Wednesday, April, 16,2025

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PM MODI IS REDEFINING AND EXPANDING INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY: Dr CHANDRA

Stressing that PM Modi has towed a new line by bringing into the warm fold of Indian embrace all those nations which had been sidelined by all previous govts of nation, Dr. Jagdeesh Chandra says that it is PM Modi who has looked towards less-important nations and propelled them on the world stage giving them equal importance as any other major world power. Dr. Chandra further says that it is due to this aspect that foreign leaders break protocol befitting a leader of a nation, and extend courtesy to Modi owing to the warmth in their hearts towards PM Modi. Excerpts… (Part I)

  • What does Brunei, Singapore, new friendship, new relations mean?
    Dr Jagdeesh Chandra:
    Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Dubai and Brunei is like a breath of fresh air in India’s international diplomacy. Modi’s vision is to move forward, make new friends, meet new countries, increase trade, increase diplomacy, get out of Delhi. Realize his global vision. And since India is a global country, our Prime Minister is a global leader, then encash his image, his popularity in India’s interest, and create a new world in which India’s name keeps ringing. Therefore, the basic mantra is to make new friends, define friendship, redefine, expand foreign policy and hence it is called new friends, new hopes.
  • Why did PM Modi suddenly decide to go to Brunei? Will Brunei become an alternative to India?
    Many people were surprised to see this because he had just come from Ukraine, how did he go back so quickly. He has his own assessment and he does not do anything suddenly. There is a well thought out strategy behind his moves and he has his own expertise in foreign affairs as he is the Foreign Secretary, Foreign Minister and Prime Minister. I believe that his decision was based on many reasons. The first reason that must have come to his mind is to reduce oil dependency on Russia through Brunei. If in the future, owing to Chinese intervention or any other issue, Russia stops the supply of oil to India or increases the price and like we have seen that over the past two and a half years the price of fuel have not changed dramatically in the country, then in that scenario what options are we left with? I believe that he undertook this visit to Brunei to explore an option for an oil deal. I feel that in the coming days, some major oil supply agreement with Brunei could be coined. Second reason for his visit could have been the geopolitics being played out in South-China sea and to control China through it and Brunei has a huge role to play in that issue. Brunei is a natural ally to India and Singapore to stop China. Third reason could have been to expand business dealings and to further advance India’s economic interests with Brunei. Another aspect to his visit is to further strengthen ‘Brand Modi’ in yet another Islamic nation. So these I believe could have been the reason and was surely a well thought out plan and not a sudden or unscheduled visit.
  • In the joint statement issued by India and Brunei it was said that the bilateral ties to be converted to enhance partnership. What is your take on that? Secondly, what other sectors could India and Brunei have decided to forge a partnership or follow same strategy?
    The basic point is that this is a positive and constructive approach. This approach should be further enhanced. If someone goes to another nation, then both the nations should feel strengthened. It is a well thought of decision that the current level of diplomacy and relationship between the two nations is further advanced or enhanced into a newer and better partnership which will be a welcome move. Second you questioned about the focus of agreements entered into by the nations. Basically it is to support Brunei in defence, training and capacity building. Then there is trade and investment followed by digital technology, space technology and renewable energy. So these are the major areas in which both the nations will work together. This is PM’s vision of moving forward in all the directions which is a good initiative.
  • Was this a first visit of any Indian PM to Brunei? Also, will PM Modi continue this trend in the future as well and visit nations that have been neglected so far?
    Although Narendra Modi has visited thrice but this was the first official bilateral visit. Fourteen thousand Indians live there whose ancestors migrated there in 1920s in search of oil and they stayed there. When these nations were formed, their connection with India remained cordial always. Now an attempt is being made to redefine those relations and are strengthening them. As far as first visit is concerned, PM is always excited to do something new and this is not happening for the first time. Right now PM Modi is in his third tenure and there are at least ten nations, with whom Indian’s leadership had miniscule interaction but Modi changed that and visited such nations that did not feature high in foreign ministry’s priority. For example he visited Poland which is a first for an Indian PM in forty five years, then he visited Ukraine recently which is also a first for any PM in thirty three years. When he became PM for the first time in 2014, he visited Nepal which was a first for a PM in seventeen years, thereafter he visited Sri Lanka which was a first in twenty eight years and then he visited Fiji which was a first for an Indian PM in thirty three years. So there is a long list of such visited undertaken by PM Modi. So he has undertaken several such visited and I have complete confidence that in the near future, such nations which did not feature as priority for foreign ministry and were kept on sidelines, Modi will visit such nations and forge or strengthen their bonds or relationship with us.
  • Whenever PM Modi goes for a foreign visit, he appears to be happy and excited. What is the reason behind that?
    That is because he has clarity in his mind that distances are only psychological. It does not matter to him if he is in Delhi, Ahmedabad or Brunei, his state of mind is clear. Secondly, only busy people have time because they are planned. Thirdly, the economic relations are strengthened through it since he goes and signs one or the other deal keeping India first. Fourthly, when ever he visits some nation, the leader of the said nation rolls out the red carpet for him and accords him a grand welcome, through which anyone would become emotional and become impressed. Some leader would touch his feet, some would hug him tightly, some have termed his as the boss, so an image is created. Then there are expats living in these nations and the Prime Minister have always had a sense of belonging towards those people as well and he thus meets them as a mark of love and respect towards them. We all have seen the pictures and videos how Modi meets the India diaspora and how people and even children get excited seeing him among them. Modi reciprocates that love through various actions like picking up a child and hugging him or speaking to the women, asking the elderly about their well being. So when he meets people of Indian descent on foreign soil, Modi feel elated and extremely happy. So the point is that for him there is no difference between Indian and other nations rather his mind and his vision has reached the global level. And this will continue.
  • The Sultan of Brunei broke protocol for PM Modi and reached the airport to receive and welcome him. He also organised a private dinner for PM Modi at his palace. What is so important about all this?
    See, PM Narendra Modi’s personality is such that people like to break protocol for him. When ever he has visited an Islamic nation, the leader of that nation has received him breaking protocols. He has a magnetism due to which people tend to get attracted towards him. Modi has an image of a global leader and is the most popular leader amongst his peers across the world. His approval ratings are at the top spot across all other world leaders. The same thing happened in Brunei also. As far as dinner is concerned, I read somewhere that Indian dishes were also served and a variety of dishes were served during this meal so that he does not feel that he is not in India rather should feel like he is at home. So this was Sultan’s concern that Modi should be treated with good food. Moreover, that palace is the biggest royal palace in the world which is valued at five billion dollars which has over seventeen hundred rooms which stands in two lakh square meters of land. It is recorded in Guiness Book of World Records. On the contrary, Modi is like a pauper who has risen through the society through his own hard work and visits palaces and huts with the same love and zeal towards the people that inhabit them. If a King honours him, it is a moment of pride for us Indians.

TO BE CONTINUED…

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Daily Astro

16-04-2025

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

image

Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

image

Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

image

Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

image

Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

image

Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

image

Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

image

Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

image

Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

image

Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

image

Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

image

Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.