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Business News›Magazines›Panache›Panache People 101›Narendra Modi
    Narendra Modi

    Narendra Modi

    Prime Minister, India
    Birth DetailsSeptember 17, 1950 | Vadnagar, Mehsana, Gujarat
    NationalityIndian
    LeaguePolitician
    EducationB.A., Delhi University; M.A., Gujarat University
    Narendra Modi’s Journey so far ...
    • Narendra Modi was eight when he first joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and later, during the early 1970s, became an official promoter of the organisation when he opened a student wing of RSS — the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad — in his area
    • In 1987, Modi joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and forayed into mainstream politics
    • In 1988, he was appointed as the general secretary of BJP’s Gujarat unit
    • He became the national secretary of BJP in New Delhi in 1995
    • In 1998, he was promoted as the general secretary of BJP’s national division
    • In October 2001, he replaced Keshubhai Patel to become the chief minister of Gujarat
    • He won a Gujarat state Assembly seat in the 2002 by-election
    • Modi served as Gujarat’s CM for three consecutive terms with the second and third term beginning in 2007 and 2012, respectively
    • During his tenure as the CM, Modi was lauded for his development credo, for turning Gujarat into an investment magnet and for making it easy to do business in the state
    • In a unanimous decision taken by the BJP parliamentary board in September 2013, Modi was anointed as the party's PM candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections
    • The following year, BJP capitalised on the star power of Modi, a frenetic campaigner. He led BJP to a stunning victory with 282 seats, Modi took oath as the Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014
    • Modi was re-elected with a landslide victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, bagging 302 seats for BJP. This gave BJP the first back-to-back majority for a single party since 1984
    • During his tenure as the PM of India, Modi has introduced many programmes and schemes that have contributed heavily towards the socio-economic development of the country. Popular among them are the Swachh Bharat Mission, Make in India, Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Kisan and Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao

    Before you go ...
    • Modi is the only non-Congress PM of India to get a second term in office
    • Till date, he is the only PM of India who was born after the country’s independence
    • After INC’s win in the 1984 elections, BJP is the only party to have secured an absolute majority in both the 2014 and 2019 parliamentary elections
    • With a wide social media presence, Modi is one of the highest followed world leaders on Twitter
    • An active practitioner of yoga, Modi’s proposal at the UN led to June 21 being marked as International Yoga Day and is now celebrated around the world

    Last Updated: 25/08/2021

    Narendra Modi News

    • Union Minister Piyush Goyal has criticised the Congress party regarding the 2008 Mumbai attacks. He mentioned the extradition of Tahawwur Rana. Goyal accused the previous government of leniency towards terrorists like Ajmal Kasab. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for pursuing justice.
    • The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has suggested that India should avoid signing a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US, instead considering a limited "Zero-to-Zero" tariff deal on 90% of industrial goods. A FTA may require India to make harmful trade-offs, and India is also working on a Bilateral Trade Agreement with the US.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on April 11, where he will address a public gathering and inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for 44 projects worth Rs 3,880 crore.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Lord Mahavir on his birth anniversary, praising his ideals for inspiring people globally. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Mahavir’s vision and highlighted the recognition of Prakrit as a classical language last year.
    • Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has been extradited to India after exhausting his legal options in the US. The US Supreme Court rejected his petition to delay the extradition. Rana, a Pakistani-origin businessman and associate of David Coleman Headley, is accused of providing support to LeT and aiding in the planning of the attacks.
    • The Indian government has approved a Rs 63,000-crore deal to acquire 26 Rafale M fighter jets from France to enhance the Navy's capabilities for aircraft carriers. The jets will be equipped with advanced weapon systems and customized for Indian requirements. The deal also aligns with ongoing efforts to develop indigenous carrier-based fighters for the future.
    • One of the main objectives of the National Education Policy 2020 is the promotion of regional languages across the country and urged the people not to pay heed to rumours which claim it is done to impose Hindi on the people of the country, says Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai
    • The Civil Aviation Ministry has granted in-principle approval for a new airport in Perandur, Tamil Nadu, which will be the second airport in Chennai. Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu highlighted it as a step towards improving regional connectivity and strengthening Tamil Nadu’s aviation infrastructure under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.
