August 30, 2026

PM Modi had said the relationship had witnessed significant advancement and expressed his desire to further deepen cooperation in key sectors. NEW DELHI: India and Uzbekistan on Sunday agreed to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held delegation-level talks with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent, with the two sides seeking to advance their strategic partnership and shared development goals.PM Modi, who is on a two-day state visit to Uzbekistan from August 29 to 30 at the invitation of Mirziyoyev, received a ceremonial welcome before the two leaders held talks on strengthening bilateral ties. The discussions focused on key areas of mutual interest and ways to advance the shared developmental visions of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Yangi Uzbekistan’, according to the Indian side.The talks came as India and Uzbekistan looked to build on the significant progress made in their strategic partnership in recent years. PM Modi had earlier said the relationship had witnessed significant advancement and expressed his desire to further deepen cooperation in key sectors.PM Modi attends yoga session in TashkentEarlier on Sunday, PM Modi attended a yoga session hosted by the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan, highlighting the growing people-to-people and cultural ties between the two countries.”Yoga has immense appeal in Uzbekistan. It is bringing people and cultures together and strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Uzbekistan,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a post on X.After the session, PM Modi said Uzbekistan had been a “proud participant” in the first-ever World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad earlier this year. He also noted that some of the medal winners from the championship were present at the yoga session.PM Modi’s engagements in UzbekistanPM Modi arrived in Tashkent on Saturday and was warmly received by Mirziyoyev at the airport. Following his arrival, the prime minister visited Yangi Uzbekistan Park and laid a wreath at the Independence Monument along with the Uzbek president.He later interacted with members of the Indian community at a hotel in Tashkent. The programme featured Kathak and Andijan Polka performances by members of the diaspora, while Uzbek children performed to the Indian song “Ude Jab Jab Zulfe Teri”.The prime minister also watched a fusion performance featuring the tabla alongside traditional Uzbek instruments Doira and Chang, underlining the cultural links between the two countries.PM Modi to travel to Kyrgyzstan for SCO summitAfter concluding his Uzbekistan visit, PM Modi is scheduled to travel from Tashkent to Kyrgyzstan to participate in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit on August 31 and September 1 at the invitation of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe summit will mark the 25th anniversary of the SCO. PM Modi is expected to address the gathering and highlight India’s priorities of “Security, Connectivity and Opportunity”.He will also hold bilateral meetings with leaders of SCO member countries on the sidelines of the summit.PM Modi is further scheduled to attend the opening ceremony of the sixth World Nomad Games.The Uzbekistan visit is PM Modi’s fourth trip to the Central Asian country and comes as New Delhi seeks to expand its engagement with the region through greater economic, strategic, energy and connectivity cooperation.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch123Photostories5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to lifePainful periods, changing cycles and menopause: Which symptoms are normal, which need attention and can protein help?Blueberries vs Grapes: What happens to blood sugar when you eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it?Why do some eggs have double yolks? The science behind it explained123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
PM Modi had said the relationship had witnessed significant advancement and expressed his desire to further deepen cooperation in key sectors. NEW DELHI: India and Uzbekistan on Sunday agreed to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held delegation-level talks with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent, with the two sides seeking to advance their strategic partnership and shared development goals.PM Modi, who is on a two-day state visit to Uzbekistan from August 29 to 30 at the invitation of Mirziyoyev, received a ceremonial welcome before the two leaders held talks on strengthening bilateral ties. The discussions focused on key areas of mutual interest and ways to advance the shared developmental visions of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Yangi Uzbekistan’, according to the Indian side.The talks came as India and Uzbekistan looked to build on the significant progress made in their strategic partnership in recent years. PM Modi had earlier said the relationship had witnessed significant advancement and expressed his desire to further deepen cooperation in key sectors.PM Modi attends yoga session in TashkentEarlier on Sunday, PM Modi attended a yoga session hosted by the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan, highlighting the growing people-to-people and cultural ties between the two countries.”Yoga has immense appeal in Uzbekistan. It is bringing people and cultures together and strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Uzbekistan,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a post on X.After the session, PM Modi said Uzbekistan had been a “proud participant” in the first-ever World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad earlier this year. He also noted that some of the medal winners from the championship were present at the yoga session.PM Modi’s engagements in UzbekistanPM Modi arrived in Tashkent on Saturday and was warmly received by Mirziyoyev at the airport. Following his arrival, the prime minister visited Yangi Uzbekistan Park and laid a wreath at the Independence Monument along with the Uzbek president.He later interacted with members of the Indian community at a hotel in Tashkent. The programme featured Kathak and Andijan Polka performances by members of the diaspora, while Uzbek children performed to the Indian song “Ude Jab Jab Zulfe Teri”.The prime minister also watched a fusion performance featuring the tabla alongside traditional Uzbek instruments Doira and Chang, underlining the cultural links between the two countries.PM Modi to travel to Kyrgyzstan for SCO summitAfter concluding his Uzbekistan visit, PM Modi is scheduled to travel from Tashkent to Kyrgyzstan to participate in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit on August 31 and September 1 at the invitation of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe summit will mark the 25th anniversary of the SCO. PM Modi is expected to address the gathering and highlight India’s priorities of “Security, Connectivity and Opportunity”.He will also hold bilateral meetings with leaders of SCO member countries on the sidelines of the summit.PM Modi is further scheduled to attend the opening ceremony of the sixth World Nomad Games.The Uzbekistan visit is PM Modi’s fourth trip to the Central Asian country and comes as New Delhi seeks to expand its engagement with the region through greater economic, strategic, energy and connectivity cooperation.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch123Photostories5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to lifePainful periods, changing cycles and menopause: Which symptoms are normal, which need attention and can protein help?Blueberries vs Grapes: What happens to blood sugar when you eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it?Why do some eggs have double yolks? The science behind it explained123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James


