FRIDAY FEBRUARY 28, 2025 INDIA THIS WEEK 1 A W e e k l y N e w s p a p e r Fe a t u r i n g N e w s & Tr e n d s f r o m t h e I n d i a n S u b - C o n t i n e n t P u b l i s h e d f r o m t h e U S C a p i t a l Website: www.indiathisweek.online Kash Patel Sworn in as FBI Director, Takes Oath on Bhagavad Gita Vol 34 No: 9 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday February 28, 2025 Wa s h i n g t o n DC [US], February 22 (ANI): Kash Patel, the newly appointed Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), was officially sworn in on Friday, taking the oath on the Bhagavad Gita. His family, including his girlfriend, stood beside him as he recited the oath, while other family members sat in the front row. P a t e l ’ s confirmation as the ninth FBI Director followed a narrow 51-49 vote in the Senate, with all Senate Democrats opposing him and Republicans offering their support, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. The vote marked the culmination of his nomination process, which had garnered both significant support and opposition. Living the ‘American Dream’ During his remarks after being sworn in, Patel reflected on his journey and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the FBI. “Anyone who thinks the American Dream is dead, look right here. You are talking to a first-generation Indian who is about to lead the law enforcement agency of the greatest nation on earth,” Patel said, emphasizing that such a story could only happen in America. He also made a strong commitment to restoring accountability within the FBI. “I promise there will be accountability within the FBI and outside of it,” Patel affirmed, pledging rigorous constitutional oversight starting that weekend. Patel’s Strong Stance on Crime and Media Criticism In his speech, Patel addressed the rising crime rate across the country, stressing that his administration would take decisive action against it. “A hundred thousand people last year raped, a hundred thousand people died of CCP Fentanyl overdose and heroin, 17 thousand homicides. Violent crime is out of control,” he said. He vowed that anyone who harmed American citizens would face the full wrath of the Department of Justice and the FBI, warning that a massive manhunt would be launched for those who attempted to hide. Patel also took aim at the media, alleging that “fake, malicious, slanderous, and defamatory” content had been written about him. “I know the media is in here. If you have a target, that target is right here,” he stated, adding that the FBI agents deserve better treatment and should not be dragged into the media’s attacks on him. in a competitive global economy,” he said. Ramaswamy aimed to make Ohio a top state which would lead the US in all fields, ranging from aerospace to semiconductors. “We will lead Ohio to be the top state in the country where we embrace capitalism and meritocracy instead of apologizing for it. We will lead Ohio to be the top state in the country that takes a hatchet to red tape overregulation and bureaucracy. We will lead Ohio to be the top state in the country where we lead the way in the sectors of the future from semiconductors to aerospace. Look at where we are today. How about this company, guys?” he said. Ramaswamy expressed his intention to position Ohio as a top destination, attracting people who might have otherwise moved to states like Texas or Florida. “Love this in the heart of Butler County, an aerospace company leading us to the future, all the way to AI and the other sectors of our future. I will lead Ohio to be the top state in the country, where patriots across America actually flock to instead of Florida and Texas. I will lead Ohio to be the state of excellence in America,” he said. R a m a s w a m y, who was initially slated to co-head the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside Elon Musk, pulled out of it. On January 23, as Ramaswamy pulled out of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), just 69 days after he was announced the cohead of the team, a report revealed that it was the Tesla CEO who wanted Ramaswamy ‘out’ of the team. Politico reported citing three people with Elon Musk‘s preference said the billionaire made it known that he wanted Ramaswamy out of DOGE in recent days. Hours after Trump’s inauguration as the 47th US President, Ramaswamy announced that he would not co-head DOGE. Support from President Trump and Others KASH PATEL SEE PAGE 2 Vivek Ramaswamy announces candidature for Ohio Governor Ohio [US], February 25 (ANI): Indian-origin entrepreneur and Republican leader Vivek Ramaswamy has announced his candidacy to serve as the next Governor of Ohio. “I am honoured to announce my candidacy to serve as the next governor of the state of Ohio,” Ramaswamy said at a rally. A staunch supporter of US President Donald Trump, Ramaswamy emphasised that Ohio‘s best days are yet to come. “President Trump is reviving our conviction in America. We require a leader here at home who will revive our conviction in Ohio. And that is why today I am honored to announce