Do you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for November 11. Aries March 21 – April 20An extra busy day whizzes to an end before you realize it, but comfort of home is welcome.Cosmic tip: Decide you need to change a situation, then pursue that line of thought with action. Taurus April 21 – May 20Preparing for a trip necessitates buying essentials in advance. Further studies aren’t really necessary. Do get enough rest.Cosmic tip: Let go of what’s not needed materially and emotionally to invite more positive vibes. GeminiMay 21 – June 21The right brain works on all cylinders as imaginative ideas are discussed. Two are chosen. Cosmic tip: Consider a friendship true love, as it’s there below the surface since more nurturing is experienced. Cancer June 22 – July 23Little chores/ jobs are tackled the entire day, clearing the way for bigger chunks of work. Cosmic tip: Allow every incident to be a learning lesson that takes you further up the karmic ladder. Leo July 24 - Aug 23A co-incidence isn’t a co-incidence; this was ordained by destiny and karma. What you have to guard against is being like a warrior when being peaceful works.Cosmic tip: Don’t change plans after deciding. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23A new and unexpected relationship is too good to be true. It’s worth nurturing each other unconditionally. Cosmic tip: Don’t discuss beliefs and rituals with another person. To each his own mind-set, is best. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Work hard to manifest dreams and ambitions as nothing is achieved by just wishing it. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Have complete faith about life being on the correct karmic path for this time. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Feeling a little inadequate sometimes is understandable, but completely unnecessary, since capabilities have been proved. A phone-call lifts your spirits.Cosmic tip: Be aware when an innocuous discussion of ideas takes a serious turn. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22A trip over water brings more positive results than expected. Enjoy this eventuality. A celebration may be skipped because of a sore throat. Cosmic tip: Cross the karmic bridge towards dreams and wishes manifesting. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Communication skills are good, but sharpen them further by attending a webinar. A change in attitude is an unexpected surprise.Cosmic tip: Be receptive to a love that heals in every manner of speaking. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Though you enjoy hosting friends, but ask yourself honestly if they ever invite you to stay. Cosmic tip: A karmic cycle of life being peaceful and contented can be increased by consciously incurring positive karmas. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Facing life squarely not only makes you stronger but allows putting principles to practical use. Continue eating healthy/ nutritious food.Cosmic tip: Don’t get so upset with a setback which is only temporary.
11 November,2024 12:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseHome to upscale neighbourhoods, centuries-old villages and dingy slums, the Bandra West Assembly constituency faces water, sanitation and redevelopment-related issues. Congested narrow roads and parking are also major concerns while plush societies’ residents are struggling to keep hawkers at bay and pollution. Will BJP score hat trick in Bandra West? Mumbai BJP President Ashish Shelar is contesting the seat for the fourth time. After losing in 2009 by a low margin, the senior leader managed to retain the constituency for the past 10 years, despite Muslims—which comprise a large portion of the electorate—being considered Congress voters. In 2014, the late Baba Siddique, the Congress candidate, received 47,868 votes against the BJP’s 74,779. In 2019, when Asif Zakaria was fielded on a Congress ticket, the number of votes remained almost the same. Zakaria told mid-day, “In 2014, the combined vote share of Shiv Sena, NCP and MNS candidates was around 20,000 and in 2019, despite the undivided Sena and BJP being together, the vote difference between Congress and BJP didn’t change. This time, there isn’t an MNS candidate, and the Sena (UBT) and NCP-SP are with us. Also, during the Lok Sabha election, the vote difference between the two parties was hardly 3,500 votes, which can be surpassed this time as people have a strong option in the I.N.D.I.A bloc.” Shelar, however, feels the constituency is with him. “In the past, when we fought against three parties [Congress, Shiv Sena and MNS] or in an alliance, the result was the same—we won. So there isn’t any worry this time as people will vote for development and Ashish Shelar,” he said. Bandra West MLA and BJP candidate Ashish Shelar. Pic/Satej Shinde Though the roads here are in better condition than most parts of the city, narrow lanes and footpath markets leave no space for pedestrians to walk or cars to ply. The hawker menace, lack of open spaces, pollution, erratic water supply and redevelopment in gaothans and slum pockets are other major issues. “We are looking for a hawking policy at the state level to ensure the acute issue we face on Bandra’s roads can be resolved permanently so that footpaths will be available for walking, not hawking,” said Lillian Pais, a resident. Savio Miranda, a resident of Carter road gaothan, said, “Bandra West’s job market needs revitalisation. Initiatives supporting local entrepreneurship, skill development, and industry diversification can unlock opportunities for residents, fostering economic growth. Apart from the job market, reliable water supply is a fundamental right. Bandra West deserves efficient management and infrastructure upgrades to prevent scarcity and wastage, safeguarding this essential resource.”He added that thoughtful redevelopment is vital for Bandra West’s growth, ensuring residents’ concerns and environmental sustainability are prioritised. "Transparency and community engagement are crucial," he said. Congress candidate Asif Zakaria from Bandra West Assembly constituency. Pic/Kirti Surve Parade Redevelopment is a major issue in gaothans and slum pockets. There are many gaothans. They are not slums, so slum rehabilitation should not be implemented here. Despite repeated assurances that there will be special schemes for them in Development Plans, nothing has been implemented on the ground. Now the state has announced some schemes and may hand over these gaothan—where original inhabitants of Mumbai stay—to Ambani and Adani to redevelop. On the other hand, SRA [Slum Rehabilitation Authority] projects have been stuck for years and there is massive corruption. Unless it is resolved, the scheme is of no use. Erratic water supply is another