Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Global Leaders Lit up Diwali 2025 ---- Modi received numerous Diwali greetings from global leaders

As the festival of lights illuminated homes and hearts across the globe several top leaders their Diwali greetings.


Israeli PM Netanyahu said on X, "PM Netanyahu: "Wishing my friend @narendramodi & the people of India a very Happy #Diwali! May the Festival of Lights bring hope, peace & prosperity to your great nation. Israel & India stand together. Partners in innovation, friendship, defence and a brighter future".

Sending my heartfelt wishes to everyone who is celebrating Diwali! May the light of God’s love guide our path, remove the shadows of doubt, and inspire us to reflect His love in all that we do. - Tulsi Gabbard, Director of US National Intelligence and 

former Presidential candidate & Congresswoman







Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended Diwali greetings.  



In a statement shared by the White House, Trump conveyed his wishes to people celebrating the festival of lights.


“Today, I send my best wishes to every American celebrating Diwali—the ‘Festival of Lights’. For many Americans, Diwali is a timeless reminder of light’s victory over darkness. It is also a time to bring families and friends together to celebrate community, draw strength from hope, and embrace a lasting spirit of renewal,” he said.


“As millions of citizens light diyas and lanterns, we rejoice in the eternal truth that good will always triumph over evil,” he added.


Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister extended greetings to the Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across Britain.  


“Earlier this month I lit a diya in Mumbai as a symbol of devotion, joy, and renewed bonds. As we celebrate this Festival of Lights, let’s keep building a Britain where everyone can look ahead with hope,” he said in the message posted on X.  


Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also extended Diwali greetings.

“Tonight, families and communities across Canada will light diyas and celebrate the triumph of light over darkness — of good over evil. Wishing everyone celebrating Diwali a joyful Festival of Lights,” he posted on X.  


Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong extended his greetings.  


Anura Kumara Dissanayake (Sri Lanka)

The Sri Lankan President extended Diwali greetings to Hindus in Sri Lanka and abroad.


He said, “As lamps are lit in every home, we pray that this festival's light dispels the darkness in our hearts and illuminates our collective path. This celebration of good over evil mirrors our government's resolve to defeat the threats to our nation's progress, from drug abuse to extremism…”







"Forces are not mere followers of the current; they possess the ability to guide its direction ... and valour to cross the infinite" - Modi ::: PM continues to keep dates with Soldiers in borders to celebrate Diwali every year

Experts talk about two kinds of growth. Exponential and Linear. 


The first one would mean 'explosive' growth. The argument essentially comes from the fact that the term 'exponential' refers to a more sophisticated form of multiplication known as squaring. 


The Linear growth - in contrast - could be equated to 'limited' growth. In that sense it is 'the first power only'. 




Modi and the then Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat in 2017
 

(and other officers and personnel at Gurez Sector, Jammu & Kashmir) 


                            
With PM Narendra Modi in political sense or even otherwise vis-a-vis his persona -- stress has always been laid on 'exponential' growth. This is crucial as we go further in this piece. 

Narendra Modi, since becoming prime minister in 2014, has made it a point to celebrate Diwali with servicemen. He has been doing this religiously for the last 11 years.

Each year, he spends the festival among troops stationed across the country. This year (2025), Modi spent his Diwali onboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant off the Goa-Karwar coast.

He dressed himself in a dapper dark blue navy uniform and sporting cool shades.

“The extraordinary coordination among the three services had compelled Pakistan to surrender during Operation Sindoor," he told the naval officers and the nation.






2014: He was in Siachen Glacier, Ladakh  

Wrapped in a red muffler, silver and black goggles, and hooded jacket, he praised the soldiers for allowing “1.25 billion Indians to celebrate in peace.” 


2015: PM visited Dograi and Khasa War Memorials, Amritsar, Punjab 


2016: Sumdo, Himachal Pradesh 


In 2018: He was in Harsil and Kedarnath, Uttarakhand






2019: Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir





2020: Longewala Border Post, Rajasthan





At the historic Longewala post, site of a major battle during the 1971 war that has been immortalised by Bollywood, Modi celebrated Diwali in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic.


