Latest news with #VasudhaivaKutumbakam
The Print
6 hours ago
- Politics
- The Print
Maldives holds ‘very special place' in India's foreign policy: Envoy
The diplomat said Maldives is important to India not because of its strategic geographical location, but because 'we have been neighbours, and we will continue to be neighbours'. In a recent interview with news portal, Balasubramanian expressed hope India and Maldives will always work together for the benefit of the region as a whole. Male, Jun 2 (PTI) Maldives occupies a 'very special place' in New Delhi's foreign policy, not because of its strategic geographical location but because it is India's neighbour, Indian High Commissioner G Balasubramanian has said. 'We are one of the closest partners to Maldives, and so are you for us… for India in its diplomatic outreach, 'Neighbourhood First' is one of its major policies. And in the 'Neighbourhood First Policy', Maldives occupies a very special place,' he said. Balasubramanian said in India, there is a 'complete recognition' of the importance that Maldives has 'in our relationship in our neighbourhood'. India and Maldives are very close to each other both culturally, people-to- people, and contact-wise, he said. 'There are linguistic linkages also and we have always been there, standing shoulder to shoulder with Maldives in the growth that both our countries have witnessed in the past 60 years,' Balasubramanian said. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Maldives. The ties between India and the Maldives came under severe strain after Muizzu, known for his pro-China leanings, took charge of the top office in November 2023. Within hours of his oath, he had demanded the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from his country. Subsequently, the Indian military personnel were replaced by civilians. There was a thaw in the relations as Muizzu vowed to boost the bilateral ties with India during his visit to Delhi in October last year. Affirming India's commitment to the principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', meaning the whole world is one family, Balasubramanian said India wants all countries to grow together peacefully and resolve any differences between each other through negotiations and dialogue only. 'We have been solid partners for many years, many decades together. And our concept is 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'… So we treat all our friends, our neighbourhood, particularly in the Global South, as very important partners to grow together. 'We are happy to share our technology, experiences, and we are happy to come to assistance whenever it is required, whether it is the Indira Gandhi medical hospital that was set up earlier or the various other projects,' the envoy said. Last month, India extended crucial financial support to the Maldives through the rollover of the USD 50 million Treasury Bill for one more year, a move the Maldivian government said will support its ongoing efforts to implement fiscal reforms for economic resilience. India has maintained that the Maldives is its key maritime neighbour and also an important partner in the 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Vision 'MAHASAGAR' (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). India has recently signed 13 MoUs with the Maldives for enhancing ferry services in the island nation, with an MVR 100 million grant, expanding maritime connectivity and uplifting community livelihoods. PTI SCY SCY This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
India Gazette
6 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
"Terrorist activities are deliberate war strategy, if they are engaging in war, response will be appropriate": PM Modi slams Pakistan
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], May 27 (ANI): Noting that terrorist activities are no longer a proxy war but a well-thought-out strategy by Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday that 'if they are engaging in war', India will give an appropriate response. Addressing the celebrations of 20 years of Gujarat Urban Growth Story in Gandhinagar, PM Modi said India believes in 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', does not want enmity and wants to progress so that it can also contribute to global well-being PM Modi said that over the past two days during his visit to Vadodara, Dahod, Bhuj, Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, he has been experiencing the fervour of patriotism with the roar of success of Operation Sindoor. He added that it was a sight to behold and this feeling was not just in Gujarat, but across every nook and corner of India and in the heart of every Indian. Recalling the first terrorist attack on India in 1947, right after the partition of India, PM Modi recalled Sardar Patel's vision, emphasizing that the Indian Army should not have halted until Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) was reclaimed. He stated that Patel's advice was not followed. PM Modi stressed that the problem of terrorism has continued for the last 75 years and the terror attack in Pahalgam was another horrific form of it. He asserted that Pakistan repeatedly faced India's military strength in war. 'No matter how strong or healthy the body is, even a single thorn can cause constant pain--and we've decided that the thorn must be removed. During Partition, Maa Bharati was divided into two, and that very night, the first terror attack on Kashmir was launched by the Mujahideen. Had they been eliminated then, these 75 years of suffering could have been avoided,' he said. 'Whenever India and Pakistan went to war, our Indian Armed Forces--our bravehearts--defeated them in a way they would never forget. Realising they could never win a direct war against India, they turned to proxy warfare, providing military training and support to terrorists instead,' he added. Referring to Operation Sindoor carried out by India in response to Pahalgam terror attack, he said the terrorists killed in precision strikes were given state honours, proving Pakistan's complicity. 