PM Modi in Tashkent: India, Uzbekistan agree to strengthen trade, defence and energy ties
PM Modi had said the relationship had witnessed significant advancement and expressed his desire to further deepen cooperation in key sectors.

NEW DELHI: India and Uzbekistan on Sunday agreed to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held delegation-level talks with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent, with the two sides seeking to advance their strategic partnership and shared development goals.PM Modi, who is on a two-day state visit to Uzbekistan from August 29 to 30 at the invitation of Mirziyoyev, received a ceremonial welcome before the two leaders held talks on strengthening bilateral ties. The discussions focused on key areas of mutual interest and ways to advance the shared developmental visions of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Yangi Uzbekistan’, according to the Indian side.The talks came as India and Uzbekistan looked to build on the significant progress made in their strategic partnership in recent years. PM Modi had earlier said the relationship had witnessed significant advancement and expressed his desire to further deepen cooperation in key sectors.

PM Modi attends yoga session in Tashkent

Earlier on Sunday, PM Modi attended a yoga session hosted by the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan, highlighting the growing people-to-people and cultural ties between the two countries.“Yoga has immense appeal in Uzbekistan. It is bringing people and cultures together and strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Uzbekistan,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a post on X.After the session, PM Modi said Uzbekistan had been a “proud participant” in the first-ever World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad earlier this year. He also noted that some of the medal winners from the championship were present at the yoga session.

PM Modi’s engagements in Uzbekistan

PM Modi arrived in Tashkent on Saturday and was warmly received by Mirziyoyev at the airport. Following his arrival, the prime minister visited Yangi Uzbekistan Park and laid a wreath at the Independence Monument along with the Uzbek president.He later interacted with members of the Indian community at a hotel in Tashkent. The programme featured Kathak and Andijan Polka performances by members of the diaspora, while Uzbek children performed to the Indian song “Ude Jab Jab Zulfe Teri”.The prime minister also watched a fusion performance featuring the tabla alongside traditional Uzbek instruments Doira and Chang, underlining the cultural links between the two countries.

PM Modi to travel to Kyrgyzstan for SCO summit

After concluding his Uzbekistan visit, PM Modi is scheduled to travel from Tashkent to Kyrgyzstan to participate in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit on August 31 and September 1 at the invitation of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov.

