Latest prime minister News | Top prime minister News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking prime minister News Today | English prime minister News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

New Zealand PM Shocked as Top Aide Accused of Secretly Recording Women

June 6, 2025, 9:55 pm

Michael Forbes, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s deputy chief press secretary, has quit his job after shocking revelations he had secretly recorded women, including prostitutes, without their knowledge. The news came to light earlier this week after a sex worker claimed she found an open audio recording on Forbes’ phone as he was showering.

As reported by local media platform Stuff NZ, on further examination of his phone, there were several images and videos of women captured unknowingly even in supermarkets, gyms, and homes, it seems, filmed through windows. The phone also had audio from past sex encounters.

PM Luxon Reacts with Shock and Reproach

Prime Minister Luxon reacted with strong condemnation, labeling the event an “absolute shock.” He sympathized with the affected women and stated that he has “zero tolerance for any behavior that makes women or anyone feel unsafe.”

“My sympathy is with the women who made these complaints and who were made to feel unsafe because of the behavior of this individual,” Luxon stated on Thursday, a day after Forbes’ resignation.

Victim’s Discovery Led to Wider Revelations

The incident is said to have occurred in July 2024, when Forbes met a sex worker in a Wellington brothel. She saw the recording on his phone and, upon confronting him, got his password. She and other sex workers found a sickening collection of images, videos, and audio recordings.

Forbes was serving as press secretary to Social Development Minister Louise Upston when the incident occurred. He was upgraded to acting deputy press secretary to Luxon in February 2025.

Authorities Under Scrutiny for Handling of Complaint

Police had received a complaint in July last year from the Wellington brothel but did not pursue prosecution, claiming it did not reach the bar. But Luxon has now demanded an examination of “inter-agency processes” after discovering that police did not alert ministers to the investigation.

In a statement, Forbes made his “sincerest apologies to the women I have harmed” and confessed he was in a “downward spiral” because of unresolved trauma and stress when the events unfolded. Although he has since received professional treatment, he conceded not making a sincere effort to apologise sooner.

Political leaders are now indicating potential reforms to privacy legislation in response to the incident.

Modi’s Strategic Moves To Strengthen BJP For Future Elections

February 3, 2025, 10:33 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making significant decisions at the start of his third term.
Since the start of his third term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made significant political moves, particularly in states like Haryana and Maharashtra. These two states were crucial for the BJP, and losing even one could have been disastrous. However, with the strategic leadership of Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, supported by the RSS, the opposition’s chances were defeated.

The Congress, unable to manage its leaders and allies properly, ended up dividing the opposition, isolating itself and losing ground in these states. During this time, Modi began making major decisions. One of the first was pushing for the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative, followed by introducing the Wakf Board Bill in Parliament. Once the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) reviews it, the bill is likely to pass in both Houses, potentially sparking national debate. This bill could become a political issue, drawing accusations of Muslim appeasement toward Congress and other opposition parties, while bolstering the BJP’s Hindutva agenda, similar to the impact of the Ayodhya issue.

Alongside these moves, the Modi government started focusing on farmers and the working middle class. The new Unified Pension scheme, which will be implemented in April, is seen as a major step in addressing the long-standing demand from government employees to restore the old pension system. Additionally, the announcement of the 8th Pay Commission is seen as a significant and decisive move, as government employees have often been perceived as opposed to the BJP.

The most surprising and impactful decision came in the Union Budget, where the government announced tax exemptions for individuals earning up to 12 lakh rupees annually. This is seen as one of the biggest moves aimed at benefiting the middle class, a major electoral constituency. While the opposition seems unaware of this, they remain caught up in caste politics, lacking focus on other issues. Modi, learning from past mistakes, has already begun implementing key decisions to secure the next general elections.
During the 2024 election campaign, Modi had mentioned that he still had more major decisions to make, a statement many in the public didn’t fully understand at the time. Influenced by caste politics, the public didn’t back the BJP enough to secure a majority, but the party, under Modi’s leadership, was able to form a coalition government. Despite the opposition’s distractions, Modi’s strategy and focus on important decisions could shape the political landscape leading up to future elections.

These decisions align with what Modi had promised during the 2024 general elections. While the opposition struggles to comprehend his strategies, Modi’s moves appear well-planned and politically savvy, aiming to secure his government’s future and maintain support among key voter groups.

Now in his third term, Modi can bring schemes to attract the middle class as well as the youth in the coming days. If we look at PM Modi’s 7-month term, he is taking decisions keeping the next election in mind. On one hand, such decisions will make the middle class and the working class happy, while on the other hand, changes in the Waqf Board will keep the politics of Hindutva always hot in the country. This means that the issues of development and polarization will go together. PM Modi knows that the way the opposition is doing politics of dividing Hindus on the basis of caste, the politics of keeping Hindus united will have to be strengthened.

The Future is Not in War, It is in Buddha: PM Modi in 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

January 9, 2025, 1:03 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on Thursday, underscoring the importance of India’s connection with its diaspora. Speaking at the PBD convention, PM Modi said, “We are not only the mother of democracy, but democracy is part of our lives.”

The prime minister said that he has always considered the diaspora as “India’s ambassador”. “Due to the strength of its heritage, India is able to tell the world that the future does not lie in war, but in Buddha,” he said.

PBD runs from January 8 to 10 with attendees from over 50 countries. It gathers a diverse group of members from the Indian diaspora.

Emphasizing India’s Peaceful Legacy and Global Potential

Addressing the PBD, PM Modi recalled the peaceful legacy of Emperor Ashoka, who chose the path of peace over war in Odisha. He expressed that today India is inspired by the teachings of Buddha, advocating for a future grounded in peace rather than conflict.

“In an era when empires were built through the force of arms, Emperor Ashoka chose the path of peace,” he stated, adding that this legacy continues to guide India’s global outlook.

Pleased to speak at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar. The Indian diaspora has excelled worldwide. Their accomplishments make us proud. https://t.co/dr3jarPSF4

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 9, 2025

The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s rapid growth and the country’s ability to meet the global demand for skilled talent. He emphasized that India plays an essential role in shaping the future of the world.

