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Narendra Modi

India, Norway Upgrade Bilateral Relations to Green Strategic Partnership

/ Governance Community

India and Norway have agreed to elevate their bilateral ties to a “Green Strategic Partnership” following high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo. During restricted and delegation-level discussions, both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of India-Norway relations and committed to deepening cooperation in areas such as clean energy, blue economy, green transition, renewable energy, trade and investment, circular economy, artificial intelligence, science and technology, education, space, and Arctic affairs. The two sides also highlighted the growing opportunities under the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, particularly in boosting trade, technology partnerships, and employment generation. In a joint press statement issued after the meeting, Prime Minister Modi recalled that his planned visit to Norway last year had been postponed following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. He expressed gratitude to Norway for firmly supporting India during that period, calling it a sign of genuine friendship between the two nations. Mr Modi said the India-EFTA trade pact, which came into force last year, would act as a roadmap for shared prosperity and stronger economic engagement between India and Norway. He also welcomed Norway’s decision to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, emphasizing that both countries, as major maritime nations, would enhance collaboration in maritime security, marine economy, and capacity building. The Indian Prime Minister reiterated that both nations strongly support a rules-based international order and believe in dialogue and diplomacy for resolving conflicts. Referring to ongoing crises in Ukraine and West Asia, he stressed that military solutions alone cannot resolve global disputes and underlined support for efforts aimed at restoring peace. Mr Modi also emphasized the need for reforms in global institutions to effectively address emerging international challenges and reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Norway to combating terrorism in all forms. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed strong support for India’s fight against terrorism and agreed to strengthen cooperation with India in multilateral platforms and global forums. Source: News on AIR

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Government Raises Gold, Silver Import Duty to 15% to Control Imports and Support Rupee

/ Governance Community

In a significant policy move, the Indian government has increased import duties on gold and silver to 15% from the earlier 6%, aiming to reduce precious metal imports and ease pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves. The decision comes amid growing concerns over India’s rising trade deficit and weakening rupee, as heavy bullion imports have added strain to external finances. Analysts believe the higher tariffs could discourage fresh demand in one of the world’s largest gold-consuming markets. The announcement follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal urging citizens to postpone non-essential gold purchases for a year in the national interest. He had cited global economic uncertainty and tensions in the Middle East as reasons to conserve foreign exchange reserves. According to trade estimates, India’s gold imports have surged sharply in recent years, with increasing shipments from the UAE. Policy experts have also called for a review of tariff concessions under the India-UAE trade agreement, which they say contributed to higher imports. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also supported the move, stressing the need to reduce import-driven spending as geopolitical instability continues to impact global markets and energy routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The tariff hike has triggered mixed reactions. While some see it as a necessary step to protect the rupee and improve the trade balance, others fear it may encourage smuggling, disrupt wedding-season buying, and increase costs for consumers. Source: TOI  

Government Raises Gold, Silver Import Duty to 15% to Control Imports and Support Rupee Read More »

PM Modi Revives Covid-Era Work Culture Habits, Urges Indians to Prefer WFH and Virtual Meetings Amid Global Uncertainty

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to adopt certain work and travel habits that were common during the Covid-19 pandemic, including work-from-home arrangements, virtual meetings, and online conferences, as India prepares for possible economic pressure caused by rising global tensions in West Asia. Addressing a gathering in Secunderabad after launching development projects worth around ₹9,400 crore in Telangana, PM Modi said the country must focus on reducing unnecessary fuel consumption and lowering dependence on imported energy resources. Highlighting the importance of energy conservation, the Prime Minister advised offices and organisations to once again encourage remote working wherever possible. He said online meetings and digital conferences can help cut daily commuting, lower petrol and diesel usage, and ease pressure on fuel demand, especially in major cities. Unlike the pandemic years, Modi clarified that the appeal is not linked to any health emergency, but rather to economic preparedness during a period of international instability impacting fuel prices, supply chains, and global markets. He also encouraged citizens to make greater use of public transport such as metro rail services, and suggested carpooling when private vehicles are necessary. Beyond workplace habits, PM Modi called on people to limit non-essential foreign travel, postpone overseas vacations and destination weddings for the next year, and reduce unnecessary gold purchases to help conserve foreign exchange reserves. The Prime Minister said responsible consumption is essential at a time when the world is facing challenges related to energy security. He added that India is continuing to invest in alternative energy solutions such as solar power, ethanol blending, CNG mobility systems, and piped gas networks. During the same visit, Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple infrastructure projects in Telangana, including highways, railways, petroleum facilities, industrial developments, and the PM MITRA textile park in Warangal.

