23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Heads of Government, SCO CHG, began in Islamabad, Pakistan, today. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is participating in the meeting.   India remains actively engaged in the SCO format, participating in various mechanisms and initiatives within the organization. The SCO CHG meeting is held annually and focuses on the organisation’s trade and economic agenda. This is the first high-level visit of an Indian Foreign Minister to the neighbouring nation in nine years.   In the morning today, Dr. Jaishankar planted an Arjuna sapling at the Indian High Commission under the initiative Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.

Industry leaders have lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for Digital India at the 8th India Mobile Congress during the International Telecommunication Union-WWorld Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly (ITU-WTSA) 2024 in New Delhi. The telecom industry leaders also appreciated the government’s support for reforms, innovation, and collaboration.   Chairman of Reliance JIO-INFOCOMM Limited, Akash Ambani, commended Prime Minister Modi for his visionary leadership, which has catalysed India’s remarkable digital transformation. He said, in the third term, Mr. Modi has positioned the Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) as a significant platform for innovation and collaboration, driving unprecedented growth in the digital sector.   Emphasising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a digital India, Founder and Chairman of Bharti Airtel, Sunil Bharti Mittal, reflected on India’s telecom journey. He said the real transformation began in 2014 with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a digital India, which ignited the 4G revolution. He added that this has empowered millions, including those in rural areas, to access smartphones and essential digital services.   Chairman of Aditya Birla Group, Kumar Mangalam Birla, highlighted the steadfast support by the government in consistently recognising the importance of digital connectivity. He highlighted the introduction of several reforms over the years to drive India towards an even more connected, empowered, and inclusive digital nation.   Secretary General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Ms. Doreen Bogdan Martin, recalled the Prime Minister’s emphasis on the need for global digital governance. She highlighted how Mr. Modi made India’s ambition very clear to lead by example and share its digital public infrastructure with the entire world. Ms. Martin also underlined that the world has a lot to learn from India’s accomplishments with regard to the unified payments interface.   Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the 8th edition of the India Mobile Congress today during the ITU-WTSA, which is being held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

Abdul Mutalib, a talented poet and researcher from Assam, has made a name for himself in the realm of English poetry and scholarly articles. His notable works, including "Whispering Stream," "The Deer I Seek," and "Echoes of Assam," reflect his unique voice and artistic vision. Through his poetry, Abdul captivates readers with themes that provoke thought and inspire reflection, showcasing his remarkable ability to blend beauty with social commentary. His poems not only resonate on an emotional level but also challenge readers to engage with pressing societal issues. The intricate imagery and profound messages found in Abdul's poetry create a powerful connection with a diverse audience. His work serves as a catalyst for discussion and introspection, encouraging readers to consider their own perspectives on the world around them. In addition to his poetic endeavors, Abdul's research articles delve into contemporary topics, further demonstrating his insightful approach to literature and society. His writing invites readers to participate in meaningful conversations, making his contributions to literature both relevant and impactful. Receiving the National Literature Award 2024 from the Indian Literature and Arts Society is a significant recognition of Abdul Mutalib's unwavering commitment to his craft. This accolade not only honors his artistic achievements but also highlights his dedication to addressing critical social themes through his work. Abdul's journey as a poet and researcher exemplifies the power of literature to inspire change and foster understanding, solidifying his place as a prominent voice in contemporary literature.

