Name: Independence Day: PM Modi announces new Vishwakarma Yojana - watch what it is
Uploaded: 2023-08-15T08:24:09.000+05:30
Duration: T00M58S
Channel: Editorji News Desk
Description: Modi said that that the scheme would be launched on Vishwakarma Jayanti with a corpus of ₹13-15,000 crore.

The Aam Aadmi Party organised a Vijay Vishwas Sabha in Jamnagar where Arvind Kejriwal criticised the BJP’s governance in Gujarat, highlighted Punjab model initiatives, and urged voters to support AAP in upcoming local body elections.

AAP holds Vijay Vishwas Sabha in Jamnagar, targets BJP over governance in Gujarat

The Aam Aadmi Party organised a Vijay Vishwas Sabha in Jamnagar where Arvind Kejriwal criticised the BJP&rsquo;s governance in Gujarat, highlighted Punjab model initiatives, and urged voters to support AAP in upcoming local body elections.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday organised a &lsquo;Vijay Vishwas Sabha&rsquo; in Jamnagar, which was attended by senior leaders including Arvind Kejriwal, Bhagwant Mann, Gujarat in-charge Gopal Rai, co-incharges Durgesh Pathak and Gulab Singh Yadav, state president Isudan Gadhvi, and several MLAs and party office bearers.&nbsp;
According to the party, the gathering saw participation from various sections of society, including farmers, labourers, youth and women.
Addressing the gathering, Kejriwal launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the party&rsquo;s three-decade rule in Gujarat has led to corruption and deterioration in public services such as education, healthcare and infrastructure.&nbsp;
He claimed that roads and bridges in the state are poorly maintained and alleged that corruption is widespread in government departments. He further alleged that both BJP and Congress are working together politically, a claim that has been denied by both parties in the past.
Kejriwal said he had come to Gujarat to speak about the future of the state and urged party workers to take four key points to every village. Drawing comparisons with Punjab, he said that before 2022, the state had witnessed alternating governments led by Congress, BJP and the Akali alliance, but voters gave AAP a decisive mandate. He claimed that the AAP government in Punjab has since implemented several measures aimed at farmers and the general public.
On agriculture, Kejriwal said that farmers in Punjab are now receiving eight hours of electricity during the day for irrigation, compared to earlier supply patterns, and claimed that payments for crops are made on the same day. He also said that electricity for farmers has been made free in Punjab and that irrigation coverage has increased significantly. Referring to Gujarat, he alleged that farmers face issues such as delayed payments for crops, night-time electricity supply, and inadequate irrigation facilities, particularly in regions like Saurashtra where water scarcity remains a concern.
On healthcare, Kejriwal criticised the condition of government hospitals in Gujarat, alleging lack of infrastructure, staff shortages and poor service delivery. He said that in Punjab, the AAP government has introduced a health insurance scheme providing coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family, including treatment in private hospitals, and suggested that similar policies could be introduced in Gujarat.
Speaking on electricity, Kejriwal claimed that while power tariffs in Gujarat are high, Punjab residents are benefiting from free electricity for households. He argued that such measures are aimed at reducing the financial burden on common people and questioned criticism from opposition parties regarding the viability of such schemes.
On financial assistance to women, he said that the Punjab government has announced a monthly payment of ₹1,000 for women and stated that such initiatives could also be implemented in Gujarat if AAP comes to power. He urged voters to support the party in upcoming local body elections, including district and taluka panchayats, municipalities and municipal corporations.
Bhagwant Mann, addressing the सभा, also criticised the long-standing rule of a single party in Gujarat and alleged that political alternatives have not been effectively presented in the past. He referred to irrigation and procurement policies in Punjab, claiming improvements under the AAP government, and contrasted them with issues faced by farmers in Gujarat. Mann also referred to the farmers&rsquo; protests in Delhi and raised concerns regarding minimum support price (MSP), stating that farmers&rsquo; demands have not been adequately addressed.
AAP&rsquo;s Gujarat state president Isudan Gadhvi spoke about challenges faced by farmers, including issues related to irrigation, pricing and access to resources. He said that farming has become increasingly difficult and claimed that many farmers are struggling due to debt and lack of institutional support. He also spoke about social perceptions around farming and urged farmers to unite across communities.
MLA Gopal Italia criticised the current governance model in the state, alleging that it benefits a limited section of society. He referred to compensation measures in Punjab for farmers affected by natural disasters and said that such steps reflect a different approach to governance. He appealed to voters to support change and give opportunities to new leadership.
MLA Hemant Khava raised concerns related to rural development, alleging that villages and backward regions have not received adequate attention in terms of budget allocation and infrastructure. He highlighted issues such as lack of drinking water, irrigation facilities, healthcare services and education infrastructure in rural areas. He also referred to pending administrative work such as land measurement applications and raised concerns about the situation of tribal and Maldhari communities in regions like Gir, Barda and Alech, stating that basic amenities remain inadequate.
AAP leader Pravin Ram, while addressing the gathering, spoke about issues faced by farmers and common people, including access to water, crop assistance and administrative services. He also extended greetings on the occasion of Ram Navami and described the day as symbolic of the victory of righteousness. He reiterated the party&rsquo;s appeal to voters to support AAP candidates in upcoming local elections.
The event comes ahead of local body elections in Gujarat, with AAP intensifying its outreach efforts in the state. The BJP has consistently maintained that Gujarat has witnessed significant development across sectors during its tenure, while Congress has also rejected allegations of any political understanding with the ruling party.

