected to respond to his disqualification today.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha chairman Venkaiah Naidu agreed to the Janata Dal (United)'s contention that the two senior leaders had 'voluntarily given up' their membership by defying their party's directives and attending events of opposition parties

Rebel JD(U) Members of Parliament (MPs) Sharad Yadav and Ali Anwar were disqualified from the Rajya Sabha on Monday night after the Rajya Sabha chairman Venkaiah Naidu agreed to the Janata Dal (United)'s contention that the two senior leaders had "voluntarily given up" their membership by defying their party's directives and attending events of opposition parties. Venkaiah Naidu in his communication said the two leaders ceased to be Rajya Sabha members with immediate effect. The Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) had asked for Sharad Yadav and Ali Anwar to be disqualified for attending a rally of opposition parties led by the JD(U) in Patna in violation of its direction. Sharad Yadav had crossed over into the camp of Rashtriya Janata Dal chief and former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav after JD(U) president and Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar dumped the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) of the Congress and the RJD the in Bihar and allied with the BJP. Sharad Yadav was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year and his term was scheduled to end in 2022. Anwar Ali's term was to end early next year. The former JD(U) president, who is at present in Gujarat to campaign against the BJP, is expected to respond to his disqualification today. (With inputs from PTI)

Sharad Yadav, Anwar Ali disqualified from Rajya Sabha

In the middle of the protests against the film &quot;Padmavati&quot;, comes Vice President Venkaiah Naidu statement that giving violent threats and announcing rewards for physical harm is not acceptable in a democracy.

The vice-president, who was speaking at a literary festival in New Delhi, referred to the bounty that was offered for killing the film&#39;s actors Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said one could not give violent threats and undermine the rule of law.

&quot;Whether these fellows have that much money or not, I doubt. Everyone is announcing Rs one crore reward. Is it so easy to have Rs one crore? (Also Read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/country-is-witnessing-hyper-nationalism-alarming-shabana-azmi-on-padmavati-row-25130"> Country is witnessing hyper-nationalism, alarming: Shabana Azmi on &#39;Padmavati&#39; row</a>)

&quot;This is not acceptable in a democracy. You have the right to protest in a democratic manner, go to the appropriate authorities...You cannot physically obstruct and can&#39;t give violent threats. Let us not undermine the rule of law,&quot; he said.&nbsp;(Also Read - <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-no-shooting-for-15-minutes-across-india-tomorrow-25112">&#39;Padmavati&#39; row: No shooting for 15 minutes across India tomorrow</a>)

&quot;You have no right to take laws into your own hands. At the same time, you don&#39;t have the right to hurt the sentiments of others&quot;, Venkaiah Naidu said.

Various fringe groups led by the Rajput Karni Sena, and states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have protested against the film&#39;s release alleging that it distorts historical facts.

Venkaiah Naidu stressed that he was not talking about a particular film but about films and art in general. He read out names of previously banned films like &quot;Garam Hawa&quot;, &quot;Kissa Kursi Ka&quot; and &quot;Aandhi&quot;.

The vice president said there was a new problem over some films where people feel that they have hurt the sentiments of some religions or communities and that has led to protests.

The vice president also warned against selective condemnation and said it was wrong to link it with religion.

He said there was a difference between religion and culture. While religion was a way of worship, culture was a way of life, he said.

On incidents of dissent, Naidu said while dissent was agreeable, disintegration is not.

He said these incidents, taking place in the country, need to be identified, isolated and dealt with firmly and that according to him was a &quot;challenge&quot;.

He said people have to live together irrespective of caste, creed sex, religion and added that India was one despite the differences.

&quot;This is India&#39;s speciality and we have to uphold this speciality in young minds through literature, caricature, cinema, through art...The central theme (of all these) should be the well-being of all,&quot; he said

&quot;You have to accept majority...Tolerance has to be there for the people&#39;s mandate.&quot;

(With inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

Amid the Padmavati row, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, at a literary festival warned against undermining the rule of law in the country

In the middle of the protests against the film "Padmavati", comes Vice President Venkaiah Naidu statement that giving violent threats and announcing rewards for physical harm is not acceptable in a democracy. The vice-president, who was speaking at a literary festival in New Delhi, referred to the bounty that was offered for killing the film's actors Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said one could not give violent threats and undermine the rule of law. "Whether these fellows have that much money or not, I doubt. Everyone is announcing Rs one crore reward. Is it so easy to have Rs one crore? (Also Read: Country is witnessing hyper-nationalism, alarming: Shabana Azmi on 'Padmavati' row) "This is not acceptable in a democracy. You have the right to protest in a democratic manner, go to the appropriate authorities...You cannot physically obstruct and can't give violent threats. Let us not undermine the rule of law," he said. (Also Read - 'Padmavati' row: No shooting for 15 minutes across India tomorrow) "You have no right to take laws into your own hands. At the same time, you don't have the right to hurt the sentiments of others", Venkaiah Naidu said. Various fringe groups led by the Rajput Karni Sena, and states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have protested against the film's release alleging that it distorts historical facts. Venkaiah Naidu stressed that he was not talking about a particular film but about films and art in general. He read out names of previously banned films like "Garam Hawa", "Kissa Kursi Ka" and "Aandhi". The vice president said there was a new problem over some films where people feel that they have hurt the sentiments of some religions or communities and that has led to protests. The vice president also warned against selective condemnation and said it was wrong to link it with religion. He said there was a difference between religion and culture. While religion was a way of worship, culture was a way of life, he said. On incidents of dissent, Naidu said while dissent was agreeable, disintegration is not. He said these incidents, taking place in the country, need to be identified, isolated and dealt with firmly and that according to him was a "challenge". He said people have to live together irrespective of caste, creed sex, religion and added that India was one despite the differences. "This is India's speciality and we have to uphold this speciality in young minds through literature, caricature, cinema, through art...The central theme (of all these) should be the well-being of all," he said "You have to accept majority...Tolerance has to be there for the people's mandate." (With inputs from PTI)