Surrounded by army and BSF personnel, he distributed sweets and highlighted their resilience as the nation faced an unprecedented crisis. He was seen wearing an army uniform again. This time with a yellow hat adding to the glamour.  


2021: Nowshera, Jammu & Kashmir  


2022: Kargil, Jammu & Kashmir and Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh 


2023: Lepcha, Himachal Pradesh  






2024: Sir Creek, Gujarat  



In 2024 Diwali took Modi to Sir Creek and Lakki Nala in Gujarat’s Kutch region, where he met personnel from the army, navy, air force and BSF.


Wearing a camouflage uniform, he had distributed sweets and reiterated India’s “zero compromise on territorial integrity.”


Each year, he trades festive lights for frontline lamps. The PM had stated a reason behind this already.


During his visit to Jaisalmer in 2020, Modi had said, 

"When I went to Siachen during my first year as Prime Minister in 2014, people were surprised. 

But today, everyone knows my emotions and feelings. Being among the soldiers is being among my family. 

Today, I am here to celebrate Diwali with my family."  





Sir Creek, Gujarat - 2024 




He had also said, "Whether you live on the snowy hills or in the desert, my Diwali is completed by being with you. 

I see the beauty of your faces, see the happiness on your face, then I am doubly happy.”


ends 





Long Live the Cock ..... 'Cock was Dead' ... ?? Dreams and hopes have got mixed up with self-seeking malady ..... "Maestros are growing scared of own shadows"

Now a letter addressed to the Cock ... from 

an Accidental 'political admirer' !!


 My dear Cock ...


The challenges you and I face are unique in history. There is irony in what's all happening around. 


The rise of capitalism and money power are reactions and responses to most of the challenges of our times. But this road map is opening avenues for bigger challenges but no one is willing to take precautions.






 

But I would insist learning from previous moments of setbacks and even stiff but unwarranted resistence to 'good' can be inspirational but human race has a habit of not learning from past mistakes.

As a result - we all have what we got.


But your masters are growingly 'afraid of own shadows' ?


You deserve this variety of owners and local guardians and we as voters deserve the leadership(s) we get. These also echo some kinds of deep roots of depression and oppression.

What will happen if I fight ?


What will happen if I do not have money ?


What will happen ... if we do succumb and bow down before the sultan ?


What has happened to commitment to values ? What about even commitment to basic logic and science and common wisdom or the skill enhancement one has learned the hard way ?


Why there is no end to greed ?


 



I am writing this letter at a time when dreams and hopes have got mixed up with self-seeking malady. 


In the process, you have lost the power. Nobody said ever earlier that Cock is a 'domesticated' creature .... but now; somehow a golden cage with diamond key has been prepared.


Can you crow ... can I sing ...??  -- is the question today that none may answer. 


Whether this is all due to a 'feeling' of being caught in the gears of history or failures or both is hard to say. 






Some diseased are easily diagnosed. But there is no medicine.


The appointment of Advisers is 'camouflaged' and for practical purpose they function as Ministers "only without national flags". 

In Punjab, the appointment of 18 MLAs as Chief Parliamentary Secretaries in 2012 by the Akali government was set aside by the High Court. 


In 2020, in Arunachal Pradesh as many as 22 MLAs were appointed as Advisers. However, Chief Minister Pema Khandu quickly clarified that: “These appointments have no financial implication" and that they shall not be entitled to any emoluments, perks and facilities.


Chief Minister Rio in Nagaland may or may not issue such conditions. 


The problems lie in mustering the necessary political will. The political class do not have that.



Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, Phek legislator and former minister, referred to the 'bitter past' without divulging details but cautioned that no one should "destroy a perfect future that lies ahead".


This positivity is a dream; but it should put the stakeholders on corrective mode.


Some dead odds and close associates of new party chief Neiphiu Rio need to be discarded. But these are difficult to say as of now. 


As citizens focused on social insecurity and income inequality and someone believing in Biblical values; one is a bit worried -- because even those pursuing hard work and doing so honestly and even coughing up the 'extortion/taxes' .... are not happy or are unable to ensure good education for children or good health care for himself. 






Chief Minister Rio in his party presidential address admitted --  the younger generation - Gen Zee is not only ambitious they can create bigger troubles. 