    • Airbus and Mahindra Aerostructures signed a contract to manufacture the H130 helicopter fuselage, marking a significant milestone in India’s aviation sector. The partnership supports the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives. The Civil Aviation Ministry emphasized India’s growing aviation market and potential for a $10 billion aerospace industry, with increasing contributions from Indian MSMEs and startups.
    • Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi warned of an impending financial storm in India during an AICC meeting in Ahmedabad. He criticized PM Modi's silence on US tariffs, questioned his friendship with Trump, and condemned the new Waqf Act as an assault on religious freedom. Gandhi also advocated for a nationwide caste census, aiming to ensure fair representation for Dalits, tribals, and backward communities.
    • The Indian Union Cabinet has approved the Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) sub-scheme of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) for 2025-26. The scheme aims to improve water use efficiency among farmers by modernizing irrigation water supply infrastructure, creating robust backend infrastructure for micro-irrigation systems, and leveraging SCADA systems and IoT technologies for real-time water accounting and management.
    • Xi made the remarks at a central conference on work related to neighbouring countries, which was held in Beijing from Tuesday to Wednesday. Trump's additional 50 per cent tariff, taking the overall levies against the Chinese exports to the US to 104 per cent, kicked in on Wednesday.
    • Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging a growing economic monopoly and the privatization of public assets. Kharge claimed the government is manipulating election institutions, advocating for a return to ballot papers due to EVM concerns.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Navkar Mahamantra Divas at Vigyan Bhawan, demonstrating reverence by walking barefoot and sitting among the public. He emphasized the mantra's spiritual impact and connection to a developed India rooted in heritage. The event celebrated Jain philosophy, promoting peace, unity, and the timeless teachings of non-violence and self-realization.
    • Mark Shankar Pawanovich, son of Telugu cinema icon Pawan Kalyan, was hospitalized in Singapore after a school fire, sustaining burns and respiratory issues. The incident occurred on the birthday of his elder son, Akira Nandan. Political leaders and film fraternity members have offered their support, and Pawan Kalyan expressed gratitude for the prayers and well-wishes as Mark recovers.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Saudi Arabia in April, marking his first trip in four years, to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, energy, and defence. Discussions will also encompass regional security and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. Bilateral trade between the nations reached USD 42.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in both houses of Parliament, calling it a significant step towards social justice. Speaking at the Rising Bharat Summit 2025, Modi expressed support for the government's initiative to amend the 1995 Waqf Act, despite the ongoing political controversy surrounding it.
    • Tapir Gao warns that China's proposed dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River poses a severe threat to downstream regions and could lead to water scarcity. Experts at a seminar highlighted the potential for devastating impacts on Northeast India and Bangladesh. Concerns were also raised about China's influence on the selection of the next Dalai Lama and its water diversion plans.
    • Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's visit to India has strengthened bilateral ties, said Prime Minister Modi. The leaders aim for enhanced collaboration, building upon the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed India's eagerness to collaborate with the UAE in defence, co-production, and technology.
    • India and the European Union are considering a phased approach to their free trade agreement negotiations due to global trade uncertainties. Following a visit from EU leaders, talks are progressing positively, aiming to boost trade and investment. India's bilateral trade with the EU reached USD 137.41 billion in 2023-24, making the EU India's largest trading partner for goods.
    • Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis asserted that Narendra Modi will continue as Prime Minister beyond 2029, dismissing any succession discussions. This statement counters Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut's claim that Modi's visit to the RSS headquarters hinted at retirement plans. Fadnavis rebuked Raut's succession narrative, deeming it culturally inappropriate while Modi is still serving.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Mudra Yojana, highlighting its success in empowering previously overlooked individuals through financial support. The scheme has enabled countless dreams to materialize, fostering dignity, self-respect, and opportunity, particularly among women and those from SC, ST, and OBC communities. The government remains committed to providing a strong ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Mudra Yojana beneficiaries as the scheme completes 10 years. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana has sanctioned 50 crore loan accounts, totaling Rs 33 lakh crore, aimed at funding micro enterprises and small businesses. A significant portion of beneficiaries are women and individuals from Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, and Other Backward Communities, fostering grassroots entrepreneurship.