Violent threats not acceptable in democracy: Venkaiah Naidu on 'Padmavati' row

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/violent-threats-not-acceptable-in-democracy-venkaiah-naidu-on-padmavati-row-25098">Violent threats not acceptable in democracy: Venkaiah Naidu on &#39;Padmavati&#39; row</a>

In the middle of the protests against the film &quot;Padmavati&quot;, comes Vice President Venkaiah Naidu&#39;s statement that giving violent threats and announcing rewards for physical harm is not acceptable in a democracy.The vice president, who was speaking at a literary festival in New Delhi, referred to the bounty that was offered for killing the film&#39;s actors Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said one could not give violent threats and undermine the rule of law.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-dead-body-of-army-soldier-found-police-investigates-25086">Territorial-army jawan&#39;s bullet-ridden body found in Jammu and Kashmir village</a>

The bullet-ridden dead body of a 23-year-old Territorial-army jawan, Irfan Ahmad Dar, was found in a remote village of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday morning.&nbsp;

He was a resident of Saazan village and posted at Guruz. He was in engineering regiment of the Territorial Army.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/policeman-dead-over-100-injured-as-islamist-sit-in-paralyses-islamabad-25091">One dead, over 100 injured as Islamist sit-in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/policeman-dead-over-100-injured-as-islamist-sit-in-paralyses-islamabad-25091">paralyses</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/policeman-dead-over-100-injured-as-islamist-sit-in-paralyses-islamabad-25091"> Islamabad</a>

A policeman was killed and over 100 people wounded as Pakistani forces fired rubber bullets and lobbed tear gas in a bid to disperse an Islamist sit-in that has virtually paralysed the country&#39;s capital for weeks.

Smoke and tear gas filled the air as the roughly 8,500 elite police and paramilitary troops in riot gear were also seen throwing rocks and using slingshots in the ongoing bid to clear 2,000 or so hardline demonstrators which began soon after dawn.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/love-jihad-case-woman-says-she-wants-to-be-with-husband-25120">&#39;Love jihad&#39;: Nobody forced me to convert, says Hadiya</a>

Kerala woman Hadiya, who will depose before the Supreme Court on November 27 in an alleged case of &quot;love jihad&quot;, said on Saturday that nobody forced her to convert to Islam and that she wanted to be with her husband.

&quot;I am a Muslim. I want to go with my husband. Nobody forced me to convert,&quot; shouted Hadiya as she was whisked away by her parents and security personnel to board a flight to Delhi amid tight security.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-row-no-shooting-for-15-minutes-across-india-tomorrow-25112">&#39;Padmavati&#39; row: No shooting for 15 minutes across India tomorrow</a>

Hundreds of people from across the country, including filmmakers and workers, have announced a 16-minute blackout on Sunday to stand in solidarity with Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s controversial film &quot;Padmavati&quot;.

Violent threats not acceptable in democracy: Venkaiah Naidu on 'Padmavati' row In the middle of the protests against the film "Padmavati", comes Vice President Venkaiah Naidu's statement that giving violent threats and announcing rewards for physical harm is not acceptable in a democracy.The vice president, who was speaking at a literary festival in New Delhi, referred to the bounty that was offered for killing the film's actors Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said one could not give violent threats and undermine the rule of law. Territorial-army jawan's bullet-ridden body found in Jammu and Kashmir village The bullet-ridden dead body of a 23-year-old Territorial-army jawan, Irfan Ahmad Dar, was found in a remote village of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday morning. He was a resident of Saazan village and posted at Guruz. He was in engineering regiment of the Territorial Army. One dead, over 100 injured as Islamist sit-in paralyses Islamabad A policeman was killed and over 100 people wounded as Pakistani forces fired rubber bullets and lobbed tear gas in a bid to disperse an Islamist sit-in that has virtually paralysed the country's capital for weeks. Smoke and tear gas filled the air as the roughly 8,500 elite police and paramilitary troops in riot gear were also seen throwing rocks and using slingshots in the ongoing bid to clear 2,000 or so hardline demonstrators which began soon after dawn. 'Love jihad': Nobody forced me to convert, says Hadiya Kerala woman Hadiya, who will depose before the Supreme Court on November 27 in an alleged case of "love jihad", said on Saturday that nobody forced her to convert to Islam and that she wanted to be with her husband. "I am a Muslim. I want to go with my husband. Nobody forced me to convert," shouted Hadiya as she was whisked away by her parents and security personnel to board a flight to Delhi amid tight security. 'Padmavati' row: No shooting for 15 minutes across India tomorrow Hundreds of people from across the country, including filmmakers and workers, have announced a 16-minute blackout on Sunday to stand in solidarity with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's controversial film "Padmavati".

WION evening news brief, November 25, 2017

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday&nbsp;said Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was both the architect and unifier of modern India but his &quot;monumental contribution&quot; had not got proper recognition. 
 
Patel was a selfless leader who shaped India&#39;s destiny with single-minded devotion, the vice president said at an event to commemorate the 142nd birth anniversary of India&#39;s first home minister at the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library here. 
 
&quot;It is unfortunate that there has been no proper recognition of the monumental contribution made by Sardar Patel and his legacy in unifying the country at its most critical juncture in the history,&quot; he said. 
 
(Also Read --<a href="http://http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sardar-vallabhbhai-patel-should-have-been-first-recipient-of-bharat-ratna-amit-shah-23215">&nbsp;Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel should have been first recipient of Bharat Ratna: Amit Shah at Himachal election rally</a>) 
 
Sardar Patel&#39;s birth anniversary is being celebrated across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. 
 