Inaugurated Pravasi Bharatiya Express

Prime Minister Modi virtually flagged off the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express. This is a special tourist train for the Indian diaspora. The train will depart from Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi, embarking on a three-week journey to multiple tourism and religious destinations across India. This initiative is part of the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana. The Prime Minister highlighted that the train will carry around 150 passengers to 17 key destinations related to faith and tourism. He encouraged attendees to explore significant sites in Odisha and emphasized the upcoming Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, urging people to make the most of this unique opportunity.

Celebrating India’s Vibrant Culture and Diaspora Contributions

PM Modi noted that the PBD is a key initiative for fostering stronger ties between India and its diaspora. The convention is timed to coincide with major cultural events in India. The upcoming Mahakumbh festival in Prayagraj and celebrations like Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu are among them.

PM Modi said, “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has become an institution to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora. In just a few days, the Mahakumbh will start in Prayagraj. The festival of Makar Sankranti, Magh Bihu are also coming up.” “There is a joyful atmosphere everywhere. For us, it was on this day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi came back to India after a long time abroad. Your presence in India at such a wonderful time is adding to the festive spirit,” he Added.

18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: Strengthening the Global Indian Network

The 18th PBD has brought together members of the Indian diaspora from across the world. The central theme of this year is “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). The event aims to strengthen India’s connection with its global community. It celebrates the collective efforts contributing to India’s growth on the world stage.

Justin Trudeau’s Cabinet Reshuffle Sparks Non-Confidence Motion

December 20, 2024, 11:47 pm

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to announce a significant cabinet reshuffle on Friday. According to CBC News, the reshuffle will bring in eight new ministers while altering the roles of four others.

The new appointments include:

Rachel Bendayan: Minister of Official Languages and Associate Minister of Public Safety
Elisabeth Briere: Minister of National Revenue
Terry Duguid: Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada
Nathaniel Erskine-Smith: Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
Darren Fisher: Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
David McGuinty: Minister of Public Safety
Ruby Sahota: Minister of Democratic Institutions and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Joanne Thompson: Minister of Seniors of Canada

Current ministers changing roles include:

Anita Anand: Adds internal trade to her transport portfolio
Gary Anandasangaree: Becomes responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
Steven MacKinnon: Takes on employment, workforce development, and labour
Ginette Petitpas Taylor: Becomes President of the Treasury Board

Freeland’s Resignation Adds to the Drama

The reshuffle follows the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister. Freeland, in her resignation letter, stated, “To be effective, a minister must have the full confidence of the Prime Minister. I no longer enjoy that confidence.”

NDP Pushes for Non-Confidence Motion

Adding to Trudeau’s challenges, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh has called for a non-confidence vote. Singh criticized Trudeau for failing to prioritize Canadians, stating, “The Liberals don’t deserve another chance.”

Singh further emphasized his vision of a Canada where healthcare, affordable housing, and good jobs are accessible to all, declaring his intent to “bring this government down” in the next House of Commons session.

A Political Crossroads

This reshuffle and the NDP’s stance could mark a turning point in Canadian politics. With the Liberal government under increasing scrutiny, the coming weeks will be critical in determining Trudeau’s political future.

France Awaits New Prime Minister: Speculations Run High

December 7, 2024, 6:53 pm

French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to appoint a new prime minister in the “coming days” following the ousting of Michel Barnier, who was removed by a no-confidence vote after just three months in office.

In a televised address on Thursday, Macron refrained from naming a successor, with multiple sources indicating the decision will likely be delayed until after Monday.

Barnier, Macron’s fifth prime minister since 2017, faced a tenure shorter than his predecessors. Given the fragmented National Assembly, there is no assurance his replacement will fare any better.

Also Read: Watch Emmanuel Macron Bids For India Permanent Seat In The UNSC At UNGA

Here are the four frontrunners, though a surprise candidate may still emerge—just as Barnier did during the last-minute deliberations in September.

Sebastien Lecornu

Lecornu, a staunch Macron loyalist, retained his key ministerial position during the last reshuffle, reflecting his critical role during Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

At 38, Lecornu has been in politics since he became a parliamentary assistant at 19. Appointed defence minister in May 2022, he has consistently supported aid for Ukraine, opting for low-profile media engagements. Reports suggest Macron considered naming him in Thursday’s address but hesitated after concerns over his perceived right-wing stance.

Francois Bayrou

Bayrou, 73, leads the MoDem party, an ally of Macron’s centrist coalition. Acquitted in February after a lengthy legal battle over fraudulent employment allegations, Bayrou’s political career includes three presidential bids and a stint as justice minister in 2017. Despite resigning amid legal scrutiny that year, his acquittal paves the way for a potential return to prominence.

Xavier Bertrand

Bertrand, 59, heads the Hauts-de-France region and served as labour and health minister under Jacques Chirac and Nicolas Sarkozy. Known for his media presence, he sought the Republican nomination for the 2022 presidential race but fell short. Bertrand remains a close ally of Sarkozy, whose influence on the right persists despite legal controversies.

Bernard Cazeneuve

A former Socialist leader, Cazeneuve, 61, briefly served as prime minister under Francois Hollande from 2016 to 2017. More prominently, he was interior minister during the 2015 Paris terror attacks. After leaving the Socialist Party in 2022 due to its alignment with hard-left factions, Cazeneuve has maintained a strained relationship with his former allies.

Macron’s choice will reveal whether he opts for loyalty, political pragmatism, or surprise to navigate the challenges ahead.