President Droupadi Murmu has called for deeper economic cooperation between India and Algeria. Addressing the Algeria-India Economic Forum in Algiers, the capital city of Algeria, the President emphasised the need to further strengthen the bilateral partnership and impart new momentum towards a new era of cooperation. President Murmu is in Algiers as part of her three nation visit to Algeria, Mauritania and Malawi.   Akashvani’s correspondent reports that addressing the Algerian Indian Economic Forum, President Droupadi Murmu said that in various discussions with Algerian leadership, it is evident that Algeria is committed for growth and enhancing the investment opportunity. She said that  India is presently a major investor in Africa and both Algeria and India have a great economical relation but the full potential is yet to be tapped, especially in the field of construction, automobiles, pharmaceuticals etc. The President invited Algerian companies in the Make in India initiative.   She further said that India and Algeria should continue to work together and thus expand the existing cordial relation between the nations.   Today being the third day of President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to Algeria, the President is scheduled to attend various programs. President will pay Floral Tributes at the portrait of former President of India APJ Abdul Kalam, on his birth anniversary.   The President will later address the Sidi Abdellah Science and Technology Pole University. She will also visit the Seawater desalination project, Roman Ruins, Mausoleum and Hamma  Garden.   On the second leg of three nation visit, President Droupadi Murmu will leave for Mauritania tomorrow. In the final leg, the President will visit Malawi from 17th to 19th  October. During the visit to these countries, the President is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with the top leadership and to also interact with key trade and industry leaders and the Indian diaspora. The three-nation visit by the President aims to further expand and strengthen India’s ties with the countries in Africa.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will today inaugurate and dedicate to the Nation 75 infrastructure projects constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) at a cost of 2,236 crore rupees.         During the ceremony, which is being organised by the Border Roads Organisation in Sikkim, the Defence Minister will inaugurate 22 Roads, 51 Bridges and two other miscellaneous projects.         These projects have been constructed in 11 border States and Union Territories of the country including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.         Of the 75 new projects, 19 are in Jammu and Kashmir, 11 in Ladakh, 18 in Arunachal Pradesh, 9 in Uttrakhand, 6 in Sikkim, 5 in Himachal Pradesh, 2 each in West Bengal and Rajasthan and 1 each in Nagaland, Mizoram and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.         One of the most important projects is the Kupup-Sherathang Road in Sikkim which will serve as a crucial link between the Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg and Zuluk Axis. It will provide an alternate route for the Army to enable the movement of personnel and machinery.         With this, the tally of BRO infrastructure projects this year has increased to a whopping 111 worth 3,751 crore rupees. Last year, 125 BRO infrastructure projects were dedicated to the nation, constructed at a cost of 3,611 crore rupees.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed that a free, open, inclusive, prosperous and rules-based Indo-Pacific is vital for the peace and progress of the entire region.  He said peace, security and stability of the South China Sea is in the interest of the entire Indo-Pacific region. The Prime Minister was speaking at the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR today. Highlighting concern over the ongoing conflict in different regions of the world, Mr Modi said, development should be the approach and not expansionism. He said the ongoing conflicts in different regions are negatively impacting the countries of the Global South. He said that everyone wants peace and stability to be restored in Eurasia and the West Asia region. He reiterated that this is not an age of war and solutions to problems cannot come from the battlefield. The Prime Minister emphasized that it is necessary to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity and international laws. He said emphasis must be laid on humanitarian approach, dialogue and diplomacy. He said India will continue to make every possible contribution in this direction. Terming terrorism a serious challenge to global peace and security, the Prime Minister stressed that humanity will have to work together to deal with the challenges posed by the terrorism. He said, cooperation will also have to be strengthened in the areas of cyber, maritime and space. He said, it is necessary to ensure freedom of navigation and air space. During his address, the Prime Minister also expressed his deepest condolences to the people affected by Typhoon Yagi. He said, India has provided humanitarian assistance by Operation Sadbhav. Akashvani correspondent reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first leader to be invited to address the East Asia Summit after the host and incoming chair. The East Asia Summit, a premier leaders-led forum that contributes to building an environment of strategic trust in the region, provides an opportunity for leaders of Participating Countries, including India, to exchange views on issues of regional importance. The East Asia Summit encompasses the 10 ASEAN countries and eight partners, Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Russia and the United States. Timor-Leste will also be a partner as an observer. Mr Modi and his Lao PDR counterpart Sonexay Siphandone today held productive discussions aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties, including in key sectors of cooperation such as heritage conservation and restoration, development partnership, capacity building, economic, defence, culture and people-to people ties. India and Lao PDR exchanged MoUs for Defence cooperation, mutual assistance in custom matters and on quick impact projects under Mekong Ganga cooperation. Prasar Bharati and Lao National Television exchanged MoU for cooperation in broadcasting. The MoUs were exchanged in the presence Mr Modi and Mr Siphandone.   Mr Modi also met his Thailand counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra on the sidelines of East Asia Summit in Vientiane today. The leaders exchanged views on areas of India-Thailand bilateral relations and ways to forge closer regional cooperation through BIMSTEC. PM Modi also called President of Lao PDR Thongloun Sisoulith. Underscoring the historical India-Lao PDR civilizational ties, Mr Modi conveyed India’s commitment to further deepen the close partnership between the two countries. Briefing media, Secretary (East) in Ministry of External Affairs Joydeep Mazumdar said, the Prime Minister attended the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit and these were especially significant this year because it marked the 10th year of the Prime Minister’s Act East Policy. He said, as the Prime Minister commented during his interactions, this is the 11th time that he has attended these events and shows India’s great focus as well as commitment to both ASEAN and the East Asia Process.

