Report Wire

Tag: Narendra Modi

  • With ‘GYAN’, BJP Clears Its 2024 Poll Strategy To Counter Congress’ Caste Census Plank |

    Congress and Rahul Gandhi’s pitch for caste-based census across the country in a bid to counter BJP’s Hindutva poll plank, the saffron party has played two major cards – one was ‘poor’ caste and now the ‘GYAN’. Reacting to the opposition’s demand for a caste census, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during assembly polls in November that there is only one caste for the government and that is ‘poor people’. He said that the NDA government has been working for the welfare of this caste.

    Now, two months later, ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that ‘GYAN’ encompasses the Modi government’s four main focus points. Explaining ‘GYAN’, FM Sitharaman said that G stands for ‘Garib’ (Poor), Y for ‘Yuva’ (Youth), A for ‘Annadata’ (Farmer) and N for ‘Nari’ (Women). She said that PM Modi believes in focusing on these four ‘castes’ and the government is committed to the progress of these four sections. While some may have taken it lightly, this is a broader narrative on which the Modi government is working and is wooing the voters of this section.

    The government has already been running various programs for these four sections and some of them are the SAUBHAGYA electricity scheme, Ujjwala LPG cylinder scheme, Skill India or Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), promotion of sports through TOPS and Khelo India, and Kisan Samman Nidhi. These are just some of the schemes of the Modi government that cater to these four sections and if taken a holistic view, any poor family.

    Women and youth form a majority of the Indian voters and the NDA government has been able to keep this section happy in the 2019 polls and the continuation of such schemes is likely to help the ruling party in the upcoming polls as well. Congress, which has been talking about caste-based census each day ahead of the assembly polls in November, has not only toned down on the issue but now talks about it very rarely. Most probably, the grand old party may have realized that the narrative did not work in its favor and rather gave the BJP a chance to further highlight the schemes run by its government. Now, the question here is, can Congress find a fix to BJP’s ‘GYAN’ and ‘poor’ caste narrative? In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the Congress is not only facing an issue on the alliance front but it will have to find poll planks that resonate with the common people.

  • Watch: Vijay Chowk Reverberates To Indian Tunes During Beating Retreat 2024 |

    Beating Retreat ceremony, that marks the end of the Republic Day celebrations, today took place at the historic Vijay Chowk in Delhi. The landscape came live to foot-tapping tunes and synchronized steps by members of armed forces during the ‘Beating Retreat’ ceremony that was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The setting sun setting down provided a majestic background as soldiers marched to Indian tunes.

    Great display of military power and cultural heritage in ‘Beating Retreat’ #BeatingRetreat pic.twitter.com/NTv3ZGapBV — Vinod Tawde (@TawdeVinod) January 29, 2024

    The music bands of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) played captivating tunes before a distinguished audience including President Droupadi Murmu, who is Supreme Commander of defense forces, and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.

    A soul-stirring tribute! Captivating moment at the Beating Retreat Ceremony as a soldier skillfully plays the flute notes of ‘Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram’.#BeatingRetreat #BeatingRetreat2024 #RepublicDay2024 pic.twitter.com/Bf2duXyDkx — DD News (@DDNewslive) January 29, 2024

    The ceremony began with the massed band’s ‘Shankhnaad’ tune which was followed by enthralling tunes such as ‘Veer Bharat’, ‘Sangam Dur’, ‘Deshon ka Sartaj Bharat’, ‘Bhagirathi’, and ‘Arjuna’ by Pipes and Drums band. Lt Col Vimal Joshi is the principal conductor of the ceremony.

    Jayostute, Jayostute Shri Mahanmangle Shivashadde Shubhade Swatantrate Bhagwati Tvamaham Yashoyutam Vande.

    Whenever I listen to this song composed by Swatantraveer Savarkar, my heart gets filled with the inspiration of patriotism.

    Bharat Mata Ki Jai #BeatingRetreat #BeatingRetreatCeremony #IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/domv7h4Rd3 — Sunil Deodhar (@Sunil_Deodhar) January 29, 2024

    ‘Beating Retreat’ traces its origins to the early 1950s when Major Roberts of the Indian Army indigenously developed the unique ceremony of display by the massed bands. It marks a centuries-old military tradition, when the troops ceased fighting, sheathed their arms, withdrew from the battlefield and returned to the camps at sunset at the sounding of the Retreat. Colors and Standards are cased and flags lowered. The ceremony creates nostalgia for the times gone by. (With ANI inputs)

  • Bihar: Nitish Kumar Praises PM Modi, Makes Veiled Attack On RJD, Congress; Is Another U-Turn On Cards?

