Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu met in New Delhi to discuss strengthening their bilateral relationship. India announced an aid package of USD 400 million and INR 30 billion as a bilateral currency swap agreement to support Maldives' economy during this challenging time. Both leaders also agreed to further measures to enhance economic and maritime security cooperation between the two countries.
In a red carpet welcome, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to support the progress and prosperity of the Maldives as President Mohamed Muizzu made his first state visit to the country. The visit marks a new chapter in the two countries' ties, which had been strained after Muizzu's election and his promised to oust Indian troops. During the visit, discussions were held on issues such as energy, trade, and defense cooperation, as well as the announcement of financial support for Maldives' struggling economy. Muizzu expressed gratitude for India's assistance in addressing foreign exchange issues.
The Congress party in Maharashtra has launched 'Shakti Abhiyan', a campaign to empower women across the state. State president Nana Patole highlighted the positive response received by the Indira Gandhi Fellowship programme, under which the campaign was started a year ago. The campaign will be conducted at various levels and aims to bring women's leadership to the forefront. Patole also criticized the Modi government for not implementing the women's reservation bill, while assuring that the Congress will do so when in power.
In an inaugural address at the Hindu Spiritual and Seva Mela in Jaipur, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar spoke out against the dangerous rise of religious conversions in India. He criticized a "sugar-coated philosophy" used to target vulnerable sections of society, and pointed to a larger conspiracy behind the organized conversions. Without naming anyone, Dhankhar expressed concern over certain individuals aligning with forces detrimental to the nation's interests. He urged for vigilance and swift action against those attempting to fragment India.
Intel from the recent Friday prayers at Tehran's Grand Mosalla Mosque reveals Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's views on Iran's attack on Israel earlier this week. Addressing a massive crowd, Khamenei called the attack "completely legal and legitimate work" and also delivered a message to the Islamic world, particularly Lebanon and Palestine. The event also included a ceremony commemorating the death of Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah by the Israeli Air Force. Khamenei expressed the need to honour Nasrallah, whom he described as an "admired personality" and urged the youth of Hezbollah to fulfil his wishes and defend the region from external threats.
In his first phone call with South Korean President Suk-yeol, newly minted Prime Minister Ishiba reaffirmed the importance of closely communicating between the two nations, including through shuttle diplomacy. The leaders also pledged to strengthen security cooperation with the United States in light of North Korea's continued nuclear and missile developments. President Yoon expressed hope for even closer relations between the two countries as they approach the 60th anniversary of their bilateral ties next year.
In this episode of "News Today," experts discuss the ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in West Asia, as well as President Joe Biden's stance on Israel's reported plans to strike Iran's nuclear facilities. Questions are raised about the role of the United States and the world community in this conflict and whether Israel's actions have put America in a difficult position. Viewers can tune in to hear expert opinions on the escalating tensions.
In the midst of a controversy surrounding Telangana Minister Konda Surekha's derogatory comments aimed at Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya, Vishnu Manchu, President of the Movie Artistes Association, has issued an official statement. He addresses the pain caused to the families involved and calls for respect and protection of their personal lives. Meanwhile, Konda Surekha clarifies that her comments were meant to question a leader's belittling of women, not to hurt Samantha's sentiments.
The Tanzanian government has banned three leading newspapers from publishing their online editions for 30 days after they released an animation depicting President Samia Suluhu Hassan in a negative light. The viral clip highlighted the increasing number of abductions and disappearances in the country, sparking accusations of censorship and stifling of dissent. This comes in the midst of a wave of abductions, arrests, and the brutal killing of an opposition official, raising concerns over freedom of press and human rights ahead of next year's general elections.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in paying homage to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary. Shastri is remembered for his leadership, courage, and simplicity, and is seen as an inspiration for the nation. Many political figures, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, also paid their respects to the freedom fighter and Bharat Ratna awardee who dedicated his life to serving his country.