Swagatam Choudhury, a talented individual from West Bengal, has recently been honored with the prestigious National Talent Award 2024, an accolade bestowed by the Indian NGO Award Council. This award is a testament to his remarkable contributions to literature and writing, establishing him as a key player in the literary scene. It not only recognizes his personal achievements but also highlights the rich tapestry of cultural and historical themes that he skillfully incorporates into his works. The National Talent Award is a celebration of Choudhury's unique voice and the cultural heritage that he passionately represents through his storytelling. Choudhury's literary creations delve deep into the human experience, illustrating the intricate connection between personal identity and the broader cultural landscape. This award serves as a reminder of the vital role literature plays in preserving and promoting cultural values, making his contributions even more impactful. His works, such as the novel "NOVEL ANANNYA" and the poetry book "SAHELI," have garnered significant praise for their emotional depth and innovative approach. They resonate with readers, offering insights into the complexities of life and the myriad emotions that accompany it. The recognition that Swagatam Choudhury has received through the National Talent Award not only cements his status as an influential figure in modern literature but also inspires aspiring writers and readers. His ability to articulate the essence of human emotions and experiences sets a high standard for literary excellence. As he continues to craft stories that reflect both personal and cultural narratives, Choudhury's work will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the literary world, encouraging future generations to explore and express their own stories.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR, today. The East Asia Summit, a premier leaders-led forum that contributes to building an environment of strategic trust in the region, provides an opportunity for leaders of participating countries, including India, to exchange views on issues of regional importance.     Yesterday, Mr. Modi attended and addressed the 21st ASEAN-India Summit in Vientiane, hosted by Lao PDR as the current Chair of ASEAN. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said India and ASEAN countries are peace-loving nations, and they respect each other’s national integrity and sovereignty. He said that India’s Act East Policy has given new energy, momentum, and direction to ties with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and ASEAN countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reached Vientiane in Lao PDR this afternoon on a two-day visit. This visit of the Prime Minister will further boost the country’s relations with the ASEAN nations. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was welcomed by the Minister of Home Affairs of Lao PDR Vilayvong Bouddakham.   The Indian diaspora welcomed Mr. Modi at the hotel. Later, Mr. Modi witnessed the Laotian Ramayan performance Phalak-Phalam or Phra Lak Phra Ram. This is the Lao adaptation of the ancient epic Ramayana, as it is popularly known in South East Asia. During the first day of his visit today, the Prime Minister will participate in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit. He will also hold bilateral meetings with member countries and participating nations. He is also scheduled to attend the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane during his visit. Earlier, in his departure statement, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of India’s Act East Policy. He said he will join the ASEAN leaders to review progress in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and chart the future direction of cooperation. He said the East Asia Summit will provide an opportunity to deliberate on the challenges to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.      Prime Minister said India shares close cultural and civilisational ties with the region, including with Lao PDR, which are enriched by the shared heritage of Buddhism and Ramayana. He said he is looking forward to his meetings with the Lao PDR leadership to further strengthen the bilateral ties. Mr. Modi expressed confidence that the visit will further deepen the engagement with ASEAN countries.     Akashvani correspondent reports that the ASEAN-India Summit will review progress of India-ASEAN relations through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and chart the future direction of cooperation. The East Asia Summit, a premier leaders-led forum that contributes to building an environment of strategic trust in the region, provides an opportunity for leaders of the participating countries, including India, to exchange views on issues of regional importance.