Violence broke out between BJP and TMC supporters during an election campaign in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas, leaving several injured, including a police officer, with eight detained.

BJP, TMC supporters clash in Bengal's South 24 Parganas; police personnel attacked

Violence broke out between BJP and TMC supporters during an election campaign in West Bengal&rsquo;s South 24 Parganas, leaving several injured, including a police officer, with eight detained.

Clashes broke out between BJP and TMC supporters during an election campaign by a saffron party candidate in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district, with several police personnel also coming under attack while trying to control the situation.
Eight people were detained in connection with the incident as raids were continuing in the area, an official said.
While both sides accused each other of being responsible for the clash, Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal sought a report about it from the police.
A sub-inspector-ranked police officer and three-four political party workers were beaten up during the clash as lathi-wielding men were seen chasing them on the busy road in Basanti Bazar area.
Sub-inspector Sourav Guha received a head injury and had several stitches, the official said.
Trouble began when BJP candidate from Basanti (SC) seat Bikash Sardar was campaigning in the area for the assembly polls to be held in the constituency on April 29, the second and final phase, the official said.
Tension flared after BJP workers allegedly objected to the video recording of the campaign by TMC supporters who had assembled by the roadside, and a heated argument soon escalated into a physical confrontation, the official said.
"As police intervened to disperse the crowd and restore order, the situation turned worse, and some personnel including the SI were attacked," the official said.
He said eight people were detained but did not specify their political identity.
Sardar claimed, "TMC goons carried out an unprovoked attack on our workers when we were peacefully campaigning in the area. Police were inactive."
Taking a serious view of the incident, Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal asked for a report from the police top brass and wanted to know whether central forces were already in place when trouble began in the area.
BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya said the brazen attack on his party workers showed how the ruling TMC has crushed all democratic principles in West Bengal and unleashed a reign of fear and terror to crush political dissent.
"We call upon the EC to take a serious note of the incident. TMC should know they cannot get away with all these," Bhattacharya said.
TMC leaders, however, accused the BJP of instigating the violence.
"The situation is now under control, and further investigation is underway," the officer added.

Two people, including an Indian national, were killed and three injured in Abu Dhabi after missile debris fell following UAE air defence interceptions amid ongoing Iran-linked attacks.

Indian among two killed in UAE by debris of intercepted missiles, reports say

Two people, including an Indian national, were killed and three injured in Abu Dhabi after missile debris fell following UAE air defence interceptions amid ongoing Iran-linked attacks.

At least two persons, including an Indian, were killed and three others injured on Thursday when debris of missiles intercepted by the UAE's air defence system fell on a street in Abu Dhabi, local media reported.
The second person killed in the incident is a Pakistani national, while the three injured also include an Indian, Abu Dhabi Media Office reported.
UAE's air defences are responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran at regular intervals, according to the Ministry of Defence of the United Arab Emirates.
&ldquo;Abu Dhabi authorities have responded to an incident involving falling debris in Sweihan street, following the successful interception of a ballistic missile by air defence systems,&rdquo; Abu Dhabi Media Office posted on social media.
&ldquo;The incident has resulted in the deaths of two individuals of Pakistani and Indian nationality, and in injuries ranging from serious to moderate sustained by three individuals of Emirati, Jordanian and Indian nationality,&rdquo; it added.
The total number of deaths has risen to 11 after the latest incident in Abu Dhabi, Gulf News reported.
The UAE air defences systems on 26th March 2026 engaged 15 ballistic missiles and 11 UAVs launched from Iran, the Ministry of Defence said in a social media post on Thursday.
Since the start of the blatant Iranian attacks, UAE air defences have engaged 372 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,826 UAVs, it added.
&ldquo;The attacks resulted in the martyrdom of 2 members of the armed forces while performing their national duty, in addition to the martyrdom of a Moroccan civilian contracted by the Armed Forces, as well as 8 fatalities of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian and Indian nationalities,&rdquo; it said.
A total of 169 people were also injured, with injuries ranging from minor to moderate and severe.
The injured included nationals of the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, T&uuml;rkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden and Tunisia.
The Ministry of Defence said that it remains fully prepared and ready to deal with any threats and will firmly confront anything that aims to undermine the security of the country, in a manner that ensures the protection of its sovereignty, security and stability and safeguards its interests and national capabilities.

AAP leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann, addressed a rally in Amreli, raising governance issues and outlining their agenda ahead of upcoming local elections in Gujarat.

