13 August,2025 10:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has urged Ganesh mandals across Maharashtra to raise awareness about India’s success in ‘Operation Sindoor’. File Pic
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has urged Ganesh mandals across Maharashtra to raise awareness about India's success in âOperation Sindoor' and to promote the use of Swadeshi (indigenous) goods during the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 celebrations.
He asked that some Ganesh pandals also be dedicated to honouring the country's soldiers and the operation, which showcased India's strength on the global stage.
An official statement said that CM Fadnavis stated that this year's Ganesh Chaturthi should be celebrated with peace and enthusiasm and in full cooperation with the administration.
"All should work in coordination with the administration to ensure that the festival is celebrated in a peaceful and enthusiastic environment," said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
CM Fadnavis chaired a law and order review meeting at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai on Wednesday. The meeting focused on preparations for the festival. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Home Ministers Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar and Yogesh Kadam, and Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar were also present.
Several announcements were made during the meeting, some of them included -- Lord Ganesh idol makers to receive 5-year permits, renewable every year, a single-window online system will ease permission processes via the municipal corporation, more artificial ponds and boats to be arranged for idol immersion, especially for large idols near the coast, loudspeaker permissions during the festival may be extended, within court guidelines, no property tax for festival committee offices if they confirm in writing that the space is not used commercially, the festival has official state festival status, and all previous concessions to festival organisers will continue this year, the statement said.
Meanwhile, as Eid-e-Milad may coincide with Ganesh festival celebrations, special care will be taken to maintain religious harmony.
"CM Fadnavis stressed the need to follow legal guidelines and urged festival organisers to act responsibly," the official statement said.
Senior police, administrative, and civic officials including Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti, DG Rashmi Shukla, and BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani attended the meeting. Leaders of Ganesh Mandals and idol makers' associations also participated, along with officials joining via video call from across the state, the statement said.