major concern Many areas, including Khar Danda, regularly face inadequate water supply. The BMC was planning to supply water 24 hours a day but failed to bring about a basic water supply with adequate pressure. In addition to this, gaothans and slums are still waiting for basic infrastructure. There should be a holistic plan with a vision to solve these issues. Pollution is another concern across the city. What is your plan of action on this? Bandra residents have been constantly suffering from dust from ongoing infrastructure projects. Air and sound pollution must be dealt with at the source. There are rules in place but implementation is pathetic. We have an air pollution mitigation policy, but who is following it? There is no proper method to inspect and keep vigilance. There should be basic rules concerning barricading the structure and using sprinklers but ruling parties are just concentrating on ‘construction’ and forget pollution mitigation plans. What is your roadmap for the next five years if you win? I will do it by collaborating with all ALMs. Connectivity with residents is important. A people's representative should act for the betterment of society by considering citizens’ views and should not make decisions in isolation. People feel that the present MLA has lost connection with the people. Announcing big-ticket projects without consulting the public is a major issue. Parking projects at Patwardhan Park, Bandra Fort, garden renovation, and leasing public land to private parties are a few recent examples. Do you think the Ladki Bahin scheme will have an impact on this election? We are not against the scheme. But what is the use if the government is giving with one hand and taking back with both? People know better. Inflation is on the rise. Stamp paper, oil and fuel costs have increased almost five to tenfold. What about the issue of job creation? We need to understand that not only slums but even residents of high-rises need jobs. There should be a policy to create more jobs through industries. But the current government is interested in shifting industries to Gujarat. The government does not work to invite industries in Maharashtra or Mumbai and that’s why we are facing a crunch in job creation. A third of the water in the city is wasted in leakages. How do you hope to tackle this issue? It is a crime to waste so much water. Despite being in power in the corporation for 25 years, they [Thackerays] cannot even plug leakages. Uddhav-ji promised to supply water to H West ward 24x7. But even during festival time, in certain areas here, there is no water pressure. Now I have studied the plan for the tertiary level wastewater treatment plan which will come up within a year or two near the Bandra Worli Sea Link and potable water will be supplied to commercial establishments so that there is enough water for residents from BMC. What about the promise of pothole-free roads within two years? CM Eknath Shinde announced pothole-free roads in 2022 and within one and a half years, work across the city is already under process. You have to give him time. The CM has changed the budget, format and conditions of the tenders so that more and more contractors come forward. Last-mile connectivity is still a distant dream in Mumbai. How is your government going to solve it? Devendra Fadnavis had started Metro projects during his earlier tenure. During the Congress period, only half of the Metro line was completed. When Thackeray was in the government, instead of making any alternative for the railway, he stopped the Metro work. But now out of nine lines, three are completed and two are on the verge of completion. The Thackeray government is responsible for the mismanagement of the BEST. For last-mile connectivity, railway, Metro and bus services—and also sometimes autos and taxis—should be integrated. The BJP is working on an integrated solution. Due to large-scale infrastructure projects, air pollution has increased. What will you do about this? Once again, the Thackerays are responsible as in 2020- 2021 they had given blanket permission to buildings charging only half the premium on the pretext of increasing the BMC's income. Builders who took permission during that period to save money have now started construction after getting other permissions in one go. Because of the subsidy, the construction rate increased two-fold. It also created air pollution issues. Though we will not stop construction, there will be strict vigilance to curb the pollution. Bandra witnessed SRA projects as a solution for the redevelopment of slums. With allegations of corruption being levelled against the scheme, do you think it is a solution? In urban areas, SRA projects can bring the desired change. Yes, there is corruption. But it needs to be dealt with separately rather than scrapping the entire scheme. Are there any plans for job creation? The job creation scenario has changed. There are many opportunities in new professions like event management, architecture and designing and new platforms to offer various services in the food and travel industries. But you need to create an ecosystem that can support these industries and the government has to work on it. Residents allege you have lost touch when it comes to issues like the Patwardhan Park matter and renovation of Bandra fort. It took almost one and a half years to resolve the park issue. But who solved the issue? I had written to the BMC to scrap the parking project after which the corporation scrapped it. The fort renovation issue will be taken care of. I have done many infrastructure projects in Bandra. Map of Bandra West constituency. Pic/EC, Maharashtra Registered voters in Bandra Male: 1,49,869 Female: 1,38,867 Third gender: 10 Total: 2,88,746 Vote share in previous elections 2019 Ashish Shelar (BJP) - 74,816 Asif Zakaria (Cong) - 48,309 2014 Ashish Shelar - 74,779 Baba Siddique (Cong) - 47,868 2009 Baba Siddique - 59,659 Ashish Shelar - 57,968
