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SPECIAL: Mann ki baat@100

According to some studies, about 100 crore people have connected to the Mann Ki Baat at least once…reports Asian Lite News

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ created history with 100th episode on April 30. It is a unique form of communication between the Head of the State with public to share collective aspirations, wisdom and experience to find ways to solve the problems facing the country and bettering the lot of people, society and nation.

The programme had been initiated on October 3, 2014. Since then, the outreach and influence of the programme increased. The programme is broadcast in 22 Indian languages and 29 dialects and 11 foreign languages including French, Chinese, Indonesian, Tibetan, Burmese, Baluchi, Arabic, Pashtu, Persian, Dari and Swahili by more than 500 broadcast centres of the All India Radio.

It is time now to review the purpose and achievements of the programme. Some of the achievements are simply staggering. According to some studies, about 100 crore people have connected to the Mann Ki Baat at least once.

It is also one of the few exemplary programmes which is based on a conversation with people about their dreams, aspirations, setbacks and concerns and the possible way out. By talking about grass root change makers and successes and achievements of very ordinary people, Mann Ki Baat has also highlighted the importance of positive action and inspired many for the same.

The programme has upheld and furthered tradition of effective communication of the government head with “we the people”. The overbearance of the people of India during demonetization move and compliance of people in India to strict Covid norms and restrictions followed by their readiness to adopt vaccination are the outstanding examples of effectiveness of such communication.

Earlier, a former Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri’s Jai Jawan Jai Kisan slogan and a call for maintaining one time fasting to feed the famine affected compatriots in the late Nineteen Sixties was one such occasion in the living memory when people took the communication so seriously.

At an intellectual plain, it is important to analyse the myths about the Mann Ki Baat. Some people describe Mann Ki Baat as a platform and mechanism to publicize Prime Minister’s views and rhetoric and make his presence felt on certain frequencies among the people. It is seen more as part of electoral mobilisation and publicity of government’s programmes and achievements.

Practically viewed there is no problem in all these objectives of Mann Ki Baat, if such allegations are taken to be true as long as there are no ethical and constitutional issues. But if a little rational approach is taken, it is always desirable to have mechanisms for communication and conversation of leaders with the people. It could be seen as one of the finest ways to ensure this.

James A. Winans, one of the first modern speech teachers and an advocate for teaching communication in higher education, said there were “two motives for learning to speak. Increasing one’s chance to succeed and increasing one’s power to serve.” The Prime Minister of India is adept in both kinds of communication but Mann Ki Baat, falls in the second category.

Narendra Modi may not be a great orator, but he is a communicator par excellence. When he speaks, he connects with public to the level that they are not only convinced and stirred emotionally to work towards unleashing their own potentials but also inspired to become an agent of change and progress and give back to society and nation.

The beauty of Mann Ki Baat lies in the fact that before it is shared with public on various media platforms, it begins with an intrapersonal communication, a kind of internal vocalization or reflective thinking and talking to oneself. Intrapersonal communication helps build and maintain our self-concept.

We form an understanding of who we are based on how other people communicate with us and how we process that communication intrapersonally. This particular attribute differentiates the ordinary people from the extraordinary since ages and at list noticeably in two great Indians Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. The semblance of the same could be very well traced in the Mann Ki Baat.

The intrapersonal communication later becomes a public communication. Public communication, nevertheless, a sender-focused form of communication in which one person is typically responsible for conveying information to an audience.

But in Mann Ki Baat, it becomes truly public communication when the audience also participates in it through a mechanism. When the Prime Minister solicits suggestions before the episodes of Mann Ki Baat about what people think should be covered, the communication becomes two-way. Suggestions coming from the public are suitably included in the Mann Ki Baat.

It becomes a public communication also because the Prime Minster talks about many flagship programmes of welfare and provisions which could eliminate poverty, raise standard of living and improve security of the country, the things which matter too much to the people.

Sharing information is vital to win the trust of the people and it is this trust that converts power of the executive into authority. Power alone is not enough for authority, the leaders require credibility for authority. Mann Ki Baat as a platform of public communication has served the purpose.