Prime Minister to inaugurate Rising Rajasthan Summit, Chief Minister reviews arrangements

November 29, 2024, 1:47 am

The Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit, scheduled from December 9 to 11, aims to bring together investors from across the country and abroad in Jaipur, the Pink City. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the event, and the government is determined to make it a grand success. To ensure flawless arrangements, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma personally inspected the preparations. Boarding a bus, the Chief Minister travelled from Jaipur Airport to the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC), reviewing all the necessary arrangements and providing vital instructions to officials for hosting a historic summit.
While speaking to the media, Sharma highlighted the significance of the upcoming Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit. He emphasised that the summit would serve as a milestone in accelerating Rajasthan’s industrial growth, with immense investment potential in sectors like mining, stone, education, medicine, and automobiles. The Chief Minister stated that the Prime Minister will inaugurate the event, prompting the state government to prepare in “mission mode” to ensure its success.
Sharma further mentioned that Rajasthan enjoys a strong global identity, with its people deeply connected to their roots. The state’s renowned hospitality, culture, and traditions will be on full display during the summit. He instructed officials to ensure top-notch hospitality for the investors, industrialists, and guests attending the event from across the country and the world.
During his inspection, the Chief Minister toured various routes from the airport to JECC, where the summit will be held. He directed officials to regularly monitor key aspects, including cleanliness, traffic management, road strengthening, city beautification, and transportation resources, to ensure a smooth and successful event.
The Chief Minister visited the JECC to assess the preparations for the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit.
He reviewed the planned activities for the inaugural session, seating arrangements for guests, and other essential preparations, instructing officials to finalise all details.
Following this, the Chief Minister visited the Jaya Mahal Palace to inspect the arrangements for the cultural programs scheduled during the summit. Principal Secretary of Industry and Commerce, Ajitabh Sharma, provided the Chief Minister with a detailed briefing on the summit’s preparations.
Industry and Commerce Minister Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore and Minister of State for Industry and Commerce, K.K. Vishnoi, were also present during the inspection. Additionally, Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant, Additional Chief Secretary of the Chief Minister’s Office Shikhar Aggarwal, Additional Chief Secretary for Home Anand Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Chief Minister’s Office Alok Gupta, and other senior officials from relevant departments were in attendance.

Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme Unveiled, Providing 125,000 Internships for 2024-25

October 3, 2024, 6:02 pm

On Thursday, the government officially launched the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, a pilot project aimed at providing 1.25 lakh internship opportunities during FY 2024-25 in India’s top 500 companies. The scheme was first announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, to offer internships to one crore youth over five years.

Massive Response from Companies and Interns

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) is managing the scheme through an online portal (www.pminternship.mca.gov.in). As of Thursday morning, companies such as Mahindra & Mahindra, Max Life, and Alembic Pharma had already posted 1,077 internship offers. Youth can register on the portal between October 12 and 25, while companies will select candidates between October 27 and November 7. Selected interns will receive offers by mid-November, with internships starting on December 2, 2024.

A total of Rs 800 crore will be allocated for the scheme in FY 2024-25. Each intern will receive financial assistance of Rs 5,000 per month, with Rs 4,500 provided by the government and Rs 500 contributed by participating companies through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds. Interns will also receive a one-time grant of Rs 6,000 for incidentals.

Eligibility and Internship Details

The internships will last 12 months, with at least half the period spent in a working environment. Eligible candidates, between 21 and 24 years old, can apply for up to five internships. Graduates from certain prestigious institutions like IITs and IIMs are ineligible, as are individuals with family incomes exceeding Rs 8 lakh for FY 2023-24. The scheme offers a unique chance for youth to gain practical business experience, enhancing their employability and career prospects.

The government will provide insurance coverage under schemes such as PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and PM Suraksha Bima Yojana, and companies may offer additional coverage. A grievance redressal system and multilingual helpline will ensure support for interns throughout the program.

Italian PM Meloni Says India Can Help Resolve Ukraine War After Meeting Zelenskyy

September 7, 2024, 5:14 pm

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, during a final media conference at the G7 in Borgo Egnazia, southern Italy, expressed her belief that India could play a significant role in resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

“China and India have a role to play in resolving this conflict. The only thing that cannot happen is to believe the conflict can be solved by abandoning Ukraine,” Meloni stated after her meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at The European House – Ambrosetti (TEHA) annual conference.

Italy has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine, supplying weapons to Kyiv with the condition that they are used solely within Ukrainian territory to defend against Russian forces.

Meloni’s comments echoed those of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who recently suggested that China, India, and Brazil could potentially mediate peace talks for Ukraine. “We respect our friends and partners, who I believe are sincerely seeking to resolve this conflict, particularly China, Brazil, and India. I am in constant communication with them on this issue,” Putin said, as reported by Russia’s state-owned news agency, TASS.

Putin also referenced an early agreement between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators from talks in Istanbul during the initial weeks of the war, suggesting it could serve as a basis for future discussions.

In the early stages of the conflict in 2022, Russia and Ukraine engaged in multiple rounds of talks aimed at reaching a peace agreement. However, disputes over territorial control, Ukraine’s national identity, and security guarantees hindered the finalization of any deal.

India, meanwhile, has maintained a position of formal neutrality throughout the Russia-Ukraine war, guided by its national interests. New Delhi has consistently abstained from key votes at the UN Security Council, General Assembly, and Human Rights Council that condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Additionally, India has avoided openly criticizing Moscow or President Putin, refraining from labeling Russia as the aggressor in the crisis.

PM Modi Arrives in Warsaw: First Indian Prime Minister Visit in 45 Years | Watch

August 21, 2024, 6:02 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Poland, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 45 years. Modi landed in Warsaw on the first leg of his two-nation tour, which will also include a visit to Kyiv, Ukraine.

Morarji Desai was the last Indian Prime Minister to visit Poland in 1979. Modi’s visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Poland. He emphasized, “Poland is a key economic partner in Central Europe.”

During his stay, Modi is expected to meet with President Andrzej Sebastian Duda and hold bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Donald Tusk. He will travel to Kyiv on August 23 to hold talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Aircraft that brought Hasina to India returns to Bangladesh

August 6, 2024, 1:32 pm

A day after Sheikh Hasina fled to India following her forced resignation as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the plane that brought her to Ghaziabad’s Hindon air base departed today without her.

The C-130 J transport aircraft left Hindon air base at around 9 am, carrying seven military personnel back to its base in Bangladesh. Reports indicate that hours after fleeing Dhaka, Sheikh Hasina landed at the Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad and was taken to a safe house, where she is still staying at present.