that I am running Remember: to be the next governor of a great state at the heart of the greatest nation known to mankind, the state where I was born and raised, the state where Apurva and I raise our two sons today, a state whose best days are still ahead. I am honored to announce my candidacy to serve as the next Governor of the state of Ohio,” he said. Ramaswamy expressed his vision to elevate Ohio as a leader in all sectors and ensure that its citizens feel empowered in a competitive world. “I will lead Ohio to be the top state in the country to start and grow a new business. I will lead Ohio to be the top state in the country to raise a young family. I’ll “Some people don’t like change, but you need to embrace change if the alternative is disaster.” Elon Musk lead Ohio to be the top state in the country where our kids get a world-class education in math, reading, writing, critical thinking, and physical education. I will lead Ohio to be the top state in the country where we give our kids the toolkit to think of themselves not as victims, but as victors
February 28, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Kash Patel Sworn in as FBI Director, Takes Oath on Bhagavad Gita KASH PATEL FROM PAGE 1 President Donald Trump expressed his strong support for Patel, calling him a “tough, strong” individual who had earned the respect of FBI agents. Trump noted, “One of the reasons I love Kash is because of the respect the agents had for him. He will go down as the best ever at that position.” He further mentioned that Patel’s confirmation was “very easy to get approved,” and that he had made a big impression on people like Trey Gowdy, who praised Patel as an incredible person. The White House’s Endorsement Earlier in the week, the White House celebrated Patel’s confirmation, highlighting its importance in fulfilling President Trump’s agenda to restore integrity and uphold the rule of law. A post on X read, “@FBIDirectorKash Patel’s confirmation as FBI Director is a crucial step in executing President Trump’s agenda to restore integrity and uphold the rule of law.” The statement emphasized that the FBI would now refocus on its core mission: “enforcing justice fairly and without bias.” and committed to justice. A Moment of Pride for Bhadran Village F o l l o w i n g his confirmation, Patel expressed his gratitude to President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi for their support. He also reiterated his vow to restore public trust in the FBI and to rebuild the agency into one that is transparent, accountable, After the ceremony, Kash Patel paid his respects at the Wall of Honor, honoring the brave members of the FBI who made the ultimate sacrifice for the American people. Meanwhile, in Patel’s ancestral village of Bhadran in Anand district, Gujarat, his distant relative, Yash Patel, expressed pride at his achievement. “It is a matter of pride that a jewel of Bhadran village became FBI Director,” Yash Patel said, sharing the joy of the entire village. jobs and opportunity,” he said. Goyal said the two sides will move “quickly without being hurried”. “Minister @PiyushGoyal announced the restart of the India–UK FTA negotiations today. At the joint press-briefing along with @JReynoldsMP, UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, he reiterated that both sides are committed to a robust agreement benefiting people and businesses and that speed and not haste will be the approach of the negotiating teams,” Piyush Goyal’s office said in a post on X. The economic potential of enhanced trade between the UK and India is immense. UK and India rank as the sixth and fifth largest economies globally. India–UK FTA negotiations were launched on January 13 2022. Thirteen rounds of negotiations were held till December 2023. The 14th round of negotiations, which began on January 10 2024, was underway when negotiations were paused by the UK side in May 2024 due to their elections. (ANI) Patel’s Commitment to Public Trust India, UK resume negotiations towards a trade deal; Piyush Goyal says it will be a win-win for both nations New Delhi [India], February 24 (ANI): India and the United Kingdom have resumed negotiations on a trade deal that is “balanced, mutually beneficial and forward-looking.” The announcement was made by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade of the United Kingdom Jonathan Reynolds, who is in the national capital. A Commerce Ministry release said the announcement is the outcome of discussions held between the Prime Ministers of the two countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart Keir Starmer had met on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in November 2024 to underline the importance of resuming trade negotiations at an early date. The release said that India and the United Kingdom have a close partnership, built through collaboration on security and defence, new and emerging technologies, climate, health, education, research and innovation, green finance and peopleto-people contacts. The collective aspiration to deliver economic growth and