In a major milestone for India’s maritime security and defence manufacturing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to dedicate three frontline naval combatants—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—to the nation on their commissioning at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai tomorrow. The commissioning of these three significant assets marks a leap forward in India’s vision of becoming a global leader in defence production and maritime prowess. Among the naval combatants, INS Surat, the fourth and final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project, stands out as one of the largest and most advanced destroyers in the world. With a remarkable 75% indigenous content, it embodies India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the "Make in India" initiative. INS Surat is equipped with state-of-the-art weapon-sensor packages and cutting-edge network-centric capabilities, making it a formidable addition to the Indian Navy's fleet. Another highlight of the commissioning ceremony is INS Vaghsheer, the sixth and final submarine of the P75 Scorpene Project. This submarine represents India’s evolving expertise in submarine construction and is the result of an Indo-French collaboration with the Naval Group of France. With advanced stealth features and lethal firepower, INS Vaghsheer reinforces India’s underwater warfare capabilities and ensures the protection of its vast maritime interests. INS Nilgiri, another key combatant, further showcases India’s capability to build and equip vessels that meet global standards. Its induction is expected to bolster India’s operational readiness in safeguarding its maritime zones. The commissioning ceremony at the Naval Dockyard underscores India’s dedication to modernising its naval fleet with indigenous platforms, a move that not only strengthens maritime security but also propels the nation closer to achieving self-sufficiency in defence production. These additions to the Navy come at a time when India continues to assert its role as a key player in the Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on enhancing maritime security and maintaining stability in the region. The Prime Minister’s presence at the event highlights the government’s commitment to supporting India’s armed forces in their modernisation journey.
14 January,2025 07:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNationalist Congress Party (SCP) leader Sharad Pawar on Tuesday said that discussions within the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc have not addressed state or local elections, emphasising that the alliance's primary focus is on national elections, reported news agency ANI. During a media briefing in Mumbai, Pawar remarked, "There has never been any discussion on state and local elections in INDIA alliance. INDIA alliance is only focused on national-level elections." He also mentioned talks regarding the forthcoming municipal elections in Maharashtra, whether to collaborate as a coalition or contest independently. "In the upcoming municipal elections in Maharashtra, everyone will decide by holding a meeting in 8-10 days whether we will fight together or alone," said the NCP (SP) chief. This statement follows Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut's announcement that his party intends to compete independently in the forthcoming municipal elections in Mumbai and Nagpur. "We will fight Mumbai and Nagpur Municipal Corporation on our own, whatever happens will happen. We have to see for ourselves. We will fight Nagpur on our own. Uddhav Thackeray has given us a signal. I just now discussed it with our city Shiv Sena chief Pramod Manmode," Raut told reporters. Raut explained that this decision aims to strengthen the party at local levels, saying that party workers often lack opportunities in general and assembly elections. Earlier, Raut also urged the Congress party to take proactive steps to ensure the stability of the INDIA alliance, which was formed to contest the upcoming general elections in 2024. He expressed disappointment that there have been no meetings of the INDIA alliance since the last elections and emphasised the need for Congress to convene one. The alliance currently faces challenges, with the Congress and AAP in Delhi engaged in tensions ahead of the assembly elections set for February 5. Pawar also commented on the Delhi elections, highlighting his support for former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal in the upcoming assembly polls. Pawar suggested that his party should assist Kejriwal in the electoral race, signalling potential political collaboration between the two leaders, ANI stated. "In Delhi assembly elections, my feeling is that we should help Arvind Kejriwal," said Sharad Pawar. The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with vote counting on February 8. The last date for filing nominations is on Friday, scrutiny of nominations is on Saturday, and the deadline for withdrawing candidacy is January 20. (With inputs from ANI)
14 January,2025 07:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a swift operation, the Railway Police apprehended a mobile phone snatcher within hours of the theft in Maharashtra's Thane district, as per PTI reports. The accused, Subham Chavilal Yadav, 27, allegedly targeted a passenger on a local train at Dombivli railway station on Monday morning. The stolen device, valued at Rs 17,500, was recovered shortly after Yadav’s arrest, officials said. The theft occurred when the train halted at Dombivli station, allowing the accused to grab the mobile phone before fleeing. Following a complaint by the victim, the Railway Police promptly launched an investigation. Within just two hours, their efforts paid off as Yadav was tracked down and apprehended. Senior Inspector Kiran Undre of the Dombivli Railway Police commended his team for their prompt and efficient handling of the case, highlighting their commitment to maintaining commuter safety. The accused has been booked under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, India’s criminal code, which was recently updated. Legal proceedings are underway, and authorities are ensuring all necessary evidence is documented to secure a conviction. Incidents of mobile thefts on local trains have been a persistent issue in urban areas like Mumbai and Thane. The quick action by the Railway Police underscores their vigilance and determination to curb such crimes, ensuring safer travel for daily commuters. The police have also reiterated their request for passengers to remain cautious and safeguard their belongings, especially while boarding or alighting trains during busy hours. Such measures, coupled with timely law enforcement interventions, are key to minimising such crimes on the railway network. Inspector Undre also urged passengers to report thefts or suspicious activity immediately, as early alerts play a crucial role in successful recovery operations. This latest operation by the Thane Railway Police demonstrates their commitment to swift justice and sets a precedent for handling such crimes efficiently, as noted in PTI reports. Authorities have assured the public that efforts will continue to ensure the safety and security of passengers across the railway network in Maharashtra.