    • "Exchanged perspectives on the Indo-Pacific, the Indian Sub-continent, Europe, Middle East/West Asia and the Caribbean," Jaishankar wrote on X. "Agreed on the importance of the early conclusion of the Bilateral Trade Agreement," he added. This is the first high-level conversation between the two countries following Trump's announcement of reciprocal tariffs on global trading partners. India has said it is not imposing any reciprocal tariffs and is working on the bilateral trade pact.
    • The Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, will visit India on April 8-9. He will meet Prime Minister Modi and other ministers. The Crown Prince will also attend a business roundtable in Mumbai to strengthen India-UAE ties. He will be accompanied by several officials and a business delegation.
    • The European Union wants India to scrap high car import tariffs under a pending trade deal. Sources say India may cut duties in phases to 10% from over 100%, despite industry calls to keep a 30% tariff and protect EV makers by maintaining current rates for another four years.
    • The Indian govt is maintaining strict investment checks on Chinese firms despite increasing calls for relaxing FDI rules. Authorities remain cautious due to concerns over ownership structures and policies influenced by the Chinese government, especially amid global trade tensions and the US-China trade war impacts.
    • Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram countered Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement on increased funds allocated to Tamil Nadu since 2014. Chidambaram argued that economic metrics are naturally higher over time due to inflation and economic growth, questioning if the funds' proportion relative to GDP or total expenditure had truly increased.
    • The DMRC is set to introduce India's first metro corridor with three-coach trains on the Lajpat Nagar-Saket route, focusing on last-mile connectivity and efficiency. Spanning eight kilometers, this new corridor in Phase-IV aims for frequent, cost-effective urban travel. Eight strategically located stations will enhance accessibility, with completion expected by 2028.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted BJP workers on the party’s Foundation Day, reaffirming the BJP’s commitment to India’s progress and vision of a developed nation. He praised the party’s track record of good governance, reflected in past electoral victories, and lauded the dedication of grassroots workers serving marginalized communities. Modi acknowledged the party's legacy since its origins in 1951.
    • The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) plans to contest the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Supreme Court, arguing its provisions may significantly impact Waqf property management. Several opposition parties, including Congress and AIMIM, have also opposed the bill, citing discrimination against the Muslim community.
    • The BJP will mark its 45th foundation day on Sunday across Uttar Pradesh with a range of programs. State chief Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary stated that a committee has been set up to oversee the celebrations, which include flag hoisting, exhibitions, and tributes to key figures. Conferences will discuss the BJP's contributions and growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
    • Following talks between PM Narendra Modi and Md Yunus, Modi emphasized the deep friendship between India and Bangladesh, highlighted the importance of elections for democracy, and expressed concerns about minority rights. He dismissed claims of social media fabrications about minority attacks and suggested that specific issues be discussed by Foreign Ministers.
    • Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli described his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok as fruitful and progressive. Oli emphasized their commitment to enhancing Nepal-India relations, addressing mutual issues, and solving problems through dialogue. He also denied any strained ties between the two countries.
    • Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that Naxals cannot hinder the development of tribals in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region. He urged rebels to surrender and join the mainstream, promising protection and development from the government. Shah reiterated the government's commitment to eliminate the Naxal menace by March 2026.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge — the new Pamban Bridge in Rameswaram — on April 6. Built at a cost of ₹550 crore, the 2.08 km bridge enhances rail connectivity and allows ship passage with its 72.5-metre lift span. Modi will also launch key road and rail projects worth over ₹8,300 crore in Tamil Nadu.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Myanmar junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing during the Bimstec summit in Bangkok. Modi expressed his condolences for the earthquake victims and offered additional assistance. They discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in areas such as connectivity, capacity building, and infrastructure development.