&quot;Sardar Patel, the architect and unifier of modern India, was not only a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi but also his ardent follower. He fashioned the country&#39;s political integration with the swiftness of a military commander and deftness of a visionary leader,&quot; Naidu said. 
 
Patel displayed the vision of a statesman, the vice president said. 
 
His tact, diplomacy and pragmatic approach prevented the Balkanisation of the country and ensured the merger of more than 560 princely states with the Union of India at a critical and most turbulent period in the history of the country, Naidu said. 
 
&quot;What makes this stupendous integration most remarkable is that it was achieved without any bloodshed,&quot; he said. 
 
One of Patel&#39;s great contributions, he added, was the creation of the Indian Administrative Service, which was once a &#39;mission&#39; but had now become a &#39;commission&#39; for some. 
 
&quot;His vision for a unified India also saw the creation of the All India Administrative Service which he described as a steel frame. It was one of the great contributions he made to the country,&quot; the vice president said. 
 
Patel&#39;s exhortations to probationers to maintain &quot;utmost impartiality and incorruptibility in administration&quot; were as relevant today as they were then, Naidu said. 
 
&quot;Earlier it was a mission, now some people have turned it into a commission giving remission and committing many omissions.&quot; 
 
Naidu, who also inaugurated a two-day national conference and an exhibition on &#39;Making of a Gandhian Nationalist: Life and Times of Sardar Patel&#39;, in the presence of Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma, said agriculture had been completely ignored post independence, contrary to Patel?s belief that it was the &quot;basic culture of India&quot;. 
 
Agriculture and industry were like our eyes, both needing equal care, but the former had been treated unjustly, the vice president said. 
Food security is an important aspect in India, with a population of 130 crore, and agriculture cannot be ignored, he said. 
 
&quot;People are leaving agriculture... A doctor wants his son to be a doctor, a teacher wants his son to be a teacher, a businessman wants his son to be a businessman, an actor wants his son to be an actor, even when the face is not good enough, and then thrusting them upon us, but a farmer does not want his son to be a farmer. This is because agriculture is not remunerative,&quot; he said. 
 
In a bid to rectify the situation, the Modi government was focusing on agriculture. &quot;... By 2022, the aim of the government is to double the income of agriculturists.&quot; 
 
Patel, who was born on October 31, 1875, passed away on December 15, 1950. 
 
Naidu said the leader led a down to earth life and knew each and every problem of the country. He had clarity and was committed to unity, Naidu said. 
 
&quot;He needs to be remembered by every Indian as the country marches ahead as one of the largest economies in the world...&quot;

 
&nbsp;

Sardar Patel's birth anniversary is being celebrated across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was both the architect and unifier of modern India but his "monumental contribution" had not got proper recognition. Patel was a selfless leader who shaped India's destiny with single-minded devotion, the vice president said at an event to commemorate the 142nd birth anniversary of India's first home minister at the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library here. "It is unfortunate that there has been no proper recognition of the monumental contribution made by Sardar Patel and his legacy in unifying the country at its most critical juncture in the history," he said. (Also Read -- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel should have been first recipient of Bharat Ratna: Amit Shah at Himachal election rally) Sardar Patel's birth anniversary is being celebrated across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. "Sardar Patel, the architect and unifier of modern India, was not only a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi but also his ardent follower. He fashioned the country's political integration with the swiftness of a military commander and deftness of a visionary leader," Naidu said. Patel displayed the vision of a statesman, the vice president said. His tact, diplomacy and pragmatic approach prevented the Balkanisation of the country and ensured the merger of more than 560 princely states with the Union of India at a critical and most turbulent period in the history of the country, Naidu said. "What makes this stupendous integration most remarkable is that it was achieved without any bloodshed," he said. One of Patel's great contributions, he added, was the creation of the Indian Administrative Service, which was once a 'mission' but had now become a 'commission' for some. "His vision for a unified India also saw the creation of the All India Administrative Service which he described as a steel frame. It was one of the great contributions he made to the country," the vice president said. Patel's exhortations to probationers to maintain "utmost impartiality and incorruptibility in administration" were as relevant today as they were then, Naidu said. "Earlier it was a mission, now some people have turned it into a commission giving remission and committing many omissions." Naidu, who also inaugurated a two-day national conference and an exhibition on 'Making of a Gandhian Nationalist: Life and Times of Sardar Patel', in the presence of Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma, said agriculture had been completely ignored post independence, contrary to Patel?s belief that it was the "basic culture of India". Agriculture and industry were like our eyes, both needing equal care, but the former had been treated unjustly, the vice president said. Food security is an important aspect in India, with a population of 130 crore, and agriculture cannot be ignored, he said. "People are leaving agriculture... A doctor wants his son to be a doctor, a teacher wants his son to be a teacher, a businessman wants his son to be a businessman, an actor wants his son to be an actor, even when the face is not good enough, and then thrusting them upon us, but a farmer does not want his son to be a farmer. This is because agriculture is not remunerative," he said. In a bid to rectify the situation, the Modi government was focusing on agriculture. "... By 2022, the aim of the government is to double the income of agriculturists." Patel, who was born on October 31, 1875, passed away on December 15, 1950. Naidu said the leader led a down to earth life and knew each and every problem of the country. He had clarity and was committed to unity, Naidu said. "He needs to be remembered by every Indian as the country marches ahead as one of the largest economies in the world..."

No proper recognition of Sardar Patel's contribution in unifying the country: Venkaiah Naidu

Vice president Venkaiah Naidu on Friday waded into the debate on the state of the Indian economy.