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has emphasised that Indian cinema, with its vast linguistic and cultural diversity, has long played a pivotal role in fostering unity across the nation.    In an article, Mr. Vaishnaw said that cinema remains a powerful tool in strengthening the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,’ uniting the nation through stories that celebrate its diversity and shared future. Quoting legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, who once said that cinema speaks a universal language, Mr. Vaishnaw highlighted the medium’s ability to bridge divides. He said that Indian cinema transcends regional and linguistic boundaries, evoking shared emotions and experiences.   The Minister said that from Raj Kapoor’s timeless Shree 420 to Mani Ratnam’s Roja, Indian films have touched hearts across the country, regardless of language. He added that the universality of cinema, particularly in the country, showcases the common threads of struggle, love, and triumph that resonate with audiences everywhere. Films like Garam Hawa and Do Bigha Zamin also illustrate how cinema serves as a mirror to societal challenges while simultaneously promoting unity.   Highlighting the importance of the National Film Awards, Mr. Vaishnaw said this spirit of inclusivity is celebrated annually through the National Film Awards, where the nation recognises the best talents in filmmaking. He noted that at the 70th National Film Awards, a diverse array of languages was represented, including Tiwa, a language spoken by a Tibeto-Burmese ethnic group. Films in languages such as Haryanvi, Malayalam, and Kannada were honoured, reflecting the vast cultural tapestry of India.   On the popularity of Bollywood, the Minister acknowledged that Bollywood has made Hindi widely popular. However, he emphasised that cinema’s greater contribution has been in raising awareness of the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity. He pointed to the global success of RRR’s “Naatu Naatu,” noting that Indian films have not only unified the country but have also made waves internationally. About the government’s initiatives, including the establishment of the Indian Institute of Creative Technology, the Minister said that it aims to elevate Indian cinema on the global stage.

The Reserve Bank of India today decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.50 per cent for the tenth time in a row. Consequently, the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate remains at 6.25 percent and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 6.75 per cent. The RBI has maintained status quo on benchmark interest rate since February 2023.         The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) also decided to change the monetary policy stance to ‘neutral’ and to remain unambiguously focused on a durable alignment of inflation with the target, while supporting growth. These decisions are in consonance with the objective of achieving the medium term target for consumer price index (CPI) inflation of 4 per cent within a band of plus or minus 2 per cent, while supporting growth.         The RBI statement issued today also mentioned that the real gross domestic product (GDP) registered a growth of 6.7 per cent in the first quarter of financial year 2024-25, driven by private consumption and investment. MPC met on 7th, 8th and 9th of October. The next meeting of the MPC is scheduled for 4th to 6th of December 2024.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today will virtually lay the foundation stone of various development projects in Maharashtra worth over Rs 7600 crore through video conference.   Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of the upgradation of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. The total estimated cost of the project is around Rs 7000 crore. It is expected that the new infrastructure will serve as a catalyst for growth across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, aviation, tourism, logistics, and healthcare, benefiting Nagpur city and the wider Vidarbha region. In addition, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of the New Integrated Terminal Building at Shirdi Airport worth over Rs 645 crore. Prime Minister will also launch operationalization of 10 Government Medical Colleges in Maharashtra located at Mumbai, Nashik, Jalna, Amravati, Gadchiroli, Buldhana, Washim, Bhandara, Hingoli and Ambernath (Thane). In line with his vision to position India as the “Skill Capital of the World,” Prime Minister will also inaugurate the Indian Institute of Skills (IIS) Mumbai. The aim of the new institution is to create an industry-ready workforce with cutting-edge technology and hands-on training. Further, Prime Minister will inaugurate the Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK) of Maharashtra. It aims to offer high-quality insights to schools to manage resources effectively, strengthen ties between parents and the state, and deliver responsive support.