AAP holds Vijay Vishwas Sabha in Gujarat ahead of local polls

AAP leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann, addressed a rally in Amreli, raising governance issues and outlining their agenda ahead of upcoming local elections in Gujarat.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) held a &lsquo;Vijay Vishwas Sabha&rsquo; in Amreli, Gujarat on Wednesday, where senior leaders, including National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, addressed a gathering ahead of the upcoming local body elections in the state.&nbsp;
Several party leaders, including Gopal Rai, Isudan Gadhvi and Gopal Italia, were also present. The party said the event saw participation from farmers, labourers, youth and women from across the region.
Addressing the rally, Arvind Kejriwal referred to the cultural and religious importance of the Saurashtra region and said he had come to seek public support. He raised questions over the performance of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Gujarat, alleging issues related to infrastructure, governance and corruption. He cited incidents such as bridge collapses and road conditions, and claimed that some farmers had not received compensation announced by the government. He also alleged that people face difficulties in accessing basic services without paying bribes.
Kejriwal urged voters to consider an alternative, stating that people should vote for themselves and support a government that prioritises public welfare. He also referred to governance initiatives in Punjab, including free electricity for farmers, improved irrigation coverage and health insurance schemes, suggesting that similar measures could be implemented in Gujarat.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also addressed the gathering and spoke about welfare measures introduced in his state, including financial assistance for women and healthcare benefits. He criticised both the BJP and the Congress, alleging that key public issues have remained unresolved over the years, and urged voters to focus on development-related concerns.
During the event, state leaders highlighted local issues. Isudan Gadhvi raised concerns regarding minimum support price (MSP) procurement and alleged inconsistencies in crop purchases, particularly groundnut. Gopal Italia spoke about administrative challenges faced by citizens, including delays in basic services and lack of infrastructure in rural areas, while also referring to issues such as crop insurance and farmers&rsquo; access to facilities. Manoj Sorathiya highlighted concerns related to unemployment, women&rsquo;s safety and governance, and called for greater public participation in the electoral process.
AAP leaders described the upcoming taluka and district panchayat elections as significant for the party&rsquo;s growth in Gujarat and appealed to voters to support its candidates. The rally forms part of AAP&rsquo;s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in the state, where the BJP has been in power for several years, while the Congress continues to be the principal opposition.

The Reserve Bank of India’s March bulletin highlighted the need for close monitoring of the West Asia conflict due to India’s crude oil dependence, noting robust reserves, economic resilience, energy diversification, and policy measures.

India needs to take proactive steps limit impact of West Asia crisis, says RBI bulletin

The Reserve Bank of India&rsquo;s March bulletin highlighted the need for close monitoring of the West Asia conflict due to India&rsquo;s crude oil dependence, noting robust reserves, economic resilience, energy diversification, and policy measures.

India needs to closely monitor the evolving situation in West Asia and take proactive measures to limit the impact of spillovers, as the country is dependent on crude oil imports, the Reserve Bank's bulletin said on Monday.
The March bulletin, however, noted that India&rsquo;s foreign exchange reserves remain adequate to provide a cushion against external shocks, and the creation of an Economic Stabilisation Fund would further provide fiscal headroom and buffer to proactively respond to global headwinds.
An article on the state of the economy published in the March bulletin stated that the conflict in the Middle East and fresh trade investigations by the US have resulted in increased volatility in the global markets, it said.
The renewed conflict in the Middle East and the US investigations into trade practices of key trading partners have brought uncertainties regarding global energy security, US import tariffs, and global supply chains back to the centre stage, it said.
The article cautioned that a prolonged period of war and high uncertainty would be detrimental to the broader global outlook, which was already in a state of flux prior to the recent events.
"...given India&rsquo;s external dependence on crude oil, the evolving situation requires close monitoring and proactive measures to limit adverse spillovers," the article said.
It, however, added that the capacity and resilience of the Indian economy to absorb external shocks have strengthened over time, buttressed by its strong growth, sound macroeconomic fundamentals, and robust external sector buffers.
In terms of energy security, India has progressively diversified its crude oil import sources and augmented its domestic refining capacity.
Since the start of the conflict, several policy measures have been implemented to blunt the immediate impact of the disruptions in global fuel supply chains and to achieve more effective use of domestic capacity to meet shortfalls, the bulletin article added.
It further said the second advance estimates of GDP for 2025&ndash;26 indicate sustained resilience of the Indian economy. High-frequency indicators signal towards economic activity gaining momentum in February. CPI headline inflation picked up in February on account of food and beverages.
"System liquidity has remained comfortable and the total flow of financial resources to the commercial sector rose, with a rise in financing from both the bank and non-bank sources," it said.
As regards global uncertainty, it said that after retreating for four consecutive months, it rose again in February with an uptick in trade policy uncertainty, following the verdict of the US Supreme Court on import tariffs.
Since end-February, the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East intensified into a major conflict causing significant disruption to key oil infrastructure and critical energy corridors due to the closure of Strait of Hormuz.
Alongside, the US administration has also launched fresh probes into trade practices by major trading partners. All these factors have resulted in increased volatility across the various commodity and financial markets, the article said.
The central bank, however, said the views expressed in the Bulletin article are of the authors and do not represent the views of the Reserve Bank of India.

Delhi Police apprehended three additional alleged members of a Pakistan-linked espionage network, including a juvenile and a woman, for allegedly sending sensitive information via parcels and WhatsApp, bringing the total arrests in the case to 18.

Three more members of Pak-linked espionage racket held; did recce of security, railway installations

Delhi Police apprehended three additional alleged members of a Pakistan-linked espionage network, including a juvenile and a woman, for allegedly sending sensitive information via parcels and WhatsApp, bringing the total arrests in the case to 18.