sustainable development is at the centre of this relationship. “Both sides have agreed to resume negotiations towards a balanced, mutually beneficial and a forwardlooking deal that delivers mutual growth and builds on the strengths of the two complementary economies. The strengthening of the trading relationship between our two countries has the potential to unlock opportunities for business and consumers across both our nations and build further on our already deep ties,” it said. Piyush Goyal and Jonathan Reynolds directed the negotiators to work together to resolve the outstanding issues in the agreement to ensure a fair and equitable trade deal for shared success. Speaking at the joint press conference, Goyal said it will be “a pathbreaking free trade agreement” that will give the businesses and people of both countries huge opportunities to grow the current USD 20 billion bilateral trade in merchandise to probably two to three times in the next ten years. “Both Jonathan and I have agreed to resume free trade agreement negotiations in a very cordial atmosphere,” he said. The minister added that both sides have decided to build upon the strong groundwork that 14 previous rounds have developed. “I would like to call this FTA a forwardlooking, transparent, ambitious, equitable, balanced and mutually beneficial agreement, which will be a win-win for both our countries,” he added. Jonathan Reynolds said the resumption of negotiations for trade negotiations will strengthen close and vibrant partnership between the two countries. “It’s an excellent place to start from, but both of us want to do more and that’s why I am so pleased to be here today to kick-start these negotiations, to strengthen our close and vibrant relationship and unlock new opportunities for businesses and consumers across both the UK and India, because at the centre of my government is a mission to deliver economic growth, to put pounds back in people’s pockets, to support our businesses, to thrive, to create wealth and
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February 28, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Trump’s Executive Order – A Game Changer for ICE Wani Ninala Washington D.C. – In a matter of a few short weeks the Trump administration has hit the ground running as America catapults into a Golden Age of prosperity and security. The nation’s transformation is taking place at lightning speed. A primary focus of the administration has been securing the Southern Border. The truth that the mainstream media won’t tell you is that a secure border means safety for everyone, American citizens and migrants alike. A staggering number of border encounters occurred at the Southern Border under the previous administration. Public safety threats increased and overwhelmed law enforcement. Gangs such as Tren de Aragua and MS-13 infiltrated the US as never before along with known terrorists on watch lists, drug cartels, and other dangerous criminals. Untold numbers of women and children were trafficked across the border, and fentanyl and other dangerous drugs poured into American cities. Under President Trump’s Executive Order the National Emergencies Act has been invoked to declare the crisis at the Southern Border a national emergency. Due to President Trump’s swift action, which has allowed ICE to enforce the law under the Homeland Security Act, border crossings are down from 11,000 per day under the previous administration to less than 300 encounters a day since Trump took office. Protecting national security and upholding public safety is part of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s stated mission and motto. Border Czar, Tom Homan, seems to have been made for the job. As he spearheads the effort under Trump’s Executive Order, Homan has maintained that the top priority is getting “bad guys” and criminal aliens who have been convicted of violent crimes off the streets and out of the country first. The President has said that he would effectively take every lawful action at his disposal to address the crisis. President Trump’s designation of cartels as terrorist organizations has allowed for the deployment of Armed Forces and members of the National Guard to help secure the border. This strength in leadership, missing under the previous administration, has prompted the Government of Mexico to address the migrant crisis and send 10,000 troops to their northern border. In just a matter of weeks border numbers have diminished by over ninety percent. Public safety threats and known terrorists have been detained and removed from the country. The economic burden on American taxpayers to house criminal migrants has been reduced. The Department of Defense along with the Department of Homeland Security have been ordered to finish the border wall. As America’s Commander-in-Chief President Trump has said, “I have no more solemn duty than to protect the American people.” Contrary to the media’s portrayal of countries. T h e Mahashivaratrinight dedicated to Lord Shiva, the protector falls onWednesday this year. Generally, the