Mann Ki Bat is more about the quality of ideas, arguments, and organization rather than the performance and delivery aspects of public speaking. The relevance of the theme and its national and human purpose has always remained more important in the programme than the importance of “oratory” or “elocution.” The softness of the Prime Minister in Mann Ki Baat spreads the feeling of sitting in front of a friend, philosopher and guide.

The expanse of the coverage is not borne out of academic excellence, but reflection, introspection and practical wisdom. Sometimes the coverage of issues are so wide and comprehensive that many wonder and left awe inspired how a busy state head like Prime Minister could engage so deeply and seriously with public and their concerns. It requires more of “emotional intelligence” than “intelligence quotient.” If Mann Ki Baat proves anything, it is that the Prime Minster of India is very rich in emotional intelligence.

Mann Ki Baat has promoted inclusivity. A study conducted by the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) found that 76% of the Indian media

persons believe that Mann Ki Baat has played a significant role in introducing the “Real Bharat” to the countrymen. According to the study, the programme has acquainted people with what is happening in other parts of the country and inspired them by referring to grass root level innovations and social initiatives.

With 100 episodes of Mann Ki Baat, Narendra Modi is falling into the pantheon of leaders who are known for using the medium of radio effectively for communication with people. Radio is an important means of communication with people world over, more particularly the US. The weekly address of the President of the United States is the weekly speech by the President of the nation. Franklin D. Roosevelt was the first US President to deliver such radio addresses.

Barack Obama used YouTube for regular video addresses as President-elect and since his inauguration the weekly addresses have continued on the White House website. It has long become customary for the President’s Weekly Radio Address to be followed by a response from the opposition party.

British war-years Prime Minister Churchill’s memorable radio broadcasts are viewed as the benchmark for Prime Ministerial broadcasting, which later politicians often sought to match. Today given the resounding success and popularity of Mann Ki Baat, many people now feel that a US like system of response from opposition about their alternative views could only add to promotion of such public communication and conversation.

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Modi urges youth to script a new Kerala

Kochi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves to supporters during a roadshow in Kochi, Kerala,on Monday, April 24, 2023. (Photo:IANS/Twitter)

“During my Mann Ki Baat radio programme I do get a lot of letters and in the upcoming 100th edition of it, I will again take up the issues of the youth,” said Modi…reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi while speaking to the youths who had turned up in huge numbers on Monday evening said the BJP will always be with the youth, while the traditional fronts have failed in their duty to lift the youth.

“Over the years a lot of opportunities for the youth in Kerala were lost due to the ideological difference of opinion between two traditional political fronts. While one party gave more importance to develop their party, the other political front gave more emphasis to one family and both of them failed the youths,” said Modi.

“We the BJP are trying hard to improve exports from here, but some here are engaged in gold smuggling and are letting the youth down,” said Modi.

He said this at the SH College ground while speaking to more than 20,000 youths waiting for him.

“The country is progressing rapidly and I want Kerala also to make use of it and be part of it. I want that you the youth should script a new history for Kerala and you should take the lead for it and I am ready to follow you,” said Modi to huge applause.

He then spoke about the huge potential that tourism offers to Kerala and asked the youth to make use of it.

“During my Mann Ki Baat radio programme I do get a lot of letters and in the upcoming 100th edition of it, I will again take up the issues of the youth,” said Modi.

Turning to political issues of how the BJP is being perceived, he told the youth that the country is getting divided in the name of caste, creed, religion and the youth should come forward against it.

“Be it in northeast or in Goa, some big communities have appreciated the BJP and in Kerala also there is scope for change in this respect,” added Modi.

Modi arrived at Kochi around 5 p.m. for a two-day trip to Kerala, dressed in typical local style and surprised many when he decided to walk a good part of the 1.8 kms as part of his roadshow.

While the original programme was that he will be in a vehicle, he surprised everyone when he decided to walk down the streets.

Thousands of people were waiting for long and they were taken aback when they saw Modi walking past waving to them.

As he walked the people showered flowers on him.

After walking for about 20 minutes he got into his vehicle but stood and greeted the people waiting on either side of the road and also on top of the buildings.