Police have apprehended three more alleged members of a major Pakistan-linked espionage racket, including a juvenile and a woman, for allegedly sending sensitive information to the neighbouring country through parcels via Dubai and WhatsApp, a police official said on Monday.
Till now, 18 individuals, including six minors, have been held in connection with the sensational case.
Meera Thakur (28), a resident of Mathura district, and Naushad Ali (20), a resident of Faridabad district of Haryana and originally hailing from Muzaffarpur district of Bihar, were arrested on Sunday. The third suspect is a minor.
Ali allegedly conducted a recce of security and police installations and railway stations in Delhi and other states and was forwarding photos and videos.
"The gang involved in espionage was sending secret information to a man named Sardar alias Zoravar Singh who was operating the spying racket from Pakistan," Additional Commissioner of Police Raj Karan Nayyar said.
The arrested have been identified as: Suhel Malik alias Romeo, Sane Iram alias Mehak, Praveen, Raj Valmiki, Shiva Valmiki, Ritik Gangwar, Ganesh, Vivek, Gagan Kumar Prajapati, Durgesh Nishad, Naushad Ali, and Meera, the police said.
The espionage racket was busted on March 13. Meera and Suhail were associates for many years. During interrogation, she told the police that she met Suhail through Facebook, after which she joined the group, they said.
According to Nayyar, Meera was arrested by the Special Cell of the Delhi Police on charges of arms smuggling in 2025. Meera also claimed that she was an informer for the Mumbai Police.
Naushad Ali told the police that he connected with the other accused via various social media platforms and was directly in touch with Sardar in Pakistan. "He confessed that he conducted a recce of security and police installations and railway stations in Delhi and other states and was forwarding photos and videos," the officer said.
The gang was allegedly operated in India by Suhail alias Romeo, a resident of Nargadhi Nawada in Bijnor district of Uttar Pradesh, the police said.
"He had recruited other members of the gang. He was paying Rs 5,000 for each information. He was receiving funds from Pakistan via Punjab in the accounts of money transfer centres and shopkeepers, so that nobody could doubt the money transactions," Nayyar said.
The detained minor had allegedly installed solar-operated CCTV cameras at Delhi cantonment railway station, the police said.
"The gang was instructed to recruit less educated Hindu minor boys so as to evade suspicion," Additional CP Nayyar said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Lok Sabha that the West Asia conflict could have long-term global effects, urging national unity, preparedness, and diplomacy.

PM Modi says will overcome West Asia crisis like Covid; stresses on dialogue, diplomacy to end conflict

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Lok Sabha that the West Asia conflict could have long-term global effects, urging national unity, preparedness, and diplomacy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the difficult global conditions caused by the West Asia conflict are likely to persist for a long time and called upon the nation to remain prepared and united, just as it had stood together during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement in the Lok Sabha, PM Modi addressed concerns related to the impact on fuel, fertilisers, national security and other areas in India as well on its nationals residing in the West Asia region, detailing steps taken by the government to ensure that "ordinary families face as little trouble as possible", and said a unanimous voice should go out to the world from India's Parliament on this crisis.
Reaffirming India's unwavering commitment to humanity and peace, the prime minister said the dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path to resolution and every Indian effort is directed at de-escalation and the cessation of hostilities.
Informing the House that he has engaged with all relevant West Asian leaders and urged them to reduce tensions and end the conflict, Modi emphasised that attacks on commercial ships and obstruction of international waterways like the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 per cent of the world's energy is transported, are"wholly unacceptable".
He said endangering any life in this war runs counter to the interests of humanity and "India's effort is to encourage all parties to arrive at a peaceful resolution as soon as possible".
On India's diplomatic response to the West Asia conflict, the Prime Minister said India's stand has been clear from the very beginning, when the US and Israel attacked Iran and the latter retaliated by targeting its Gulf neighbours and Israel, "one of expressing deep concern, advocating de-escalation, and opposing attacks on civilians and on energy and transport infrastructure".
"India, through diplomacy, is making continuous efforts for the safe passage of Indian ships even amidst the war environment. Due to such efforts, several of our ships that were stuck in the Strait of Hormuz have also arrived in India in recent days," he said.
The prime minister also drew the attention of the House to the internal security dimension of the crisis, warning that certain elements attempt to exploit such situations.
He said all security agencies have been placed on alert and that security across all domains, coastal, border, cyber, and strategic installations, is being further strengthened.
"Whether it is coastal security, border security, cyber security, or strategic installations, the security of all is being reinforced," he said.
Urging patience, restraint, and vigilance, and cautioning against those who may seek to exploit the situation by spreading falsehoods, engaging in black-marketing, or hoarding, Modi appealed to all state governments to ensure strict monitoring and swift action against such elements.
Expressing his abiding faith in the collective resolve of the nation, the Prime Minister said that when every government and every citizen of this country walk together, "we can challenge every challenge, this is our identity, and this is our strength".
The prime minister remarked that the difficult global conditions caused by this war are likely to persist for a long time and called upon the nation to remain prepared and united, just as it had stood together during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The prime minister said the crisis has been going on now for more than three weeks and it is having a very adverse impact on the global economy and on people's lives.
The entire world is urging all parties for the earliest resolution of this crisis, he said.
This region is important to India for yet another reason, as nearly one crore Indians live and work in the Gulf countries and among the commercial ships that sail in these seas, the number of Indian crew members is also very high, he said.
"India's concerns are naturally greater, and therefore it is essential that a united and unanimous voice goes out to the world from India's Parliament on this crisis," he said.
Modi underscored how the energy diversification strategy pursued over the past decade has proven its worth in the current crisis.
He informed the House that India has expanded its energy import sources from 27 countries to 41 countries over the past 11 years, thereby reducing dependence on any single region.
Emphasising the foresight of this approach, Modi said in today's circumstances, the steps taken over the past decade regarding energy security have become even more relevant.
Modi said India has more than 5.3 million metric tonnes of strategic petroleum reserves, and the country is also working on arrangements for more than 6.5 million metric tonnes of storage.
Apart from this, he said, there are reserves held by the domestic oil companies.
"In the last 11 years, our refining capacity has increased significantly, and the government is in constant touch with suppliers from different countries. The effort is to ensure that oil and gas supplies continue from wherever possible," he said.
Highlighting the scale of the evacuation effort, the Prime Minister said more than 3,75,000 Indians have safely returned to India since the war began, including approximately 1,000 Indians from Iran alone, of whom over 700 are young medical students.
Addressing the broader economic ramifications, Modi acknowledged that energy is the backbone of the modern economy and that West Asia is a major source for global energy needs, making the current crisis a challenge for economies worldwide.
He said the government is working with a comprehensive short-term, medium-term, and long-term strategy, supported by strong economic fundamentals, sector-specific stakeholder consultations, and a dedicated Inter-Ministerial Group that meets daily to assess and resolve every difficulty in India's import-export chain.
"I am fully confident that through the joint efforts of the government and industry, we will be able to face these circumstances effectively," he said.
The prime minister said, unfortunately, several lives were lost and some people were injured during the conflict and their families are being given the necessary help, and treatment of the injured is being ensured.
He said another question is the impact of the war on agriculture, but the good part is that the country's farmers have filled the food grain reserves, so India is well prepared in terms of food security.
"We are also making efforts to ensure that the Kharif sowing takes place properly. For this, the government has made adequate arrangements for fertilisers to deal with any emergency. In the past as well, our government did not let any global crisis impact our farmers," he said.
Modi said that as the summer season has begun in India, electricity demand has increased, but all power plants in the country have adequate coal stock available.
"India has created a record by producing more than 1 billion tonnes of coal for the second consecutive year. In the last decade, the country has also taken major steps towards renewable energy," he said.