Mahashivaratri falls on every 13th night or 14th day of lunar-solar month according to the Lunar Calendar. Every temple of Lord Shiva is flocked by pilgrims on the day of Shivaratri. The Mahakumbh has concluded today, following the first Amrit Snan on Paush Purnima, which began on January 13. This was followed by snans on Makar Sankranti on January 14, Mauni Amavasya on January 29, Basant Panchami on February 3, and Maghi Purnima on February 12. The final snan took place on February 26, coinciding with Maha Shivaratri. (ANI) New Delhi [India], February 25 (ANI): Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting urgent and unconditional financial assistance for the victims of the devastating landslide that struck Chooralmala and Mundakkai in the district of Kerala on July 30, 2024. Highlighting the immense loss of lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure, she expressed disappointment over the inadequacy of the recently announced Rs 529.50 crore relief package, which comes with restrictive conditions. “As the MP for Wayanad Lok Sabha, I felt it my duty to apprise you of the plight of the people of Chooralmala and Mundakkai in my constituency. It is indeed heart-breaking that even six months after a horrific tragedy destroyed their lives and livelihoods, they are facing unimaginable hardships while trying to rebuild their lives,” she said. She highlighted that the devastating Landslide that occurred in and around the two habitations of Wayanad district claimed the lives of 298 people. “231 bodies Prayagraj: Devotees throng Triveni Sangam on last day of MahaKumbh Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], February 26 (ANI): Devotees continue to arrive in large numbers at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on the last day of Maha Kumbh 2025, coinciding with Maha Shivratri. The world’s largest religious gathering, which began on Paush Purnima (January 13), concludes today. So far, more than 65 crore devotees have taken a holy dip in the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. To mark the final ‘Shahi Snan’ today, flower petals were showered on devotees as they performed the ritual bath. Speaking on the large turnout, SSP Maha Kumbh Rajesh Dwivedi said, “Nobody wants to miss this opportunity. The people of Prayagraj are also attending the last Snaan in huge numbers. Since midnight, there has been a massive inflow of pilgrims. Due to our arrangements, the outflow has been smooth, and everyone is happy to be part of this grand occasion on Maha Shivratri. Many are also visiting the Shiv Mandirs in the Kumbh area. As of today, the 65 crore mark has been reached.” Expressing her emotions, a devotee at the Maha Kumbh said, “I cannot express my sentiments in words. We came here with a lot of excitement because it was the last day of Maha Kumbh 2025. We feel fortunate to receive the blessings of Maa Ganga.” Mahashivaratri, known as the night of Lord Shiva, is observed with great fervour in India and other Hindu populous him, President Trump is a true humanitarian whose priority is the safety of all being affected by the border crisis. As Homan reflected, “I’ve worked for six presidents, and I think that President Trump is the greatest president of my lifetime, and he proves it every day.” This is certainly the kind of leadership Americans voted for, and for the past four years what everyday Americans had hoped would make America safe again. were recovered along with 223 body parts. 32 persons were reported missing and declared dead. 17 families with members totalling 58 persons were completely wiped out. 1685 buildings were damaged. These were houses, schools, village offices, dispensaries, anganwadi’s, shops, religious centres and government buildings,” Priyanka pointed out. The Wayanad MP emphasised further that given the above circumstances, it is clear that the district desperately needs support. “After continuous urging from the MPs of Kerala, the central government has recently announced a relief package of 529.50 crore for the victims of the devastation. Apart from the fact of its inadequacy, it is unprecedented that the package comes with two conditions: first that the funds shall be disbursed, not as a grant as is the norm, but as a loan, and second, that they should be spent in their entirety by the 31st of March, 2025,” she said. “These conditions are not only immensely unfair, but they also display a shocking lack of sensitivity towards the people of Chooralmala and Mundakkai who have suffered such shattering losses,” the Congress MP added. Priyanka Gandhi while urging for help from the Prime Minister said that the people of Wayanad deserve every possible assistance and support. “I urge you to consider their plight with compassion. It is my earnest request to you to convert the relief package into a grant and extend the time period for its implementation. This will help them to begin rebuilding their lives. It will also reassure them that the future holds some measure of promise and hope,” she said. (ANI) Priyanka Gandhi urges PM Modi for unconditional financial aid for Wayanad landslide victims