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The two sides ​ discussed cooperation in digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence and nuclear energy. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India and Uzbekistan have decided to elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, setting an ambitious target of billion in bilateral trade by 2030.Addressing a joint press meet with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, PM Modi said the two countries share common aspirations and are looking to expand cooperation across trade, technology, defence, energy, infrastructure and other strategic sectors.“Uzbekistan is at the heart of Central Asia and at the heart of India’s engagement with the region,” the Prime Minister said.He noted that 2026 marks 15 years of the India-Uzbekistan strategic partnership and said the two countries were now looking to give their relationship a broader and more ambitious framework.“India and Uzbekistan have deep similarities in their thinking and aspirations. Youth, innovation, inclusive growth and modern technology are at the core of both Young Uzbekistan and Developed India 2047. Following this shared vision, we are continuously working for the welfare of the people of both countries. This year marks 15 years of our strategic partnership. On this special occasion, we have decided to elevate our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” PM Modi said.“Our bilateral trade has crossed billion. Now, we have set a target of billion in trade by 2030,” he added.During delegation-level talks at the Kuksaroy Presidential Palace, Modi announced a long-term arrangement for uranium supplies from Uzbekistan.“We will also establish a long-term arrangement for the supply of uranium. Today, we are formalising three sister-city and sister-state arrangements. We should create a roadmap to fully realise their potential,” PM Modi said.The two sides also discussed cooperation in digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, clean energy, space and nuclear energy.“We will work together to enhance win-win cooperation in infrastructure development. Collaboration in areas such as digital public infrastructure, AI, critical minerals, clean energy, space, and nuclear energy is making our relationship future-ready,” Modi said.Defence and securityPM Modi said defence and security cooperation would be expanded through direct linkages, co-production and co-development between the defence industries of the two countries.“The close defence and security cooperation between our two countries reflects our deep mutual trust. In the future, we will promote direct linkages, co-production, and co-development between the defense industries of both nations,” he said.Modi said India and Uzbekistan shared a commitment to combating terrorism, extremism and separatism.“We believe that terrorism, extremism, and separatism pose serious challenges to the entire region. Maintaining a policy of zero tolerance against these threats has been, and will continue to be, our shared resolve,” he said.The prime minister also highlighted cooperation in agriculture, healthcare and traditional medicine, saying the strengths of the two countries could complement each other.“By combining Uzbekistan’s experience in horticulture with India’s modern agricultural practices, we will contribute to the food security of both nations. Uzbekistan’s medicinal herbs and India’s expertise in Ayurveda form a natural combination,” Modi said.Sister-city, state partnershipsPM Modi also announced that India and Uzbekistan would establish three sister-city and sister-state arrangements to expand cooperation beyond the national capitals.“We aim to ensure that our partnership is not limited merely to our national capitals; therefore, we are establishing partnerships between our cities and states,” he said.He also highlighted the potential for cooperation between Uzbekistan’s New Tashkent project and India’s GIFT City.“Mega-projects like ‘New Tashkent’ are underway in your country, while in India, we have developed GIFT City in Gujarat. We would be delighted to welcome a delegation from your country to study best practices and the use of technology in these developments,” PM Modi said.Mirziyoyev outlines new areas of cooperationMirziyoyev said the talks had identified several new areas where India and Uzbekistan could expand cooperation, including energy, culture, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, jewellery and agriculture.“During our discussions, we identified new areas where we can realize our existing potential. We aim to advance cooperation in sectors such as energy, culture, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, jewelry, and agriculture,” he said.“We will prepare roadmaps for each of these sectors; specific teams from India will visit here, and our teams will travel to India, enabling us to clearly define our objectives in these fields,” Mirziyoyev added.The Uzbek president said the two countries would continue to coordinate on global issues and support each other at international platforms including the United Nations, BRICS and the Non-Aligned Movement.He also highlighted growing educational and cultural ties, noting that four Indian universities are currently operating in Uzbekistan. Mirziyoyev said a 30-day visa-free regime and efforts to promote direct flights would further boost people-to-people exchanges.“Our partnership has ascended to a new level of quality, emerging as a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Mirziyoyev said.PM Modi receives Uzbekistan’s highest honourDuring his visit, Mirziyoyev conferred Uzbekistan’s highest state honour, the Order of “Oliy Darajali Dustlik”, on PM Modi.Calling it a moment of “immense pride”, PM Modi said the award reflected the longstanding friendship between the two countries.“’Dostlik’ means friendship. This single word exquisitely captures and expresses the sentiment that lies at the very core of relations between India and Uzbekistan,” Modi said.He dedicated the honour to the people of India and the shared heritage of the two countries.“This honour does not belong to just one individual; it belongs to 1.4 billion people of India,” Modi said.“From this historic land of Uzbekistan, I want to reassure the people of Uzbekistan today that India will never step back from its responsibilities. We will honour this friendship in every way,” he added.‘Uzbekistan loves Yoga!’The Prime Minister also witnessed a special yoga session in Tashkent featuring 52 practitioners from Uzbekistan.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines“Uzbekistan loves Yoga!” PM Modi said in a post on X, highlighting the country’s participation in the first World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad earlier this year.“Uzbekistan was a proud participant in the first-ever World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad earlier this year. Some of the medalists were also present today. They came back with great memories of India and the Championship,” he said.PM Modi also commended the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan for promoting yoga in the country.The prime minister is on a two-nation visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic. From Tashkent, he will travel to Bishkek to attend the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit on August 31 and September 1.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorKanchan YadavKanchan Yadav is a writer at The Times of India, where she covers business, politics, international affairs and social issues. Her reporting also focuses on policy, governance and economic developments, with a close lens on how decisions in corridors of power affect everyday lives and community well-being.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do You Feel You Are A Lord?’: Bombay High Court Raps Tukaram Mundhe-Led FDA Over MCA Order‘If Any Hindu Thinks…’: Opposition, Muslim Boards Respond To RSS Chief Bhagwat’s New York RemarksBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom Versace to Alex Perry: Suhana Khan’s Cartier moment was all about big-fashion energy10 must-try vegetarian dishes to try in DubaiFrom gajra to jadai: Traditional Indian hair adornments that deserve a fashion revival5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to life123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