10 November,2024 11:47 PM IST | Mumbai | Prajakta KasaleA 23-year-old man died and another was seriously injured after a fire erupted in Goregaon area of Mumbai on Sunday, officials said, reported the PTI. The fire broke out while refilling refrigerant gas in a vehicle opposite a garage, the officials said. According to preliminary information, the leakage of refrigerant gas from a compressor while refilling it in a vehicle triggered the blaze, which burned the electric wiring and other parts of the vehicle. A fire brigade official said a parked bike was also damaged. The deceased man was identified as Saddam Hussain. One Sanjog Morya received 80 to 90 per cent burn injuries, leaving him in a critical condition, as per the PTI. The blaze was extinguished by Mumbai Fire Brigade personnel. Officials said they are verifying claims of compressor blast. Two hospitalised after fire breaks out in Goregaon residential building The incident comes over a week after two people were injured when a fire had erupted in a residential building in Goregaon area. A fire had erupted in a Goregaon residential building, said officials and added that the blaze, classified as Level-I fire, broke out on the second floor of the Kalpataru Radiance building in Goregaon's Siddharth Nagar area on November 3. The fire was reported around 12:49 pm and it originated on the second floor of the 34-storey residential complex, impacting electric wiring, household items, and installations. The Mumbai Fire Brigade personnel responded promptly and successfully brought the fire under control by 2:18 PM, preventing further spread in the high-rise structure. Two residents were hospitalised due to smoke inhalation. Manoj Chauhan, aged 30, was admitted to the ICU in critical condition, while 50-year-old Shahabuddin Ansari was discharged on Saturday after taking Discharge Against Medical Advice (DAMA) at HBT Trauma Care Hospital. In a similar incident, earlier, a minor fire had erupted in the premises of Cama & Albless Hospital for women and children in South Mumbai and was quickly brought under control, according to a fire brigade official. The fire began shortly after midnight in the hospital's cotton storage facility, the official stated. The fire brigade received the alert at 2 am and managed to extinguish the blaze by 2.30 am. The official added that firecrackers are suspected to be the cause. (with PTI inputs)
10 November,2024 07:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who asked Uddhav Thackeray-led party to make Congress say good words about Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar, has failed to understand Maharashtra, reported the PTI. Amit Shah on Sunday that Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray was siding with Congress, whose leaders have insulted Balasaheb Thackeray and Veer Savarkar. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi's poll promises are an insult to ideology and promote appeasement, said Shah after unveiling the BJP's manifesto for the November 20 Maharashtra Assembly election 2024. Talking to reporters, Sanjay Raut said, "Amit Shah hasn't understood Maharashtra. He should first speak about the insult to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a statue the government erected and Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled collapsed in eight months," according to the PTI. This isn't the first time the BJP has taken a dig at the MVA over Congress's stand on Savarkar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday dared Congress allies in Maharashtra to get party MP Rahul Gandhi to speak for 15 minutes in praise of Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar and Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. Without naming Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray or any other Maha Vikas Aghadi allies, PM Modi had said, "I want to dare Congress' allies to make the Congress yuvraj (Rahul Gandhi) speak 15 minutes in praise of Savarkar and his sacrifices for the country. Similarly, the yuvraj should also be made to speak in praise of Balasaheb Thackeray," as per the PTI. Meanwhile, Amit Shah on Sunday said the MVA was indulging in appeasement politics at the cost of Maharashtra's social fabric. Addressing rallies in Raver assembly constituency in Jalgaon and Malkapur seat in Buldhana, Shah pointed out to a recent memorandum submitted by the Ulema Association to the opposition Congress seeking 10 per cent reservation in jobs and education for the Muslim community, the news agency reported on Sunday. The demand for 10 per cent quota for the Muslim community would eat into the benefits of Dalits, tribals and Other Backward Classes, since there is a 50 per cent cap on quota and any increase will come at the cost of existing ones, he told the gathering. "Maha Vikas Aghadi leaders' lust for power has blinded them to long-term consequences of their actions on marginalised communities. The BJP is firmly committed to welfare of all communities but is strictly against any form of reservations for Muslims. As long as there is even one BJP MP or MLA, we will oppose religion-based reservation. This is our commitment," he asserted, as per the PTI. "The MVA parties have compromised the country's safety due to their appeasement politics. They are undermining national security for the sake of votes," he added. (with PTI inputs)
10 November,2024 05:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra CM Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena leader and former MP Rahul Shewale, on Sunday, alleged that “Dalit hatred” and “hatred of hardworking workers” were the root causes behind the opposition of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) to the Dharavi redevelopment project for the past several years. “Do they want the people of Dharavi to stay in shambles and slums forever? Why are there no marches for other redevelopment projects that have been pending in Mumbai for years?” Shewale asked, speaking at a press conference held at Balasaheb Thackeray Bhavan at Nariman Point. A few days ago, Uddhav Thackeray announced that he will cancel the tender for the Dharavi redevelopment project if MVA is voted to power in Maharashtra Assembly election 2024. "Actually, Dharavi Vidhan Sabha is a reserved constituency for Scheduled Castes. As a son of Dharavi, I, and thousands of locals, have faced many questions as I spent my childhood in Dharavi. Dharavi is home to a large number of Dalits, Valmikis, Kunchikorves, Nadars, and many other communities. By opposing the Dharavi redevelopment, injustice is being done indirectly to the people of these various communities for many years," he said. Rahul Shewale asked why Shiv Sena had not taken out any march for the development of the Khandke Building at Dadar, where Shiv Sena chief Balasaheb Thackeray had stayed in his earlier days. "It is a shame that the dream of many to redevelop the Bhide Building behind the Shiv Sena Bhavan could not be fulfilled till the end of their lives." “While the question of redevelopment of RK Building in Dadar, Patra Chal in Goregaon, Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar in Ghatkopar, many old buildings in Wadala, Gaothan - Koliwada in Mumbai, and refugee settlements in Mumbai is pending, the Maha Vikas Aghadi only and only shows false sympathy towards Dharavikars and sabotages their redevelopment.” “What exactly is behind this, is the question that common Dharavikars have been asking. Do they want working people in Dharavi to live in adverse conditions for years? Should they not get basic facilities? Should Dharavikars not get updated healthcare facilities?” Shewale asked.