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February 28, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK JPC meeting on ‘One Nation, One Election’ sees intense debate over feasibility, fairness, and legal hurdles By Nishant Ketu New Delhi [India], February 25 (ANI): A meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Constitution (One Hundred and TwentyNinth Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, on Tuesday saw intense questioning from MPs across political parties, who raised concerns over the “feasibility, fairness, and constitutional validity” of the “One Nation, One Election” proposal. According to sources, many leaders questioned the “affordability and practicality” of holding simultaneous elections across the country. Some MPs alleged that the move was designed to benefit the ruling party rather than strengthen democratic processes. Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, former Chairperson of the Law Commission and Judicial Member of Lokpal, who was present during the session, faced pointed questions from multiple MPs. They sought clarity on whether the proposed legislation would favour the ruling party and undermine the electoral process. In response, Justice Awasthi defended the bill, stating that it aimed to bring electoral stability, though concerns about potential bias persisted. According to the sources, a member of the Trinamool Congress expressed serious apprehensions about the independence of the Election Commission of India (ECI). Their questions stemmed from recent controversies surrounding the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner. An ally of the ruling BJP From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- February 21, 2025 A POLITICIAN’S CONFESSION By Rajan George Politician I am, I only serve my passion, My mask says that I’m here to serve Those who empower me for life But ‘I am no fool’ to serve their cause Power, fame, and wealth I seek Politics is the only trade I know, Murder, deception, and Lies are the means I use to scale the summit I seek Claim to service is just a mask I wear to serve my hoggish goals, Folks who vote for me are ‘fools’, They’d know better if they were wise! I will scream against reforms I know, Would serve the masses, but I’ll cry foul If the swamp is cleared where would a riffraff Like me, would find a safer abode I will use my power to serve my cause And those of my masters whose puppet I am Serving their cause is my principal task, They fund my campaign, I’m sold to them. I hate reforms, that would void my power, And benefit the people for they don’t deserve I’ll fight tooth and nail a reformer all-day because I know he’ll ruin my way Crimes and corruption I’ll espouse with glee, My clans promulgate to the public dismay From which do proceed my incessant gains And grease the wheels of my progress afloat also sought clarity on government accountability in a system where elections are held only once in five years. The concern was whether policies introduced at the beginning of a term could be corrected midway if needed. The opposition argued that frequent elections allow voters to voice their concerns more regularly, ensuring governments remain accountable throughout their tenure. Meanwhile, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra reportedly questioned the logistical challenges of conducting simultaneous elections. As per the sources, she specifically raised concerns about the availability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), asking how India would procure and manage the large number of machines required for such a massive electoral exercise. According to sources, former Chief Justice of India UU Lalit shared his views during the meeting, offering a legal perspective on the bill. Justice Lalit acknowledged the theoretical merits of INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online the “One Nation, One Election” concept but warned of serious practical and constitutional hurdles in its implementation. He advised that such a major reform should not be rushed and, instead, be introduced in a phased manner to prevent unintended disruptions. Sources said that one of his key recommendations was to modify Section 82A of the bill, suggesting a change in wording from “may” to “shall”. This, he argued, would ensure that future governments cannot implement the law arbitrarily and that the provision becomes mandatory and binding. Despite expressing support for the overall idea as a citizen, Justice Lalit cautioned that the bill, in its current form, could be legally challenged in judicial scrutiny. After the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) meeting on ‘One Nation, One Election‘, Committee Chairman PP Chaudhary said that the members showed a positive attitude and all are working as a team. “It was a good meeting. All members had a positive attitude. First, Justice Awasthi gave a presentation, followed by former Chief Justice of India UU Lalit. All Members appreciated their presentations, and