He reached the venue to a tumultuous welcome and greeted the people on the dais. The star of the moment appeared to be Anil Antony, son of the country’s longest serving Defence Minister A.K. Antony, who had joined the BJP earlier this month.

Seeing Anil, Modi stopped near him, patted him on his shoulder and exchanged pleasantries.

On Tuesday he will reach the state capital to flag off Kerala’s first Vande Bharat train and launch a slew of projects. Around noon he will fly to Surat.

ALSO READ-Khalistan: PM Modi presses West for strong action

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Khalistan: PM Modi presses West for strong action

PM Mod demanded comprehensive update on the concrete action taken by these foreign governments against the Khalistani elements before the G20 summit takes place..writes T Brajesh

Days after voicing concern over growing anti-India activities by pro-Khalistan extremists on foreign soil, during talks with various world leaders including the Prime Ministers of the UK and Australia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants to see strong, convincing and credible action by the foreign governments against these elements.

He is keen to see that governments in the UK, the United States, Canada and Australia have something “substantial, concrete and significant” to share with India in terms of action taken against the pro-Khalistan extremists.

PM Modi wants envoys and diplomats at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and top officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and also ministers to keep interacting with their counterparts in these countries as a follow-up exercise on the action taken against the Khalistani extremists, diplomatic sources told The Sunday Guardian.

“After all, the heads of these countries have promised PM Modi to take strong steps against the elements who were found involved in anti-India activities abroad,” sources added. “Ministers, diplomats and security officials have been asked to mount pressure on these foreign governments in this regard during different meetings in India and abroad,” sources aware of the meetings at South Block told The Sunday Guardian.

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval will also, in talks with his counterparts from the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and other countries, step up pressure for action against pro-Khalistan elements, sources added. Only a fortnight ago, NSA Doval discussed the heightened pro-Khalistan activity in the UK with Tim Ballow, who was on his way to Kerala to attend a G20 Sherpa meeting. “By the time the world leaders assemble here for the G20 Summit in September this year, there must be a comprehensive update on the concrete action taken by these foreign governments against the Khalistani elements.” This is the clear message from PM Modi, sources said.

London, Mar 20 (ANI): Khalistani elements attempting to pull down the Indian flag but the flag was rescued by the Indian security personnel at the High Commission of India, in London on Sunday. (ANI Photo)

In a telephonic conversation with UK PM Rishi Sunak recently, PM Modi called for strong action against “anti-India elements”. Sources say PM Modi raised the issue of the security of Indian diplomatic establishments in the UK. “When PM Modi invited Sunak for the G20 summit soon after raising this issue during the conversation, the PM in fact indicated that India would want to hear something on the action part before the summit takes place,” said informed diplomatic sources.

Bali, Nov 15 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with his United Kingdom counterpart Rishi Sunak on the first day of the 17th G20 Summit, in Bali on Tuesday. (ANI Photo)

Sunak conveyed to the PM that the UK considered the attack on the Indian High Commission in London by Khalistani elements to be “totally unacceptable” and assured the security of the Indian mission and its personnel. “But the time for rhetoric is over, there must be tough action now,” officials said, referring to “the instructions that have come from the top government leadership” here.

PM Modi was equally serious about action against Khalistanis during talks with Australian PM Anthony Albanese. PM Modi raised the issue of vandalism of Hindu temples in Australia by Khalistani extremists. Sources said that Australia has already launched a massive crackdown against Khalistani sympathisers.

According to sources, the Australian high commission has briefed the Indian government that three Khalistani supporters have been detained in Melbourne by the police there, and more are being rounded up on the basis of inputs provided by those in custody. The government system in New Zealand is also reportedly taking action on similar lines.

During his meetings and talks with counterparts in the US, Canada, the UK, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has been flagging the issue of anti-India activities by pro-Khalistan elements. Recently, he spoke on this issue with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Indian missions in London, British Columbia and San Francisco were vandalised by pro-Khalistan extremists following the police action against radical preacher Amritpal Singh in Punjab.