    • PM Narendra Modi, during a meeting with Bangladesh's interim regime chief adviser Md Yunus in Bangkok, urged Dhaka to protect minority rights, including those of Hindus, and avoid rhetoric that harms bilateral relations. Modi also emphasized the need for border security and expressed concerns about the safety of minorities in Bangladesh.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced several India-led initiatives at the Bimstec summit in Bangkok, targeting disaster management, digital infrastructure, and human resource development. He also proposed a Bimstec Chamber of Commerce and business summit to foster regional economic integration among member nations.
    • India's diamond polishing hub in Surat faces significant challenges as the U.S. imposes a 27% tariff on gem and jewellery exports, jeopardizing thousands of jobs. With the U.S. market accounting for a major share of exports, the tariffs are expected to severely impact demand and industry stability.
    • Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath hailed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025's passage as a pivotal move to address issues relating to waqf properties and combat encroachments and corruption. The bill, supported by Prime Minister Modi, aims to benefit poor Muslim families and curb illegal encroachments.
    • Prime Minister Modi is set to visit Sri Lanka to fortify energy, defence, and economic ties, with plans to sign agreements in key sectors. During the visit, discussions on investments, debt restructuring, and an energy hub in Trincomalee are expected, as well as launching a solar power project.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposes linking India's UPI with BIMSTEC member nations' payment systems to enhance trade, business, and tourism. He also suggests setting up a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce, organizing annual business summits, and promoting trade in local currencies to boost regional connectivity and economic growth.
    • Parliament has passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aiming to eradicate years of injustice and corruption within Waqf operations. The legislation will increase accountability and transparency of Waqf Boards and properties, benefiting the poor, women, and children of the Muslim community. The bill also mandates audits for Waqf institutions earning over Rs 1 lakh.
    • External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the shift to a self-reliant era, urging regional cooperation in food, fuel, and disaster response. Addressing the BIMSTEC Ministerial, he emphasized the importance of shorter supply chains and stronger regional ties, with India's north-eastern region poised as a crucial connectivity hub.
    • Uddhav Thackeray criticizes the BJP for showing hypocritical concern over the Waqf Amendment Bill and accuses it of attempting to take away land to benefit industrialists. He claims the BJP continues to stir Hindu-Muslim issues despite being in power, challenging it to remove the green color from its flag.
    • Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath criticized the Waqf board for alleged land encroachments in Prayagraj. He supported the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, passed in Lok Sabha, aiming to enhance the administration of waqf properties and thanked PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their efforts.
    • Trump Reciprocal Tariffs: US President Donald Trump announced a 26% tariff on Indian imports, stating that India imposed higher duties on American goods. During a joint press conference, Trump spoke of the uneven trade conditions and stressed the need for negotiations to establish a more balanced trading relationship.
    • The Indian Navy has signed an order with Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited for the development of a 6MW marine diesel engine, aiming to boost self-reliance. The initiative involves a Rs 270 crore investment with over 50% indigenous content and covers engines for naval and coast guard ships.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bangkok for talks with Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra and to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. Key discussions and agreements, including maritime cooperation, are expected. Modi will also call on Thai King Rama X and visit Wat Pho temple.
    • Myanmar's deadliest natural disaster in years has boosted the position of ruling general Min Aung Hlaing by reopening diplomatic channels. The earthquake devastation led to international aid and engagement with regional powers, potentially bolstering the junta’s struggle against opposition groups.
    • The BJP and RSS have reconciled following the BJP's poor Lok Sabha results and the regime change in Bangladesh. The diminished relationship since Modi's government began improving, with both organizations acknowledging the need to address external threats and avoid a leadership cult within the BJP.
    • Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong expressed optimism regarding China-India relations as they commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties. Emphasizing collaboration, future stability, and mutual benefit, he highlighted the positive messages from leaders Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi on advancing bilateral relations for global peace and prosperity.
    • China expresses willingness to import more Indian products to balance trade, amidst strained India-China relations and ahead of potential US tariffs. Bilateral trade reached $101.7 billion in 2023-24, with India having a significant deficit. Economic cooperation and diplomatic engagements continue despite past border conflicts.
    • Bill Gates names four Indian icons he admires: PM Narendra Modi, industrialist Ratan Tata, biotech pioneer Raj Bhan, and mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Gates recalls inspirational interactions with these leaders, highlighting India's exceptional talent pool and innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem. The philanthropist praised their contributions to India's progress and expressed admiration for the country's vision for the future.