PM Modi Revives Covid-Era Work Culture Habits, Urges Indians to Prefer WFH and Virtual Meetings Amid Global Uncertainty Read More »

PM Modi Launches ₹4,000 Crore Development Projects During Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Celebrations

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the closing ceremony of Sikkim’s 50th Statehood celebrations at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, where he inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects worth ₹4,000 crore. He also announced the establishment of six cricket academies across the North East region. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister praised Sikkim’s talented people and said visiting the state is always a joyful experience. Calling Sikkim the “Heaven of the East,” he encouraged tourists to explore its natural beauty, especially its famous orchids, while also appreciating the state’s cleanliness. The event was attended by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, ministers, and Members of Parliament. A grand cultural presentation titled “1000 Steps of Unity,” featuring more than 1,500 performers, highlighted India’s diverse traditions. PM Modi lauded the performance as a symbol of the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.” Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang thanked the Prime Minister for the new development initiatives and reiterated Sikkim’s dedication to contributing towards the vision of a developed India. Source: News on AIR

PM Modi Launches ₹4,000 Crore Development Projects During Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Celebrations Read More »

PM Modi, South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung Hold High-Level Talks to Deepen Strategic Partnership

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral discussions with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in New Delhi, focusing on enhancing cooperation across key sectors and strengthening strategic ties between the two nations. The talks are expected to result in the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at boosting collaboration in areas of mutual interest. Earlier in the day, President Lee was accorded a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The welcome ceremony was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. President Lee, accompanied by First Lady Kim Hea Kyung, also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat by laying a wreath. Later in the evening, President Lee is scheduled to meet President Murmu for further discussions at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a state banquet in his honour. President Lee arrived in India on a three-day official visit, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including ministers, senior officials, and business leaders. India and South Korea share a strong and evolving partnership anchored in historical ties, democratic values, and a shared commitment to the rule of law. This visit is expected to further solidify existing collaborations while opening new avenues in emerging sectors. Source: Newsonair

PM Modi, South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung Hold High-Level Talks to Deepen Strategic Partnership Read More »

India Crosses $860 Billion Export Milestone in FY 2025–26: Govt Highlights Resilience Amid Global Challenges

/ Governance Community

India has recorded its highest-ever export performance, reaching an impressive $860 billion in the financial year 2025–26, according to Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Sharing the update on social media, the minister emphasized that the achievement reflects India’s economic resilience and its expanding footprint in global trade despite ongoing international uncertainties. He noted that the momentum has been significantly supported by nine trade agreements finalized under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These agreements are helping India access new markets and unlock growth opportunities across multiple sectors. Goyal further highlighted that continued government efforts to improve ease of doing business and foster an investor-friendly ecosystem are playing a crucial role in driving export growth, aligning with the broader vision of building a “Viksit Bharat.” Welcoming the development, ASSOCHAM President Nirmal Minda described the milestone as a testament to India’s strong economic fundamentals amid global headwinds. He pointed out that the growth has been largely driven by services exports, along with strong contributions from sectors such as engineering and electronics. Minda added that the performance underscores the effectiveness of policy measures and industry collaboration, boosting confidence in India’s export trajectory. He also expressed optimism that the country is on track to surpass the $1 trillion export mark in FY 2026–27, backed by rising global competitiveness and diversification across markets. Source: Newsonair  

India Crosses $860 Billion Export Milestone in FY 2025–26: Govt Highlights Resilience Amid Global Challenges Read More »

Historic 106-Year-Old School in J&K to Be Transformed into Heritage Institution

/ Education Community

In a significant move to preserve educational legacy, the government has announced the redevelopment of one of Jammu and Kashmir’s oldest institutions, the Boys Higher Secondary School in Bhaderwah, into a heritage school. Originally established in 1920 as Amar Singh High School by Maharaja Pratap Singh, the institution holds the distinction of being the first high school in the Chenab Valley region. Located in Bhaderwah town of Doda district, the school has played a pivotal role in shaping generations of students for over a century. The foundation stone for the redevelopment project, estimated at ₹3.06 crore, was laid by Additional Deputy Commissioner Sunil Kumar Bhutyal in the presence of Principal and alumnus Kailash Chander. The initiative is being carried out under the ‘Prerna’ Heritage School scheme, aimed at revitalizing historic institutions into inspiring centres of learning. According to officials, the upgraded campus will offer an immersive educational environment while preserving the institution’s historical character. The project is also expected to strengthen emotional and cultural ties among alumni, many of whom have longstanding family connections to the school. Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Bhutyal noted that the redevelopment aligns with the broader vision of Narendra Modi to empower youth through meaningful educational reforms. The ‘Prerna’ initiative, he said, seeks to motivate students to become agents of positive change in society. Principal Kailash Chander described the development as deeply personal and historic, sharing that three generations of his family have studied at the institution. Leading the school after it has been granted heritage status, he added, is a moment of immense pride. The school’s academic affiliations have evolved over time, reflecting its longstanding prominence. Before India’s independence, it was affiliated with the University of the Panjab until 1947. It later came under the aegis of Banaras Hindu University and subsequently the University of Jammu and Kashmir. Since 1974, it has been affiliated with the Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education. During the 2015–16 academic session, the institution was renamed Model Higher Secondary School. With this redevelopment, the century-old institution is set to enter a new phase—blending heritage preservation with modern education, and continuing its legacy of academic excellence. Source: PTI  

Historic 106-Year-Old School in J&K to Be Transformed into Heritage Institution Read More »

PM Narendra Modi Becomes India’s Longest-Serving Head of Government, Surpassing Historic Milestone