'We can't call this a proxy war as those who were killed after May 6 were given state honors in Pakistan. Pakistani flags were draped over their coffins, and their military saluted them. This proves that these terrorist activities are not just a proxy war -- this is a deliberate war strategy on their part. If they are engaging in war, then the response will be accordingly,' he said. Emphasising India's philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the Prime Minister stated that India has upheld this tradition for centuries and continues to seek peaceful and harmonious relations with its neighbours. He said that India has always advocated peace and stability, the repeated challenges to its strength have necessitated firm responses. He emphasized that nine identified terrorist bases were eliminated within 22 minutes in Operation Sindoor and camera documentation ensured that no evidence could be questioned. The Prime Minister emphasized that India has always pursued progress and the welfare of all, offering assistance in times of crisis. Addressing the younger generation, he urged them to recognize how the country has been undermined over the decades. Talking about the Indus Waters Treaty which has been put in abeyance, the Prime Minister highlighted issues related to water resources in Jammu and Kashmir, pointing out that although dams were constructed on rivers, proper maintenance and desilting were neglected for sixty years. PM Modi asserted that India must receive its rightful access to water. Emphasising that India aspires for peace and prosperity, PM Modi highlighted the nation's commitment to progress and contributing to global well-being. He stated that India remains dedicated to the welfare of its citizens. PM Modi said when he assumed office of Prime Minister in May 2014, India ranked 11th in the global economy. Referring to challenges faced, including the battle against COVID-19, difficulties with neighbouring nations, and natural calamities, PM Modi said India has become fourth- largest economy from 11th despite the obstacles. 'Today, we are the world's fourth-largest economy. I remember we celebrated moving from sixth to fifth place -- a moment that was especially significant because we surpassed the very nation that ruled over us for 250 years. Now, as we rise to fourth place, there's growing pressure -- and even more determination -- to become the third-largest economy. This country no longer wants to wait. And if anyone suggests we should be patient, you can hear voices in the background saying, 'Modi hai to mumkin hai'. That is why our clear target is to make India a developed nation by 2047,' he said. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the country's vision for development and its unwavering commitment to progress. Expressing happiness over Gujarat Government's commitment to urban development, the Prime Minister noted that the state launched this initiative in 2005 and was now marking two decades of progress. He highlighted that rather than merely celebrating achievements, the government has utilized its learnings from the past 20 years to create a future-focused roadmap for urban development tailored to the next generation. The Prime Minister remarked that this roadmap, now presented to the people of Gujarat, signifies a structured vision for sustainable progress. He congratulated the state government, the Chief Minister, and their team for their dedicated efforts in shaping a forward-looking urban development strategy. Underscoring India's economic rise, PM Modi recalled the excitement among citizens when India climbed from sixth to fifth in the world economy rankings, particularly noting the enthusiasm of young people. He noted that overtaking the United Kingdom--India's former colonial ruler--was a historic milestone. PM Modi stated that while India is now the fourth-largest economy, the pressure to reach the third position is intensifying. He reaffirmed that by 2047, India must become a fully developed nation, marking 100 years of independence with global recognition as a prosperous, strong country. PM Modi urged citizens to assess their daily consumption, identifying foreign products and replacing them with locally made alternatives. He cited instances where even traditionally revered items, such as idols for religious festivals, were being imported, emphasizing the need to prioritize domestic production. 'Operation Sindoor is not merely a military initiative but a responsibility shared by every Indian citizen,' PM Modi said. Stressing economic self-reliance, he advocated 'One District, One Product' strategy to enhance local manufacturing and support indigenous industries. He said India has the capability to produce world-class products domestically. PM Modi urged people to take pride in Made in India products and celebrate their country's advancements. He said that every Indian must contribute to strengthening the nation's economy and ensuring its global standing. 'To truly contribute to our economy, we must set a clear and collective goal: that by 2047, when India completes 100 years of independence, we will become a fully developed nation -- and we will do so without relying on foreign products. No matter how profitable foreign goods may seem, our priority must be to support and promote products made in India. If you take a closer look at the items we use daily, you'll be surprised to see how many are still imported -- even something as sacred as our Ganesh idols is often manufactured abroad. If we are serious about building a developed and self-reliant India, then 'Operation Sindoor' is not just the responsibility of our armed forces -- it is the responsibility of all 140 crore Indians.' He suggested that Gujarat draw plans for its 75th year of formation in 2035. PM Modi also mentioned India's aspirations for hosting the Olympics in 2036. He said 'cities must function as dynamic centres for economic activity, and municipal bodies must actively plan for their transformation'. He urged municipal and metropolitan authorities across the country to set economic growth targets for their respective cities. He pointed out that rather than simply constructing shopping complexes, urban bodies should conduct thorough studies to support agro-based industries and implement value-added initiatives within local markets. He remarked that while large industries traditionally thrived around metropolitan regions, the emergence of nearly two lakh startups--mostly located in tier-2 and tier-3 cities--demonstrates a significant shift. He acknowledged with pride that many of these ventures are being led by women, signaling a new wave of economic and entrepreneurial revolution. He added that India's focus on urban economic transformation will accelerate the nation's journey from the fourth to the third-largest global economy by reaffirming that strengthening local economies will be key to achieving this milestone. 