    • US President Donald Trump said that he heard India is set to reduce tariffs significantly, aligning trade practices with US allies. India has offered tariff concessions on US agricultural imports and cut customs duties on several goods. Both countries are working towards an early trade deal as the April 2 deadline for reciprocal tariffs approaches.
    • As the RBI turned 90, Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized maintaining 'Goldilocks' balance between inflation and growth. He highlighted the importance of price and financial stability, praised the resilience of the banking system, and stressed on trust through transparency. Malhotra also aims for greater financial inclusion, collaborating with the government towards economic growth.
    • ChatGPT Ghibli Art: A series of AI-generated Studio Ghibli-style images featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken social media by storm. Shared by MyGovIndia, the artwork reimagines Modi in key political and cultural moments. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the trend, revealing that demand for the tool had reached extreme levels. While some celebrated the AI’s creative potential, others criticised its use of Ghibli’s artistic style, reigniting the debate on AI-generated art versus traditional animation.
    • Dhaka is trying to arrange a meeting between PM Modi and Bangladesh interim government's chief adviser Md Yunus in Bangkok during the Bimstec summit. While Yunus attempts to strengthen ties and seek legitimacy, India remains concerned about conditions for minorities, the rise of Islamic extremists, and election fairness.
    • The Government of India has appointed Nidhi Tewari, IFS officer from the 2014 batch, as the Private Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Currently serving as Deputy Secretary in the PMO, Tewari will take on her new role immediately, as approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. She will work at Level 12 of the pay matrix.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet the Myanmar junta chief during the Bimstec summit in Bangkok. This meeting follows India's rapid aid response to Myanmar after a major earthquake. India launched Operation Brahma, providing extensive rescue and relief supplies, including ration, tents, medicines, and a field hospital.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the RSS headquarters in Nagpur for the first time in 11 years, celebrating the organization's contributions to India's culture and development. Modi also paid homage to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at Deekshabhoomi, underscoring the government's commitment to realizing Ambedkar's vision for social justice and inclusion.
    • Attending the Maha Kumbh, the author experienced its spiritual significance despite logistical challenges. From the holy dip at Prayagraj to Banaras' intellectual atmosphere, the event highlighted various spiritual practices and sadhus' traditions. Acts of kindness and the differing attitudes toward spirituality were evident, showcasing the diversity in worship and the universal acceptance at the Ganga's ghats.
    • Prime Minister Modi extended condolences to Myanmar's junta leader Gen Min Aung Hlaing after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake killed over 1,000 people. Modi emphasized India's solidarity and dispatched relief materials under Operation Brahma. Indian Air Force flights with relief supplies and a search and rescue team have reached the affected areas to assist in ongoing rescue efforts.
    • The situation in Manipur is disturbing, with violent clashes between Meitei and Kuki communities. Manipur has been under the President's rule since February after the resignation of chief minister N Biren Singh, as announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The state has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 2023.
    • CPI(ML) Liberation MP Raja Ram Singh has urged Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to convene a special session to discuss the impact of the Trump administration's tariff threats on Indian agriculture. Singh emphasized that higher tariffs on Indian exports could devastate Indian farmers and the agricultural sector.
    • BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey highlighted key initiatives, including the adoption of the Bangkok Vision 2030, at an online conference. The summit, set in Bangkok, will feature agreements with organizations like ASEAN and IORA, signifying stronger regional cooperation and political commitment among member states.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Nagpur on Sunday to honor RSS founders and Dr. B R Ambedkar at Deekshabhoomi. He will also inaugurate the new expansion of Madhav Netralaya Eye Institute and visit the Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited's ammunition facility. Extensive security measures are in place.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and begin multiple development projects worth over Rs 33,700 crore in Chhattisgarh, focusing on power generation, clean energy, connectivity, and education. Major initiatives include thermal power projects, railway expansions, road upgrades, and educational schemes, ensuring significant regional advancement.