    Chief Minister Nitish Kumar praised the Modi government for honoring Karpoori Thakur and launched a scathing attack on the dynastic politics of Lalu Yadav’s family without explicitly naming them.

  • India Celebrates Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ In Ayodhya By Lighting Diyas, Fireworks |

    AYODHYA: Diwali is being celebrated across India with millions of Ram Lalla devotees lighting up earthen lamps (diyas) to celebrate the Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ in the holy city of Ayodhya on Monday. Fireworks also adorned the night sky over Ayodhya and many other cities to celebrate the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla amid full Vedic rituals.

    #WATCH | Fireworks adorn the sky over Ayodhya to celebrate ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla pic.twitter.com/L1zVVNkHPu — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024


    In a radiant spectacle, Ayodhya’s Saryu Ghat was illuminated with thousands of ‘diyas’ after the conclusion of the Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony. Thousands of devotees also lit up earthen lamps in Ayodhya’s famous Hanuman Garhi temple, ushering in widespread celebrations for the Ram temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.


    #WATCH | Saryu ghat illuminated with hundreds of diyas after Ayodhya Ram temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ pic.twitter.com/caYQx815MF — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024


    Har Ki Pauri Aglow: Haridwar Celebrates Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’

    Echoing similar sentiments, Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri was also decorated with earthen lamps, mirroring the jubilation for Ayodhya’s Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.


    #WATCH | Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri to be lit up with earthen lamps to celebrate Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ pic.twitter.com/72Zo6F87hX — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024


    Nepal’s Janakpur Celebrates ‘Deepotsav’ in Honor of Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’

    In Nepal’s Janakpur, devotees of Ram Lalla joyfully celebrated ‘Deepotsav’ to mark the auspicious occasion of Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.

    Public Darshan Begins: Shri Ram Lalla To Grace Devotees

    Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das announced that the commencement of public darshan of Shri Ram Lalla will start from Tuesday after the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony.

    Revised Temple Timings For Devotees

    The timings for visiting the Ram Temple have been altered. Starting from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, devotees can now seek the blessings of Ram Lalla. Additionally, the temple will remain closed from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. According to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Trust, Ram Lalla will be offered fruit and milk every hour. The temple will open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

    Colorful Attire For Ram Lalla

    Ram Lalla will now don different colored attire on specific days: white on Mondays, red on Tuesdays, green on Wednesdays, yellow on Thursdays, light yellow or cream on Fridays, blue on Saturdays, and pink on Sundays. The new attire has been crafted by skilled artisans associated with the Heritage and Handloom Revival Charitable Trust in Pune, involving 10 to 15 lakh artisans.

    Temple Rituals And Schedule

    After the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony concludes on January 23, the temple will remain closed during the day for cleaning, worship, and adornment of the sanctum sanctorum. Around 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM, the idols and ‘Shri Yantra’ will be awakened with mantras, followed by the ‘Mangala Aarti.’ Subsequently, there will be the consecration ceremony, adorned with rituals and offerings. The ‘Shringar Aarti’ will follow, concluding around 5:00 PM. Morning darshan will begin at 8:00 AM, with a break from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Evening darshan will continue from 3:00 PM until 10:00 PM, interrupted only by the evening ‘Sandhya Aarti’ at 7:00 PM.

    PM Modi Leads Prayer Prayer Rituals

    The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the ‘aarti’ of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed ‘parikrama’ of the deity and did ‘dandvat pranam’. He also took blessings from ‘sadhus’.

    The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

    Ram Lalla Won’t Stay In A Tent Now: PM Modi

    PM Modi congratulated people on the Pran Prathistha ceremony in Ayodhya temple and said Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. “Many congratulations to all the people of the country for this auspicious occasion,” PM Modi said. He said the grand temple has been constructed after centuries of sacrifice. “After centuries of unprecedented patience, countless sacrifices, renunciations and penances, our Prabhu Ram has come…” he said. “Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. He will stay in the grand temple…” the Prime Minister added.

    Distinguished Dignitaries Witness Grand Ceremony

    RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting ‘Jai Sri Ram’ along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple’s construction.

    Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

    The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

    The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

    The Mandir’s foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture. The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture.

  • Congress’ Acharya Pramod credits PM Modi for Ayodhya Ram Mandir, says ‘If PM Modi Na Hote…’

    Congress leader Acharya Pramod, who recently demanded his party to reconsider declining invite for Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration, has now credited PM Modi for the temple’s construction. Ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, Acharya Pramod said, “This is correct that Ram Mandir has been constructed by Supreme Court’s order, but if the country would have had different Prime Minister other than Narendra Modi, this verdict would not have been possible. I gave the credit of Ram Mandir’s construction and Pran Pratishtha ceremony to Prime Minister Modi.”

  • 132 Lok Sabha Seats, Four States: PM Modi’s Spiritual Outreach -Unveiling Strategy Behind BJP’s Southern Quest |

    Lord Ram is worshiped across the country and in many foreign countries as well. Ram Lalla’s consecration ceremony on January 22 will mark his return to Ayodhya after a gap of around 450 years. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the consecration ceremony, he is visiting several temples in the south which has strong connections with Lord Ram. Starting from Maharashtra, PM Modi has so far visited Andhra Pradesh and Kerala as well.

    Now, he will be visiting various significant temples in Tamil Nadu on 20-21 January. On 20th January, he will participate in a program at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. He will also listen to various scholars reciting verses from the Kamba Ramayanam in this temple. Thereafter, he will reach Rameswaram and perform Darshan and Pooja in Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple. On 21st January, the Prime Minister will perform Darshan and Pooja at Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi. Near Dhanushkodi, Prime Minister Modi will also visit Arichal Munai, which is said to be the place from where the Ram Setu was built.

    Maharashtra – 48 Lok Sabha Seats

    Nashik holds significant connections to the Aranya Kand of the Ramayana, the epic where Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman resided along the banks of the Godavari River. Notably, it is the locale where Lakshman cut off Surpanakha’s nose. The revered Shree Kala Ram Mandir which PM Modi visited, stands in the Panchavati Area of ​​Nashik, a place deeply intertwined with the events of the Ramayana. Panchavati holds a special significance as it witnessed key episodes of the epic. Lord Ram, accompanied by Sita and Lakshman, spent a considerable time in the Dandakaranya forest, which encompasses the Panchavati region. The legend has it that Lord Ram chose this region for his abode due to the auspicious presence of these five significant trees – Panchvati – five banyan trees. Now, by visiting the temple, PM Modi sent a message to the people of Maharashtra that the Ram Temple is ready for devotees. Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats and BJP is facing tough competition there due to the NCP-Sena UBT-Congress alliance.

    Andhra Pradesh – 25 Seats

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed darshan and puja at Veerbhadra Temple in Lepakshi, Puttaparthi, in Andhra Pradesh on January 16. PM Modi heard verses from the Ranganatha Ramayan in Telugu and witnessed the tale of Jatayu visually presented through the traditional shadow puppetry art form from Andhra Pradesh. Pradesh known as Tholu Bommalata. Lepakshi’s historical significance is rooted in the Ramayana, as it is believed that the injured bird Jatayu, wounded by Ravana during the abduction of Goddess Sita, descended at this location after an intense battle and attended Mokhsa. Even if the BJP manages to win three to five seats out of 25 in the state, it will be a boost for the saffron party.

    Kerala – 20 Lok Sabha Seats

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed darshan and puja at Guruvayur Temple in Guruvayur, Kerala on January 17. PM Modi appealed to people to light Ram Jyoti on January 22 to mark the Ram Temple consecration ceremony. The BJP has significantly increased its vote share in some of the seats including Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, Thrissur and Attingal seats. Of the 20 seats, the BJP is trying to win at least 3-5 seats with the help of Hindu and Christian voters.

    Tamil Nadu – 39 Lok Sabha Seats

    The BJP has gained significant popularity in the state under state unit chief K Annamalai. Now, with PM Modi’s regular visits and temple darshans, the BJP is trying to carve a niche among the Hindu voters. PM Modi’s popularity clubbed with the dynamism of Annamalai is likely to increase BJP’s vote share. And if this translates into victory, it would mark the saffron party’s south expansion. There are 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu.

    With the Lok Sabha elections just three months away, the BJP is working round the clock to increase its vote share in the southern states.