'The potential of our small cities is immense. To move from the fourth-largest economy to the third, we must focus on the urban development of these cities. They are the engines of our future growth. Sadly, there exists an ecosystem that tries to tarnish India's image on the global stage, not because of facts, but because of ideological differences. Some people find it hard to accept progress simply because it doesn't align with their narrative,' he said. The Prime Minister highlighted how ideological opposition has often led to resistance against developmental policies, with criticism of initiatives becoming a recurring pattern. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to urban development and described how the Aspirational Districts Program was launched to overcome bureaucratic hurdles. He noted that nearly 100 districts were identified based on about 40 developmental parameters, and dedicated officers were deployed with a long-term strategy. He stated that this initiative has now become a model for developing nations, offering valuable insights on effective governance. The Prime Minister emphasized the significance of tourism in driving economic growth, citing Gujarat's transformation as an example. He remarked on how Kutch, once overlooked due to its desert landscape, is now a sought-after tourist destination. He pointed out that large-scale initiatives, such as the world's tallest statue, have reshaped perceptions and boosted regional economies. He further highlighted the historical importance of sites like Vadnagar, describing its museum as an internationally recognized heritage center. Referring to India's maritime legacy, PM Modi spoke about Lothal, which now hosts one of the largest maritime museums in the world. He recalled the initial skepticism surrounding the GIFT City concept, which has now become a benchmark for financial hubs. He stressed that pioneering ideas must be implemented with conviction to yield impactful results. He cited several successful large-scale projects, including the Sabarmati Riverfront, the construction of the world's largest stadium, and the Statue of Unity, showcasing India's ability to execute transformative initiatives. He reiterated his unwavering optimism about India's potential, expressing confidence in the country's capacity to drive significant progress. Urban Development Year 2005 in Gujarat was a flagship initiative launched by the then Chief Minister Shri Narendra Modi with the aim of transforming Gujarat's urban landscape through planned infrastructure, better governance, and improved quality of life for urban residents. Marking 20 years of the Urban Development Year 2005, Prime Minister launched the Urban Development Year 2025, Gujarat's urban development plan and State Clean Air Programme. (ANI)
Time of India
6 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Terrorism not proxy war, but Pak's war strategy: Narendra Modi
Gandhinagar : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that terrorism is not a proxy war but a well-planned war strategy adopted by Pakistan and India will respond accordingly. PM was speaking in Gandhinagar on the second day of his two-day visit to his home state of Gujarat. "Until now we called it (terrorism) a proxy war. We can no longer make the mistake of calling it a proxy war after what we saw after May 6. Those who were killed after May 6 were accorded state honours in Pakistan. Their coffins were draped with Pakistani flags and they were saluted by Pakistani military officers. This clearly proves that terrorist activities are not just a proxy war, but a deliberate war strategy," PM Modi said. The PM said he experienced the fervour of patriotism after the roaring success of Operation Sindoor during his visits to places in Gujarat and India. Reiterating the country's resolve to uproot terrorism, Modi said, "A single thorn can cause pain even if a body is strong otherwise. India has made up its mind to remove the thorn of terrorism, and did so with utmost conviction." Recollecting that the Mujahideen made incursions in Kashmir immediately after India gained independence, the PM said that if those Mujahideen who entered Kashmir in 1947 were killed, the present situation could have been averted. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like เทรด CFDs ด้วยเทคโนโลยีเทรดสุดล้ำ และ รวดเร็วกว่า IC Markets Undo "During Partition, Maa Bharati (Mother India) was divided into two and that very night, the first terror attack on Kashmir was launched by Mujahideen," the PM said. "Sardar Patel was of the opinion that the Indian Army should not have stopped until Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) was reclaimed, but his advice was not heeded. They (Pakistan and terrorists backed by it) tasted blood," he added. "This legacy of terrorism has continued for the last 75 years and the terror attacks in Pahalgam was another horrific manifestation of it. On three occasions, India's armed forces decisively defeated Pakistan, making it clear that Pakistan could not triumph in a direct military conflict with India," the PM said. Realizing its limitations, Pakistan resorted to proxy warfare, pushing trained terrorists into India and targeting innocent and unarmed civilians including pilgrims, he said. Modi said that the values of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' are imbibed in Indian society and India wishes for the welfare of its neighbours too. "We do not want enmity with anyone. We want to live in peace. We want happiness for our neighbours too, but if you challenge our strength, then India is also a land of heroes," the PM said. At the function held at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, the PM unveiled projects worth Rs 5,536 crore, including laying the foundation stone of Phase 3 of the Sabarmati Riverfront project and handing over 22,000 housing units to beneficiaries under the PM Awas Yojana.