Sheikh Hasina is expected to fly to London to seek political asylum and is reportedly in contact with UK authorities regarding this. Her stay in India and the situation in Bangladesh have spurred significant activity within India’s security apparatus, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairing a Cabinet Committee on Security meeting on Monday night.

Today, Union Minister S. Jaishankar briefed an all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina is set to meet her daughter, Saima Wazed, who lives in New Delhi and works for the United Nations.

Following Hasina’s departure from Bangladesh, a mob attacked her official residence, vandalizing it, looting her personal belongings, and damaging the statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s independence hero and Hasina’s father.

Hasina had been facing protests from students over quotas in government jobs, which led to violent clashes resulting in over 250 deaths before her resignation.

The Bangladesh military has announced the formation of an interim government. Meanwhile, Nahid Islam, a key organizer of the student protests, stated in a video post on social media that Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus is their choice to lead the interim government. Islam mentioned that the student protest leaders have already spoken with Yunus, who has agreed to take on the role given the current situation in the country.

Asylum Plan

Hasina’s advisors were already in contact with authorities in the UK, exploring the possibility of political asylum. The plan was for Hasina to fly to London discreetly and seek refuge, away from the immediate dangers of Dhaka. The British government, while cautious, was sympathetic to her plight, given her long-standing efforts to maintain stability in Bangladesh.

Interim Government

Back in Bangladesh, the situation remained volatile. The military announced the formation of an interim government, attempting to restore order. Meanwhile, the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, the driving force behind the protests, proposed Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus as the head of this interim government. Yunus, a respected figure globally, was seen as a stabilizing force who could guide Bangladesh through this crisis.

Political Comeback

While Hasina was in India, her political allies were not idle. They were already laying the groundwork for her eventual return. International diplomatic channels were being utilized to pressure the new interim government to ensure fair and free elections. Hasina’s party, the Awami League, began rallying its supporters, emphasizing the need for a legitimate democratic process.

A Fresh Perspective On Modi’s Legacy

August 1, 2024, 1:06 am

As the prime minister having secured a momentous third term with a clearly outlined vision for the next five years, Narendra Modi’s overarching legacy will be that of transforming his party into an electoral machine, a party that can win elections, says a new book.
In ‘Indian Renaissance – the Modi decade’ [Westland Books], editor Dr Ashwariya Pandit, Modi’s biggest contribution is in dismantling a perception that the BJP being a purely ideological party, had no mass base. “Modi is responsible for making the party and the RSS’s ideology palatable to a larger audience, both within and outside the country. The party’s ideology, which was seen as unsuited for the push and pulls of national and regional politics, had been a limiting factor to its growth so far. However, Modi has achieved the unthinkable by making the BJP hegemonic, commanding the narrative of elections and development, and ushering in a dynamism into the office of the prime minister that has few parallels across the world.”

‘Indian Renaissance – the Modi decade’ consists of a collection of essays written by many prominent figures such as Tony Abbott, Samir Saran, Penny Street, Don Ritter, Rajiv Kumar, Avatans Kumar, Grant Newsham, Cleo Paskal, Kartikeye Sharma, Priya Sahgal, M D Nalapat and others.

In her essay, Dr Pandit who teaches legal history at Jindal Global Law School, O.P. Jindal Global University, makes an interesting and astute observation. She says each time the election results were announced since 2014, the prime minister has always visited the central party headquarters to congratulate and interact with his karyakartas. “His messaging is clear; he is speaking directly to his cadres who form the backbone of the party. Modi has communicated that the party comes first. He reinforces it every time he visits the party office, reminding the workers that no matter how complete and stupendous a victory you may achieve, no individual—not even him, despite being the prime minister—is higher than the party. This is the enduring legacy he will leave behind: strengthening not only the party but the belief that the party is supreme.

To substantiate her argument, Dr Pandit quotes Modi’s speech to the party cadres after the election victory in 2019, when he had said, “We the workers of BJP, our friends in NDA we dedicate the victory in the feet of the people…. Just like what our president said, the crores of BJP workers, their efforts and the purpose, I feel so proud that my party that I am a part of are full of generous people…. We have to accept the election results with humility. A government is formed with people’s mandate we have to work with the spirit of inclusion.
Dr Pandit reminds the readers that Modi had inherited a BJP with no clear vision; a party unable to recover from the debacle of 2009. The loss had demoralised cadres—and more so the RSS, which many believe decided to fully back the then chief minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi in 2002.

Fighting the battle of perception had been a monumental task before Modi as the BJP was seen as an ideological party with little to offer to expand its base beyond urban voters in small towns and capital cities in India. This was a daunting task as leaders before him were tied up with a limited support base and had to contend with coalition partners, which nearly brought down governments. Modi’s expansion of the BJP base beyond caste, community and religion will be his enduring legacy, as the pressures of national politics have been very different from that of being the chief minister of Gujarat.

Modi, in certain respects, Dr Pandit succinctly argues, has been able to capture the imagination of Indians, much like Kennedy did for the Americans. Modi’s entry on the scene coincided with the explosion of social media. The period between 2014 to 2024 was also marked by a tense international situation exacerbated by the rise of the Islamic Caliphate in 2014, the Iranian nuclear programme and climate change crisis, a global pandemic in 2020, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, among many other issues. It became very clear early on that the social media revolution ushered in by the digital revolution was fraught with unprecedented challenges. During Manmohan Singh’s term, social media was at best peripheral to the mainstream media, but Modi used it extensively for citizen outreach in Gujarat, as pointed out by Andy Marino in his unofficial biography of Modi. As prime minister and BJP icon, Modi has successfully used social media to communicate with voters of every age and region. This also pushed his party to use social media extensively, which also resulted in many of the debates on social media being led by the BJP.
However, there is a flip side too. Primacy and thrust on social media has changed the mode and manner of communication. In fact, Modi has also allowed social media to run free, conscious of the dangers it would pose for him in the long run. The mushrooming of YouTube channels has allowed different opinions to co-exist in what was earlier largely a preserve of a few—mainly legacy media channels.

Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget Speech: Will She Reveal the Roadmap for Vision 2047?

July 23, 2024, 2:07 pm

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget for 2024 in Parliament today. This will be her seventh consecutive budget speech, breaking the record previously held by late Morarji Desai, who presented the budget six times in a row.

What to Expect from the Budget

This budget will be the first for Modi’s third term as Prime Minister. All eyes are on Nirmala Sitharaman as she might announce changes to income tax, improvements for businesses, and new developments for railway infrastructure. She will also detail the Central government’s planned income and expenses for the fiscal year 2024-2025 in the Rajya Sabha.

Recent Economic Developments

On February 1, the Central government presented an interim budget to meet the country’s financial needs before the Lok Sabha elections. Additionally, on Monday, Nirmala Sitharaman shared the Economic Survey, which reviews the economy’s current state and future projections.

According to the Economic Survey, India’s economy is expected to grow at a rate of 6.5-7% in the current financial year, which is lower than last year’s 8.2% growth and below the RBI’s 7.2% growth estimate for this year. The survey praised the government’s efforts to manage retail inflation, which is currently at 5.4%, the lowest since the pandemic began. It also recommended increasing exports.

Boosting Exports

The Economic Survey suggested two main strategies for improving exports:

Integrate into China’s Supply Chain: Join China’s global supply network.
Promote Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from China: Encourage Chinese companies to invest in India, which could help boost exports to the US, similar to successful strategies used by East Asian countries in the past.

Key Points

Seventh Budget Speech: Nirmala Sitharaman will give her seventh consecutive Union Budget speech today.
First Budget of Modi’s Third Term: This budget will be the first one under Modi’s third term as Prime Minister.
Expected Announcements: Look for possible updates on income tax, business regulations, and railway projects.
Economic Survey Highlights: The survey predicts 6.5-7% economic growth and praises efforts to control inflation.
Export Strategy: The survey recommends focusing on FDI from China to boost exports, particularly to the US.

Meet KP Sharma Oli Who Is Poised To Be Nepal’s PM After Prachanda’s Trust Vote Loss

July 13, 2024, 12:27 pm

Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli is poised to become Nepal’s prime minister again after the current Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ failed to secure a trust vote in Parliament on Friday. Prachanda had survived four previous trust votes amid ongoing political instability in the country.

On Friday, KP Oli, chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), claimed the formation of a new majority government. He presented his case to President Ramchandra Paudel, supported by 165 lawmakers, including 77 from his party and 88 from the Nepali Congress.

Prachanda, 69, lost his position more than 18 months after his appointment, failing to secure a vote of confidence during a floor test in the House of Representatives.

Who is KP Sharma Oli?

Early Life and Political Beginnings: Born in 1952, KP Sharma Oli began his political career in 1966, joining the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) in 1970. He was first arrested under the Public Offense Act for his involvement in the democracy movement and the push for a republican state.
Imprisonment: In 1973, he was arrested on various charges, including involvement in subversive activities, and imprisoned for 14 years, with 4 years in solitary confinement.
Party Formation and Leadership: While imprisoned in 1976, the Communist Party of Nepal (Marxist-Leninist) or CPN (ML) was formed, and his comrades regarded him as a founding leader. He was released from prison in 1987 and served as a Central Committee member of the then CPN (M-L).
Youth Federation Leadership: In 1990, he became the founding president of the Democratic National Youth Federation, Nepal (DNYF), a youth wing of the party.
Parliamentary Career: In 1991, the CPN (UML) was founded by merging the CPN (ML) and CPN (M), and he became a founding central leader of the UML. He was elected as a member of the House of Representatives from Jhapa-6 in 1991.
Government Positions: He served as deputy prime minister and minister for foreign affairs in the interim government led by prime minister GP Koirala from April 2006 to March 2007.
Party Roles: Although he lost the Election of Constituent Assembly in April 2008, he served as Chief of the Central Department of Party School from 2008 to 2009. In February 2009, his proposal for multiple positions in the central committee was accepted at the party’s 8th National Congress. He contested for the chairman position but lost to JN Khanal and was later elected as a Standing Committee Member and reassigned as chief of the central department of international affairs.
Prime Ministerial Tenure: In 2018, President Bidhya Devi Bhandari administered his oath of office and secrecy as the 41st Prime Minister of Nepal. His tenure was marked by ambitious promises like “Samriddha Nepal, Sukhi Nepali,” but faced criticism for unmet expectations and centralization of power, including bringing investigative agencies under the Prime Minister’s Office.
Political Landscape Post-2022 Elections: After the 2022 elections, the NC emerged as the largest party, followed by the CPN-UML, with the Maoist Centre in third. The CPN-Maoist Center’s Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal claimed the prime ministerial post, but the NC, holding the majority, refused. Dahal then sought support from the CPN-UML and the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) to strengthen his candidacy and was appointed Prime Minister, positioning him as a kingmaker.

The coalition eventually dissolved, positioning KP Sharma Oli to take over from Prachanda. This marks a new chapter in the politically unstable Himalayan nation, which has seen 13 different governments since abolishing the monarchy and becoming a republic in 2008.

Modi 3.0: Where Does Indian Economy Stands?

June 8, 2024, 3:32 pm

Narendra Modi is poised to begin his third consecutive term as Prime Minister on Sunday, alongside a full-strength team of NDA partners, who will also take oath at the swearing-in ceremony. Leaders from South Asian countries will be present at the event.

Modi’s third term commences on a positive note, with rising economic growth, low inflation, and optimism about India’s future as a manufacturing powerhouse. However, concerns persist regarding job creation and rural demand.

RBI Governor Shantikanta Das recently presented an assessment of the macroeconomic situation as Modi’s third term begins. The Monetary Policy Committee has decided to maintain key interest rates to balance economic growth and inflation.

Economic Growth and Resilience

India’s real GDP growth was at 8.2% in 2023-24, with continued resilience in domestic economic activity. Manufacturing and services sectors have shown strength, with indicators like PMI and GST revenues reflecting robust expansion.