The two sides ​ discussed cooperation in digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence and nuclear energy. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India and Uzbekistan have decided to elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, setting an ambitious target of $5 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.Addressing a joint press meet with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, PM Modi said the two countries share common aspirations and are looking to expand cooperation across trade, technology, defence, energy, infrastructure and other strategic sectors.“Uzbekistan is at the heart of Central Asia and at the heart of India’s engagement with the region,” the Prime Minister said.He noted that 2026 marks 15 years of the India-Uzbekistan strategic partnership and said the two countries were now looking to give their relationship a broader and more ambitious framework.“India and Uzbekistan have deep similarities in their thinking and aspirations. Youth, innovation, inclusive growth and modern technology are at the core of both Young Uzbekistan and Developed India 2047. Following this shared vision, we are continuously working for the welfare of the people of both countries. This year marks 15 years of our strategic partnership. On this special occasion, we have decided to elevate our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” PM Modi said.“Our bilateral trade has crossed $1 billion. Now, we have set a target of $5 billion in trade by 2030,” he added.During delegation-level talks at the Kuksaroy Presidential Palace, Modi announced a long-term arrangement for uranium supplies from Uzbekistan.“We will also establish a long-term arrangement for the supply of uranium. Today, we are formalising three sister-city and sister-state arrangements. We should create a roadmap to fully realise their potential,” PM Modi said.The two sides also discussed cooperation in digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, clean energy, space and nuclear energy.“We will work together to enhance win-win cooperation in infrastructure development. Collaboration in areas such as digital public infrastructure, AI, critical minerals, clean energy, space, and nuclear energy is making our relationship future-ready,” Modi said.Defence and securityPM Modi said defence and security cooperation would be expanded through direct linkages, co-production and co-development between the defence industries of the two countries.“The close defence and security cooperation between our two countries reflects our deep mutual trust. In the future, we will promote direct linkages, co-production, and co-development between the defense industries of both nations,” he said.Modi said India and Uzbekistan shared a commitment to combating terrorism, extremism and separatism.“We believe that terrorism, extremism, and separatism pose serious challenges to the entire region. Maintaining a policy of zero tolerance against these threats has been, and will continue to be, our shared resolve,” he said.The prime minister also highlighted cooperation in agriculture, healthcare and traditional medicine, saying the strengths of the two countries could complement each other.“By combining Uzbekistan’s experience in horticulture with India’s modern agricultural practices, we will contribute to the food security of both nations. Uzbekistan’s medicinal herbs and India’s expertise in Ayurveda form a natural combination,” Modi said.Sister-city, state partnershipsPM Modi also announced that India and Uzbekistan would establish three sister-city and sister-state arrangements to expand cooperation beyond the national capitals.“We aim to ensure that our partnership is not limited merely to our national capitals; therefore, we are establishing partnerships between our cities and states,” he said.He also highlighted the potential for cooperation between Uzbekistan’s New Tashkent project and India’s GIFT City.“Mega-projects like ‘New Tashkent’ are underway in your country, while in India, we have developed GIFT City in Gujarat. We would be delighted to welcome a delegation from your country to study best practices and the use of technology in these developments,” PM Modi said.Mirziyoyev outlines new areas of cooperationMirziyoyev said the talks had identified several new areas where India and Uzbekistan could expand cooperation, including energy, culture, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, jewellery and agriculture.“During our discussions, we identified new areas where we can realize our existing potential. We aim to advance cooperation in sectors such as energy, culture, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, jewelry, and agriculture,” he said.“We will prepare roadmaps for each of these sectors; specific teams from India will visit here, and our teams will travel to India, enabling us to clearly define our objectives in these fields,” Mirziyoyev added.The Uzbek president said the two countries would continue to coordinate on global issues and support each other at international platforms including the United Nations, BRICS and the Non-Aligned Movement.He also highlighted growing educational and cultural ties, noting that four Indian universities are currently operating in Uzbekistan. Mirziyoyev said a 30-day visa-free regime and efforts to promote direct flights would further boost people-to-people exchanges.“Our partnership has ascended to a new level of quality, emerging as a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Mirziyoyev said.PM Modi receives Uzbekistan’s highest honourDuring his visit, Mirziyoyev conferred Uzbekistan’s highest state honour, the Order of “Oliy Darajali Dustlik”, on PM Modi.Calling it a moment of “immense pride”, PM Modi said the award reflected the longstanding friendship between the two countries.“’Dostlik’ means friendship. This single word exquisitely captures and expresses the sentiment that lies at the very core of relations between India and Uzbekistan,” Modi said.He dedicated the honour to the people of India and the shared heritage of the two countries.“This honour does not belong to just one individual; it belongs to 1.4 billion people of India,” Modi said.“From this historic land of Uzbekistan, I want to reassure the people of Uzbekistan today that India will never step back from its responsibilities. We will honour this friendship in every way,” he added.‘Uzbekistan loves Yoga!’The Prime Minister also witnessed a special yoga session in Tashkent featuring 52 practitioners from Uzbekistan.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines“Uzbekistan loves Yoga!” PM Modi said in a post on X, highlighting the country’s participation in the first World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad earlier this year.“Uzbekistan was a proud participant in the first-ever World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad earlier this year. Some of the medalists were also present today. They came back with great memories of India and the Championship,” he said.PM Modi also commended the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan for promoting yoga in the country.The prime minister is on a two-nation visit to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic. From Tashkent, he will travel to Bishkek to attend the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit on August 31 and September 1.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorKanchan YadavKanchan Yadav is a writer at The Times of India, where she covers business, politics, international affairs and social issues. Her reporting also focuses on policy, governance and economic developments, with a close lens on how decisions in corridors of power affect everyday lives and community well-being.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do You Feel You Are A Lord?’: Bombay High Court Raps Tukaram Mundhe-Led FDA Over MCA Order‘If Any Hindu Thinks…’: Opposition, Muslim Boards Respond To RSS Chief Bhagwat’s New York RemarksBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom Versace to Alex Perry: Suhana Khan’s Cartier moment was all about big-fashion energy10 must-try vegetarian dishes to try in DubaiFrom gajra to jadai: Traditional Indian hair adornments that deserve a fashion revival5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to life123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