The country, he said, will have to bear temporary pain for long-term gain.&nbsp;

Naidu added that the global economy has slowed down and even China is witnessing a slackening of its economy. But that, in the midst of all the chaos, India still remains a bright spot.

&quot;The temporary things... There will be some problem. Of course, you have to take the temporary pain for long-term gain. I am not getting into this arena. There are other people who are debating, using their skills, forgetting what they have done, what has to be done, what needs to be done,&quot; PTI reported Naidu as saying.

Naidu, who has served as urban development minister, added that there has to be a broader consensus as far as foreign and economic policies are concerned.&nbsp;

Naidu was speaking at a book launch -- Securing India the Modi Way -- in New Delhi.&nbsp;

There has been tremendous criticism of the handling of the Indian economy, which has contracted over six consecutive quarters, in recent days.&nbsp;

Most of that crtiticism&nbsp;has been directed at finance minister, with the blame for the &quot;shocks&quot;&nbsp;of demonetisation and GST also being laid at his feet.&nbsp;

'You have to take the temporary pain for long-term gain,' the vice president said

Vice president Venkaiah Naidu on Friday waded into the debate on the state of the Indian economy. The country, he said, will have to bear temporary pain for long-term gain. Naidu added that the global economy has slowed down and even China is witnessing a slackening of its economy. But that, in the midst of all the chaos, India still remains a bright spot. "The temporary things... There will be some problem. Of course, you have to take the temporary pain for long-term gain. I am not getting into this arena. There are other people who are debating, using their skills, forgetting what they have done, what has to be done, what needs to be done," PTI reported Naidu as saying. Naidu, who has served as urban development minister, added that there has to be a broader consensus as far as foreign and economic policies are concerned. Naidu was speaking at a book launch -- Securing India the Modi Way -- in New Delhi. There has been tremendous criticism of the handling of the Indian economy, which has contracted over six consecutive quarters, in recent days. Most of that crtiticism has been directed at finance minister, with the blame for the "shocks" of demonetisation and GST also being laid at his feet.

Venkaiah Naidu wades into debate on economy, says no gain without pain

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-updates-polling-begins-to-elect-indias-next-vice-president-18620">NDA candidate Venkaiah Naidu will be the next vice-president of India</a> after he beat Opposition nominee Gopalkrishna Gandhi by 516 to 244 of the votes.

Expected to win the election, the BJP leader from Andhra Pradesh garnered two-thirds of the&nbsp;760 valid votes.

&quot;As chairman of Rajya Sabha I will uphold dignity and decorum of the house with the cooperation of all members,&quot; the vice-president elect said shortly after his win.

&quot;I am very humbled. I am also thankful to the Prime Minister and all party leaders for their support,&quot; he added.

&quot;I will seek to utilise the vice presidential institution to strengthen the hands of the president and uphold the dignity of the Upper House.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-updates-polling-begins-to-elect-indias-next-vice-president-18620">Read: How&nbsp;Venkaiah Naidu won the vice-presidential elections</a>

On Twitter, he thanked &quot;every MP who supported my candidature&quot;, also promising to &quot;uphold the Constitution and the high standards set by my esteemed predecessors&quot;.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
With all humility, I express my gratitude to every MP who supported my candidature cutting across party lines.
&mdash; M Venkaiah Naidu (@MVenkaiahNaidu) <a href="https://twitter.com/MVenkaiahNaidu/status/893836722735161344">August 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
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I promise to uphold the Constitution and the high standards set by my esteemed 
predecessors.
&mdash; M Venkaiah Naidu (@MVenkaiahNaidu) <a href="https://twitter.com/MVenkaiahNaidu/status/893836838141534208">August 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his congratulations.&nbsp;

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Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/MVenkaiahNaidu">@MVenkaiahNaidu</a> Garu on being elected India&rsquo;s Vice President. My best wishes for a fruitful &amp; motivating tenure.
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/893830170951516161">August 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
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My mind is filled with memories of working with <a href="https://twitter.com/MVenkaiahNaidu">@MVenkaiahNaidu</a> Garu, in the Party &amp; Government. Will cherish this aspect of our association
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/893830693956063234">August 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
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I am confident <a href="https://twitter.com/MVenkaiahNaidu">@MVenkaiahNaidu</a> will serve the nation as a diligent &amp; dedicated Vice President, committed to the goal of nation building.
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/893834103577038848">August 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Gopalkrishna Gandhi congratulated Venkaiah Naidu after his win.

&quot;Congratulate Venkaiah Naidu Garu on his victory, wish him all the best for his new office,&quot; he said.

&quot;Thank those who voted for me; was expecting a handsome performance by united vote of opposition parties and I&#39;m more than satisfied&quot;.

Venkaiah Naidu, who was Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation and Urban Development in the Modi government before he contested the elections, opened an early lead during the counting of votes.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi extended her wishes and party&#39;s support to the vice-president elect, who will also automatically be the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha once he assumes office.

&quot;The position of vice-president has the crucial challenge of assuming a non-partisan role in running &#39;The House of Elders&#39; which acts as a storehouse of wisdom and sage advice for the government. The House of Elders is an important determinant of our democratic functioning to address appropriate checks and balances,&quot; she said in her message.

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said, &quot;Opposition will never compromise on ideology whether we face defeat or victory. Thank all those who voted against NDA&quot;.

Communist Party of India (Marxist) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury expressed satisfaction over the number of votes bagged by the opposition, calling the vice-presidential election was a &#39;political fight between two trends&#39;.

&nbsp;&quot;First of all I would like to congratulate Venkaiah Naidu as the new Vice President of India. We wish him well for his term. This was a political fight between two trends. Those who want to strengthen the Constitution, had come together to field Gopalkrishna Gandhi. We are grateful to him (Gandhi) for agreeing to be the candidate of a united opposition&quot;, he said.