  • ‘Lord Ram Is A Symbol Of Good Governance’: PM Modi In Andhra Pradesh |

    NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Andhra Pradesh, said on Tuesday that the entire nation is filled with the spirit of Lord Ram ahead of the Ram Temple inauguration in the holy city of Ayodhya. “These days, the entire country is filled with the spirit of Ram. The life of Lord Rama, his inspiration, and the realm of faith and devotion associated with him go beyond words. The symbols of governance and discipline embodied by Lord Rama can serve as significant inspiration not only for individuals but also for institutions,” PM Modi said in Andhra Pradesh.

    #WATCH | PM Modi says, “Nowadays the whole country is filled with ‘Rammay’…Lord Ram is a symbol of governance and good governance in social life, which can become a great inspiration for your organization also” pic.twitter.com/RzDdkEHyf1 — ANI (@ANI) January 16, 2024


    Transforming Taxation In Lord Ram’s Style

    Reflecting on Ram Rajya’s principles, PM Modi highlighted how tax systems should emulate nature – like rain returning to the earth. He emphasized the reforms in India’s tax system over the last decade, ensuring ease and benefit for taxpayers. ” In the past 10 years, we made several reforms to the tax system, the tax system which existed earlier was not easily understandable to the common people. Due to a lack of guidance, honest taxpayers and businessmen were affected. In the form of GST , we introduced a modern tax system. Govt made the Income Tax system also easy. We started a faceless tax assessment system in the country. Because of all these reforms, record tax collection happening in the country now,” PM Modi said.

    Record Tax Collections

    Due to these reforms, the country has witnessed record tax collections. The income tax exemption limit was raised from 2 lakhs to 7 lakhs, resulting in savings of over 2.5 lakh crore for citizens.

    Acknowledging Taxpayer’s Contribution, People-Driven Progress

    PM Modi acknowledged the diligent taxpayers, emphasizing that their contributions are dedicated to the nation’s welfare. This, he stated, echoes the essence of Ram Rajya – a governance based on good principles. The increasing number of consistent taxpayers indicates a responsible and growing society. The funds collected are being utilized for the overall welfare of the citizens.

    ” Fight against corruption and action against corruptors were our government’s priority…you all must have got information on the Niti Aayog report that was released yesterday. When a govt is sensitive about poor people and when a govt works with a clear motive to eliminate the sufferings of the poor, there will be results. Niti Aayog has said that, in our 9 years govt, around 25 crore people have escaped poverty. In the country where for years there were slogans of ‘Garibi Hatao’, 25 crore people escaped poverty in 9 years, it is historic,” the PM said in a blistering attack on Congress.

    Strengthening Infrastructure In Andhra Pradesh

    Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes, and Narcotics (NACIN) campus in Palasamudram, Sri Sathya Sai District, Andhra Pradesh, emphasizing the importance of customs, taxes, and narcotics education.

    PM Modi Visits Lepakshi Temple

    PM Modi, donning traditional attire, earlier visited the Veerabhadra temple in Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh, just days before the grand Ram Mandir’s Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya.

    Spiritual Significance

    The Veerabhadra temple holds paramount significance in the Ramayana, believed to be where Jatayu, wounded by Ravana, fell after battling for Goddess Sita.

    Roadshow In Kochi

    The Prime Minister is slated to hold a roadshow in Kochi, Kerala, where he is scheduled to perform pooja and darshan at Guruvayur Temple and Thriprayar Shree Ramaswami Temple on January 17.

    Kochi Infrastructure Projects

    PM Modi will also inaugurate major infrastructure projects in Kochi, including the New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Limited, the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF), and the LPG Import Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited at Puthuvypeen.

    New Dry Dock: An Engineering Marvel

    The New Dry Dock, a flagship project costing around Rs 1,800 crore, showcases India’s engineering prowess, becoming a vital marine infrastructure in the region. Prime Minister Modi’s insightful words during his visit to Andhra Pradesh highlight the enduring influence of Lord Rama’s principles on the nation. His emphasis on incorporating these ideals in both personal and institutional realms reflects a commitment to fostering a society rooted in governance, discipline, and inspiration.

  • What Milind Deora Said About Congress From Shiv Sena’s Dias |

    Milind Deora, senior Congress leader, today severed his and his family’s five-decade-old ties with the party and joined Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. After joining Sena, Deora said that the Congress party today opposes everything said by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also said that the grand old party has lost the path of constructive politics.