San Francisco, Mar 23 (ANI): Protesters waving Khalistan flags gathered outside the Indian Consulate amid heightened security, in San Francisco on Wednesday. (ANI Photo)

During talks with Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, two weeks ago, Jaishankar had put pressure on Ottawa seeking action against Khalistanis in Canada, terming the Khalistan issue as a national security concern for New Delhi.

The Canadian government is reported to have shared its action plan to be carried out against these elements in future. “However, India is waiting for reports on the actual action taken,” an official said.

In what is being viewed as part of the campaign to build pressure on foreign governments, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on 12 April called for action against Khalistani extremists for the attack on the Indian high commission in London. “Trade talks are underway but some credible action should be taken against the incident that happened in Britain,” said Goyal.

In another significant development that underlines the positive results of PM Modi’s diplomacy, a delegation of Sikh Americans told the visiting Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently that “the steps taken by PM Modi in the interest of the Sikh community, including their long-pending demands have resulted in the fizzling out of the separatist Khalistan movement”.

The delegation applauded the Modi government for being there for Sikhs and for implementing several demands for the Sikh community in the past nine years. It said that it is because of this, the Khalistan movement has fizzled out in the US. On this, diplomatic sources said, “The government here is waiting for a word from the Biden administration on the action taken in the US and on the over-all status.”

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is doing its part significantly in creating pressure on the UK and other countries to take action against the Khalistani extremists. MHA officials used the recently held India-UK Home Affairs Dialogue to discuss Khalistani activities in the UK and the protests and violent clashes at the Indian mission in London.

The dialogue, held in New Delhi, was led by Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla. The UK delegation was led by the Permanent Secretary Home Office, Sir Matthew Rycroft. The Indian officials asked their UK counterparts to keep a close eye on Khalistani activities in their country and take action against the accused accordingly. Sources said that UK officials were told that Khalistani activists were plotting terror activities to be carried out in India.

In a strong message to Britain, the Indian side conveyed its concerns over the misuse of UK asylum status by pro-Khalistan elements to aid and abet terrorist activities in India. New Delhi also assured better cooperation with London to enhance the monitoring of UK-based pro-Khalistan extremists.

ALSO READ: Khalistan leader Amritpal arrested After 36 days of chase

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India’s G20 Presidency will create a better planet, says Modi

Millet-based dishes have been included in the menu and various cultural performances and excursions have been organized…reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India’s G20 Presidency is guided by the principle of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ and in line with ”Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.’ PM Modi stated that India’s G20 Presidency has worked to “further global good and create a better planet.”

Taking to his official Twitter handle, he stated, “Guided by the principle of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ and in line with our ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, India’s G20 Presidency has worked to further global good and create a better planet.” His tweet came in response to G20 India’s tweet on the microblogging site. G20 India in a tweet said that India’s G20 Presidency has reached its 100th event with the meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists in Varanasi on Monday. Notably, India assumed the G20 Presidency on December 1, 2022 and will continue until November 30, 2023.

“India’s #G20 Presidency reaches its th event with Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists in #Varanasi today! Midway in its journey, #G20India is a mass movement that has provided unique experiences to 12000+ delegates & brought the world to every corner of India!,” G20 India tweeted.

In another tweet, G20 India noted that India through the G20 events demonstrates its cultural heritage and diversity, tourism potential, development and determination to the world.

G20 India tweeted, “Through events, India showcased its cultural heritage & diversity, tourism potential, development & determination to the world. #G20India in numbers: 41 Cities 28 States & UTs 12,000+ delegates 111 nationalities 7000 artists.”

India celebrated a key milestone in the G20 Presidency on Monday with the hosting of its 100th G20 meeting of Agriculture Chief Scientists (MACS) in Varanasi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in the press release. The MEA noted that in-person participation during India’s G20 Presidency is among the largest ever.

“In-person participation during India’s G20 Presidency is among the largest ever. Over 12,300 delegates, from over 110 nationalities have attended G20-related meetings so far. This includes participation from G20 members, 9 invitee countries and 14 international organizations,” the MEA said in the press release.

It further said, “As on date, the 100 G20 meetings have been held in 41 cities, covering 28 States and Union Territories. Meetings are being organized across the length and breadth of India with the full support and participation of State Governments and Union Territories.”