Private consumption, particularly in urban areas, is recovering steadily. Retail sales of passenger vehicles and domestic air passengers have shown positive growth.

Rural demand is on the rise, supported by improvements in the farm sector. Retail two-wheeler sales and demand under MNREGA have increased, indicating a positive trend in rural areas.

Investment activity is gaining traction, supported by non-food bank credit expansion and government-led infrastructural development. Construction sector and production of capital goods have shown robust growth.

External Sector and Foreign Investments

India’s external sector remains resilient, with foreign portfolio investment flows and FDI remaining robust. Foreign exchange reserves have reached a historical high of $651.5 billion.

Inflation and Outlook

Retail inflation has softened, but food inflation pressures persist. The outlook for CPI inflation for 2024-25 is projected at 4.5%, with risks evenly balanced.

Despite global uncertainties, India’s strong fundamentals, financial stability, and positive growth momentum position it well for sustained high growth in the coming years.

Modi’s Leadership Marks End of Coalition Governments, Basavaraj Bommai said

April 3, 2024, 10:57 pm

Former Chief Minister and BJP candidate for the Gadag-Haveri Lok Sabha constituency, Basavaraj Bommai, stated that following Narendra Modi’s ascension to Prime Minister, the era of coalition governments concluded. He remarked that the populace opted for a single-party government to ensure the nation’s development and security.

Speaking at an election rally in the Hirekerur Assembly constituency on Wednesday, he emphasized that PM Modi has been a central figure in the ongoing election. Typically, elections revolve around two personalities, but in this case, it was either pro-Modi or anti-Modi. He expressed the challenge of finding a personality comparable to Narendra Modi in the country.

“The political parties that haven’t been able to contest in 543 Lok sabha seats were talking about ruling the nation. They have seen the small parties ruling the Bharat but the era of coalition government ended after Modi became the PM. It was good to have one party ruling in the interest of the development and safety of the nation. It is being done by people.” he added.

He emphasized the need to tirelessly work to regain the trust of the people, acknowledging the numerous challenges facing the nation. He reflected on historical adversities, noting that before independence, rulers posed a threat, while poverty and population emerged as post-independence adversaries. Initially perceived as a significant burden, Modi, as Prime Minister, harnessed 46% of the youthful population for national development, underscoring his effectiveness.

Bommai emphasized Dr. Manmohan Singh’s perceived weakness, attributing it to the peak of militancy in the country before Modi’s tenure due to a weak government and the characterization of Singh as the weakest Prime Minister. He portrayed Singh as a remote-controlled leader who followed directives from Sonia Gandhi, with even Rahul Gandhi showing little regard for him. He recounted an incident where Singh sought to pass a law to disqualify individuals facing criminal charges, but Rahul Gandhi was overseas at the time.

“The copy of the bill was handed over to him on the plane but he tore the copy of the bill brought by his party government. This happened because Rahul had the remote control. The incumbent PM Modi was never in the remote control of anyone but in the control of 130 crore people,” further added the former Chief Minister.

He pledged to devise strategies to overhaul the education and development sectors in both the Gadag and Haveri districts, ensuring the execution of all pending irrigation projects. Bommai urged the public to support the BJP to bolster Modi’s leadership.
Later, he characterized former minister BC Patil as a multifaceted individual, citing his roles as a police officer, a cinema actor, and a politician. “This was not an easy job. Even out of power, he went to jail to protect the interests of farmers,” he added.

Karnataka, with its 28 Lok Sabha seats, is scheduled to vote in two phases on April 26 and May 7. The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will span seven phases, commencing on April 19 and concluding with the counting of votes on June 4.

Shehbaz Sharif swears in as Pakistan Prime Minister

March 4, 2024, 6:07 pm

Shehbaz Sharif, leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), swore in as the 24th Prime Minister of Pakistan, as reported by Dawn on Monday. The swearing-in occurred amidst nationwide protests led by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which has alleged electoral irregularities in the recent general elections.

President Arif Alvi administered the oath of office to Shehbaz at the Aiwan-i-Sadr. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, former President Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, and the chief ministers of Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan, according to Dawn.

Shehbaz Sharif secured 201 votes in the National Assembly, defeating his rival Omar Ayub Khan, who was supported by the PTI, to become the Prime Minister. The formation of the government followed prolonged negotiations involving PML(N), PPP, and smaller parties.

PTI leader Meher Bano Qureshi expressed the possibility of presenting a no-confidence motion against Shehbaz Sharif, as reported by Dawn. She emphasized the importance of restoring their electoral mandate and seeking justice from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and the courts. PTI MNA Gohar Ali Khan criticized Shehbaz Sharif’s election, labeling it as a “sad day for democracy” during his speech in the National Assembly. He questioned the legitimacy of Shehbaz Sharif’s long-standing political tenure and expressed concerns over entrusting Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities to someone without a clear public mandate.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit today

November 22, 2023, 10:48 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit that India is hosting on Wednesday night, which will feature a significant assembly of global leaders. Nine guest nations, the heads of eleven international organizations, and the leaders of all 20 G20 members—including the chair of the African Union—have all been invited. Prime Minister Modi declared during the G20 Summit’s closing ceremony on September 10 that India would hold a virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit before the country’s G20 Presidency ends on November 22.

The virtual summit will cover important topics, choose results, and go over changes that have happened since the September end of the G20 Summit in New Delhi. Upon the conclusion of this year’s G20 Leaders’ Summit, which was held in the nation’s capital on September 9–10, significant advancements have been made with regard to primary G20 objectives and results. Among the main anticipated outcomes of COP28 are, for example, the G20 consensus to triple the global capacity of renewable energy by 2030 and to double the global rate of energy efficiency improvement by 2030. These commitments were made for the first time by G20 Leaders in Delhi.