"As leaders, if we fail to understand the pulse of the people and their aspirations, we risk irrelevance," he said - seemingly a candid statement. 

But is this a fear psychosis ? Because, the youths in Nagaland and several youthful organisations are behaving like 'youth wings' of the ruling parties. (It was NDPP and now could be NPF).

And those who do not -- they behave like IAS officers ... and go by the general wisdom. This is the order from 'uppar se' !!


The winner takes it all. The leader has kept his flock happy but might have unwittingly sought to add insult to the injuries of others.


  


The word 'sacrifice' does not apply to many. It is already a vanishing word across the country and the globe. 


But some people will continue to work relentlessly even as they could be easily dismissed as impractical. 


New Delhi has already identified the factors leading to 'sabotage' of the peace process. 



Is your man not doing enough ? 

Do we have to trade one Nostalgia for another ? 

ends 


Neiphiu Rio takes over as new NPF president ::: Says - "Let us send forth the strongest message of Naga solidarity" :::: And of course amid these ... BJP's 'pledge' for a ban on beef eating continues

 "I make a fervent appeal to all sections of Naga society to move forward with determination, conviction, and compassion towards reconciliation, unity, and oneness. 


Let us send forth the strongest message of Naga solidarity, sounding a clarion call for the Naga family to come together, to unite, and to march forward as one." new NPF president and Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio said in his maiden presidential address of the regional outfit. 













He also said:

"I look forward to your continued support and solidarity in the journey ahead. 

Alone, I cannot succeed but together, with each one of you, we can realize our shared dreams and collective aspirations, we are always stronger together.  


The chief minister said - "The successful completion of this merger, the triumph of unity, and the reaffirmation of our oneness, now scripts a new narrative for our people. 


Let us articulate a vision and design an action plan that will propel our people, especially the younger generations, towards excellence and success not just within the region, but on the global stage. 


Our collective aspiration must be to make Nagaland a truly developed State, where merit, fairness, and excellence are the only criteria.

"With faith in God and trust in our people, I accept this responsibility with humility, determination, and hope. Together, we will move forward-for our people, for our land, and for our future," he said. 









For all practical purpose, Rio heads the NPF-BJP government.


The merger move could have been a typical local issue and none would have bothered.


But in 2017 - the NPF Youth Wing had organised a Beef Festival and even had invited a RSS nominee P B Acharya (then Governor of Nagaland) to attend the celebration. 

Now that NDPP has 'merge' with the same NPF - it is obvious eyebrows will be raised.


On Sept 12, Chief Minister Rio (also a Naga Baptist) told his party colleagues that few weeks back he had discussed the issue of "merger" with PM Narendra Modi's trusted lieutenant and  flamboyant Home Minister Amit Shah.


But Shah "did not respond".


But on Oct 15 (Wednesday), a meeting convened by the Chief Minister and also attended by BJP leaders endorsed the move for the merger.


But to the surprise of many -- the leaders in the meeting claimed and a formal resolution was adopted to state : "The House further extended its appreciation to the central leadership of the BJP for its guidance. support and positive decision in endorsing the inclusion of the NPF as a partner of the People's Democratic Alliance".


Some of the remarks could be nuanced. But it means for all practical purposes - the BJP is okay with the idea of the so-called merger of NDPP with the NPF.


Had it been the merger of NPF with the NDPP perhaps there would have been no compromise and controversy.


But the point is some new and old colleagues and advisors of Rio could be misleading him in their over enthusiasm. 

Any political resolution actually need not make any such mention about BJP's endorsement. 



Moreover, something happened in 2017. If the BJP central leadership today endorses the chief minister to take charge of NPF .... someone will seek an explanation from the saffron party central leadership that is Narendra Modi on its pledge vis-a-vis protection of Gau Mata.


The BJP since Modi became India's Prime Minister in 2014 have used the issue of beef-eating to further a Hindu nationalist agenda. The controversy has involved rhetoric, vigilante violence, and even discriminatory laws such as
ban on cow slaughter primarily affecting Muslims and Christians.


Modi has been under immense pressure including from overseas players to break his silence over incidents of attack on beef eaters. 