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Akhilesh Yadav targets CM Yogi over Ankit Balyan murder NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday took a swipe at Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath over the fatal shooting of singer Ankit Balyan, stating that the gang allegedly behind the murder has a name that bears a “striking resemblance” to a “prominent figure” in the state.”The bullets didn’t just strike an innocent youth from our state; they also hit the law and order in the Kotwali area of UP,” Akhilesh Yadav wrote in Hindi on X, referring to the location of the murder.”The chief minister kept claiming that mafia and criminals have left Uttar Pradesh; but here, the opposite has happened—gangsters and thugs from other states have come to UP, firing dozens of rounds and committing murders,” he added.The SP supremo was referring to speculation that the Gogi gang, which operates primarily across Delhi and Haryana, was behind Ankit Balyan’s murder.”Their gang’s name also bears a striking resemblance to that of some prominent figure in UP. What is this connection called? The killers are brazen and their morale is sky-high because they feel a sense of belonging to the corrupt rule of the UP BJP government, which shields those of its own kind in power and corrupts the police through fake encounters,” Akhilesh Yadav stated.The former chief minister’s post was a direct attack on Yogi Adityanath’s projection as a leader tough on law and order. The ruling BJP will seek a third consecutive term when Uttar Pradesh goes to polls early next year.Ankit Balyan, a 32-year-old singer and YouTuber from Haryana, was shot dead by four armed assailants outside a gym in Shamli’s Kotwali area on August 26. Preliminary information suggested that around 18 rounds were fired at him in the point-blank attack.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesPolice are examining a possible gang-war angle after a social media post by Bholu Shahpuriya, who is purportedly linked to the Gogi gang, claimed responsibility for the killing. The post alleged that Ankit Balyan had been supporting the gang’s “enemies” and had made a song about the killing of gangster Jitender Mann, alias Gogi. It also warned that those supporting the gang’s rivals would meet a “similar fate.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do You Feel You Are A Lord?’: Bombay High Court Raps Tukaram Mundhe-Led FDA Over MCA Order‘If Any Hindu Thinks…’: Opposition, Muslim Boards Respond To RSS Chief Bhagwat’s New York RemarksBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom gajra to jadai: Traditional Indian hair adornments that deserve a fashion revival5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to lifePainful periods, changing cycles and menopause: Which symptoms are normal, which need attention and can protein help?Blueberries vs Grapes: What happens to blood sugar when you eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it?123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

Akhilesh Yadav targets CM Yogi over Ankit Balyan murder NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday took a swipe at Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath over the fatal shooting of singer Ankit Balyan, stating that the gang allegedly behind the murder has a name that bears a “striking resemblance” to a “prominent figure” in the state.”The bullets didn’t just strike an innocent youth from our state; they also hit the law and order in the Kotwali area of UP,” Akhilesh Yadav wrote in Hindi on X, referring to the location of the murder.”The chief minister kept claiming that mafia and criminals have left Uttar Pradesh; but here, the opposite has happened—gangsters and thugs from other states have come to UP, firing dozens of rounds and committing murders,” he added.The SP supremo was referring to speculation that the Gogi gang, which operates primarily across Delhi and Haryana, was behind Ankit Balyan’s murder.”Their gang’s name also bears a striking resemblance to that of some prominent figure in UP. What is this connection called? The killers are brazen and their morale is sky-high because they feel a sense of belonging to the corrupt rule of the UP BJP government, which shields those of its own kind in power and corrupts the police through fake encounters,” Akhilesh Yadav stated.The former chief minister’s post was a direct attack on Yogi Adityanath’s projection as a leader tough on law and order. The ruling BJP will seek a third consecutive term when Uttar Pradesh goes to polls early next year.Ankit Balyan, a 32-year-old singer and YouTuber from Haryana, was shot dead by four armed assailants outside a gym in Shamli’s Kotwali area on August 26. Preliminary information suggested that around 18 rounds were fired at him in the point-blank attack.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesPolice are examining a possible gang-war angle after a social media post by Bholu Shahpuriya, who is purportedly linked to the Gogi gang, claimed responsibility for the killing. The post alleged that Ankit Balyan had been supporting the gang’s “enemies” and had made a song about the killing of gangster Jitender Mann, alias Gogi. It also warned that those supporting the gang’s rivals would meet a “similar fate.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do You Feel You Are A Lord?’: Bombay High Court Raps Tukaram Mundhe-Led FDA Over MCA Order‘If Any Hindu Thinks…’: Opposition, Muslim Boards Respond To RSS Chief Bhagwat’s New York RemarksBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom gajra to jadai: Traditional Indian hair adornments that deserve a fashion revival5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to lifePainful periods, changing cycles and menopause: Which symptoms are normal, which need attention and can protein help?Blueberries vs Grapes: What happens to blood sugar when you eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it?123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