10 November,2024 05:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarWestern Railway on Sunday announced that it will run festive special trains on special fare from Mumbai to various destinations in the country. In an official statement, the Western Railway said that For the convenience of passengers and to clear the extra rush of passengers during the festive season, Western Railway has decided to run special train on special fare between Mumbai Central - New Delhi stations. According to a press release issued by Vineet Abhishek – Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, the details of these special train are as under: Train No. 04001/04002 Mumbai Central - New Delhi Superfast Special Express (05 Trips) Train No. 04001 Mumbai Central - New Delhi Superfast Express Special will depart from Mumbai Central at 23:30 hrs. on 10th, 13th & 16th November, 2024 and will reach New Delhi at 20:50 hrs., the next day. Similarly, Train No. 04002 New Delhi - Mumbai Central Superfast Special Express will depart from New Delhi at 22:40 hrs. on 12th & 15th November, 2024 and arrive Mumbai Central at 21:00 hrs., the next day. Enroute this train will halt at Borivali, Surat, Vadodara, Ratlam, Nagda, Kota & Mathura station in both directions. This train comprises of AC 3-Tier Economy coaches. The booking for Train No. 04001 is open at all PRS counters and on IRCTC website, the Western Railway said. In an another statement on Saturday, the Western Railway said that it has decided to run four winter special trains on special fare between Bandra Terminus – Bhuj, Bandra Terminus – Bhuj – Valsad, Bandra Terminus – Bhuj and Bandra Terminus – Hisar. The details of the special trains are as under: 1. Train No. 09037/09038 Bandra Terminus – Bhuj Superfast Special [ 06 Trips] Train No. 09037 Bandra Terminus – Bhuj Superfast Special will depart from Bandra Terminus on Tuesday, Thursday & Sunday at 23:45 hrs and reach Bhuj at 13:05 hrs, the next day. This train will run from 12th, 14th & 17th November, 2024. Similarly, Train No. 09038 Bhuj – Bandra Terminus Superfast Special will depart from Bhuj on Wednesday, Saturday & Monday at 19:00 hrs and arrive Bandra Terminus at 09.45 hrs, the next day. This train will run from 13th, 16th & 18th November, 2024. Enroute this train will halt at Borivali, Vapi, Surat, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Halvad, Samakhiali and Gandhidham stations in both directions. This train comprises AC 2-Tier, AC 3-Tier, Sleeper Class and General Second Class coaches. 2. Train No. 09029/09030 Bandra Terminus – Bhuj – Valsad Superfast Special [ 02 Trips] Train No. 09029 Bandra Terminus – Bhuj Superfast Special will depart from Bandra Terminus on Wednesday, 13th November, 2024 at 23:25 hrs and reach Bhuj at 14:30 hrs, the next day. Similarly, Train No. 09030 Bhuj – Valsad Superfast Special will depart from Bhuj on Thursday, 14th November, 2024 at 19:00 hrs and arrive Valsad at 06.45 hrs, the next day. Enroute this train will halt at Surat, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Halvad, Samakhiali and Gandhidham stations in both directions. Train No. 09029 will have additional halts at Borivali and Vapi Stations. This train comprises AC 2-Tier, AC 3-Tier, Sleeper Class and General Second Class coaches. 3. Train No. 09471/09472 Bandra Terminus – Bhuj Superfast Special [ 02 Trips] Train No. 09471 Bandra Terminus – Bhuj Superfast Special will depart from Bandra Terminus on Monday, 18th November, 2024 at 12:45 hrs and reach Bhuj at 03:30 hrs, the next day. Similarly, Train No. 09472 Bhuj – Bandra Terminus Superfast Special will depart from Bhuj on Sunday, 17th November, 2024 at 19:00 hrs and arrive Bandra Terminus at 09.45 hrs, the next day. Enroute this train will halt at Borivali, Vapi, Surat, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Halvad, Samakhiali and Gandhidham stations in both directions. This train comprises First AC, AC 2-Tier, AC 3-Tier, Sleeper Class and General Second Class coaches. 4. Train No. 04726/04725 Bandra Terminus – Hisar Superfast Special (02 Trips) Train No. 04726 Bandra Terminus – Hisar Superfast Special will depart from Bandra Terminus at 09.30 hrs. on Tuesday, 12th November, 2024 and reach Hisar at 11.10 hrs., the next day. Similarly, Train No.04725 Hisar - Bandra Terminus Superfast Special will depart from Hisar at 05.50 hrs. on Monday, 11th November, 2024 and reach Bandra Terminus at 07.20 hrs., the next day. Enroute this train will halt at Borivali, Vapi, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Godhra, Ratlam, Nagda, Bhawani Mandi, Kota, Sawai Madhopur, Durgapura, Jaipur, Ringas, Sikar, Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu, Chirawa, Loharu, and Sadulpur station in both directions. This train comprises of AC 2-Tier, AC 3-Tier, Sleeper Class, and General Second-Class coaches. The booking for Train No. 09037, 09038, 09029, 09030, 09471, 09472 and 04726 will open from 10th November, 2024 at all PRS Counters and on IRCTC website, the Western Railway said.