India during its G20 Presidency will be hosting foreign delegates for more than 200 G20-related meetings in around 60 cities across India, according to an MEA press release. All 13 Sherpa Track Working Groups, 8 Finance Track Workstreams, 11 Engagement Groups and 4 Initiatives have embarked on substantive interactions.

The MEA in the press release said, “A new Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), a new Engagement Group “Startup 20″ and a new Initiative Chief Science Advisers’ Roundtable (CSAR) have been operationalized in our G20 Presidency. The 11 Engagement Groups provide a platform for dialogue among the private sector, academia, civil society, youth and women, as well as institutions including the Parliaments, audit authorities and urban administrations.”

During its G20 Presidency, India is amplifying the voice and concerns of the Global South and developing nations. According to MEA, unique experiences demonstrating India’s diversity, inclusive traditions and cultural richness are an integral part of the visiting delegates’ programme. Millet-based dishes have been included in the menu and various cultural performances and excursions have been organized.

“Over 150 cultural events, with the participation of over 7,000 artists, showcasing local and national art forms, have been held. Many Jan Bhagidari activities are also being simultaneously held with active public participation in a whole-of-nation and whole-of-society approach, making India’s G20 Presidency a ‘People’s G20’,” the MEA said in the press release.

The MEA further said, “These include G20 University Connect lecture series, Model G20 meetings, Special G20 sessions in Schools/Universities, G20 Pavilions in major festivals, Quiz contests, Selfie competitions, #G20India stories, and hundreds of other G20-theme events by the civil society and private sector.” (ANI)

ALSO READ-India holds 100th G20 meeting under its presidency

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Modi dials Sunak seeks action against ‘anti-India elements’

While Modi invited Sunak for G20 Summit to be held in Sept 2023, Sunak appreciated the progress made under India’s Presidency of the G20 and reiterated the UK’s full support…reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with his UK counterpart Rishi Sunak in which they reviewed the progress on a number of bilateral issues as part of the India-UK Roadmap 2030 and agreed on the need for early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the recent high-level exchanges and growing cooperation, particularly in trade and economic sectors. PM Modi raised the issue of the security of Indian diplomatic establishments in the UK and called for strong action against anti-India elements by the UK Government.

Rishi Sunak conveyed that the UK considers the attack on Indian High Commission totally unacceptable and assured of the security of the Indian Mission and its personnel. Modi also raised the issue of economic offenders who have sought refuge in the UK. He sought progress on the return of these fugitives so that they can appear before the Indian judicial system, a PMO release said.

Modi invited PM Sunak for the G20 Summit to be held in September 2023. The UK Prime Minister appreciated the progress made under India’s Presidency of the G20 and reiterated the UK’s full support to India’s initiatives and their success. PM conveyed greetings to Sunak and the Indian community in the UK on the eve of Baisakhi. The two leaders agreed to remain in contact.

“Pleased to speak with UK PM Rishi Sunak. Extended Baisakhi greetings to him, and new year greetings to the vibrant Indian community in the UK. We reviewed progress on a number of issues to further strengthen India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including FTA,” PM Modi said in a tweet.

“We also agreed on the need to take strong action against anti-India elements and to ensure the security of Indian diplomatic establishments in the UK. We also discussed the issue of economic offenders,” he added. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had spoken on Free Trade Agreements during her visit to Washington and said that FTAs are being signed in a much “faster” way nowadays.

She said that India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations are “going on as we speak.” British Deputy High Commissioner Christina Scott had said that negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement between India and the United Kingdom are continuing and both countries are “determined” to work together. Earlier, the government conveyed its concerns on the misuse of the UK’s asylum status by pro-Khalistani elements to carry out terrorist activities in India while asking British authorities to increase “monitoring” and take “appropriate proactive” action during the fifth India-UK Home Affairs Dialogue (HAD) held in Delhi.

Union home secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla led the talks on India’s behalf while the UK delegation was led by permanent secretary, home office, Sir Matthew Rycroft, with senior officers of both countries present.
“During the meeting both sides reviewed the ongoing cooperation and identified further steps that can be taken to explore opportunities and synergies in advancing cooperation in counterterrorism, cyber security and global supply chains, drug trafficking, migration, extradition, anti-India activities in the UK including pro-Khalistan extremism, among other issues,” a statement issued by the ministry of home affairs (MHA) said.

