Latest news with #UPA
Indian Express
a day ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Unlike Congress, BJP has come down hard on terror
Vivek Katju's jibe at Union minister Hardeep S Puri ('Mapping continuity and a shift', IE, June 21) is unbecoming of a seasoned diplomat and gratuitously seeks mischief. Katju twisted and misinterpreted Puri's use of the phrase 'theatre of the absurd'. Puri, when asked about Operation Sindoor and India's bid to diplomatically isolate Pakistan in the aftermath of Pahalgam, said: 'It is a different ballgame now… Earlier, you allowed Pakistan to use terror as an instrument of state policy… You would take whatever they said at face value and have negotiations with them … The pre-Modi era of dealing with Pakistan was a theatre of the absurd. After the 26/11 (Mumbai attacks), did you retaliate? What did you do? The language used then was 'thoda sa hot pursuit ho gaya'. This time, it was not Balakot and just one strike. We went hundreds of kilometres inside and hit terror infrastructure… The beauty of the current situation lies in the message. In 22 minutes, we gave a befitting response.' It is clear from context that Puri was referring to the widely held view that the UPA government's response to terrorist attacks in the 2000s, particularly 26/11, was weak to the point of being farcical. Katju's claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's earlier outreach to Pakistan was also a 'theatre of the absurd' is disingenuous and superficial. The political contexts are too far apart. It is also disingenuous to suggest that efforts to build bridges with Pakistan in the past, irrespective of the political party in power, can be treated alike. It was in poor taste to suggest that an accomplished diplomat's remarks are careless merely because he is now a politician. To provide some much-needed context, 'Puri the politician' — to borrow Katju's words — has publicly stated that he joined the BJP because he agreed with its national security views. Puri, before he was a minister, served in the IFS from 1974 to 2013, mostly under Congress-led governments. It is no secret that India's response to terrorism during that period was inadequate. Many civil servants, including myself, felt that India's handling of terrorism in the 1990s and 2000s — culminating in the horror of 26/11 — was at best insufficient, at worst an abdication of duty. The arguments for 'strategic restraint' were difficult to digest, not only for Puri but for many of us. 'Puri the politician' has emerged from the experiences of 'Puri the diplomat', who witnessed firsthand India's failure to prevent terror attacks or deter asymmetric warfare. A stellar professional, Puri defended India's interests and extracted what space he could for a strategically restrained India. But that does not mean he must endorse the defensive postures that defined that era. Until 26/11, under the UPA, India faced at least seven major terror attacks: Delhi (October 2005 and September 2008), Mumbai (July 2006), Samjhauta Express (February 2007), Hyderabad (August 2007), Jaipur (May 2008), and Ahmedabad (July 2008). These were linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and ISI-backed groups, striking at the heart of our cities. More than 2,000 citizens were killed between 2005 and 2008 due to cross-border terrorism. The 26/11 attacks shattered India's image as a secure nation. The response — widely documented — was incoherent. The then cabinet secretary, in his book, cited a fragmented security apparatus that failed to respond coherently. The then foreign secretary and later national security adviser concluded after 'sober reflection' that 'more was to be gained from not attacking Pakistan than from attacking it'. Yet, it is hard to see what was gained, or to credibly argue that any favourable developments were contingent on it. To those on the outside, India appeared to be a soft state. Let us also not forget that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's foolhardy joint statement with then Pakistan prime minister Yusuf Raza Gilani at Sharm el-Sheikh in 2009 effectively shifted the Balochistan issue from a problem of Pakistan's own making to one allegedly fuelled by India in international eyes. It was against this litany of missteps that the minister underscored the Modi government's contrasting approach. PM Modi came to office in 2014 with a vision of integrating South Asia into a cooperative space where trade was enhanced and regional problems were resolved collectively. This aligned with the 'Neighbourhood First' policy introduced by the UPA in 2008, demonstrating foreign policy continuity — a notable tradition in Indian statecraft. The aim was peace through reduced cross-border terror. The attempts to build ties with Pakistan stemmed from this logic. However, the Pathankot attack in January 2016 was the final straw, hardening the PM's stance on Pakistan. (It is also worth noting that the attack was planned before Modi's surprise trip to Pakistan — thus undermining the ironic significance that Katju wishes to confer on the trip.) Since then, PM Modi's shift from conciliation to decisive action has been clear. The scale and publicity of the 2016 surgical strikes, the 2019 Balakot airstrike after Pulwama, and now the simultaneous destruction of terror targets deep inside Pakistan after Pahalgam all underline this transformation. Each action was measured, non-escalatory, and focused on terrorist infrastructure, while signalling growing costs to Pakistan's establishment. India has evolved from a nation fearful of unattended bags in public places to one where susceptible youth think twice before aligning with extremist outfits. National security crises are ultimately a test of political mettle. Prime Minister Modi's actions show a leader making rational, resolute decisions in critical national security moments — unlike the UPA era, marked by weakness and incoherence. Puri's interview, in my view, was candid, engaging, and characteristically direct. To attempt to generate controversy here is to exaggerate beyond reason. The writer is a former diplomat