10 November,2024 03:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnion Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the ruling Mahayuti in Maharashtra will retain power with full majority and a decision on who will be the chief minister will be taken by the alliance partners after the Maharashtra assembly elections 2024, reported news agency PTI. Talking to reporters after unveiling the BJP's manifesto for the Maharashtra assembly elections 2024, Shah expressed confidence that the Mahayuti will win the polls. All the three alliance partners - BJP, Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's NCP - have released their manifestos and after the Maharashtra assembly elections 2024, a committee of ministers from the three parties will be formed to prioritise the assurances given, Shah said, reported PTI. "At present, Eknath Shinde is the chief minister. After the elections, all the three alliance partners will decide on the chief minister," the senior BJP leader said, reported PTI. He said the Shiv Sena and NCP split because Uddhav Thackeray prioritised his son over Eknath Shinde while Sharad Pawar prioritised his daughter over Ajit Pawar. "These parties gave priority to their family members and the parties split. They blame the BJP for no reason," he said, reported PTI. The BJP is against family-based politics, Shah asserted. He rejected the Congress' accusation of BJP's plan to weaken reservations. "It is the Modi government which gave reservations to OBCs. In fact, we strengthen the reservations," he said, reported PTI. Shah also said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's act of flaunting the Constitution has been exposed after it came to light that the book (carried by Gandhi) had blank pages. "He (Gandhi) has now become the butt of a joke," the BJP leader said, reported PTI. Shah said the opposition MVA's leadership has been targeting the Mahayuti government's Ladki Bahin scheme for women, but has made a similar assurance with a higher financial assistance."This shows their contradictions. Instead of taking a stock of our performance, Rahul Gandhi should check what is happening in the states ruled by his party," he said, reported PTI. Shah also said that the Congress' caste politics was aimed at dividing the country.He rejected the MVA allegations about Maharashtra lagging behind in investments. "During the MVA rule, Maharashtra was at the 4th position (in terms of FDI) while in the last two years, the state has got the highest FDI," Shah said, reported PTI. (With inputs from PTI)
10 November,2024 02:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAhead of the Maharashtra assembly elections 2024, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has extended its support to the Mahayuti alliance in the Mumbadevi constituency, reported news agency ANI. On Saturday, MNS workers organised a conference at Ram Mandir Hall in Mumbai's Kumbharwada, expressing their support for Mahayuti candidate Shaina NC. Shaina NC thanked MNS officials and workers, including MNS President Raj Thackeray, for their support in the assembly constituency, reported ANI. Shaina NC, a former BJP spokesperson, joined the Shiv Sena after the Eknath Shinde-led party fielded her from Mumbadevi. She is contesting against incumbent Congress MLA Amin Patel, who has represented the Mumbadevi constituency since 2009. The Raj Thackeray-led MNS, which stayed away from the Lok Sabha elections this year, is contesting 25 of the 36 seats in Mumbai this time. During the Lok Sabha elections, MNS offered unconditional support to the Mahayuti; however, for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections 2024, the MNS has fielded candidates in over 100 seats. Earlier on Friday, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Shiv Sena leader and actor Govinda, and Shaina NC visited the Mumbadevi Temple, seeking blessings for victory in the upcoming polls. Kiren Rijiju expressed confidence in a Mahayuti alliance victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections 2024, reported ANI. "We have come here to take the blessings of Devi (Mumbadevi). Seeing the atmosphere here, I can say that the Mahayuti alliance will get a clear majority," Rijiju said, reported ANI. Govinda also expressed his support for Shaina NC, saying, "I pray to Mumbadevi that our candidate Shaina NC wins the election from here," reported ANI. Speaking to the media, Shaina NC emphasised her commitment to "work for the people." The Maharashtra assembly elections are scheduled for November 20, with votes for all 288 constituencies to be counted on November 23. The opposition MVA coalition, comprising Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Nationalist Congress Party (SCP), seeks to reclaim power in the state, challenging the Mahayuti alliance, which includes Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Ajit Pawar-led NCP. In the 2019 Maharashtra assembly elections, the BJP won 105 seats, Shiv Sena secured 56, and Congress 44. In 2014, the BJP won 122 seats, Shiv Sena 63, and Congress 42. (With inputs from ANI)
10 November,2024 02:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCongress president Mallikarjun Kharge said it wasn't his party and allies who divided the society, but it was the BJP that had already split the communities by adopting Manusmriti. He was speaking after the Maha Vikas Aghadi's manifesto - Maharashtra Nama - was released in Mumbai on Sunday. The manifesto that reflected the inclusion of MVA's all-partner agenda ran into many pages and things to be done in the first 100 days of government. Kharge said the fie guarantees that were given already, and the additional manifesto, were not difficult to implement, because the new government will have the fiscal capacity to manage them. He was commenting on PM Narendra Modi's poll pitch 'ek hai to safe hai' and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath's 'batenhe to katenge' slogan. "You have already divided the communities by adopting Manusmriti. Who will you cut now? Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi laid their lives for the country's unity. We want the nation united," he said, adding that the Congress' promise of conducting a caste census was taken wrongly by the BJP. He said the caste census would be conducted not to divide the nation, but to know the exact information about the jobs, economic profile, social status and other things. "We will plan what can be done based on the caste census data," he said. Kharge called out Modi for seeking votes saying that the BJP had appointed Dalit and adivasi as the President. "He says it in public meetings, which is against the Constitution," he said, adding that the Congress and others never mentioned Modi's caste because all castes and communities were with all parties. "Modi should tell how many SCs and STs are in his cabinet and how many of them have been given important ministries. All of them are powerless. But in the UPA governments, we had powerful ministers from all sections of the society," he stated. In addition to five guarantees Rs 3,000 per month for women; free travel on the state transport buses, Farm loan waiver upto Rs 3 lakh; Rs 50,000 assistance for regularly servicing loans; Caste census to be conducted; to remove a 50 per cent cap on reservations; Health insurance of Rs 25 lakh and free of cost medicine; R 4000 per month allowance for the unemployed youth, the MVA has promised 5 LPG cylinders at R 500 each, Nirmbhaya Act to check crime against women, 100 units electricity free for those who consume upto 300 units per month, new industrial policy, recruitment for 2.5 lakh government jobs, elections to local self bodies including 27 municipal corporations. Maha Vikas Aghadi's Manifesto -- Maharashtra Nama Monthly allowance of Rs. 3,000 will be provided to women under the Mahalaxmi Scheme. Free travel on buses for women. Six cooking gas cylinders will be provided annually at Rs 500 each. Framing a ‘Nirbhay Maharashtra’ policy and enforcement of the ‘Shakti’ law for the safety of women and children. Free cervical cancer vaccines will be given to all girls aged 9 to 16. Two optional leave days for female employees during menstruation. Establishment of a separate department for the empowerment of self-help groups. Formation of a dedicated Ministry for Child Welfare. Rs 1,00,000 to be provided to girls upon reaching 18 years of age. Debt waiver for farmers up to Rs. 3,00,000; a Rs. 50,000 incentive for regular loan repayment. A review will be conducted to improve existing schemes and provide support for widows and children in families affected by farmer suicides. The government is committed to ensuring minimum support prices for farmers and will simplify the crop insurance scheme by removing burdensome conditions. Youth and Education Unemployed educated graduates and diploma holders will receive up to Rs. 4,000 per month in allowances. Recruitment for 2,50,000 positions in the state government will commence. Establishment of a ‘Youth Commission’ for youth welfare. Scholarship funds provided through BARTI, Mahajyoti and Sarathi schemes to be doubled. MPSC (Maharashtra Public Service Commission) exam schedules will be announced, with results declared within 45 days. A Unified Smart Card will be provided, allowing candidates to pay the exam fee once and take all government exams under MPSC throughout the year. A single fee will be charged for all MPSC exams. Healthcare The Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Scheme will be extended to cover all diseases, including accidents. Various Health Insurance schemes will be reviewed and will further expand healthcare facilities. Free medicines will be made available in government hospitals. Industry and Business A new industrial policy will be framed. A dedicated Ministry for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will be established. Small shopkeepers and businesses will be charged with domestic electricity rates. Social Justice Caste-based census to be conducted in Maharashtra. A law will be framed to ensure that the allocated budgets for Scheduled Castes and Tribal departments are utilised within the set timeframe. Each newly announced corporation representing various social groups will immediately receive an initial fund of Rs 100 crore. A Welfare Corporation will be established for organised and unorganised sanitation workers. Income limit for the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Scheme to increase from Rs. 21,000 to Rs. 50,000, with benefits rising from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,000 per month. People’s Welfare Immediate measures to control prices of essential goods will be taken. Monthly waiver of up to 100 units on electricity bills for consumers using up to 300 units. The prepaid electricity meter scheme will be reviewed in consideration of consumer opposition. Restoration of the old pension scheme for government employees. Honorariums for senior artists will be increased. Increase in Shiv Bhojan Thali Centres. Urban Development A ‘State Urban Commission’ to address the challenges of urbanisation and provide strategic direction will be established. An authority to address climate change threats and implement necessary measures will be created. Good Governance Timetables for local self-government elections will be announced. These elections will be conducted using a single-member ward system. Pending allowances and honorarium for Gram Panchayat members, sarpanches, and deputy sarpanches to be released. Pride of Maharashtra Online and offline courses to teach Marathi to Maharashtrians abroad and non-native speakers in Maharashtra will be initiated. Action plan to complete the pending Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial at Chaityabhoomi, Dadar (Indu Mill) within set deadlines. Ordinances issued by the Mahayuti government from a partisan perspective will be reconsidered. Orders issued by the Mahayuti government regarding land allocations to private institutions and individuals will be reviewed. Strong demand to the central government for awarding Bharat Ratna to Krantisurya Mahatma