In 2015, Mohammad Akhlaq, 50, was dragged from his home near the capital, Delhi, and beaten to death after rumours spread that he had eaten beef. His 22-year-old son was also severely injured.


At least eight were later arrested. 


For Hindus, Cows are considered sacred in India, whose millions of Muslims and other minorities including Christians eat beef as the principal source of protein. India is also the world’s biggest exporter of buffalo meat.



Now the big picture debate is what transpired between August-September - when Amit Shah had remained silent and Oct 15th - that a resolution says the Hindutva party endorses the entry of NPF into the ruling alliance.



Firstly; whether Home Minister Shah has now conveyed his "positive response" in writing or in tele talk with chief minister Rio or someone else.


One also wonders whether no less than Narendra Modi himself has endorsed the merger move to include NPF in the alliance.


The fact remains it was NPF that had organised the beef festival in 2017... It is not the question of simple beef eating. It was a challenge to the Hindutva politics of the BJP and the RSS.






The Cow vigilante violence is a pattern of mob-based collective vigilante violence seen in India. 

The attacks are perpetuated by "radical Hindu nationalists" or pretending to be against non-Hindus (mostly Muslims) to protect cows. 


Since 2014, mob attacks have mostly targeted illegal cow smugglers, but in some cases even licensed cow traders, have become targets, various church bodies keep alleging from time to time.



Muslim Traders in Gujarat - the native state of PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah - claim the idea of Hindutva, in its fullest expression, could lead to undoing the constitution that endorsed secularism. mutual tolerance
and unravelling the fabric of liberal democracy.

In the context of the common (normal routine); it may be stated that the
evolution of the RSS has many facets. In more ways than one, the organisation founded in 1925 has evolved as a body of multi-dimensional patriotism, including civilisational nationalism.


And in these comes -- BJP's pledge for a ban on beef eating continues. 








Sheer opportunism or just lip service to the Hindutva cause. 

Will the real Bharatiya Janata Party come out of the shadows?

Mizoram, Na
galand and Meghalaya in the north east of India are three Christian
majority states. The BJP shares power in Nagaland since 2018 with its Naga legislator

Y Patton - a Baptist Naga - being the deputy chief minister.


The NDPP 's strength in the 60-member assembly has gone up to 34 and BJP has 12 members in the 60-member assembly.



ends 

Naga CM Rio's NPF presidential address ... says : "Let us not look back in regret ... if we fail to understand youth pulse; we risk irrelevance"

This is a case of look; who is talking !!


Or a more sympathetic tone will be - Nagaland chief minister sounds 'realistic' as he reaches another milestone of "achievements".


In his presidential address after taking over as new president of NPF - and the virtual guardianship of the Cock symbol - Chief Minister Rio said -- 

"We live in a dynamic and fast-changing world shaped by technology .... younger generation - Gen Zee is not only ambitious... This global trend is visible everywhere and Nagaland is no exception".






"As leaders, if we fail to understand the pulse of the people and their aspirations, we risk irrelevance", new NPF chief said. 


Referring to his stint in Parliament and subsequent politicking that led to formation of NDPP - which has come back home now; Rio said :

"Unfortunately, divisions and misunderstandings arose within the party, culminating in my suspension and the unceremonious removal of my supporters from the Working Committee, despite my unwavering commitment to the party". 


"This compelled us to chart a new political course, and thus, the NDPP was founded. The rest, as they say, is history.

While I have briefly recalled past events, let me be clear-today is not a day to dwell on bitter memories. 


It is a day to celebrate unity and to look ahead with renewed vision and purpose.


"The merger of the NDPP with the NPF-where a party with 32 MLAs has joined hands with a party with 2 MLAs is indeed historic and unprecedented. 

It reflects the spirit of sacrifice, respect for legacy, and, above all, it sends a resounding message that we are prepared to make any sacrifice for the cause of Naga unity and for the greater good of our people". 


"Unity is the only way forward, and through unity we can lead our people to their rightful aspirations. Therefore, let us not look back in regret. Let us celebrate our achievements, but remain firmly focused on the future and the tasks before us. 