The Congress criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not condemning US-Israeli air assaults on Iran, with Jairam Ramesh and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra demanding a detailed Parliament discussion on the escalating West Asia crisis.

Not a single word of condemnation of US-Israel assault, just 'dialogue-baazi': Congress on PM's speech

The Congress criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not condemning US-Israeli air assaults on Iran, with Jairam Ramesh and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra demanding a detailed Parliament discussion on the escalating West Asia crisis.

The Congress on Monday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not condemning the continued US-Israeli air assaults on Iran as it slammed his statement in the Lok Sabha on the West Asia crisis, calling it "a master class in self-boasts, cowardice and partisan dialogue-baazi".
Expressing concern over the prime minister's "invocation of Covid" in his speech, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said the government's response to the pandemic had been "catastrophic" and the nation cannot forget the deeply depressing scenes of that time when people walked barefoot for hundreds of kilometres and "thousands died without oxygen".
In his statement, the prime minister on Monday called for a united approach, as was visible during the COVID-19 pandemic, to tide over the West Asia crisis.
The principal opposition party also demanded a discussion on the West Asia crisis in Parliament so that all sides are heard.
"The prime minister's uncharacteristically short speech in the Lok Sabha today was, as usual, a master class in self-boasts, cowardice, and partisan dialogue-baazi," Ramesh said in his post on X.
"Not a single word was uttered in condemnation of the continued US-Israeli air assaults on Iran. Iran&rsquo;s attack on the Gulf countries and the Strait of Hormuz are, to be sure, completely unacceptable - but so is the relentless bombing of Iran with the objective of regime change and state collapse," the Congress leader said.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra claimed that Prime Minister Modi did not say anything new in his statement on the West Asia situation in the Lok Sabha and demanded a discussion in Parliament so all sides can put forward their views.
"He informed the country about the situation, did not say anything new," she said outside Parliament House complex.
"The notice we have given for discussion should happen so that we can also reply and all sides can put forward their views. It would be good if a discussion happens in Parliament," the Congress general secretary said.
Reaffirming India's unwavering commitment to humanity and peace, the prime minister said in the Lok Sabha that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path to resolution and every Indian effort is directed at de-escalation and the cessation of hostilities in West Asia.
Addressing apprehensions of fuel shortage, he said the government is in constant touch with suppliers from various countries to ensure that oil and gas supplies continue from wherever possible and informed that all power plants in the country have adequate coal stock. He also said that India is well prepared in terms of food security.
He recalled how even during the COVID-19 pandemic and associated global supply chain disruptions, when urea prices soared to Rs 3,000 per bag in international markets, the government ensured that Indian farmers received the same bag at less than Rs 300.
He urged the country to unite just as it had stood together during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Urging patience, restraint, and vigilance, and cautioning against those who may seek to exploit the situation by spreading falsehoods, engaging in black-marketing, or hoarding, Modi appealed through the House to all state governments to ensure strict monitoring and swift action against such elements.
Responding to the prime minister's statement, Ramesh said he also continued his "bluster on India&rsquo;s economic growth record". A few days ago, he said, the PM's own former Chief Economic Advisor went on record warning that India&rsquo;s economic growth in Modi&rsquo;s tenure was significantly overestimated.
"The PM seems to believe that if he doesn&rsquo;t engage with this very credible and disturbing report, he can wish it away," he said.
"Finally, the PM&rsquo;s invocation of the COVID-19 pandemic is concerning. His government&rsquo;s response was uniquely catastrophic. The nation cannot forget the deeply depressing scenes which became all too normal then - lakhs of migrants walking barefoot to their homes, thousands dying from oxygen shortages, and millions left unemployed. We can only hope there is more preparedness this time," the Congress leader said in his post.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting with senior ministers to ensure uninterrupted supply, stable logistics, and monitor global energy disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict.