their questions were responded to,” Chaudhary said after the meeting at Parliament House Annexe. He further thanked the committee members for displaying a positive attitude. B e l a g a v i (Karnataka) [India], February 24 (ANI): Six people who were travelling to Prayagraj‘s Mahakumbh from Gokak, Belagavi district, died in a road accident on Monday in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, according to information given by Belagavi Police. Out of the eight people who had left for Prayagraj from Belagavi on February 18, six lost their lives in a horrific road accident. Two others are in critical condition and have been admitted to a local hospital. The deceased have been identified as Balachandra Gowdar, Sunil Shedashale, Basavaraj Kurni, Basavaraj Doddamani, Eeranna Shebinakatti and Virupaksha Gumatti. While the injured were identified as Mustaq and Sadashiva, both are critically injured and admitted to a local hospital. (ANI) “I thank all members of the committee for their positive attitude and for asking questions in the national interest. Doubts were cleared...We are working as a team,” Chaudhary added. The Constitution Amendment Bill on One Nation, One Election, currently under review by the Joint Parliamentary Committee, proposes aligning the election cycles of the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The government argues that synchronising electoral timelines will help address logistical challenges, reduce costs, and minimise disruptions caused by frequent elections. The Union Cabinet accepted the recommendations of the High-Level Committee Report on Simultaneous Elections on September 18, 2024. The first meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the ‘One Nation One Election‘ bill was held on January 8. (ANI) Karnataka: 6 Mahakumbh devotees from Belagavi died in road accident, 2 injured Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 28, 2025 7 MORE Get from your retirement. 1. MORE for your money “Moving was a great decision for me! I feel confident in my future, and with predictable monthly spending. 2. MORE amenities, including a pool, I know that my needs will be taken care of.” fitness center, and restaurants. —Marge V., A community resident 3. MORE peace of mind with additional on-site care should you need it. Discover more great reasons to choose an Erickson Senior Living®-managed community. 1550760 Call 1-888-718-7402 or visit DMVSeniorLiving.com for your free brochure. Trump suggests India help US with elections after criticising USAID funding for India’s elections Washington DC [US], February 23 (ANI): During his closing speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Saturday, US President Donald Trump criticised the USAID funding of USD 18 million funding for helping India with its elections. Trump, in turn, proposed they go back to paper ballots and have India assist with the election process, saying, “Wouldn’t that be nice?” “18 million dollars for helping India with its elections. Why the hell? Why don’t we just go to old paper ballots, and let them help us with their elections, right? Voter ID. Wouldn’t that be nice? We’re giving money to India for elections. They don’t need money,” he said. Trump further alleged that India benefits from high tariffs on US goods. “They take advantage of us pretty good. One of the highest tariffed nations in the world. We try and sell something. They have a 200 per cent tariff. And then we’re giving them a lot of money to help them with their election,” he said. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, on Saturday expressed concern over allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) allocated USD 21 million for “voter turnout” in India. “Some information has been put out there by the Trump administration people, and obviously, that is concerning... I think, as a government, we’re looking into it. My sense is that the facts will come out... USAID was allowed here in good faith, to do good faith activities; now, suggestions are being laid out from America that there are activities which are in bad faith. It’s worrisome, and if there’s something to it, then the country should know who the people are involved in it,” said Jaishankar. Meanwhile before the US elections, on October 20, Elon Musk, the owner of X, while speaking at a town hall in the swing state of Pennsylvania, claimed that voting machines rig elections, ABC News reported. Musk linked voting machines by Dominion to Republicans’ losses in Philadelphia and Arizona, saying, “There’s always a sort of question of like, say, the Dominion voting machines. It is weird that you know, I think they’re used in Philadelphia and Maricopa County, but not in a lot of other places,” ABC News reported. “Doesn’t that seem like a heck of a coincidence?” Musk said while calling for states around the country to “only do paper ballots, hand-counted.” “Concerning and worrisome”: Jaishankar on USAID funding allegations for ‘voter turnout’ External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, on Saturday expressed concern over allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) allocated USD 21 million for “voter turnout” in India. Jaishankar stated that the government is looking into the matter, describing the allegations as “concerning and worrisome.” Adressing the 12th International Health Dialogue in New Delhi, he emphasised that USAID was allowed to operate in India in good faith, but the new allegations suggest that some activities may have been conducted in bad faith. “Some information has been put out there by the Trump administration people, and obviously, that is concerning... I think, as a government, we’re looking into it. My sense is that the facts will come out... USAID was allowed here in good faith, to do good faith activities; now, suggestions are being laid out from America that there are activities which are in bad faith. It’s worrisome, and if there’s something to it, then the country should know who the people are involved in it,” said Jaishankar. While adressing the weekly briefing on Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that, the United States’ administration’s information regarding funding in India is “deeply troubling” and has led to concerns regarding foreign interference in India’s internal affairs. Jaiswal said that relevant departments and agencies are looking into the matter and it would be premature to make a public comment at this stage. Asked about President Donald Trump’s remarks about the funding of USD 21 million for “voter turnout in India”, Jaiswal said, “We have seen information that has been put out by the US administration regarding certain US activities and funding. These are obviously very deeply troubling. This has led to concerns about foreign interference in India’s internal affairs. R e l e v a n t departments and agencies are looking into this matter.” “It would be premature to make a public comment at this stage. So, relevant authorities are looking into, and hopefully we can come up with an update on that subsequently,” the MEA spokesperson said. (ANI)
February 28, 2025 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Free trade agreement, EU-India trade and tech council on agenda of EU chief’s India visit: Official New Delhi [India], February 25 (ANI): European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the European Union College of Commissioners will hold delegation-level talks during their visit to India, with a focus on Free Trade Agreement, the EU-India Trade and Technology Council (TTC) as well as carving out some new agenda on various issues, a senior EU official said. Ursula von der Leyen, accompanied by the European Union College of Commissioners, will pay an official visit to India on February 27-28 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the External Affairs Ministry said. The visit comes early in the Commission’s new term, which began in December last year. During the visit, a plenary session will be cochaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Von der Leyen, who is the executive head of the EU. The EU official noted that is the first visit of the European College of Commissioners outside of the continent, and indicates the symbolic partnership between India and the EU. “This is the first visit of the college outside of Europe. It is always a little bit of a symbolic visit, in the sense that we tend to go to a strategically important and relevant place in the first mandate of President von der Leyen. Now we have actually a college to government meeting, a meeting with the entire government of India in New Delhi in India,” a senior EU official said ahead of the visit. Last year, EU and India celebrated 20th anniversary of their strategic partnership, and now a new agenda is to be developed by both regions. India and the EU have been pursuing a free-trade agreement (FTA) for a long time. “India is a strategic partner. We celebrated last year the 20th anniversary of the strategic partnership between the European Union and India. Now we’re looking at developing a new strategic agenda with India. That is a commitment that the (EU) President made in the political guidelines that she presented last year in July,” the official said. Apart from delegation level talks between PM Modi and Ursula von der Leyen, the second ministerial meeting of the India – EU Trade and Technology Council and bilateral ministerial meetings between the European Commissioners and their Indian counterparts will also be held during the visit. “We are obviously going to cover quite a lot of issues that will be done through individual contacts that start in the morning. All the members of the college that are going, we have 21 going will be having bilateral meetings with their counterparts to discuss their, let’s say, portfolio issues. There will then be a plenary meeting that will be preceded, of course, by a bilateral between Prime Minister Modi and President von der Leyen,” the official said. The official mentioned that both sides will also be discussing the Trade and Technology Council (TTC) and the Free Trade Agreement, along with discussing a wide technology