Voting began at 10 am today. Counting of votes began at 6:00 pm and results were announced around 7:00 pm.&nbsp;

Fourteen MPs were absent during voting: 2 from BJP, 2 from INC, 2 from IUML, 4 from TMC, 1 from NCP; 1 from PMK and 2 Independents.

The Electoral College which elects the vice president consists of elected and nominated members of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.

The BJP has 281 members in the 545-member Lok Sabha. The NDA has 338 members. The BJP has 58 members in the 245-member Rajya Sabha, the Congress has 57, making the BJP the single-largest party.&nbsp;

Former Bengal Governor &nbsp;Gopalkrishna Gandhi had been picked by 18 opposition parties to be their nominee for the post of vice-president.

Incumbent Vice-President Hamid Ansari, who held the position for two consecutive terms, will demit office on August 10.

Once an Advani protege, Venkaiah Naidu vigorously backed Modi for the prime minister&#39;s post before the 2014 elections.

He was also the BJP national president for two consecutive terms from July 2002 to October 2004.

Naidu&#39;s victory means the top three constitutional offices are now held by BJP leaders following the election of the party&#39;s candidate Ram Nath Kovind as president earlier this month.

The former Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation and Urban Development beat Opposition nominee Gopalkrishna Gandhi by 516 to 244 votes

NDA candidate Venkaiah Naidu will be the next vice-president of India after he beat Opposition nominee Gopalkrishna Gandhi by 516 to 244 of the votes. Expected to win the election, the BJP leader from Andhra Pradesh garnered two-thirds of the 760 valid votes. "As chairman of Rajya Sabha I will uphold dignity and decorum of the house with the cooperation of all members," the vice-president elect said shortly after his win. "I am very humbled. I am also thankful to the Prime Minister and all party leaders for their support," he added. "I will seek to utilise the vice presidential institution to strengthen the hands of the president and uphold the dignity of the Upper House." Read: How Venkaiah Naidu won the vice-presidential elections On Twitter, he thanked "every MP who supported my candidature", also promising to "uphold the Constitution and the high standards set by my esteemed predecessors". With all humility, I express my gratitude to every MP who supported my candidature cutting across party lines. — M Venkaiah Naidu (@MVenkaiahNaidu) August 5, 2017 × I promise to uphold the Constitution and the high standards set by my esteemed predecessors. — M Venkaiah Naidu (@MVenkaiahNaidu) August 5, 2017 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his congratulations. Congratulations to @MVenkaiahNaidu Garu on being elected India’s Vice President. My best wishes for a fruitful & motivating tenure. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 5, 2017 × My mind is filled with memories of working with @MVenkaiahNaidu Garu, in the Party & Government. Will cherish this aspect of our association — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 5, 2017 × I am confident @MVenkaiahNaidu will serve the nation as a diligent & dedicated Vice President, committed to the goal of nation building. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 5, 2017 × Gopalkrishna Gandhi congratulated Venkaiah Naidu after his win. "Congratulate Venkaiah Naidu Garu on his victory, wish him all the best for his new office," he said. "Thank those who voted for me; was expecting a handsome performance by united vote of opposition parties and I'm more than satisfied". Venkaiah Naidu, who was Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation and Urban Development in the Modi government before he contested the elections, opened an early lead during the counting of votes. Congress President Sonia Gandhi extended her wishes and party's support to the vice-president elect, who will also automatically be the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha once he assumes office. "The position of vice-president has the crucial challenge of assuming a non-partisan role in running 'The House of Elders' which acts as a storehouse of wisdom and sage advice for the government. The House of Elders is an important determinant of our democratic functioning to address appropriate checks and balances," she said in her message. Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said, "Opposition will never compromise on ideology whether we face defeat or victory. Thank all those who voted against NDA". Communist Party of India (Marxist) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury expressed satisfaction over the number of votes bagged by the opposition, calling the vice-presidential election was a 'political fight between two trends'. "First of all I would like to congratulate Venkaiah Naidu as the new Vice President of India. We wish him well for his term. This was a political fight between two trends. Those who want to strengthen the Constitution, had come together to field Gopalkrishna Gandhi. We are grateful to him (Gandhi) for agreeing to be the candidate of a united opposition", he said. Voting began at 10 am today. Counting of votes began at 6:00 pm and results were announced around 7:00 pm. Fourteen MPs were absent during voting: 2 from BJP, 2 from INC, 2 from IUML, 4 from TMC, 1 from NCP; 1 from PMK and 2 Independents. The Electoral College which elects the vice president consists of elected and nominated members of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. The BJP has 281 members in the 545-member Lok Sabha. The NDA has 338 members. The BJP has 58 members in the 245-member Rajya Sabha, the Congress has 57, making the BJP the single-largest party. Former Bengal Governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi had been picked by 18 opposition parties to be their nominee for the post of vice-president. Incumbent Vice-President Hamid Ansari, who held the position for two consecutive terms, will demit office on August 10. Once an Advani protege, Venkaiah Naidu vigorously backed Modi for the prime minister's post before the 2014 elections. He was also the BJP national president for two consecutive terms from July 2002 to October 2004. Naidu's victory means the top three constitutional offices are now held by BJP leaders following the election of the party's candidate Ram Nath Kovind as president earlier this month.

Venkaiah Naidu elected India's next vice-president

Former union minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/venkaiah-naidu-files-nomination-for-vice-presidential-election-bids-adieu-to-bjp-18040">M Venkaiah Naidu</a> is set to take on former West Bengal governor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/opposition-names-gopalkrishna-gandhi-as-vice-prez-candidate-17818" target="_blank">Gopalkrishna Gandhi</a> for the post of vice-president of India today.