West Asia conflict: PM Modi calls ministerial meeting to review energy situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting with senior ministers to ensure uninterrupted supply, stable logistics, and monitor global energy disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting Sunday evening with senior ministers to take stock of petroleum, power, and fertiliser sectors in view of the evolving West Asia situation, sources have said.
The focus of the meeting is to ensure uninterrupted supply, stable logistics and efficient distribution across the country, and the government is taking proactive steps to this end, they said.
Continuous monitoring of global developments to protect consumer and industry interests is the key focus of the government, they said.
On March 12, Modi said that the war in West Asia has triggered a worldwide energy crisis, posing a critical test of national character that requires dealing with circumstances through peace, patience, and increased public awareness.
The prime minister emphasised that his government is working relentlessly to address disruptions that have emerged in international supply chains.
"Continuous efforts are also underway to determine how we can overcome the disruptions that have occurred in the supply chain," Modi said.
The prime minister has spoken to many global leaders since the West Asia conflict started on February 28, with the US and Israel attacking Iran.
Iran has retaliated by attacking Israel and several of its Gulf neighbours.
Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route through which 20 per cent of the world's energy is transported. Since the conflict, very few ships have been allowed by Iran to cross it.
The blockade has resulted in severe disruptions in energy supply to many countries, including India.
Since the conflict, Modi has had telephonic conversations with leaders from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, France, Malaysia, Israel and Iran.

Gujarat AAP president Isudan Gadhvi outlines party’s election strategy, focus on marginalized communities, independent contesting, open candidate selection, and upcoming Kejriwal-Mann visit.

AAP Gujarat prepares for local elections, Kejriwal-Mann to address key issues

Gujarat AAP president Isudan Gadhvi outlines party&rsquo;s election strategy, focus on marginalized communities, independent contesting, open candidate selection, and upcoming Kejriwal-Mann visit.

Gujarat Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) state president Isudan Gadhvi on Sunday addressed the media, detailing the party&rsquo;s priorities and preparations ahead of the upcoming local self-government elections.
Gadhvi said that during their visit to Gujarat, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will address issues affecting the poor, deprived, exploited, and tribal communities. &ldquo;They will address the gathering on these issues,&rdquo; he added.
He noted that the party&rsquo;s screening committee has held three days of meetings, during which discussions with senior leadership took place. A first list of candidates is expected to be released soon. Gadhvi said the party follows its own strategy and highlighted that discussions for many seats are ongoing in a second phase, covering over 10,000 seats across municipalities and district panchayats. Detailed deliberations will take place during the upcoming meetings with Kejriwal, Mann, the state leadership, and various committees.
Gadhvi also emphasised that, for the first time, the party has adopted an open process to allow common citizens to contest elections. &ldquo;Applications were invited from candidates, and many people have come forward,&rdquo; he said, describing it as a &ldquo;new beginning&rdquo; for wider representation.
While referring to practices in other parties, Gadhvi contrasted AAP&rsquo;s approach by stating that it provides equal opportunities to all candidates and that the party will contest elections independently, without forming alliances.
He further said that a decision regarding the Umreth Assembly by-election will also be made soon and will be discussed with Kejriwal and Mann during their visit.

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Modi said that that the scheme would be launched on Vishwakarma Jayanti with a corpus of ₹13-15,000 crore.

Independence Day: PM Modi announces new Vishwakarma Yojana - watch what it is

Modi said that the scheme would be launched on Vishwakarma Jayanti with a corpus of ₹13-15,000 crore.

In his last Independence Day speech before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new Vishwakarma Yojana for workers. He said that the scheme would be launched on Vishwakarma Jayanti with a corpus of ₹13-15,000 crore.
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Tension erupted in Murshidabad’s Jangipur area after clashes broke out between two groups during a Ram Navami procession, prompting heavy security deployment and patrols to restore order.

Clashes erupt during Ram Navami procession in Bengal's Murshidabad, security tightened

Tension erupted in Murshidabad&rsquo;s Jangipur area after clashes broke out between two groups during a Ram Navami procession, prompting heavy security deployment and patrols to restore order.

Tension gripped Jangipur in West Bengal's Murshidabad district on Friday after clashes broke out between two groups during a Ram Navami procession, police said.
The situation turned volatile after an altercation during the procession escalated into violence, with both sides throwing stones at each other and vandalising property in the area, a senior police officer said.
Security forces, which were deployed in large numbers to bring the situation under control, have been conducting route marches and maintaining vigil in the affected areas, he added.
"The situation is now under control. Adequate forces have been deployed, and patrolling is ongoing to ensure peace and normalcy. We are closely monitoring the situation and will take strict action against those involved in the violence," the police officer told PTI.
Meanwhile, authorities have urged residents to maintain calm as security has been tightened across the region, a senior official at the state secretariat said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting with chief ministers of non-poll-bound states to assess preparedness and coordination in response to the ongoing West Asia conflict, stressing unity and vigilance amid global uncertainties.