In the US-China Joint Statement on November 14, both countries supported the G20 Leaders’ Declaration to pursue efforts to triple renewable energy capacity globally by 2030 and also agreed that each would undertake five large CCUS projects.
CCUS stands for Carbon capture, usage and storage. Such projects are carried out by employing technology that allows for the reduction of CO2 emissions from big point sources such as power plants, refineries, and other industrial sites.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishes everyone happiness, health and prosperity on Diwali

November 12, 2023, 9:11 am

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the nation’s citizens a happy and prosperous Diwali and conveyed his hope that everyone would experience good health and happiness during this auspicious occasion.

In a post on social media app X, the Prime Minister posted, “Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali! May this special festival bring joy, prosperity and wonderful health to everyone’s lives.”
In an earnest expression of delight, Prime Minister Modi on Saturday had acknowledged the nation’s radiant celebration of Diwali, emphasising the vivid illumination in every household attributed to the government’s public welfare schemes.
Renowned celebrities and influencers across India resonated with the PM’s #VocalForLocal movement, lending their support and leveraging their social media platforms to amplify and encourage local vendors and manufacturers.

A number of prominent personalities echoed PM Modi’s initiative on social media, endorsing Vocal for Local and encouraging Indian entrepreneurship. Their remarks on X emphasized the significance of endorsing the “Made in India” movement and exhorted their followers to value and support regional artists and goods. These initiatives aligned with the PM’s goal of empowering and boosting the confidence of indigenous companies by raising awareness of and appreciation for regional goods.

World Food India 2023: PM Modi to inaugurate second edition of the Mega food event today

November 3, 2023, 12:08 pm

The megafood event “World Food India 2023″ will have its second edition officially opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The event will begin at 10 a.m. in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam.

The Prime Minister’s Office stated in an official statement, “This support will help SHGs gain better price realisation in the market through improved packaging and quality manufacturing.” In addition, the Prime Minister will open “Food Street” in conjunction with World Food India 2023. It will be a one-of-a-kind culinary experience with over 200 chefs participating and presenting traditional Indian cuisine, along with regional cuisines and royal culinary heritage.

Government agencies, business people in the field, farmers, entrepreneurs, and other interested parties will be able to network, form partnerships, and look into investment opportunities in the agri-food sector. There will be CEO roundtables with an emphasis on investment and business ease of doing business. There will be a number of pavilions erected to highlight the strength and inventiveness of the Indian food processing sector. 48 sessions covering various facets of the food processing industry will be held during the event, with a focus on quality control, financial empowerment, and advancements in machinery and technology.

Promoting India’s tribal art: PM Modi presents cultural gifts to world leaders

May 24, 2023, 3:57 pm

During his ongoing foreign visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated a significant emphasis on promoting tribal art and culture by presenting numerous gifts to international leaders. These gifts prominently featured exquisite artwork and craftsmanship representing different regions of the country.

PM Modi presented ‘Dokra art’ to Australia
Dokra art is one of India’s prehistoric art forms. One of the earliest expressions of this ancient art is the dancing girl artefact found in Mohenjo-Daro and Harappan excavations.
The common themes of Dokra art revolve around figurines of Hindu gods and goddesses and different animals. This particular art piece is crafted by artisans from Chattisgarh
PM Modi also gifted ‘Dokra Art’ to Brazil, Cook Islands, Tonga.

PM Modi gifted Gond paintings to Canada, Tuvalu
Gond paintings are considered one of the most admired tribal art forms. The word ‘Gond’ comes from the expression ‘Kond’ which means ‘green mountain’.

These paintings, created by dots and lines, have been a part of pictorial art on walls and floors of Gonds and it is done with the construction and re-construction of each and every house, with locally available natural colours and materials like charcoal, coloured soil, plant sap, leaves, cow dung, limestone powder, etc.

PM Modi gifted the ‘Warli paintings’ to Comoros
‘Warli Painting’, from the Chhota Udaipur region of Gujarat, illustrates the exuberant celebration of the meeting of the earth and the sky. This is achieved through the judicious use of the rustic mud brown of the wall and the white of the rice paste.
The paintings were originally depicted as murals on kitchen hearths in Warli homes.

PM Modi gifted the Pithora folk art to Niue
A ‘Pithora’ is a ritualistic tribal folk art by the Rathwa artisans from Chhota Udaipur in Gujarat. It is considered a living testament to an ever-changing ethos exemplifying the highly enriched folk and tribal art culture of Gujarat. These paintings are depictions of the cave paintings that tribals used to make reflecting the social, and cultural life and beliefs of those tribals.

Modi to lead BJP campaign: 6 days, 22 rallies in Karnataka

April 27, 2023, 4:43 pm

The campaign for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections is set to gain momentum as Prime Minister Narendra Modi hits the BJP campaign trail in the battleground state of Karnataka this weekend.

However, it’s anticipated that PM Modi would hold up to 22 rallies around the state over the course of the next two weeks. The greatest star campaigner for the BJP would hold close to 22 rallies during his six-day visit for the election, according to sources who spoke to the media while the final itinerary was being created. On each tour, PM Modi would hold more than three rallies.

The BJP is extremely confident that it would perform well in the Karnataka election, but when Prime Minister Narendra Modi enters the battleground, it is a different game altogether. A senior party official tells the media that there is no greater momentum for the party’s campaign to reach its peak.

On Saturday, the major highlight of PM Modi’s busy campaign schedule will be the massive roadshow in Bengaluru.

PM Modi’s election campaign is as follows:

29 April: Modi will address rallies in Humnabad, Vijayapura, Kudachi, and North Bengaluru.

30 April: Modi will be doing rallies in Kolar, Channapattna, and Belur.

2 May: He is scheduled to hold public meetings in Chitradurga, Vijayanagara, Sindhanur, and Kalaburgi.

3 May: Public meetings are to be held in Moodabidri, Karwar, and Kittur.

6 May: PM Modi is to be in Chittapur, Nanjagud, Tumakuru Rural, and South Bengaluru.

7 May: On the final day before the close of the campaign, he will address four rallies. These rallies will be held in Badami, Haveri, Shivamogga Rural, and Bengaluru Central.

The saffron party will be pushing the double engine growth government-state and centre formula as it seeks votes for the Assembly elections. The party is looking to win again in the southern state. Karnataka has been one of the oldest organisations for the BJP.