Phule, Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe and Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil Women Provide loans up to Rs. 5,00,000 at low-interest rate. Establish a dedicated department under the Ministry of Women and Child Welfare for self-help groups. Ensure strict enforcement of the ‘Shakti’ law. Establish a ‘Nirbhay Maharashtra’ where every woman and girl can live a fearless life. Initiate lessons in self-defense. Set up safe, clean and conveniently located public restrooms for women. Develop a roadmap for implementing the concept of safe cities for women, children, senior citizens and the disabled. Farmers Implement the ‘Maharashtra Millet Mission’ to safeguard farmers and address climate challenges. Set milk prices annually, considering production costs for dairy farmers. Introduce Pink and Saffron Revolution to protect onion and tomato cultivators. Establish an independent Directorate for dryland farming. Allocate funds for the rehabilitation of degraded lands and update records. Develop permanent, graveled roads connecting farms to make access easier for farmers, with an allocation of Rs. 10,000 crore for roads. Gradually reduce the population dependent on agriculture by creating alternative employment opportunities. Youth and Education Create jobs for 1.25 million unemployed individuals over the next five years. Launch ‘Maharashtra Youth Employment Mission’ to provide updated information on job opportunities in various sectors domestically and internationally. Promote a ‘Maharashtra Olympic Mission’ to elevate Maharashtra’s standing in sports. Aim to make Maharashtra addiction-free, using art and sports therapy to achieve this goal. Introduce a New Education Policy for Maharashtra. Gradually increase the budget for education to reach 6 per cent. Strengthen laws against exam paper leaks. Conduct recruitment processes for key departments through MPSC, increasing its efficiency with additional members and staff. Introduce topics related to social responsibility and constitutional awareness in school curriculum to foster responsible citizenship. Healthcare Adopt a policy for universal healthcare rights by strengthening public health services. Equip district hospitals with full facilities to ensure easy access to healthcare services. Aim to raise the average lifespan in Maharashtra to 77 years while ensuring good health. Implement a comprehensive programme to control the spread of malaria dengue, chikungunya and tuberculosis (TB). Increase public participation and transparency in healthcare to make it more accountable. Gradually raise the healthcare budget to 8 per cent as per national health policy. Set up enough recreation centers for senior citizens. Introduce ‘Sanman Scheme’ to support senior citizens and ensure that physically and mentally vulnerable seniors receive essential government services directly at their homes, upholding their dignity and respect. Will ensure that disabled, marginalised and LGBTQIA+ become a part of the mainstream. Industry and Employment Restore Maharashtra’s per capita income and industrial standing. Achieve a 12 per cent growth rate in industry and a 15 per cent growth rate in the service sector. Provide Rs. 1 crore in funding for innovative startups. Establish exclusive industrial zones for women entrepreneurs. Offer Rs. 1 crore grants to entrepreneurs from OBC, SC, ST and VJNT communities. Open special offices in Europe, the USA, the Gulf and East Asia to attract foreign investment in Maharashtra. Promote a ‘Work from Hometown’ policy. Will ensure a social protection for gig workers. Repeal the government order allowing contract-based employment in government services. Reject the four labour codes imposed by the Modi government in the state. Urban Development Develop ‘Happy Cities’ across the state encompassing public participation, parks, playgrounds and clean public spaces. Strive for a clean, green and pollution-free Maharashtra. Establish a ‘Sustainability Cell’ dedicated to achieving net-zero emissions in the cities. Formulate policies to address urban climate change impacts, such as unprecedented rainfall, flooding and rising temperatures. Address traffic issues by prioritising public transportation and creating multi-modal facilities, along with provisions for pedestrians and cyclists. Incorporate a large number of electric vehicles for public transportation in Pune, Mumbai, Nagpur, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Amravati by 2030. Extend the ‘SRA’ scheme to large towns and talukas near cities. Enforce a commitment to provide ‘Housing for All’ in the state. Enact laws to protect hills from encroachments and preserve their integrity. Expand Maharashtra’s current forest cover from 17 per cent to 25 per cent with a focus on urban forest expansion. Emphasise the conservation of Satpuda and Sahyadri ranges, rivers, streams, lakes, forests, grasslands and biodiversity, including animals, birds and insects. Establish an independent Forestry University. Launch a ‘Mission Saksham’ to enhance the capacities of local government representatives and officials. Social Justice While elevating Maharashtra to the top rank in per capita income, we aim to improve the state’s Human Development Index. In line with the vision of Shri. Kanshi Ram ji, the leader of the oppressed, ‘Representation based on numbers,’ we will rectify the confusion surrounding Maratha, Dhangar, Muslim etc. reservations created during the Mahayuti government’s tenure, ensuring justice for these groups. Implementing affirmative policies to increase SC, ST, OBC and minority representation in technology and industrial sectors. Make essential food items like cooking oil and tur dal available on ration cards, benefiting holders of orange ration cards. Launch a Health and Nutrition Mission specifically for the tribal community. Expand the ‘Bharosa Cell’ across the state to help resolve family disputes and strengthen family systems. Formulate an inclusive policy to ensure opportunities for differently-abled and LGBTQIA+ individuals across all sectors.