West Asia conflict: PM Modi interacts with CMs, bats for 'Team India' spirit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting with chief ministers of non-poll-bound states to assess preparedness and coordination in response to the ongoing West Asia conflict, stressing unity and vigilance amid global uncertainties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reviewed with chief ministers of all but poll-bound states their preparedness and plans in the wake of the West Asia conflict.
The virtual meeting was aimed at ensuring synergy of efforts in the spirit of 'Team India', official sources said.
This is the first time that the prime minister held such a meeting with the chief ministers on the West Asia conflict which started on February 28 with the attack by the US-Israel on Iran. Iran also retaliated by firing on its Gulf neighbours and Israel.
Those chief ministers who attended the meeting included N. Chandrababu Naidu (Andhra Pradesh), Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh), Revanth Reddy (Telangana), Bhagwant Mann (Punjab), Bhupendra Patel (Gujarat), Omar Abdullah (Jammu and Kashmir), Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu (Himachal Pradesh), Pema Khandu (Arunachal Pradesh) among others.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah were also present in the meeting.
"The prime minister interacted with the chief ministers through video conferencing on the West Asia conflict and reviewed preparedness and plans of the states. The meeting focused on ensuring synergy of efforts in the spirit of Team India," a source said.
The chief ministers of election-bound states were not part of this meeting due to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
The Cabinet Secretariat is going to hold a separate meeting with the chief secretaries of poll-bound Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Kerala and the Union Territory of Puducherry.
On March 25, the government held an all-party meeting to brief the leaders of the political parties about the West Asia situation, where a detailed presentation was given about the steps taken by the government to deal with the situation.
While making a statement in Lok Sabha on March 23, the prime minister had said that the difficult global conditions caused by the West Asia conflict are likely to persist for a long time and called upon the nation to remain prepared and united, just as it had stood together during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Modi also drew the attention of the House to the internal security dimension of the crisis, warning that certain elements attempt to exploit such situations. He said all security agencies have been placed on alert and that security across all domains, coastal, border, cyber and strategic installations is being further strengthened.
"Whether it is coastal security, border security, cyber security or strategic installations, the security of all is being reinforced," he had said.
Urging patience, restraint and vigilance, and cautioning against those who may seek to exploit the situation by spreading falsehoods, engaging in black-marketing or hoarding, Modi appealed to all state governments to ensure strict monitoring and swift action against such elements.
Expressing his abiding faith in the collective resolve of the nation, the prime minister, in his speech in the Lok Sabha, also said that when every government and every citizen of this country walk together, "we can challenge every challenge, this is our identity, and this is our strength".
Addressing a media event later on the same day, Modi said challenges have continued to mount one after another even after the COVID-19 pandemic and there has not been a single year that has not tested India and Indians.
"But with the united efforts of 1.4 billion Indians, India is moving forward while facing every disaster," he said.
Modi said India is moving forward with renewed confidence and instead of postponing challenges, India confronts them head-on.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told the Rajya Sabha there is no possibility of a lockdown in India despite global energy disruptions, while highlighting steps to manage the fiscal impact of excise duty cuts and rising crude oil prices.

No possibility of lockdown; govt on its toes to maintain fiscal stability: Nirmala Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told the Rajya Sabha there is no possibility of a lockdown in India despite global energy disruptions, while highlighting steps to manage the fiscal impact of excise duty cuts and rising crude oil prices.

There is no possibility of imposition of lockdown in the country, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in the Rajya Sabha on Friday and indicated raising additional resources to make up for the shortfall arising from the excise duty cut on diesel and petrol. She also stressed that the government will remain on its toes to manage the fiscal position.
The minister also strongly refuted rumours of a possible lockdown in the wake of energy supply disruptions due to the West Asia crisis, as she appealed to politicians to refrain from any rumour-mongering and create fear in the minds of people.
Driven by the West Asia conflict, international crude oil prices have surged from USD 70 per barrel to USD 122 per barrel -- a situation that is causing challenges for India, which meets more than 80 per cent of its fuel requirements from imports.
Earlier in the day, the government, in a media briefing, said India has enough petrol, diesel and LPG stocks to last at least two months with normal delivery cycles, as it ruled out imposing any lockdown.
Replying to the discussion on the Finance Bill, 2026, Sithraman said Brent crude has not dropped below USD 100 since March 13, and consequently, petrol and diesel prices for consumers have gone up all over the world. The increase is 30 to 50 per cent in Southeast Asian nations, 30 per cent in North America, 20 per cent in Europe, and 50 per cent in African countries.
However, there is no increase in prices of diesel and petrol in India, the minister said.
Sitharaman said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed ministers that there should not be any burden on the citizens of India.
"We are working accordingly," she said, adding that the government has issued a notification cutting excise duty on both petrol and diesel by Rs 10 each.
"The results are that petrol and diesel retail prices in India remain completely unchanged. They have not increased. On the contrary, the government is taking the burden, making sure the oil marketing companies will ensure buying more and doing supply and keeping the supply uninterrupted. We are making sure that people of India do not suffer," Sitharaman said.
On the impact of excise duty cuts on fiscal deficit, the minister further said mobilisation of additional resources, prioritisation of growth-induced expenditure, better targeting of welfare expenditure, and greater transparency in fiscal operations have been the hallmarks of the Modi government.
"Going forward, we will continue to ramp up our efforts in mobilising additional non-tax revenues, and our government will remain on its toes to carefully manage the country&rsquo;s fiscal position," she said.
Dismissing rumours of an imminent lockdown, Sitharaman said restrictions have been imposed in Pakistan and Bangladesh, and not India.
"Some politicians are spreading rumours that there will be a lockdown. There is no possibility of a lockdown in India. Stop this baseless rumour mongering and creating fear in the minds of people," Sitharaman said.
The senior minister said the situation in several countries is bad because of the ongoing war in West Asia, but "we are managing the situation well so that our citizens do not face any problems".
Later, the Rajya Sabha returned the Finance Bill with a voice vote, thus completing the budgetary exercise, which started on February 1 with the presentation of the Union Budget.
The Finance Bill gives effect to tax proposals announced in the budget.
The Union Budget 2026-27 envisages a total expenditure of Rs 53.47 lakh crore, an increase of 7.7 per cent over the current fiscal ending March 31.
The total capital expenditure proposed for the next fiscal is Rs 12.2 lakh crore.
It proposes a gross tax revenue collection of Rs 44.04 lakh crore and a gross borrowing of Rs 17.2 lakh crore.
The fiscal deficit for FY27 is projected at 4.3 per cent of GDP, lower than 4.4 per cent in the current fiscal.