"Our foremost priority remains the early and honourable resolution of the Indo-Naga political issue, in a manner that is inclusive and acceptable to all. At the same time, we must relentlessly pursue holistic development, progressive growth, and economic upliftment.


We live in a dynamic and fast-changing world shaped by technology. The younger generation Gen Zee is not only ambitious but also the voice of the people. This global trend is visible everywhere, and Nagaland is no exception. 

As leaders, if we fail to understand the pulse of the people and their aspirations, we risk irrelevance.


The youth today demand meritocracy, efficiency in governance, transparency in development, and timely delivery of their rights and entitlements. 


"In this modern age, the expectations from leadership are vastly different from what they were even a decade ago. Integrity, accountability, selfless service, and a people-first approach are the defining qualities," he said.





ends 



Monday, October 20, 2025

Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu makes first big 'glib talk' ::::: Says Rio homecoming to NPF brings "stability" ::: Honours "political maturity" of Team Chingwang

Former minister and Phek legislator Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, who has virtually got a fresh lease of political life, on Tuesday (Oct 21) welcomed the NDPP's merger with two-MLA strong Naga People's Front. 

 

In his welcome address at the NPC general convention; he said chief minister Neiphiu Rio's return to the NPF "brings unparalleled joy, experience and stability to our collective endeavour". 






"To the former NDPP President Chingwang Konyak and all his dedicated leaders and workers, we honour your political maturity and your courage in prioritizing the merger in the larger interest of the Nagas in general," he said.

Azo further said: "This decision to merge demonstrates a commitment to the greater cause of unity, strengthening our regional front as one voice and one family."  



"This moment is already historic, but today it is amplified as we are not just witnessing a political alignment, we are celebrating a profound homecoming on this very day as we commemorate our founding day. 


I wish each and everyone of you a Happy 63rd Foundation Day to the Naga People’s Front. Today marks not just a turning point, but a day of Destiny and Legacy. 


"I welcome you to the Grand Old Party, the oldest regional party in the entire North East and the second oldest in the country. 


This party was formed on October 21, 1963, just 40 days ahead of Nagaland’s statehood, originally as the Democratic Party of Nagaland and with time renamed as the Naga People’s Front in 2002, this institution has been the relentless guardian of the Naga soul, committed to protecting our unique identity, our culture, our traditions and our customary laws.   






Azo said the NPF is "the steadfast platform" that has always championed the cause of the Indo-Naga Political Issue.  


"We stand here today because of the foresight of our founding pioneers, including the first President, A. Kevichüsa, along with great leaders like T. Sakhrie, Megoto, Vizol, Tajan, and T. Aliba Imti. These visionary Leader knew that without a strong, unified regional voice, our interests would be vulnerable, and that we may even forget our roots and our aspirations for a SovereignNation, may be forgotten with time. 


We thank them for their immense struggle and sacrifices that they have made to establish this party, symbolised by our enduring emblem, on which we stand today. 

Lest we forget, This party was forged through commitment, sacrifice and struggle. Today, on our 63rd Foundation Day, we must unite ourselves to fulfil their ultimate aspiration, a dream of lasting stability, justice and a final, honourable resolution for the Naga people for a permanent settlement. 


We are also deeply grateful to our most revered leader, the Honourable Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. 

A statesman... A visionary Leader and one of the longest serving Chief Ministers in the Country, it is a moment of profound joy to welcome him back to the fold, especially as a founding member of the NPF in the year 2002. 


His return, along with the entire family of the erstwhile NDPP, brings unparalleled joy experience and stability to our collective endeavour. 








The former Minister quotes Bible and said:

"It calls us to repay good for all the evil done to us and so therefore, let us all continue to serve this party in any capacity possible.


Let us transcend personal ambitions and differences. Let us also not recollect the bitter past and destroy a perfect future  that lies ahead of us. 



Today, we open a powerful new chapter in Nagaland’s political history, a chapter defined by reconciliation, collective strength and shared destiny. 



ends 

Well executed 'drone strike' on Kammoi village in Myanmar targets residence of top NSCN - K (YA) militant; his son killed ... "injured wife" being brought to India

(Updated: Seven year old grad daughter, son and another young boy of 10 years old expired succumbing to their injuries) 


Reports reaching here claimed that security forces have carried out a well executed 'drone strike' on Kammoi village in Myanmar, located adjacent to Longwa village along the border. 