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RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat addresses at ‘One World One Humanity’ event, in New York on Saturday. (One World One Humanity/ ANI Video Grab) NEW DELHI: Nearly three decades after one of the world’s deadliest aviation disasters, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat returned to the memory of the Charkhi Dadri mid-air collision in Haryana.He recalled the chaos that followed the crash. He spoke of injured passengers, bodies that had to be recovered and families arriving from far away, searching for their loved ones and trying to identify those they had lost. And he remembered the RSS volunteers who, according to him, reached the site and began helping.They treated the injured. They helped recover the dead. They assisted relatives who arrived later. They also helped arrange funeral rites.Many of the victims were Muslims. But Bhagwat said that was never a consideration for the volunteers who were serving them.Speaking at the “One World One Humanity” event in New York on Saturday, Bhagwat recalled the tragedy as an example of what he described as the RSS’s philosophy of unconditional humanitarian service.”Two planes collided over Haryana, which is part of Bharat, over the place named Dadri. Both were from Arab countries. Most of the passengers were Muslims. After that collision, our Swayamsevaks reached there first, and they served. Served in treating the injured… Recovering their bodies, arranging for the funeral rites when their relatives come, helping them in identifying. We never thought at that time that these were Muslims,” said the RSS Chief.The disaster took place on November 12, 1996. A Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747 and a Kazakhstan Airlines Ilyushin Il-76 collided in the skies over Charkhi Dadri, Haryana.There were no survivors.All 349 people aboard the two aircraft were killed. The crash became the deadliest mid-air collision in aviation history.For Bhagwat, the tragedy was not only about the terrible loss of life. It was also about what happened after the aircraft came down.He recalled a moment when grief and devastation had stripped away every distinction between people. Those at the crash site needed help. Families needed answers. The dead needed dignity.Bhagwat said the volunteers did not ask who the victims were before helping them.He also said the RSS did not publicise such work because it did not expect anything in return.”The prominent working organisation was RSS. We could do this because we are not in politics. And we don’t go on making these things famous because we don’t want anything from this. No return… In Sangha, we only give. We don’t want anything. That is why in publicity matters, we are way behind.”The RSS chief was speaking in New York as he began a three-nation global outreach tour covering the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. The visit has been organised as part of the organisation’s centenary year celebrations, following invitations from overseas local organisations.Bhagwat also used the occasion to speak about perceptions of the RSS. He said the organisation was often viewed through narratives that, in his view, did not reflect its work on the ground.”There are many perceptions created by wrong narratives. But when you come and see us from inside, all those will be disbelieved in the day.”He then broadened his argument beyond the RSS and its work during disasters. He spoke about the kind of social change he believes is necessary to create greater unity.Bhagwat said political systems alone could not bring about such change. In a democracy, he argued, political leaders ultimately respond to public opinion. The first step, therefore, had to be taken within society itself.”Politics today, especially in a democracy, depends on the public view. If there is public opinion, then no politician will dare to go against it. Therefore, I think after taking a common resolve today, we have to act in these societies, and we have to act first locally.”He argued that social harmony could not be built simply by gaining political power. It had to grow from everyday interactions and acts of service.For Bhagwat, the idea was rooted in what he described as the traditional thought of Bharat, where the unity of humanity is placed above individual interests.”This is the traditional thought of Bharat–unity of humanity. All our leaders, at any point in time, have emphasised that too. After independence, we got the constitution, which emphasises this, but that is not happening. Because these things do not happen through politics. I’m sorry to say, but the fact is, politics has now become a game of self-interest. And where there is me and I, there is no solution. We and ours are the solution. So our experience in Bharat is that we have to start with society.”He called for such efforts to begin locally. Small pockets of people working together, he said, could eventually become larger networks of service and unity.”Whatever we decide to do today, we should start in our own country and create pockets of such selfless service, such an atmosphere of unity, and then this dialogue should continue. Through this dialogue, we should connect them, and then we should grow.”Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesNearly 30 years after the Charkhi Dadri crash, the scale of the disaster remains difficult to comprehend. Hundreds of lives were lost in a matter of moments.But Bhagwat chose to remember what happened in the aftermath.Amid the wreckage, he said, volunteers came forward to help people they did not know. They treated the injured. They recovered bodies. They helped families search for answers.And, in his telling of that day, they did so without first asking whether the person in front of them was Hindu or Muslim.That memory formed the emotional centre of Bhagwat’s message in New York: that in moments of profound human suffering, service can begin before identity does.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do You Feel You Are A Lord?’: Bombay High Court Raps Tukaram Mundhe-Led FDA Over MCA Order‘If Any Hindu Thinks…’: Opposition, Muslim Boards Respond To RSS Chief Bhagwat’s New York RemarksBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom gajra to jadai: Traditional Indian hair adornments that deserve a fashion revival5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to lifePainful periods, changing cycles and menopause: Which symptoms are normal, which need attention and can protein help?Blueberries vs Grapes: What happens to blood sugar when you eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it?123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat addresses at ‘One World One Humanity’ event, in New York on Saturday. (One World One Humanity/ ANI Video Grab) NEW DELHI: Nearly three decades after one of the world’s deadliest aviation disasters, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat returned to the memory of the Charkhi Dadri mid-air collision in Haryana.He recalled the chaos that followed the crash. He spoke of injured passengers, bodies that had to be recovered and families arriving from far away, searching for their loved ones and trying to identify those they had lost. And he remembered the RSS volunteers who, according to him, reached the site and began helping.They treated the injured. They helped recover the dead. They assisted relatives who arrived later. They also helped arrange funeral rites.Many of the victims were Muslims. But Bhagwat said that was never a consideration for the volunteers who were serving them.Speaking at the “One World One Humanity” event in New York on Saturday, Bhagwat recalled the tragedy as an example of what he described as the RSS’s philosophy of unconditional humanitarian service.”Two planes collided over Haryana, which is part of Bharat, over the place named Dadri. Both were from Arab countries. Most of the passengers were Muslims. After that collision, our Swayamsevaks reached there first, and they served. Served in treating the injured… Recovering their bodies, arranging for the funeral rites when their relatives come, helping them in identifying. We never thought at that time that these were Muslims,” said the RSS Chief.The disaster took place on November 12, 1996. A Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747 and a Kazakhstan Airlines Ilyushin Il-76 collided in the skies over Charkhi Dadri, Haryana.There were no survivors.All 349 people aboard the two aircraft were killed. The crash became the deadliest mid-air collision in aviation history.For Bhagwat, the tragedy was not only about the terrible loss of life. It was also about what happened after the aircraft came down.He recalled a moment when grief and devastation had stripped away every distinction between people. Those at the crash site needed help. Families needed answers. The dead needed dignity.Bhagwat said the volunteers did not ask who the victims were before helping them.He also said the RSS did not publicise such work because it did not expect anything in return.”The prominent working organisation was RSS. We could do this because we are not in politics. And we don’t go on making these things famous because we don’t want anything from this. No return… In Sangha, we only give. We don’t want anything. That is why in publicity matters, we are way behind.”The RSS chief was speaking in New York as he began a three-nation global outreach tour covering the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. The visit has been organised as part of the organisation’s centenary year celebrations, following invitations from overseas local organisations.Bhagwat also used the occasion to speak about perceptions of the RSS. He said the organisation was often viewed through narratives that, in his view, did not reflect its work on the ground.”There are many perceptions created by wrong narratives. But when you come and see us from inside, all those will be disbelieved in the day.”He then broadened his argument beyond the RSS and its work during disasters. He spoke about the kind of social change he believes is necessary to create greater unity.Bhagwat said political systems alone could not bring about such change. In a democracy, he argued, political leaders ultimately respond to public opinion. The first step, therefore, had to be taken within society itself.”Politics today, especially in a democracy, depends on the public view. If there is public opinion, then no politician will dare to go against it. Therefore, I think after taking a common resolve today, we have to act in these societies, and we have to act first locally.”He argued that social harmony could not be built simply by gaining political power. It had to grow from everyday interactions and acts of service.For Bhagwat, the idea was rooted in what he described as the traditional thought of Bharat, where the unity of humanity is placed above individual interests.”This is the traditional thought of Bharat–unity of humanity. All our leaders, at any point in time, have emphasised that too. After independence, we got the constitution, which emphasises this, but that is not happening. Because these things do not happen through politics. I’m sorry to say, but the fact is, politics has now become a game of self-interest. And where there is me and I, there is no solution. We and ours are the solution. So our experience in Bharat is that we have to start with society.”He called for such efforts to begin locally. Small pockets of people working together, he said, could eventually become larger networks of service and unity.”Whatever we decide to do today, we should start in our own country and create pockets of such selfless service, such an atmosphere of unity, and then this dialogue should continue. Through this dialogue, we should connect them, and then we should grow.”Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesNearly 30 years after the Charkhi Dadri crash, the scale of the disaster remains difficult to comprehend. Hundreds of lives were lost in a matter of moments.But Bhagwat chose to remember what happened in the aftermath.Amid the wreckage, he said, volunteers came forward to help people they did not know. They treated the injured. They recovered bodies. They helped families search for answers.And, in his telling of that day, they did so without first asking whether the person in front of them was Hindu or Muslim.That memory formed the emotional centre of Bhagwat’s message in New York: that in moments of profound human suffering, service can begin before identity does.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do You Feel You Are A Lord?’: Bombay High Court Raps Tukaram Mundhe-Led FDA Over MCA Order‘If Any Hindu Thinks…’: Opposition, Muslim Boards Respond To RSS Chief Bhagwat’s New York RemarksBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom gajra to jadai: Traditional Indian hair adornments that deserve a fashion revival5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to lifePainful periods, changing cycles and menopause: Which symptoms are normal, which need attention and can protein help?Blueberries vs Grapes: What happens to blood sugar when you eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it?123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