“The Indian side specifically conveyed its concerns on the misuse of UK’s asylum status by pro-Khalistani elements to aid and abet terrorist activities in India and requested better cooperation with the UK and increased monitoring of UK-based pro-Khalistan extremists and take appropriate proactive action,” the MHA said. India’s concerns, the ministry added, over the breach of security at the Indian high commission were also emphasised.

UK-India trade has potential to double by 2030

Notwithstanding the impact of Russia’s war with Ukraine, the UK and India are heading towards an era of positive engagement in trade and business relations, with steps underway to promote mutual investments in both the nations, British Deputy High Commissioner in charge of Kerala and Karnataka Chandru Iyer said. Iyer who is also UK’s Deputy Trade Commissioner for South Asia said trade and investments between the UK and India and said there was potential to double the business by 2030. He was in the state to take part in various official engagements, including a meeting with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and also in connection with the port of call made by the British Royal Navy’s frigate ship, HMS Lancaster, at Kochi.

Emirati leadership has a vision for progress and development and a commitment to realise that vision. Any country that wants to progress can take a leaf out of its book: Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala

Calling war a global phenomenon that affects all countries in more ways than one, the British Deputy High Commissioner hailed entrepreneurs for being enterprising and resilient in the face of adversity. “If you look at the flow of business or the trade numbers between the UK and India for the period ending Q4 of last year, the number stood at 34 billion British pounds. For the same period ending the year before last, it was around 19 billion pounds. So it’s been a big jump in trade and business,” Iyer said.

ALSO READ-Zelenskyy writes to Modi, seeks additional medical aid

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Rahul Gandhi convicted by Surat court, gets Bail

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was held guilty by a court in Surat in a 2019 criminal defamation case filed against him over his alleged ‘Modi surname’ remarks…reports Asian Lite News

The Surat District Court on Thursday sentenced Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to two years’ imprisonment in a criminal defamation case filed against him over his alleged ‘Modi surname’ remark.
He was later granted bail by the court.

 “The court has suspended the punishment for 30 days and granted bail to Rahul Gandhi,” said an advocate at Surat district court.
Meanwhile, Union law minister Kiren Rijiju outside Parliament said, “I will see the details of the order before I say anything. Whatever Rahul Gandhi speaks it always affects the Congress party and the entire nation in a negative way. Some Congress MPs told me that because of his attitude, Congress is suffering.”

Earlier today, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was held guilty by a court in Surat in a 2019 criminal defamation case filed against him over his alleged ‘Modi surname’ remarks.

The Surat District Court pronounced the verdict in the case for his alleged “how come all the thieves have Modi as the common surname?” remarks on a complaint lodged by BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Purnesh Modi. Rahul Gandhi had made the alleged remarks about Modi’s surname at a rally in Karnataka’s Kolar, ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Last week, the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate HH Varma concluded hearing final arguments from both sides and set March 23 to pronounce its judgment in the four-year-old defamation case. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Rahul Gandhi urged to take over top party post

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Reducing regional divide key priority of G20, says Modi

Prime Minister says major strides by the Global South in bridging technological divide will be a focus issue for G20 under India’s presidency…reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that reducing the regional divide is one of the key priority areas for India during its G20 presidency.

Modi said this after inaugurating the new International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Area office and Innovation Centre in India at a programme in Vigyan Bhawan here.

The prime minister also unveiled the Bharat 6G Vision Document and launched the 6G R&D Test Bed. On the occasion, he also launched the ‘Call before u Dig’ App.

ITU is the United Nations’ specialised agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs).

“Today, when India is presiding over the G20, one of our priorities is to reduce the regional divide. Global South is making major strides in bridging the technological divide,” the prime minister said on the occasion, adding that the ITU Area office and Innovation Centre will also play a key role in this.

For India, telecom technology is not just a mode of power but a mission to empower. India rolled out 5G connections in more than 125 cities within 120 days and similarly India will set up 100 5G labs in the coming years, he informed the gathering.