    Milind Deora also said that a strong government is needed at the Center and States in India. “It is a matter of pride for all of us that under the leadership of PM Modi, India is stronger today…I would like to add that in the last 10 years not one terror attack has happened in Mumbai. This is a major achievement for Mumbaikars,” said Deora.

    He further said, “The same party that used to offer constructive suggestions to this country, on how to take the country forward, has now just one goal – speak against whatever PM Modi says and does. Tomorrow, if he says that Congress is a very good party, they will oppose it. I believe in the politics of GAIN – Growth, Aspiration, Inclusivity and Nationalism. I don’t believe in the politics of PAIN – Personal Attacks, Injustice and Negativity.”

    #WATCH | After joining Shiv Sena, Milind Deora says, “I have been receiving a lot of phone calls since morning that why did I sever 55-year-old ties of my family with Congress party…I was loyal to the party during its most challenging decade. Unfortunately, today’s Congress is… pic.twitter.com/PVU6SdibOv — ANI (@ANI) January 14, 2024

    Deora further said that the same party that once ushered in economic reforms is today abusing industrialists, and businessmen and calling businessmen ‘anti-nationals’.

    Deora said that he has received many calls over his decision. “I was loyal to the party during its most challenging decade. Unfortunately, today’s Congress is very different from the Congress of 1968 as well as that of 2004. Had Congress and UBT given importance to constructive & positive suggestions and merit & capability, Eknath Shinde and I wouldn’t have been here. Eknath Shinde had to make a major decision, I had to make a major decision,” he said.

    Deora reportedly quit Congress after the grand old party agreed to leave the Mumbai South seat for Sena-UBT. Sena-UBT won the seat in 2019 when it was in alliance with the BJP. Now, it’s likely that Deora may contest the seat on the Shinde-Sena ticket.

  • Pro-Beijing Maldivian President Muizzu Asks India To Withdraw Troops By March 15; Says Taiwan Part Of China |

    Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who was on a visit to China days ago, has again shown his pro-Beijing attitude by not only rejecting the existence of Taiwan but also by setting a deadline for India to withdraw its troops from the island nation. Muizzu came to power on November 17 last year. Breaking away from the tradition of first visiting India, Muizzu went to China and inked several deals with China. It also urged China to send more tourists to Male.

    Pursuing ‘India Out’ Policy

    Muizzu, who came to power in November last year through his vicious ‘India Out’ campaign, has asked India to withdraw its military personnel from his country by March 15. According to the latest government figures, there are 88 Indian military personnel in the Maldives. .

    “Indian military personnel cannot stay in the Maldives. This is the policy of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and that of this administration,” said Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, the public policy secretary at the President’s Office. Amid this, a high-level core group of the two nations met today to negotiate the withdrawal of troops.

    Diplomatic Row Between India and Maldives

    The call for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel arises amid heightened tensions between the two nations, triggered by offensive remarks made by three deputy ministers of the Muizzu government against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following their controversial social media posts, Muizzu suspended the three ministers. These comments raised concerns in India and led to calls for a boycott by Indian tourists, who held the highest numbers, followed by Russia, with Chinese tourists ranking third.

    Muizzu’s Veiled Attack On India

    Muizzu, who has just returned from China, has sought to move Maldives closer to Beijing. Speaking to reporters, he said that Maldives being small doesn’t give anyone a license to bully it. He also announced plans to reduce the country’s dependency on India, including securing imports of essential food commodities and medicine and consumables from other countries. He also said that the Indian Ocean doesn’t belong to just one country and belongs to all countries located in the ocean.

    Toeing Chinese Line

    During his China visit, Maldives and China issued a joint statement that even rejected the existence of Taiwan. “The Maldives is firmly committed to the one-China principle, recognizing that there is but one China in the world, the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory. The Maldives opposes any statement or action that undermines China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposes all ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist activities, and will not develop any form of official relations with Taiwan,” read the statement.

    Maldives To Become Chinese Colony?

    This shows that Muizzu has already bowed down to China for financial assistance and trade needs. Muizzu is not realizing that his pro-Beijing moves may lead the Maldives into a crisis like Sri Lanka. While India was there to help Colombo, that may not be the case for Maldives. Thus, the day is not far when Maldives will become a colony of China run by a puppet government. This definitely poses a security challenge for India and the Indian Navy needs to be on alert for any misadventure in the region.