agenda. “So the power of partnerships will really be at full display also in New Delhi, as we are taking stock and moving forward in these discussions. The FTA is one area. The TTC is another area part of the growth agenda. But there will also be a wider tech agenda with India Prime Minister Modi was in Paris also recently for the AI action Summit. India is actually hosting the next summit. So that’s a great example of an issue where we expect to see more discussion and more cooperation as part of our new strategic agenda,” the official said. “On (February) 28 at the same time as the college visits, we will have the second ministerial meeting of the trade and Technology Council. India is country with whom we have this TTC, this platform for engaging on trade and technology,” the official said. The TTC meeting is set to take place on the margins of the EU College meeting on February 28. “India is such a partner for taking forward that discussion. In that context, we will of course, be talking about the active negotiations towards a Free Trade Agreement, an investment protection agreement, as well as an agreement on GIS and President (and Prime Minister Modi will be taking stock on where we are and how we can push forward those negotiations,” said the official. Earlier today, Herve Delphin,Ambassador of the Delegation of the European Union to India, spoke about the upcoming visit of the European Commission President to India, describing it as a significant moment for relations of both regions. Delphin further said that this visit is intended to highlight the importance the EU attaches to its relationship with India. He said, “This will be an important week for the EU and India relations. You will have, for the very first time, the President of the European Commission and the whole college, equivalent to a full government of the EU Commission, coming to Delhi for two days of talks. This visit is highly symbolic, and it speaks about the importance the EU attaches to the relationship with India. We both see each other as partners of choice but also as forces for good.” This is the third visit of Van der Leyen to India in the last few years. She was previously in India for the G20 Leaders’ Summit in September 2023. Her last bilateral visit was in early 2022, when India and the EU resumed negotiations for a “free trade” agreement (FTA) in 2022, with the visit. Prime Minister and President Ursula von der Leyen have also met regularly on the sidelines of multilateral meetings. India and European Union have been strategic partners since 2004 and their bilateral ties have expanded and deepened across a wide range of areas. As the two sides enter the third decade of the strategic partnership, the visit of President von der Leyen and the EU College of Commissioners will pave the way for further strengthening of bilateral relations based on growing convergences, according to a press release by the External Affairs Ministry. The EU is India‘s largest trading partner, accounting for 124 billion worth of trade in goods in 2023 or 12.2 per cent of total Indian trade. India is the EU’s ninth largest trading partner, accounting for 2.2 per cent of the EU’s total trade in goods in 2023. Trade in services between the EU and India reached 59.7 billion euros in 2023, up from 30.4 billion euros in 2020. (ANI) DHS Will Use Every Available Tool to Compel Illegal Aliens to Self-Deport Secretary Noem Announces Agency Will Enforce Laws That Penalize Aliens in the Country Illegally WASHINGTON – Today, Secretary Kristi Noem announced the Department of Homeland Security will fully enforce the Immigration and Nationality Act, which created multiple tools to track illegal aliens and compel them to leave the country voluntarily. These tools include criminal penalties for certain aliens who: • Willfully fail to depart the United States. • Fail to register with the federal government and be fingerprinted. • Fail to apprise the federal government of changes to their address. An alien’s failure to depart the U.S. is a crime that could result in significant financial penalty. An alien’s failure to register is a crime that could result in a fine, imprisonment, or both. For decades, this law has been ignored—not anymore. Compelling mass self-deportation is a safer path for aliens and law enforcement, and saves U.S. taxpayer dollars, in addition to conserving valuable Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) resources needed to keep Americans safe. S t a t e m e n t Attributable to a DHS Spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin “President Trump and Secretary Noem have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream. “The Trump administration will enforce all our immigration laws—we will not pick and choose which laws we will enforce. We must know who is in our country for the safety and security of our homeland and all Americans.” T h i s announcement comes on the heels of a nationwide and international ad campaign warning illegal aliens to self-deport and stay out.
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