The winner of the polls will be appointed as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VicePresidentialElection?src=hash">#VicePresidentialElection</a>: PM Narendra Modi cast his vote. <a href="https://t.co/8x2hdRBKCI">pic.twitter.com/8x2hdRBKCI</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash">#Delhi</a>: NDA&#39;s Vice Presidential candidate Venkaiah Naidu reached Parliament to cast vote <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VicePresidentialElection?src=hash">#VicePresidentialElection</a> <a href="https://t.co/CeqGzi2zs3">pic.twitter.com/CeqGzi2zs3</a>
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The term of incumbent Vice-President Hamid Ansari, who held the position for two consecutive terms, will come to an end on August 10.

The voting began on Friday at 10 am and the result will be declared Saturday evening.

The Vice-President is selected through a secret ballot by the members of the Electoral College consisting of the members of both Houses of Parliament in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote. The nominated Members of Rajya Sabha as well as of Lok Sabha are also eligible to be included in the Electoral College and, therefore, are entitled to participate in the election.

Members of Parliament will use special pens for marking their choice. Votes marked with any other pen are liable to be rejected. The ballot paper shall contain the names of the contesting candidates, but does not contain any election symbol.

Unlike the President, the Vice-President is not allotted any special residential privileges while in office. While the President of India stays at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Vice-President is not subjected to any such benefits during his or her tenure.

The result is expected to be declared by Saturday evening

Former union minister M Venkaiah Naidu is set to take on former West Bengal governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi for the post of vice-president of India today. The winner of the polls will be appointed as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. #VicePresidentialElection: PM Narendra Modi cast his vote. pic.twitter.com/8x2hdRBKCI — ANI (@ANI_news) August 5, 2017 × #Delhi: NDA's Vice Presidential candidate Venkaiah Naidu reached Parliament to cast vote #VicePresidentialElection pic.twitter.com/CeqGzi2zs3 — ANI (@ANI_news) August 5, 2017 × The term of incumbent Vice-President Hamid Ansari, who held the position for two consecutive terms, will come to an end on August 10. The voting began on Friday at 10 am and the result will be declared Saturday evening. The Vice-President is selected through a secret ballot by the members of the Electoral College consisting of the members of both Houses of Parliament in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote. The nominated Members of Rajya Sabha as well as of Lok Sabha are also eligible to be included in the Electoral College and, therefore, are entitled to participate in the election. Members of Parliament will use special pens for marking their choice. Votes marked with any other pen are liable to be rejected. The ballot paper shall contain the names of the contesting candidates, but does not contain any election symbol. Unlike the President, the Vice-President is not allotted any special residential privileges while in office. While the President of India stays at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Vice-President is not subjected to any such benefits during his or her tenure.

Venkaiah Naidu vs Gopalkrishna Gandhi: Vice president election today

From pasting party posters to an epitome of political and ideological loyalty who rose to become one of BJP&#39;s most visible leaders and now India&#39;s vice- president elect, Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu has come a long way. 
 
Born to a humble agricultural family in Andhra Pradesh&#39;s Nellore district, the 68-year-old has served as BJP president, minister in various portfolios and a long-time Rajya Sabha member. 
 
This remarkable career in politics has been more than four decades in the making. 
 
It began in the 1970s when BJP&#39;s precursor Jana Sangh was a marginal player with little clout in the south and a young party worker kept himself busy putting up posters of stalwarts such as Atal Bihari Vajpayee and L K Advani. 
 
Naidu has come a long way since those days of political obscurity. 
 
&quot;Coming from an agricultural background, I never imagined I would be here. Agriculture has no proper voice in Indian polity,&quot; India&#39;s vice president-elect told PTI. 
 
&quot;I am very humbled. I am also thankful to the Prime Minister and all party leaders for their support. I will seek to utilise the vice presidential institution to strengthen the hands of the president and uphold the dignity of the Upper House,&quot; he added.

Naidu is known for his oratory. A two-term member of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, he was elected to the Rajya Sabha three times from Karnataka. He represented Rajasthan in the Upper House of Parliament before he was nominated to the vice president&#39;s post by the NDA.

Once an Advani protege, Naidu vigorously backed Modi for the prime minister&#39;s post before the 2014 elections.

He was minister for Information and Broadcasting and Housing and Urban Affairs in the Modi government and earlier also held the Parliamentary Affairs portfolio. 
In the previous NDA government led by Vajpayee, he had served as Rural Development Minister.

The veteran party leader also served as the BJP national president from July 2002 to October 2004 for two consecutive terms.

He quit the post after the party&#39;s defeat in the 2004 Lok Sabha elections.

Naidu was an ABVP activist during the Emergency and was arrested and jailed.

As the first minister of Parliamentary Affairs in the Modi government, Naidu defended the prime minister and the government whenever the opposition targeted them in Parliament.

He had also ensured high political outreach by meeting Congress chief Sonia Gandhi when there was a standoff between the government and the opposition in Parliament.

Several major legislations were cleared by Parliament when he was Parliamentary Affairs Minister, including the historic Real Estate Act and fast forwarding of the GST Bill.

Known for coining acronyms, Naidu termed the mission of the Modi Government as &#39;MODI- Making of Developed India&#39; which had become the official line of the Centre in its public outreach campaign on the occasion of three years of being in office.

As the minister for Information and Broadcasting, he was always quick to present issues in perspective with effective repartee as and when required.

As Minister of Urban Development and Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, which was recently merged as Housing and Urban Affairs, Naidu pioneered the launch of several new urban missions, including the Smart City Mission, Atal Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission and Housing for All.

As Rural Development Minister, Naidu was instrumental in launching the hugely popular &#39;Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana&#39;.