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The two leaders also discussed ways to advance their shared developmental visions of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Yangi Uzbekistan’. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred Uzbekistan’s highest state honour, the Order of “Oliy Darajali Dustlik”, by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during his two-day state visit to the Central Asian country, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening the India-Uzbekistan strategic partnership and deepening bilateral ties.The prestigious honour was presented to PM Modi in Tashkent as the two leaders held delegation-level talks aimed at expanding cooperation between India and Uzbekistan across several key areas.PM Modi dedicated the honour to the enduring friendship and close ties between India and Uzbekistan, describing it as a recognition of the strong bond between the two countries.The award ceremony came during a series of official engagements that highlighted the growing strategic relationship between New Delhi and Tashkent. The honour also underlined the importance both countries attach to their longstanding partnership and closer cooperation.During their talks, PM Modi and Mirziyoyev discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas including trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe two leaders also explored ways to advance their shared developmental visions of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Yangi Uzbekistan’, reflecting their focus on economic growth, modernisation and development.The conferment of the Order of “Oliy Darajali Dustlik” marked a significant moment in PM Modi’s visit and added a diplomatic dimension to the expanding India-Uzbekistan relationship.The two-day state visit is focused on further deepening ties between the two countries and identifying new areas of cooperation as India strengthens its engagement with Central Asia.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom gajra to jadai: Traditional Indian hair adornments that deserve a fashion revival5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to lifePainful periods, changing cycles and menopause: Which symptoms are normal, which need attention and can protein help?Blueberries vs Grapes: What happens to blood sugar when you eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it?123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