Huge investment in infrastructure to generate employment: PM Modi

February 20, 2023, 3:26 pm

According to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his administration is actively investing in infrastructure in Uttarakhand to improve living conditions for residents of remote areas and to create a variety of job opportunities. On Monday, the “Rozgar Mela” for Uttarakhand was virtually inaugurated, and Prime Minister Modi made the comment. Jobs are becoming more available for everyone, whether they work in engineering, construction, or small firms that deal in raw materials. “Youth (in Uttarakhand) are finding new work prospects due to an increase in demand in the transportation sector,” PM Modi stated. Regarding the migration of people from Uttarakhand to urban areas, he claimed that better road and internet connectivity in the hill state will offer them work options in their own locality, especially in the domestic tourist sector. He also said that the old perception that “pahad ka paani aur pahad ki jawani pahad ke kaam nahi aati” needs to be changed. There have been continuous efforts by the government to send back youth to their villages while providing them with better employment avenues, he added.

To further spur job growth the government is heavily investing in the infrastructure sector in Uttarakhand to make life easier for people living in far-flung areas. The Rozgar Mela is a virtual inauguration ceremony for new government employees in Uttarakhand and is a testament to the increased focus of the government on creating more jobs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also pointed out the need for teachers to play a big role in preparing students for the new century according to the new education policy. He emphasized the need for teachers to be the medium for big change.

President’s visionary address in Parliament has guided crores of Indians: PM Modi

February 8, 2023, 4:38 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 8 February said that, ‘President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament has provided guidance to the people of the country’. Replying to the debate on the motion of thanks to the President’s address in the Lok Sabha, the PM said that, President Droupadi Murmu’s presence as Head of the Republic is historic and inspiring for the daughters and sisters of the country. “I extend my thanks to the President’s Address.”The President has enhanced the pride of the tribal community. Today, after several years of independence, there is a sense of pride in the tribal community and an increase in their self-confidence. This nation and House are grateful to her for this,” PM added.

Green Mobility Rally flagged off by PM Modi in Bengaluru

February 6, 2023, 5:04 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday flagged off Green Mobility Rally, in Bengaluru. He inaugurated the India Energy Week 2023 in the city today and addressed the people in the city. PM Modi said, “We are working on mission mode to increase our Energy Mix Natural Gas Consumption by the year 2030.He lauded Bengaluru for “brimming” with the energy of technology, talent and innovation.”Like me, you too must be feeling the youthful energy here,” he stated while adding that this is the first significant energy event of India’s G-20 Presidency calendar. India has unparalleled opportunities in the field of energy sector development.

BBC Documentary Screening: Section 144 imposed at Delhi University

January 27, 2023, 5:54 pm

Over the screening of a BBC documentary on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Delhi Police on Friday imposed Section 144 (banning large gatherings) at the Faculty of the Arts at Delhi University as NSUI-KSU calls for the screening.

Meanwhile, outside the Faculty of Arts, security personnel have also been deployed in large numbers.

The BBC documentary has created a fresh row in the country as the government has denounced it and described it as a “propaganda piece”.

Moreover, for various social media platforms including Twitter and Youtube government has removed the BBC documentary ‘India: The Modi Question’.

Earlier on 25 January a ruckus was created outside Jamia Millia Islamia University and detained protesters who were sloganeering on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Police detained 13 students from a left-wing student in the day for creating a ruckus outside the campus of Jamia.

Earlier the Students Federation of India (SFI), the youth wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) announced that they will organize a screening of Prime Minister Narendra Modi titled ‘India: The Modi Question.’ documentary.

However, the Jawaharlal Nehru University administration also warned the students for screening the BBC documentary on campus. The students also marched toward Vasant Kunj police station claiming stone pelting by members of ABVP.

Pariksha Pe Charcha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to interact with students

January 25, 2023, 5:54 pm

Prime Minister will be addressing and interacting with students as part of the Pariksha Pe Charcha at Tal Katora Stadium, New Delhi at 11 AM on 27 January 2023. The program will be telecast live on DD News and other regional language channels of the Doordarshan network. However, every year Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with students before the 10th and 12th board exams.

Chris Hipkins becomes 41st Prime Minister of New Zealand

January 25, 2023, 12:42 pm

Chris Hipkins on Wednesday sworn in as the Prime Minister of New Zealand. Jacinda Ardern left Parliament as prime minister and handed over the power to Hipkins.

Earlier in 2008 Hipkins was first elected to parliament, in November 2020 he was appointed minister for Covid-19, and currently, he was minister for police, education, and public service.

Meanwhile, on Thursday New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made a shock announcement and said she had “no more in the tank” to continue leading the country and will step down from the top job no later than February.

“Jacinda Ardern says she will not be seeking re-election this year, and her last day as prime minister is 7 February. The 2023 general election will take place on 14 October,” tweeted New Zealand media.

Meanwhile, PM Ardern made this shocking decision after five and a half years in office, while leading New Zealand through the coronavirus pandemic.

“This summer, I had hoped to find a way to prepare for not just another year, but another term, because that is what this year requires. I have not been able to do that,” PM Ardern said.

PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah applaud the NDRF personnel’s bravery

January 19, 2023, 1:22 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded NDRF personnel for their commendable efforts in assisting people and said “to strengthen disaster management apparatus” in the country, India is making many efforts.

On the Raising Day of the NDRF, PM Modi tweeted, “Raising Day greetings to @NDRFHQ.They are making commendable efforts to assist people in the most challenging circumstances. Their bravery is admirable. India is making many efforts to strengthen the disaster management apparatus including building disaster resilient infrastructure.”

Meanwhile, the NDRF, which came into existence on 19 January 2006, is a specialized force capable of responding to any disaster in the country.

Moreover, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his best wishes to the NDRF personnel.

Taking to Twitter, Shah tweeted, “My best wishes to the Bravehearts of the @NDRFHQ on the occasion of their Raising Day. The journey of the NDRF abounds with exemplary acts of courage and commitment to professional excellence. I salute them for all the lives they saved imperilling their own.”