When the Congress swept the polls in Andhra Pradesh in 1978, Naidu got elected as MLA from Udayagiri constituency as a Janata Party candidate. 
He was re-elected on a BJP ticket when N T Rama Rao swept the polls in the state.

But all that has receded into the past.

&quot;There is no my party or your party. Now I am a non-party man,&quot; Naidu told reporters this morning as the election for the vice president got underway.&nbsp;

As a young party worker, Venkaiah Naidu kept himself busy putting up posters of stalwarts such as Atal Bihari Vajpayee and LK Advani

From pasting party posters to an epitome of political and ideological loyalty who rose to become one of BJP's most visible leaders and now India's vice- president elect, Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu has come a long way. Born to a humble agricultural family in Andhra Pradesh's Nellore district, the 68-year-old has served as BJP president, minister in various portfolios and a long-time Rajya Sabha member. This remarkable career in politics has been more than four decades in the making. It began in the 1970s when BJP's precursor Jana Sangh was a marginal player with little clout in the south and a young party worker kept himself busy putting up posters of stalwarts such as Atal Bihari Vajpayee and L K Advani. Naidu has come a long way since those days of political obscurity. "Coming from an agricultural background, I never imagined I would be here. Agriculture has no proper voice in Indian polity," India's vice president-elect told PTI. "I am very humbled. I am also thankful to the Prime Minister and all party leaders for their support. I will seek to utilise the vice presidential institution to strengthen the hands of the president and uphold the dignity of the Upper House," he added. Naidu is known for his oratory. A two-term member of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, he was elected to the Rajya Sabha three times from Karnataka. He represented Rajasthan in the Upper House of Parliament before he was nominated to the vice president's post by the NDA. Once an Advani protege, Naidu vigorously backed Modi for the prime minister's post before the 2014 elections. He was minister for Information and Broadcasting and Housing and Urban Affairs in the Modi government and earlier also held the Parliamentary Affairs portfolio. In the previous NDA government led by Vajpayee, he had served as Rural Development Minister. The veteran party leader also served as the BJP national president from July 2002 to October 2004 for two consecutive terms. He quit the post after the party's defeat in the 2004 Lok Sabha elections. Naidu was an ABVP activist during the Emergency and was arrested and jailed. As the first minister of Parliamentary Affairs in the Modi government, Naidu defended the prime minister and the government whenever the opposition targeted them in Parliament. He had also ensured high political outreach by meeting Congress chief Sonia Gandhi when there was a standoff between the government and the opposition in Parliament. Several major legislations were cleared by Parliament when he was Parliamentary Affairs Minister, including the historic Real Estate Act and fast forwarding of the GST Bill. Known for coining acronyms, Naidu termed the mission of the Modi Government as 'MODI- Making of Developed India' which had become the official line of the Centre in its public outreach campaign on the occasion of three years of being in office. As the minister for Information and Broadcasting, he was always quick to present issues in perspective with effective repartee as and when required. As Minister of Urban Development and Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, which was recently merged as Housing and Urban Affairs, Naidu pioneered the launch of several new urban missions, including the Smart City Mission, Atal Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission and Housing for All. As Rural Development Minister, Naidu was instrumental in launching the hugely popular 'Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana'. When the Congress swept the polls in Andhra Pradesh in 1978, Naidu got elected as MLA from Udayagiri constituency as a Janata Party candidate. He was re-elected on a BJP ticket when N T Rama Rao swept the polls in the state. But all that has receded into the past. "There is no my party or your party. Now I am a non-party man," Naidu told reporters this morning as the election for the vice president got underway.

Who is Venkaiah Naidu, India's next vice-president

Hitting out at Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, National Democratic Alliance (NDA) vice-presidential nominee M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday asked Islamabad to recall the 1971 war and said that aiding and abetting terror will not help them.

Addressing the &quot;Kargil Parakram Parade&quot; here, Naidu said terrorism is the enemy of humanity, it has no religion and it has unfortunately become Pakistan&#39;s state policy.

&quot;Our neighbour should understand that aiding and abetting terror will not help them, they should recall what happened in 1971 and should focus on their own country and maintain peace there.&nbsp;

Terrorism is the enemy of humanity, it has no religion. Pakistan is mixing terrorism with religion. It has unfortunately become Pakistan&#39;s state policy,&quot; he added.

He further said that Kashmir is an integral part of India and not an &quot;inch&quot; of it will be allowed to be taken.&quot;We are a peace loving people, we never attacked any country and this is our specialty. We don&#39;t want war, we don&#39;t want confrontation, we don&#39;t want violence we want to have peace, we also want to have good relation&nbsp;with the neighbours but they should also reciprocate the same. They should remember that Kashmir is an integral part of India and not an inch of even PoK will be allowed to be taken by anybody,&quot; the Union Minister said.

He also squarely blamed Pakistan for funding terrorism and influencing the situation in Kashmir.

&quot;Ours is a peace loving country. We never want war. But when this highly coveted peace is denied to us, our brave soldiers respond in a befitting manner..we are too strong to lose our focus to country&#39;s development and betterment of the country,&quot; he said.

The NDA nominee said that on this day we should recall the valor of our brave soldiers and their sacrifices which got us back the Kargil heights.The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 was a military confrontation between India and Pakistan that occurred during the liberation war in East Pakistan, from 3 December 1971 to the fall of Dacca (Dhaka) on 16 December 1971.

The 1971 war began with pre-emptive aerial strikes on 11 Indian air stations that led to the commencement of hostilities with Pakistan and India&nbsp;entering the war of independence in East Pakistan in support of Bengali nationalist forces. Lasting just 13 days, it is one of the shortest wars in history.