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Pakistan's actions not a mere 'proxy war' anymore but a 'deliberate strategy' to target India: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Pakistan, declaring that its actions can no longer be dismissed as a mere proxy war but must now be seen as a "deliberate strategy" to target India. Speaking at a public event in Gandhinagar, PM Modi said, 'In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor , we must not mistake Pakistan's behaviour as a proxy war anymore — this is now a deliberate strategy to bleed India.' 'Pakistan started a proxy war by training terrorists and sending them to India to kill innocent civilians,' Modi said, tracing the pattern of cross-border aggression back to 1947. 'The very night that saw Partition and the creation of Pakistan, the first terrorist attack happened on Kashmir's soil. They called them mujahideen — and under that pretense, a part of Kashmir was taken.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas In Dubai | Search Ads Get Rates Undo In a strong historical reference, Modi said that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had wanted the Indian Army to press forward until Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) was reclaimed. 'Had we given those terrorists a death sentence that day, had Patel's words been respected, history would have been different,' Modi said. Live Events The Prime Minister asked, 'Should we tolerate such atrocities or retaliate?' He answered emphatically, 'Goli ka jawab goli se dena chahiye, eet ka jawab eet se' — a bullet for a bullet, a brick for a brick. On Indus Waters Treaty being held in abeyance, Modi said that India had not taken any drastic steps yet. 'I haven't done anything significant for now. For now, the Indus Waters Treaty is simply in abeyance,' he said, hinting at future escalation if provocations persist. Despite the tough talk on national security, Modi underlined that India's core philosophy remains rooted in peace and cooperation. 'We do not want enmity with anyone. We want peace. We want progress — for ourselves and for the world,' Modi said, invoking India's spiritual values with the phrase Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family. The Prime Minister also reflected on his governance journey. 'Yesterday, May 26, marked the anniversary of my first day as Prime Minister in 2014. Back then, we were the world's 11th largest economy. Despite challenges — from COVID to terrorism — India is now the 4th largest economy.' 'This land is not ordinary. This is veeron ki dharti — a land of warriors,' Modi said, asserting that India will no longer tolerate aggression from across the border and is prepared to respond with strength and clarity.
Fashion Value Chain
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Fashion Value Chain
Whole World Suffering Because of Terrorism Nurtured by Pakistan, says All-Party Delegation Member Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal
Moscow, Russia An Indian all-party parliamentary delegation currently visiting Russia has called for global unity in the fight against terrorism, while sharply criticising Pakistan for actively fostering extremist elements that threaten international peace and security. Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha The delegation, led by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Member of Parliament Ms Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, held a press briefing in Moscow where members voiced concerns over the global impact of terrorism emanating from Pakistan. They urged the international community, particularly long standing partners such as Russia, to stand in solidarity with India in its anti-terrorism efforts. 'Whole world suffering because of terrorism nurtured by Pakistan', says All-Party Delegation member Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal Addressing the press, Ms Kanimozhi remarked, 'There is a lot of misinformation which has been spread about the attacks which happened. We want to clarify what the truth was and what actually happened. India wants to specifically give the message that India refuses to be blackmailed by the threat of nuclear weapons. We will fight for our integrity. We will stand as one against terror attacks. So this is the message we wanted to reach to the world, and of course weve worked with Russia for many years, and we would seek the understanding of Russia and we would hope that they will be in a position to be able to support us very strongly because I think they know beyond doubt that India stands for peace.' Adding to the delegation's remarks, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Ashok Kumar Mittal issued a stern condemnation of Pakistan's role in abetting terrorism. 'Whole world is suffering because of the terrorism being nurtured by Pakistan. India has also suffered very heavily… But India wants to be the ambassador of anti-terrorism drive of the world, because we know what terrorism is. We have suffered from all quarters, and we dont want other countries of the world to suffer. In India there is a saying, 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', which means the entire world is one family. We believe in that. We believe in peace.' he stated. Dr. Mittal also cited the Indian civilisational value of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – 'The world is one family' – to emphasise Indias commitment to global peace. 'We believe in harmony and coexistence, and our call for a united stand against terror is in line with that philosophy,' he added. The delegation comprises of leaders from multiple political parties, including Samajwadi Party MP Mr Rajeev Rai, Bharatiya Janata Party MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, Rashtriya Janata Dal MP Prem Chand Gupta, AAP MP Ashok Kumar Mittal, and former Indian Ambassador Mr Manjeev Singh Puri. The visit to Russia is part of a broader international outreach spanning several countries, including Slovenia, Greece, Latvia, and Spain. This multi-nation tour seeks to highlight India's counter-terrorism stance, particularly in the context of recent initiatives such as Operation Sindoor, which underscores Indias resolve in eliminating terror threats and ensuring global security.
