Narendra Modi, amid the unfolding controversy, advised his ministerial team to steer clear of the escalating debate around the name 'Bharat'. During a meeting with the Union Council of Ministers, PM Modi stated that 'Bharat' is an ancient name for the country.
He also outlined the conduct to be followed by the ministers in the upcoming G20 Summit. The Summit, slated for September 9 and 10, is hosted in New Delhi and will be under India's presidency.
It is expected to see participation from several international leaders, including US President Joe Biden. Prime Minister Modi instructed his cabinet to remain in the national capital during the event and fulfil any duties to ensure that visiting dignitaries experience no inconvenience.
The government's use of the term 'Bharat' in an international forum like the G20 Summit has prompted the opposition to accuse the Modi administration of harbouring plans to replace 'India' with 'Bharat' as the country's official name. (With PTI inputs)
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