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Roche Diagnostics and Egypt's UPA sign groundbreaking MoU
Cairo – Roche Diagnostics Egypt has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply, and Technology Management (UPA), marking a significant step toward integrating environmental sustainability into Egypt's healthcare procurement system. This strategic collaboration aims to support UPA in embedding green procurement principles, capacity-building, and best-in-class sustainability frameworks across all phases of the healthcare procurement lifecycle—from planning and acquisition to waste management. Aligned with Egypt's Vision 2030 for Sustainable Development, the initiative contributes to national goals of environmental stewardship and resilient, resource-efficient healthcare systems. Under the terms of the MoU, Roche Diagnostics will provide strategic consultancy services to support the UPA in embedding environmental sustainability across its procurement policies and operations. The collaboration will include tailored capacity-building programmes, such as experience exchange initiatives and hands-on workshops, to equip UPA teams and relevant stakeholders with practical tools and global expertise. Together, both parties will also co-develop a comprehensive procurement guideline, aligned with best international practices, to enable environmentally responsible decision-making at every stage of the healthcare supply chain. Dr. Liliane Kanaan, General Manager of Roche Diagnostics in Egypt and North Africa, commented: 'At Roche, we believe that a sustainable healthcare system is an imperative. This collaboration with UPA showcases our shared commitment to building resilient, environmentally responsible supply chains. Together, we are taking bold steps to create tangible impact by reducing the healthcare sector's environmental footprint, as well as shaping a procurement model that balances progress with planetary responsibility.' This agreement comes at a pivotal moment for the global healthcare sector, as environmental sustainability becomes a central priority in policy-making and procurement. Governments and international organizations alike are recognizing that responsible sourcing can reduce costs, improve outcomes, and safeguard future generations. By embedding sustainability into procurement decisions, stakeholders can strengthen public health outcomes and system-wide efficiency, bringing wide-ranging benefits for healthcare systems and the communities they serve. Environmentally conscious procurement reduces harmful emissions, waste, and the use of hazardous materials, resulting in a cleaner ecosystem and fewer health risks from environmental degradation. It also unlocks long-term cost efficiencies through more energy-efficient operations, reduced waste, and streamlined supply chains. Most importantly, it enhances the resilience of healthcare supply networks and encourages innovation in eco-friendly materials and greener manufacturing practices. The partnership aligns with Roche's global sustainability strategy, which integrates environmental, social, and economic priorities across all areas of operation. The company has committed to achieving real zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Roche also embeds sustainability into its procurement operations — working closely with suppliers to reduce emissions, improve supply chain transparency, and ensure ethical practices across the value chain. Most of Roche's total carbon emissions are linked to its supply network, which is why the company invests in initiatives such as the Sustainability Supplier Engagement Programme, the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI), and the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Initiative (PSCI). These platforms enable Roche and its partners to collectively raise industry standards, encourage innovation, and deliver lasting change. This MoU will enable UPA to benefit from Roche's participation in these global platforms — tapping into international expertise, tested frameworks, and peer collaboration to accelerate Egypt's own sustainability agenda. By drawing on Roche's global expertise and networks, the collaboration with UPA positions Egypt to adopt forward-thinking procurement strategies that balance public health priorities with environmental stewardship. The agreement reinforces Roche Diagnostics' role as a trusted, long-term partner in shaping a more sustainable, efficient, and equitable healthcare system in Egypt.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Compared to UPA, Modi govt has 83% success rate in zonal councils: Shah
1 2 Varanasi: Union home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday took a jibe at the Congress-led UPA govt by saying that compared to 2004-14 (when UPA was in office), about 83% of the issues discussed in zonal council meetings between 2014-25 have been resolved, which is an encouraging sign. Making this observation while chairing the 25th meeting of the Central Zonal Council in Varanasi which was attended by CM Yogi Adityanath and his counterparts — Pushkar Singh Dhami of Uttarakhand, Mohan Yadav of Madhya Pradesh, and Vishnu Deo Sai of Chhattisgarh, the Union home minister also called upon the memer states to eradicate child malnutrition, reduce the school dropout ratio to zero and strengthen cooperatives. "Between 2004 and 2014, only 11 meetings of the zonal councils and 14 meetings of the standing committees of the zonal councils were held. Compared to it, 28 zonal council meetings and 33 standing committee meetings were held between 2014 and 2025 — marking a twofold increase," said the home minister. You Can Also Check: Lucknow AQI | Weather in Lucknow | Bank Holidays in Lucknow | Public Holidays in Lucknow As many as 1,287 issues were resolved in these meetings so far, which is both historic and encouraging, said Shah. Shah urged the member states to increase the income of gram panchayats and formulate rules for this purpose. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo He said that enhancing the income of panchayats would make India's three-tier democratic Panchayati Raj system more effective. Earlier, Shah moved a resolution to commend the strong willpower of PM Narendra Modi and the valour of the Indian armed forces, which was unanimously approved by the CZC. Shah said the member states of the CZC have a crucial role to play in achieving the PM's goal of building a developed India by 2047. He said CZC is the only zonal council where no issue or dispute exists between member states, and this is a significant achievement. A total of 19 issues were discussed in the Tuesday meeting, including matters of national importance. These included the implementation of Fast Track Special Courts for the speedy investigation and prompt disposal of rape cases against women and children, provision of brick-and-mortar banking facilities within the designated radius of every village, and implementation of the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112), among other key issues. Guided by Modi's vision to leverage cooperative and competitive federalism for the all-round development of the country, the zonal councils provide a structured mechanism for dialogue and discussion on issues affecting two or more states or the Centre and states, and through this, serve as an important platform to enhance mutual cooperation. Zonal councils provide a structured mechanism for dialogue and discussion on issues affecting two or more states or between the Centre and states. They serve as an important platform to foster cooperation. The aim of the meeting was to strengthen inter-state coordination and promote cooperative federalism. The last meeting of the council was held in Oct 2023 in Uttarakhand. Senior ministers from the member states, Union home secretary, secretary of the inter-state council secretariat, chief secretaries were present in the meeting.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Asean not keen to review trade pact: Government
NEW DELHI: Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said little headway was made in the review of 15-year-old free trade agreement (FTA) with Asean, despite nine rounds of negotiations since 2022. The minister's statement came days after controversy erupted over his comments on some of the Asean countries being a B-team of China. While the assertion was not taken favourably by some of the countries. which are part of the 10-nation trading bloc, the commerce department and the ministry of external affairs are seen to be on the same page, with sources confirming that there is an attempt to stonewall the talks. In 2019, Asean agreed to the review after much pushing by India, but then did not commence negotiations for almost two years. Indian authorities argued that China worked out arrangements through companies and affiliates, which allowed it to route subsidised goods through one of the countries that make up the trading bloc. The Modi govt argued that trade deal with Asean was not negotiated properly by the UPA, resulting in the terms of trade being tilted in favour of these countries, which was visible through the rising trade deficit. Officials pointed out that in return for India opening up 71% of its tariff lines, Indonesia responded for only 41% of the products, with two-thirds of the trade liberalised in the case of Vietnam and Thailand - areas where India is seeking correction. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like BMW i4. 100% Elétrico. BMW Saiba Mais Undo Addressing an event to commemorate the third anniversary of Vanijya Bhawan, the first new office block to come up along Kartavya Path, Goyal said that India was now seeking to enter into FTAs with advanced economies that were complementary and not competing for the same market. "Instead of competition, it is a spirit of collaboration," he told reporters. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
T'gana govt to hold event for transferring Rs 9,000 cr payout to farmers
The Telangana government will hold a public function in Hyderabad to mark the transfer of about Rs 9,000 crore to farmers' accounts in just nine days under the 'Rythu Bharosa' investment support scheme, state Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao said. The event, which will be attended by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and his cabinet colleagues, will take place on Tuesday evening near the Rajiv Gandhi statue outside the Telangana Secretariat complex, Rao added. The minister, who reviewed the arrangements for the event with officials on Monday, said Rs 9,000 crore has been transferred to farmers' accounts ahead of the monsoon to ensure they have funds to carry out agricultural activities. Recalling the farm loan waiver of Rs 70,000 crore during the UPA regime led by then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Rao said the present Congress government has already spent Rs 21,000 crore on loan waivers. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy launched the disbursal of funds under the 'Rythu Bharosa' scheme on June 16. He had announced that the government would transfer Rs 9,000 crore in nine days under the scheme, despite economic challenges. The 'Rythu Bharosa' scheme will benefit 70,11,984 farmers, covering 1.49 lakh acres, Reddy had said.