“Within six months of 5G, we are already talking about 6G technology. This shows the confidence of India,” Modi quipped.

He went on to add that more than Rs 800 crore UPI-based digital payments are made in India every month and every day over seven crore e-authentications take place.

“More than Rs 28 lakh crore are directly transferred to citizens’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer,” he added.

Noting that India’s 5G standards are part of the global 5G systems, the prime minister said that India will also work closely with ITU for the standardisation of future technologies.

Modi underlined that the new Indian ITU Area office will also help in creating the right environment for 6G.

He announced that the World Telecommunications Standardisation Assembly of ITU will be held in October next year in Delhi where representatives from all over the world will visit India.

India signed a Host Country Agreement in March 2022 with ITU for the establishment of Area Office. It will serve India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Afghanistan and Iran, enhancing coordination among the nations and fostering mutually beneficial economic cooperation in the region.

Doreen-Bogdan Martin, Secretary General of ITU thanked PM Modi for helping develop the new ITU Office and innovation center in India, which marks a new chapter in the long history of India and ITU.

She expressed confidence that ITU’s presence in the region will help in the introduction of advanced technologies, improve capacity development and foster entrepreneurship and partnerships.

ALSO READ-G20 has been democratised, says Fadnavis

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 Kishida announces over $75 bn assistance for Indo-Pacific 

“In September this year, I will again get the opportunity to welcome PM Fumio Kishida to India for the G20 Leaders’ Summit,” Modi said…reports Asian Lite News

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Monday announced over USD 75 billion worth of infrastructure and security assistance for the Indo-Pacific during his visit to India.

The new development assistance, to be supplied by 2030 in conjunction with the private sector, came as Kishida outlined his own vision for a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” He credited his late predecessor Shinzo Abe with pushing the concept back in 2016.

Since then, Kishida said, the international community has seen major events that could be described as paradigm shifts, including the COVID pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This obliges “us to face the most fundamental challenge — defending peace,” the Japanese leader said.

Kishida’s two-day visit to India comes against a backdrop of not only war in Europe but also concerns about growing Chinese influence across the Indo-Pacific region. This has included major infrastructure investment under Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative, fueling development but also raising concerns about unsustainable debt in Global South nations such as Sri Lanka, according to Nikkei Asia.

The Japanese Prime Minister has called for advancing “quality infrastructure investment,” in line with the goals of the Group of 20, chaired by India this year. The PM has as part of the proposed aid, also offered free security assistance to the armed forces of like-minded nations.

But he also warned against unchecked “division and confrontation.”

“In the international community, a big balance of power change is occurring,” he said in his speech, which was delivered in Japanese. The idea of a free and open Indo-Pacific, he stressed, is rooted in the rule of law as well as respect for diversity, inclusiveness and openness. “In other words, we do not exclude anyone, we do not create camps.”

Kishida added, “I believe we should aim for a world where diverse nations coexist and prosper together under the rule of law without falling into the geopolitical competition.” Saying his vision required the cooperation of multiple stakeholders, he said, “Of course, India is indispensable.”

PM Modi, his Japan counterpart Kishida on Monday exchanged views on defence equipment and technology cooperation, trade, health, digital partnership and also had a fruitful discussion on importance of reliable supply chains in semiconductor and other critical technologies.

The two leaders had “excellent talks” during Kishida’s visit to New Delhi with PM Modi stating that strengthening bilateral partnership is not only important for both our countries, it also promotes peace, prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (ANI)

ALSO READ-PM Modi holds talks Kishida

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PM Modi holds talks Kishida

During the talks, both leaders vowed to expand the India-Japan global strategic partnership…reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart, Fumio Kishida on Monday held wide-ranging bilateral discussions.

The talks between the two leaders were held here after Kishida arrived in India this morning on a two-day official visit.

He also extended an invitation to Modi to attend the G7 leaders’ summit, which is to be held in May this year in Hiroshima.

The invitation has been accepted by the prime minister.