    • Myanmar Earthquake: India has dispatched two navy ships with 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Myanmar following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake near Mandalay. The quake, the strongest in Myanmar in over a century, has resulted in at least 1,000 deaths and extensive damage. Thailand has also been impacted, with casualties confirmed and rescue efforts underway.
    • The union cabinet has approved a 2% hike in dearness allowance for central government employees and pensioners, effective from January 2025. This raise will impact over 115 lakh individuals and cost the exchequer ₹6,614.04 crore annually. Additionally, the cabinet sanctioned a ₹3,712.40 crore highway project in Bihar.
    • India may remove import tax on U.S. liquefied natural gas to boost purchases and reduce its trade surplus with Washington. This move aligns with India's pledge to increase U.S. energy imports and targets increased bilateral trade. Scrapping the tax would make U.S. LNG more competitive, supporting India's growing energy needs.
    • The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a Rs 22,919 crore Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost the domestic manufacturing of electronics components. The scheme aims to attract large investments, enhance domestic value addition, and integrate Indian companies into global supply chains. It is expected to attract Rs 59,350 crore in investment, generate Rs 4,56,500 crore in production, and create 91,600 direct jobs along with additional indirect employment.
    • India is actively working to pacify U.S. President Donald Trump by reducing tariffs on American imports, pledging increased energy purchases, and planning significant defense acquisitions. Additionally, India has eliminated a digital ad tax, cut tariffs on whiskey, and is collaborating with Elon Musk’s Starlink to bolster satellite broadband services.
    • India is negotiating seven bilateral trade agreements, prioritising the US for strategic reasons amidst fluctuating global trade dynamics. These pacts aim to bolster India's economic position, addressing both market and manufacturing challenges, with the outcomes impacting India's external strategy significantly.
    • P Chidambaram criticised the government's approach to the impending US tariff war, arguing against protectionism and for aligning with nations like Canada, Britain, France, Germany, and Japan. He highlighted issues such as unemployment, inflation, and fiscal deficit, while welcoming reductions in customs duties. Chidambaram warned that concessions and flattery of President Trump won't work.
    • Tesla's entry into the Indian EV market faces significant challenges with established local players and global competitors like BYD considering manufacturing in India. BYD's potential move to set up a factory in Telangana could further shrink Tesla's prospects in a price-sensitive market.
    • A master plan for Olympic facilities for the 2036 Games is being prepared near the Narendra Modi Stadium. Three ashrams, including rape-convict Asaram's ashram, are set to be acquired for this project. The process includes land acquisition and providing alternative sites for the trusts. The plan involves 650 acres, including land on the Sabarmati Riverfront and Karai Police Academy.
    • Union home minister Amit Shah defended the transparency of the PM-CARES Fund, contrasting it with the Congress-era National Relief Fund. Shah emphasized that the fund's allocation is decided methodically and is not influenced by political bias. He assured that the amendments would not harm India's federal structure.
    • A petition was filed against Bihar CM Nitish Kumar for allegedly disrespecting the national anthem during an event in Patna. The petition accuses Kumar of not standing for the anthem and instructing others to follow suit. The incident has drawn criticism from opposition leaders, with calls for action against Kumar under relevant legal provisions.
    • BRS's K T Rama Rao criticizes the Telangana government for spending Rs 55 crore on beauty pageants amid a farmer suicide crisis. He questions the relevance of such events and highlights the cancellation of the Rs 46 crore Formula-E event, which he claims deterred significant investments.
    • Bangladesh awaits India's response to a proposed meeting between Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BIMSTEC Summit. Yunus will also visit China to discuss bilateral issues, including water management and Rohingya repatriation, with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
    • Salaries and allowances for MPs have seen an average annual increase of 3.1% after being linked to inflation, resulting in a 24% rise over seven years. This structured adjustment, aligning with the Prime Minister's recommendation, ensures transparency. During COVID-19, MPs' salaries were reduced by 30% for one year.
    • Gujarat Titans vs Punjab kings Live Telecast: Gujarat Titans (GT) face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2025 Match 5 at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. PBKS, under new captain Shreyas Iyer, aims to equalize their head-to-head record. The match begins at 7:30pm IST and will be streamed live on the Star Sports Network and JioHotstar.
    • Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the decision of two Hurriyat-affiliated organizations to renounce separatism in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a major victory for PM Modi's vision of a peaceful India. The move reflects a shift in the region's political landscape, resulting from government measures to curb separatist activities and promote socio-economic reforms.
    • Standard Chartered Plc is strengthening its private credit team in India with the recent hire of Ankit Raghav, Ankit Dokania, and S. Siddharth. This expansion comes amid India's growing demand for middle-market funding driven by infrastructure projects. The bank has joined forces with Deutsche Bank and Barclays in being active in India’s private credit market.
    • India and the US are set to finalise the contours and terms of reference for a bilateral trade agreement during a three-day discussion starting Tuesday. The focus is on increasing trade predictability and integration, with the first phase of the agreement expected to be completed by fall 2025.
    • Kunal Kamra Ekanath Shinde (Google Trends): Kunal Kamra faces controversy for calling Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde a traitor. Shiv Sena workers ransacked a hotel, demanding action against Kamra. Kamra has faced previous controversies involving Arnab Goswami, Salman Khan, Ola Electric CEO, CJI Bobde, a child's morphed video, Supreme Court remarks, and the VHP.
    • Former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe criticises the current government for not advancing the Mannar renewable energy project with Adani, underscoring the importance of economic cooperation with India. Adani withdrew from the project after the new government sought to renegotiate tariffs, affecting Indian investments.
    • The upcoming Bimstec summit in Bangkok, held from April 2-4, aims to establish a maritime transport agreement to enhance trade between India, Myanmar, and Thailand. The summit will also focus on finalizing the long-pending free trade agreement to boost intra-regional trade.
    • The government will review central and sponsored schemes in the upcoming fiscal, focusing on spending quality, fund utilization and scheme outcomes. The five-year exercise aims to phase out redundant schemes and optimize fund use. Evaluations will consider scheme objectives, overlaps with state schemes, and performance by states, before presenting findings to the finance commission.
    • Elon Musk's contention against GoI's digital content control highlights the broader issue of India's digital sovereignty. The balance between partnership for growth and maintaining autonomy is delicate, especially with global corporations dominating GDPI. Local development of digital utilities is crucial for India's long-term sovereignty.
    • Arvind Kejriwal accuses the BJP of disregarding the legacies of Bhagat Singh and Bhimrao Ambedkar, stating current rulers are worse than the British. At an AAP event commemorating freedom fighters, Kejriwal criticizes the BJP for restricting women's welfare schemes and removing portraits of national heroes from government offices.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent podcast with Lex Fridman is now accessible in over 10 languages, encouraging wider audience engagement. Topics covered include AI, cricket, and US President Trump. Modi highlighted the extensive voter registration in the 2024 elections and the government's commitment to equitable welfare schemes.
    • From ‘Larry the bird’ to X, a timeline of how the platform has evolved
    • India and Italy held a two-day meeting in Rome to discuss enhancing their military cooperation, focusing on capability development and strengthening armed forces collaboration. This comes after the Prime Ministers of both countries unveiled a five-year strategic action plan in November.
    • New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the strengthening of bilateral ties with India during his recent visit. Highlighting the achievements in defense, trade, and other sectors, Luxon noted the launch of negotiations for a Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement and announced a new Defence Cooperation Arrangement.
    • Union Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted India's growing startup ecosystem, aiming to increase unicorns from 118 to 1,000. At the Vejalpur Startup Festival 2.0, he praised Gujarat's development model and the government's support for startups. Goyal also encouraged the youth to embrace failure and use it as a stepping stone to success.
    • Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin advocates forming an expert panel to ensure fair and democratic delimitation of Lok Sabha constituencies. He warns that future population-based constituency changes may reduce parliamentary representation for states like Tamil Nadu, stressing the need for united action and continuous awareness to protect political rights and fair representation.
    • Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure the upcoming delimitation exercise does not lead to any reduction in states' representations in the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha. In his letter, Reddy emphasized the importance of maintaining social and political harmony by amending the Constitution to safeguard states' seats in parliament.
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    The Economic Times
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