The strike hit the residence of Piyong Konyak, self-styled Maj Gen of the NSCN-K (YA). 

Several NSCN-K (YA) cadres including Konyak’s son and grand daughter, were reportedly killed in the attack.

The militant commander and his wife sustained critical injuries. 



file snap 



The wife of the militant will be brought to India probably Longwa village in Mon district. 


The conditions of the militant leader and six others are stated to be critical. 

One source claimed multiple bombs were dropped in the village which damaged several houses.


From Indian perspective even at policy and security levels - this was an important episode because NSCN-IM has 'operational links/understanding' with the NSCN-K (YA).


Three cadres of proscribed NSCN K- YA were killed in an operation by security forces in Longding district of Arunachal Pradesh bordering Myanmar in April. 


In fact, around Oct 18th, the NSCN-K (Yung Aung) claimed responsibility for the attack on the 4 Assam Rifles check post at Hahman village in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district on Thursday.




SWIFT ACTION BY SECURITY FORCES FOILS ABDUCTION ATTEMPT IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH

 *SWIFT ACTION BY SECURITY FORCES FOILS ABDUCTION ATTEMPT AND RESCUES TWO CIVILIANS IN TIRAP DISTRICT*


In a swift and coordinated operation, the Assam Rifles operating under SpearCorps, successfully rescued two abducted labourers from the clutches of NSCN-K (Rebel) cadres in Laho village, Dadam Circle, Tirap District.


The incident occurred when armed cadres of NSCN-K (Rebel) abducted two labourers from a construction site at Laho village on 18 October 2025. 

Acting on specific intelligence, Assam Rifles columns were swiftly mobilised and launched a well-coordinated search and rescue operation in the general area of Nianu to trace the abductees and apprehend the perpetrators.






During the operation, when the search operation began,  insurgents opened indiscriminate fire on the advancing security forces. 


Demonstrating utmost professionalism and restraint, the troops retaliated in a controlled manner to prevent any collateral damage and ensure the safety of the abducted civilians. 


The measured and timely response by the Assam Rifles troops resulted in the successful rescue of both labourers without any harm and prevented further subversive actions by the faction in the area. Rescued individuals are being brought to Khonsa for medical inspection & assistance. Search and sanitisation operations are under progress.







ENDS 

Modi highlights defence preparedness !!! “On average, a new indigenous warship or submarine is being inducted into navy every 40 days"

“On average, a new indigenous warship or submarine is being inducted into the navy every 40 days…. Our missiles like the BrahMos and Akash have also proven their capability in Operation Sindoor," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. 


Modi watched a display of the warship’s air power, attended a cultural event by sailors, and interacted with their families over lunch.






Indicating a vigorous push for defence exports, he said: “India is building the capacity to export weapons and equipment for all three armed forces. Our goal is to become one of the top defence exporters globally.  






Dressed in navy blue action overalls, Modi told the sailors: “Just a few months ago, we saw that Vikrant’s name alone gave sleepless nights to the whole of Pakistan…. Our INS Vikrant today is a great symbol of a self-reliant India and Made in India….


The fear instilled by the Indian Navy, the incredible skill displayed by the Indian Air Force, the bravery of the Indian Army, and the tremendous coordination of the three services forced Pakistan to its knees so quickly in Operation Sindoor.”






The Prime Minister applauded the armed forces for Operation Sindoor and indicated a push for more defence exports in his Diwali speech aboard the INS Vikrant, off the Goa coast.  “Our defence exports have increased more than 30-fold in the last decade. 


Defence startups and indigenous defence units have played a significant role in this success....”


Modi lauded the navy’s role in ensuring “global stability”. “In an interconnected world, when the economy and progress of countries depend on sea routes, India’s navy is playing a vital role in global stability,” he said.


“Today, 66 per cent of the world’s oil supply and 50 per cent of the world’s container shipments pass through the Indian Ocean. The Indian Navy is deployed as the guardian of the Indian Ocean to protect these routes.” He hailed the government’s recent successes against the Maoist rebels.