The two leaders also discussed ways to advance their shared developmental visions of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Yangi Uzbekistan’. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred Uzbekistan’s highest state honour, the Order of “Oliy Darajali Dustlik”, by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during his two-day state visit to the Central Asian country, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening the India-Uzbekistan strategic partnership and deepening bilateral ties.The prestigious honour was presented to PM Modi in Tashkent as the two leaders held delegation-level talks aimed at expanding cooperation between India and Uzbekistan across several key areas.PM Modi dedicated the honour to the enduring friendship and close ties between India and Uzbekistan, describing it as a recognition of the strong bond between the two countries.The award ceremony came during a series of official engagements that highlighted the growing strategic relationship between New Delhi and Tashkent. The honour also underlined the importance both countries attach to their longstanding partnership and closer cooperation.During their talks, PM Modi and Mirziyoyev discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas including trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence and energy.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe two leaders also explored ways to advance their shared developmental visions of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Yangi Uzbekistan’, reflecting their focus on economic growth, modernisation and development.The conferment of the Order of “Oliy Darajali Dustlik” marked a significant moment in PM Modi’s visit and added a diplomatic dimension to the expanding India-Uzbekistan relationship.The two-day state visit is focused on further deepening ties between the two countries and identifying new areas of cooperation as India strengthens its engagement with Central Asia.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBJP Reprimands Three Delhi MPs Over Visit To Sajjan Kumar’s Home After His DeathKolkata Police Files Case Against Mamata Banerjee Over Rally, TMC Hits Back At BJP Govt | WatchRahul Gandhi Slams BJP-RSS Over Kharge ‘Shuddhikaran’, Demands Action Under SC/ST ActPakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC: Indian Army Intensifies Surveillance In J&K | WatchPM Modi’s 4-Day Central Asia Visit: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & SCO Summit | India’s Diplomatic PushB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom gajra to jadai: Traditional Indian hair adornments that deserve a fashion revival5 things in your kitchen that may be dirtier than your toiletThat oil sitting beside your stove may be going bad faster than you think: What heat and light do to cooking oilHow to clean a burnt pan without scrubbing hard and longBigg Boss Tamil 10: From Joy Crizildaa to Gayathri Sri, rumoured female contestants of Vijay Sethupathi-hosted showDoes microwaving food make it unhealthy? What the science saysStar Singer: Meet the finalists ahead of the grand finale10 baby names that bring the beauty of the seasons to lifePainful periods, changing cycles and menopause: Which symptoms are normal, which need attention and can protein help?Blueberries vs Grapes: What happens to blood sugar when you eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it?123Hot PicksNepal floodUGC NET June 2026 resultCNG Price HikeMumbai milk priceRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderInflation dataTop TrendingManjeet KaurKim KardashianMaya Higa FianceTravis KelceBrittany MahomesTravis Kelce BusinessKai CenatCoco GauffsNaomi OsakaLebron James

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