The government has formed an informal group of ministers led by Rajnath Singh to examine issues arising from the ongoing West Asia conflict, which has affected global oil and gas prices and economic conditions.

West Asia crisis: Govt sets up informal group of ministers led by Rajnath Singh with Amit Shah as members

The government has formed an informal group of ministers led by Rajnath Singh to examine issues arising from the ongoing West Asia conflict, which has affected global oil and gas prices and economic conditions.

The government has set up an &lsquo;informal group of ministers&rsquo; led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to look into the issues arising due to the West Asia conflict, sources said on Friday.
Union ministers Amit Shah, Nirmala Sitharaman and Hardeep Singh Puri are among the members of the informal group of ministers (IGOM), they said.
The "arrangement" comes in view of the issues arising due to the impact of the West Asia conflict, the sources said.
The war in West Asia, which began after the US-Israel combine attacked Iran on February 28, prompting retaliatory strikes by Tehran across the Gulf region, has now stretched into four weeks, with no immediate end in sight.
It has impacted the global economy, including oil and gas prices, which have had repercussions on the lives of citizens across the country.

The Aam Aadmi Party organised a Vijay Vishwas Sabha in Gujarat’s Dahod district, where leaders including Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann addressed governance concerns, highlighted welfare models, and appealed to voters ahead of local body elections

Kejriwal addresses AAP's Vijay Vishwas Sabha in Gujarat, raises governance concerns ahead of local polls

The Aam Aadmi Party organised a Vijay Vishwas Sabha in Gujarat’s Dahod district, where leaders including Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann addressed governance concerns, highlighted welfare models, and appealed to voters ahead of local body elections.

The Aam Aadmi Party organised a Vijay Vishwas Sabha in Gujarat&rsquo;s Dahod district, where leaders including Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann addressed governance concerns, highlighted welfare models, and appealed to voters ahead of local body elections.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) organised a &lsquo;Vijay Vishwas Sabha&rsquo; in Limkheda in Gujarat&rsquo;s Dahod district, where senior party leaders addressed a large gathering and outlined their positions on governance, welfare measures, and the upcoming local body elections.
The event was attended by AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Gujarat state in-charge Gopal Rai, state president Isudan Gadhvi, MLA Chaitar Vasava, and other party leaders. According to the organisers, the event saw participation from people across different sections of society, including farmers, labourers, youth and women from Dahod and nearby regions.
Addressing the gathering, Arvind Kejriwal criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress over their governance in Gujarat, alleging that development benefits have not adequately reached tribal communities. He raised concerns over access to education, employment opportunities, and implementation of welfare schemes, questioning whether allocated funds were reaching intended beneficiaries. Referring to MLA Chaitar Vasava, Kejriwal alleged that action was taken against him after he raised issues related to governance.
Kejriwal also highlighted AAP&rsquo;s governance model in Punjab, citing measures such as free electricity for farmers, changes in crop procurement systems, and welfare initiatives in healthcare and education. He said similar policies could be introduced in Gujarat if the party is elected to power. He further criticised the condition of government schools and hospitals in the state and said reforms in these sectors would be a priority.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the turnout at the event reflected public dissatisfaction with existing political systems. He outlined initiatives undertaken in Punjab in agriculture, healthcare, electricity supply, and employment, and alleged that public funds are not being effectively utilised. Mann also criticised both BJP and Congress, holding them responsible for governance-related challenges.
Gujarat AAP president Isudan Gadhvi focused on tribal issues during his address, including implementation of rights under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) and access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and employment. He said there is a growing demand for alternative political leadership in the state.
MLA Chaitar Vasava, speaking at the event, referred to issues related to tribal rights and his legal case. He alleged that leaders raising such concerns face action and restrictions, and linked his situation to broader concerns about representation and governance.
The event comes in the run-up to district panchayat, taluka panchayat, and municipal elections in Gujarat. AAP leaders used the platform to appeal to people to support the party in the upcoming polls and to participate actively in the electoral process.

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