“Today, the country is on the verge of liberation from Naxalite-Maoist terrorism; liberation is knocking at the door, friends .... “Before 2014, nearly 125 districts across the country were under the control of Naxalite-Maoist forces…. 

And now from 125 districts, the number has fallen to just 11; and even among the 11, only three districts are left where their influence is still visible.”


He went on: “These districts are witnessing record sales and record purchases during the GST Savings Festival. 

In those districts where Maoist terror never allowed the Constitution to be mentioned, even remotely, the mantra of Swadeshi is resonating, and misguided youth are abandoning the .303 (rifle) and embracing the Constitution….”


The Prime Minister extolled India’s role as a “friend” to its neighbourhood and the world at large.






“From Africa to Southeast Asia, the world sees India as a world friend in times of disaster and adversity. In 2014, our neighbouring country, the Maldives, faced a water crisis, and we launched Operation Neer. Our navy arrived in the Maldives with clean water,” Modi said.


“In 2017, Sri Lanka was hit by devastating floods, and India was the first to extend a helping hand. In 2018, Indonesia was struck by a tsunami, and India stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of Indonesia in relief and rescue operations.


“Similarly, whether it was the devastation caused by the earthquake in Myanmar or the crisis in Mozambique in 2019 or Madagascar in 2020, India reached out with a spirit of service….


“Our armed forces have also launched operations from time to time to bring back people stranded abroad. From Yemen to Sudan, wherever needed, your bravery and courage have greatly strengthened the confidence of Indians living around the world.


“We have saved the lives of thousands of foreign nationals -- not just Indians but also the citizens of many other countries stranded in those countries.”  


He also stated how the indigenously built carrier impacted regional security, saying 'Vikrant...in its own name, gave sleepless nights to all of Pakistan during Operation Sindoor'.


ends 



'Green' Diwali goes up in smoke :::: Thanks to crackers and festivity, Delhi's air quality takes a sharp hit :::: Several air quality monitoring stations in red zone ::::: Noida and Gurgaon were no better off

Prolonged exposure to "very poor" air can cause respiratory illness.


As residents across the national capital celebrated Diwali with fireworks on Monday night, Delhi's air quality took a sharp hit, with the majority of monitoring stations entering the 'red zone'.

Although the Supreme Court had permitted the use of green firecrackers between 8 pm and 10 pm on the festival day, celebrations continued well beyond the allotted hours.

Several monitoring stations were in the red zone. 






Delhi Blanketed In Haze 

The Supreme Court had allowed the sale and use of green crackers on Diwali this year to strike a balance between interests of the industry and public health.


Relentless bursting of firecrackers, flouting the Supreme Court-mandated time slots, blanketed Delhi in toxic haze on Tuesday a day after Diwali, with the air quality index (AQI) worsening to the 'severe' category. According to data, the average air quality index (AQI) stood at 451 at 7 am – 1.8x above the national average – as pollution levels worsened amid festive celebrations.  


On Diwali night, the AQI plunged into the "very poor" category. The satellite cities of Noida and Gurgaon were no better off, with the AQI at 407 and 402 respectively on Tuesday morning.


Last year, the overall air quality of Delhi after Diwali was recorded in the 'very poor' category. The AQI stood at 359.  The AQI this morning is similar to what it was recorded on Diwali evening. Delhi's 24-hour average AQI, which is reported at 4 pm every day, remained in the 'very poor' category at 345 on Monday, based on the data from 38 out of 39 monitory stations, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).'


Prolonged exposure to "very poor" air can cause respiratory illness, as per the CPCB.  


Majority of the 38 monitoring stations in the city reported AQI in 'very poor' category. For example, PM 2.5 recorded at 358 and PM 10 at 340 at Anand Vihar station. However, Wazirpur station recorded AQI at 408, falling under the severe category, with major pollutant being PM 2.5.


Visuals from near Dilli Haat, INA showed people driving with headlight on as smog distorted the view. The AQI around RK Puram was recorded at 368.





ends



Global Leaders Lit up Diwali 2025 ---- Modi received numerous Diwali greetings from global leaders

As the festival of lights illuminated homes and hearts across the globe several top leaders their Diwali greetings. Israeli PM Netanyahu sai...