10 November,2024 02:11 PM IST | Mumbai | Dharmendra JoreUnion Home Minister Amit Shah has promised a strict law against forced and fraudulent conversions after the BJP comes to power in Maharashtra. The law is one among 25 promises the party made ahead of the November 20 polls. Shah, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, state BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule and other senior party leaders released Sankalp Patra 2024 in Mumbai on Sunday, proclaiming a big win for the BJP-Mahayuti. In his address, Shah targeted the Congress for its 'divisive' and 'appeasement' politics. He said the BJP's former ally, Uddhav Thackeray was with the party that opposed CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act), UCC (uniform civil code), removal of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, opposed Ram Mandir and amendments to the Waqf Act, and abused Veer Savarkar. The union home minister added that the Congress had accepted the Muslim's demand for a quota though the Constitution did not allow reservations based on religion. "CAA has come, and the UCC may also come," he said, adding that the Parliament would pass amendments to the Waqf Act because it has given the Waqf boards to claim the private properties, including Hindu places of worship. He justified PM Narendra Modi's 'ek hai to safe hai' pitch, saying that it was important to tell the people how the Congress was dividing the communities to weaken them. "People have understood the reservation issue (raised by the opposition in Lok Sabha polls). Those carrying a fake Constitution have become a laughing stock." He said the three Mahayuti parties would decide the CM after the elections. "I tell you that the Mahayuti is winning with an absolute majority," said Shah. BJP Sankalp Patra 2024 - Manifesto for Maharashtra Assembly polls 1. Ladki Bahin Yojana 2,100 monthly Financial Assistance for Women: Rs 25,200 per year 2. Loan Waiver for Farmers: Samman Nidhi increased from Rs 12,000 to Rs 15,000: 20 per cent Price Alignment on MSP 3. Food Security and Pakka Houses for Poor Families 4. Increase in Old Age Pension from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100 5. Relief from Inflation; Price stabilisation for essential item 6. 10 Lakh Students to get Rs 10,000 Monthly Stipend, and 25 Lakh New Job Opportunities 7. 45,000 villages to get farm track roads 8. Anganwadi and ASHA Workers to get Rs 15,000 Honorarium and Insurance Coverage 9. 30% Reduction in Electricity Bills; Lighting up Homes with Solar and Renewable Energy 10. Maharashtra will be made USD 1 Trillion Economy by 2028 11. 'Vision Maharashtra 2029' to be presented within 100 days of Forming the Government 12. To make Maharashtra the capital of Fintech and Al. Nagpur, Pune, and Nashik are to be made Aerospace Hubs. 13. Rebate to Farmers on SGST on purchase of fertilisers Farmers to get 16,000 per quintal as the Minimum Price for Soyabean 14. By 2027, 50 lakh Lakhpati Didis will be created industrial cluster To Establish Industrial Cluster for every 500 SHGs with 21,000 crore revolving fund 15. Free Ration for Low-Income Families under Akshay Anna Yojana 16. 'MAHARATHI-ATL Yojana' to be introduced in "MAHARATHI-ATL Yojana' to be introduced in 17. A Skill Census will be conducted to analyse the skill gaps based on industry need 18. 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Akanksha Kendra' will be established in every district of Maharashtra 10 lakh new entrepreneurs will be created. 19. 15 lakh Interest-free loans for SC, ST and OBC entrepreneur 20. Reimbursement of Tuition and Examination Fees for OBC, SEBC, EWS, NT, and VJNT category students 21. Swami Vivekananda Youth Health Card will be launched for Annual Health Check-ups of Youth 22. To preserve and promote this heritage, a Fort Development Authority (FDA) will be established. 23. The 'Senior Citizens First' policy will be adopted Implementing Aadhaar Enabled Service Delivery (AESD) to ensure automated services 24. Strict Law will be enacted against Forced and Fraudulent Conversions 25. Use of modern technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), and drones to reduce Human-Wildlife Conflict and Prevention of Life and Property
10 November,2024 01:39 PM IST | Mumbai | Dharmendra JoreThe Central Railway on Sunday said that the Railway Protection Force (RPF) helped reunite 861 lost children with their parents from April to October. According to Central Railway, the RPF is entrusted with the responsibility of securing railway property, passenger areas, and passengers. Additionally, it fulfills duties as mandated by the Standard Operating Procedure for rescued children issued by the Ministry of Railways and collaborates with other stakeholders to rescue children under “Operation Nanhe Farishte.” From April 1 to October 31, the Central Railway’s Railway Protection Force rescued and assisted a total of 861 children (589 boys and 272 girls) in reuniting with their families. Recent incident: On November 7, RPF personnel Ishwar Chand Jat and R. K. Tripathi, while on patrol at Khandwa station, noticed a young boy sitting quietly on platform 4/5. "The boy, identified as Sumit, was counselled, and a mobile number was found tattooed on his right arm. The RPF team contacted the number and spoke to his brother, who explained that Sumit has amnesia and often forgets things. With the assistance of Deepak Lad and Mayur Chore from Child Line, the boy was taken to Navjeevan Balgrih after a medical examination, where he will stay until his brother arrives to take custody," stated Central Railway. Central Railway also informed that children who arrive at railway stations without informing their families, often due to family disputes, the search for a better life, or the allure of the city, are located by trained RPF personnel. "These trained RPF personnel engage with the children, understand their issues, and counsel them to reunite with their families. Many parents express their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for this noble service," it added. Month-wise details of the children rescued are as follows: April:29 Boys and 27 Girls- A total of 56 children May:61 Boys and 32 Girls- A total of 93 children June:55 Boys and 40 Girls- A total of 95 children July:137 Boys and 65 Girls- A total of 202 children August:97 Boys and 44 Girls- A total of 141 children September: 125 Boys and 35 Girls- A total of 160 children October:85 Boys and 29 Girls- A total of 114 children Total Boys – 589Total Girls – 272Total Children - 861
10 November,2024 12:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