(ANI)

NDA's vice-presidential nominee M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday asked Islamabad to recall the 1971 war and said aiding and abetting terror will not help them

Hitting out at Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, National Democratic Alliance (NDA) vice-presidential nominee M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday asked Islamabad to recall the 1971 war and said that aiding and abetting terror will not help them. Addressing the "Kargil Parakram Parade" here, Naidu said terrorism is the enemy of humanity, it has no religion and it has unfortunately become Pakistan's state policy. "Our neighbour should understand that aiding and abetting terror will not help them, they should recall what happened in 1971 and should focus on their own country and maintain peace there. Terrorism is the enemy of humanity, it has no religion. Pakistan is mixing terrorism with religion. It has unfortunately become Pakistan's state policy," he added. He further said that Kashmir is an integral part of India and not an "inch" of it will be allowed to be taken."We are a peace loving people, we never attacked any country and this is our specialty. We don't want war, we don't want confrontation, we don't want violence we want to have peace, we also want to have good relation with the neighbours but they should also reciprocate the same. They should remember that Kashmir is an integral part of India and not an inch of even PoK will be allowed to be taken by anybody," the Union Minister said. He also squarely blamed Pakistan for funding terrorism and influencing the situation in Kashmir. "Ours is a peace loving country. We never want war. But when this highly coveted peace is denied to us, our brave soldiers respond in a befitting manner..we are too strong to lose our focus to country's development and betterment of the country," he said. The NDA nominee said that on this day we should recall the valor of our brave soldiers and their sacrifices which got us back the Kargil heights.The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 was a military confrontation between India and Pakistan that occurred during the liberation war in East Pakistan, from 3 December 1971 to the fall of Dacca (Dhaka) on 16 December 1971. The 1971 war began with pre-emptive aerial strikes on 11 Indian air stations that led to the commencement of hostilities with Pakistan and India entering the war of independence in East Pakistan in support of Bengali nationalist forces. Lasting just 13 days, it is one of the shortest wars in history. (ANI)

Not an inch of Kashmir will be ceded: Venkaiah Naidu warns Pakistan

National Democratic Alliance (NDA) vice-presidential nominee M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said his endeavour will be to further strengthen Parliamentary democratic system, which is India&#39;s strength and beauty.

Earlier in the day, Naidu filed his nomination for the upcoming vice-presidential election in the Parliament.

Being honoured to be a candidate for the vice-president of India, Naidu said he has been actively engaged in public life for over four decades.

&quot;On being elected I will uphold traditions, standards set by the worthy predecessors and maintain dignity of office,&quot; Naidu said.

&quot;Office of vice president is a different profile, has its functional norms. I hope I will be able to do justice,&quot; he added.

Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah, Naidu said he has always treated the party as his mother who brought him to this level, as he lost his own mother at a very young age.

An emotional Naidu said that destiny had stored something else for him, due to which he has to withdraw from the party.

&quot;I had told my colleagues that I want to see Prime Minister Modi come back again in 2019 and then I will call it off and join social service. But destiny decided otherwise. Finally after discussion, I have agreed. I have withdrawn myself from party, do not belong to BJP now,&quot; Naidu said.

Naidu will face Opposition candidate Gopalkrishna Gandhi in the race to become the next vice-president of India.

As prominent leader of the BJP, Naidu has also served as its national president from 2002 to 2004.

Both as a student leader and political figure, Naidu gained prominence as a brilliant orator, who vigorously championed the cause of the farmers and the development of backward areas.

His oratory skills and political activism propelled his political career and he was elected as an MLA to the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly twice from Udayagiri constituency in Nellore district in 1978 and 1983. He rose to become one of the most popular leaders of the BJP in Andhra Pradesh.

After having served in various organisational posts of the BJP at the state and national level, he was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka in 1998.

He has since been re-elected twice in 2004 and 2010 from Karnataka.

The Vice-Presidential election will be held on August 5.&nbsp;

Naidu will face Opposition candidate Gopalkrishna Gandhi in the race to become the next Vice-President of India

National Democratic Alliance (NDA) vice-presidential nominee M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said his endeavour will be to further strengthen Parliamentary democratic system, which is India's strength and beauty. Earlier in the day, Naidu filed his nomination for the upcoming vice-presidential election in the Parliament. Being honoured to be a candidate for the vice-president of India, Naidu said he has been actively engaged in public life for over four decades. "On being elected I will uphold traditions, standards set by the worthy predecessors and maintain dignity of office," Naidu said. "Office of vice president is a different profile, has its functional norms. I hope I will be able to do justice," he added. Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah, Naidu said he has always treated the party as his mother who brought him to this level, as he lost his own mother at a very young age. An emotional Naidu said that destiny had stored something else for him, due to which he has to withdraw from the party. "I had told my colleagues that I want to see Prime Minister Modi come back again in 2019 and then I will call it off and join social service. But destiny decided otherwise. Finally after discussion, I have agreed. I have withdrawn myself from party, do not belong to BJP now," Naidu said. Naidu will face Opposition candidate Gopalkrishna Gandhi in the race to become the next vice-president of India. As prominent leader of the BJP, Naidu has also served as its national president from 2002 to 2004. Both as a student leader and political figure, Naidu gained prominence as a brilliant orator, who vigorously championed the cause of the farmers and the development of backward areas. His oratory skills and political activism propelled his political career and he was elected as an MLA to the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly twice from Udayagiri constituency in Nellore district in 1978 and 1983. He rose to become one of the most popular leaders of the BJP in Andhra Pradesh. After having served in various organisational posts of the BJP at the state and national level, he was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka in 1998. He has since been re-elected twice in 2004 and 2010 from Karnataka. The Vice-Presidential election will be held on August 5.

Venkaiah Naidu files nomination for vice-presidential election, bids adieu to BJP

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