During the talks, both leaders vowed to expand the India-Japan global strategic partnership, stressing that it is important for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Addressing the media after the bilateral talks, Modi referred to India’s presidency of the G20 and Japan chairing the G7 grouping, and said it is the best opportunity to work together on priorities of both sides for global good.

“Today, I told PM Kishida in detail about the priorities of our G20 presidency. An important foundation of our G20 presidency is to voice the priorities of the Global South. A culture that believes in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, believes in going ahead by bringing everyone together,” Modi said.

He also thanked Kishida for inviting him to the G7 leaders’ summit.

“In September this year, I will again get the opportunity to welcome PM Fumio Kishida to India for the G20 Leaders’ Summit,” Modi said.

Welcoming his Japanese counterpart to India, the prime minister said, “In the last one year, PM Fumio Kishida and I have met several times and every time I’ve felt his positivity and commitment to the India-Japan bilateral relationship. His today’s visit will be beneficial to maintain this momentum.”

Adding further, Modi said, “That is why we have taken this initiative. The India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership is based on our mutual democratic values and respect for rule of law on international platforms.”

Kishida unveiled “on Indian soil” his plan “for a free and open Indo-Pacific”. The exact details of what his vision of a free Indo-Pacific would entail though, are yet to be known.

“Our economic cooperation with India, which continues to grow rapidly, will not only support the further development of India but also create significant economic opportunities for Japan. In this regard, we welcome that steady progress is being made towards realising 5 trillion yen of public and private investment in financing from Japan to India in five years,” the Japanese prime minister said after the bilateral discussions.

“We will continue to work on decarbonisation and energy. 2023 will be the year of the Japan-India tourism exchange to promote our exchanges through tourism. I welcome the renewal of our MoC on Japanese language education,” he added.

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Ukrainian lawmaker quotes Modi’s “not an era of war” remark

This remark came as the Russia-Ukraine war is soon to complete one year and still, both countries are facing tremendous problems…reports Asian Lite News

Ukrainian Member of Parliament Vadym Halaichuk quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks, “This is not an era of war,” regarding the Russia-Ukraine war.

Earlier, on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Samarkand on September 16, PM Modi said “today’s era isn’t of war” while emphasising the need to find ways to address the problems of food, fuel security and fertilizers.

“We are grateful to the phrase of PM Modi ‘This is not an era of war’. Given the weight and capabilities of India economically, politically and militarily, we are absolutely sure that Russia would have to listen to that message,” Halaichuk said.

“Unfortunately, they (Russians) didn’t show any understanding, so we hope that message will be repeated that it becomes obvious to Russians that they don’t have any support to continue the war,” he added.

This remark came as the Russia-Ukraine war is soon to complete one year and still, both countries are facing tremendous problems.

Halaichuk recalled the February 24, 2022 time when Russia launched its special military operation in Ukraine and said that when he woke up on that day, the bombs started falling all over the country.

Bombs were dropped on civilian infrastructure as Russia believed it to scare everybody in Ukraine and beat the civilians but that wasn’t achieved, he said adding, “Ukraine is stronger now.”

“With the help of the international community, we’ve to fight the aggressor. We don’t believe Russia has shown any seriousness in ceasing the attack. No negotiations right now about ceasefire as we don’t see any desire on the Russian part for serious negotiation,” a Ukrainian MP said.

Referring to the Russian President’s recent speech in Moscow’s federal assembly, Halaichuk said that Putin’s recent speech demonstrated that Kremlin doesn’t have any intentions to de-escalate and start negotiations and it is threatening the world with Russia abandoning the nuclear arms restriction which is a wrong way to respond to what’s going on.

Meanwhile on Monday, in Ukraine, Head of the Office of the Ukrainian President Andriy Yermak, and National Security Advisor to the Indian Prime Minister Ajit Kumar Doval discussed the Ukrainian Peace Plan, a ten-point Peace Formula that provides comprehensive answers to the question of what needs to be done to end the war in a sustainable and just manner.

According to Yermak, Ukraine continues to fight on the battlefield, but at the same time has proposed a peace plan. The draft resolution on support for the principles of the UN Charter, which form the basis of the Ukrainian Peace Formula, will be considered by the UN General Assembly on February 23, according to the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s official website. (ANI)

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