/ Governance Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a new benchmark in Indian political history by becoming the longest-serving head of an elected government in the country. With a total of 8,931 days in office, he has surpassed Pawan Kumar Chamling, who previously held the record with 8,930 days as Chief Minister of Sikkim. This combined tenure includes Modi’s time as Chief Minister of Gujarat and his ongoing role as Prime Minister, marking his entry into the 25th year in public leadership. This achievement highlights decades of uninterrupted governance and sustained political relevance at both state and national levels. Over the years, Modi has also recorded several milestones, including being Gujarat’s longest-serving Chief Minister and the Prime Minister with the most extensive prior experience as a CM. He also holds the distinction of being the first Indian Prime Minister born after Independence and has won three consecutive Lok Sabha elections in 2014, 2019, and 2024—underscoring continued public support. Modi began his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat on October 7, 2001, serving for over 13 years before transitioning to national leadership. On May 26, 2014, he was sworn in as the 14th Prime Minister of India, becoming the first non-Congress leader to secure a full majority in the Lok Sabha. He later went on to complete two full terms and returned for a third consecutive term. Beyond governance, Modi has also expanded his digital footprint significantly. He recently crossed 30 million subscribers on his YouTube channel, making him one of the most-followed global leaders on the platform. Earlier this year, he became the first serving world leader to surpass 100 million followers on Instagram, where his following now stands at over 101 million. On X, he currently has more than 106 million followers, reflecting his strong digital engagement globally. Source: IANS

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PM Narendra Modi Rolls Out Nationwide HPV Vaccination Drive for 14-Year-Old Girls

/ Health & Wellness Community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign targeting 14-year-old girls. The initiative was inaugurated from Ajmer in Rajasthan on February 28, 2026. The cervical cancer prevention drive was formally introduced at a programme in Kayad, Ajmer, where several girls received the vaccine in the presence of the Prime Minister. He also interacted with beneficiaries during the event, highlighting the importance of preventive healthcare for young women. Under the campaign, a single-dose “Gardasil 4” vaccine — a quadrivalent HPV vaccine — will be administered. The vaccine offers protection against HPV types 16 and 18, which are the leading causes of cervical cancer, as well as types 6 and 11. The Union Health Ministry, in a communication issued to all States on February 25, confirmed that every 14-year-old girl across the country will receive a single dose of the vaccine free of cost. The vaccination will be carried out at government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Primary Health Centres), Community Health Centres, sub-district and district hospitals, as well as government medical colleges and hospitals. The nationwide rollout marks a significant step in India’s public health efforts to reduce the burden of cervical cancer through early immunisation and preventive care. Source: The Hindu

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Ambani, Adani Turn India AI Summit into High-Stakes Talent Hunt Amid $50B Investment Push

/ Human Resource Community

India’s two biggest business houses — Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani — are turning the ongoing India AI Summit into a high-stakes talent hunt, as competition to build cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools intensifies across the country. Senior executives from Reliance Industries Ltd. and Adani Group have been actively scouting young engineers at the summit, with candidates queuing up to showcase resumes, AI prototypes, and GitHub portfolios. With AI expertise still a niche skill set in India’s vast technology workforce, companies are moving quickly to secure top talent. Priyanshi Bavishi, a marketing executive at AdaniConnex Pvt. Ltd., said the summit offers an ideal platform to connect with qualified professionals. “The industry is still niche, so the qualified people have great prospects,” she noted. The week-long event has drawn global tech heavyweights, including Sundar Pichai of Alphabet Inc. and Sam Altman of OpenAI, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, who is scheduled to deliver the keynote address. For Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the summit serves as a global showcase for India’s software prowess and tech-savvy workforce. The country has already attracted $50 billion in AI-related investments, positioning itself as an emerging force in the global AI race. Corporate announcements during the summit underscored that momentum. Anthropic revealed a partnership with Infosys Ltd. to build advanced AI solutions tailored for specific industries. Meanwhile, the Adani Group unveiled plans to invest $100 billion in data centers by 2035. Google has also committed $15 billion toward developing what it calls its first AI hub in India. Consulting firms are equally aggressive in recruitment. Siddharth Sood, a consulting partner at Ernst & Young LLP, said the focus is shifting beyond traditional service roles. “We are a service-oriented nation. But we are looking for ideapreneurs,” he said, highlighting demand in areas such as AI-driven cybersecurity. At the summit venue, AI engineers, data scientists, and cloud developers are among the most sought-after profiles. Recruiters from Dell Technologies and Salesforce are leveraging the event to access candidates they might not reach through conventional online hiring channels, where automated screening systems often filter out applicants. Viral Tank, senior manager in analytics at Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, described the atmosphere as mutually beneficial. “It works both ways. I am looking for people. They are looking for jobs,” he said, noting the strong turnout of students since early morning sessions. While global corporations deepen their AI footprints and Indian conglomerates ramp up infrastructure spending, the government is aiming to expand domestic AI model development and boost funding further. Even as India accelerates its efforts, it continues to trail China in overall AI scale and deployment — making talent acquisition a critical battleground in the country’s next phase of digital growth. Source: Bloomberg  

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