14 January,2025 07:16 PM IST | MumbaiMaharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Tuesday condemned the “brutal” murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, and assured that those responsible would face stringent punishment. Deshmukh was abducted, tortured, and killed on December 9, allegedly for opposing an extortion attempt targeting an energy company involved in a windmill project in Beed, located 380 kilometres from Mumbai. Police have registered a case of murder as well as extortion in connection with the heinous crime. Speaking to reporters, Pawar said, “Since the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, we have consistently maintained that no one involved will be spared. This was a brutal act, and the culprits must face the strongest punishment.” A key suspect in the case, Walmik Karad, who is closely associated with cabinet minister Dhananjay Munde, has been arrested in connection with the extortion offence tied to the murder. Karad, currently in jail, is among the seven individuals arrested so far. Munde, a prominent leader from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Pawar, also hails from Beed district. Ajit Pawar confirmed that he had directed the superintendent of police (SP) of Beed district to ensure strict action against the accused. “More than a month has passed since the murder, and the family members of Santosh Deshmukh might be concerned about the progress of the investigation. Both the State CID and SIT are actively probing the case,” he said, as per PTI reports. The deputy chief minister assured there would be no influence or interference in the investigation, asserting, “I have never treated anyone differently based on caste or religion. If someone is found guilty and evidence supports it, appropriate action will be taken against them.” Addressing questions about the delay in the appointment of guardian ministers for various districts, Pawar said it was Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ prerogative. “It is partially true that portfolio allocation took some time, but I am hopeful the issue will be resolved before the chief minister’s visit to Davos for the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting,” he added. The annual five-day meeting in Davos, which brings together CEOs, business leaders, and politicians, is scheduled to begin on January 20. (With inputs from PTI)
14 January,2025 06:59 PM IST | MumbaiMaharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole on Tuesday stated that his party does not feel the need to respond to remarks made by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, asserting, "Raut is not an issue for us." Patole’s statement came in reaction to Raut’s recent remark that the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) planned to contest upcoming local body elections independently, without the backing of its Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies, which include the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Despite being allies under the MVA umbrella, Raut and Patole have often been at odds, taking veiled swipes at one another. However, Patole dismissed the need to engage in a war of words, pointing to more pressing concerns for the Congress. “Sanjay Raut is not an issue for us, and we do not need to react to his statements. The real issues today are the threats to our national borders, with China intruding into several areas. Democracy in the country is under threat, farmers and youth are suffering due to the misguided policies of the government. Inflation is spiralling, and the rupee continues to fall. These are the matters of importance to Congress. We cannot waste time reacting to every comment,” Patole stated, as per PTI reports. He further cast doubt on whether local body elections in Maharashtra would take place anytime soon. Elections to several municipal corporations, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), as well as other civic bodies, have been delayed for over two years. Speaking on the speculation that senior leader Prithviraj Chavan could replace him as the state Congress chief, Patole claimed he had no information about such a development. He revealed that he, along with other Congress leaders, would be travelling to Delhi on Wednesday, where important party decisions would be discussed and finalised. Patole also expressed confidence in the Congress’s prospects, stating that the party is poised to win the upcoming assembly elections in Delhi. (With inputs from PTI)
14 January,2025 06:25 PM IST | MumbaiPrime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi will visit Maharashtra on Wednesday, where he will dedicate three frontline warships of the Indian Navy and inaugurate the ISKCON Temple at Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. Around 10.30 am, the PM will dedicate to the nation three frontline warships — INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Waghshir — at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. The commissioning of these major naval warships marks a significant milestone in India's vision of becoming a global leader in defence manufacturing and maritime security. INS Surat, the fourth and final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer project, is one of the largest and most sophisticated destroyers in the world. It boasts 75 per cent indigenous content and is equipped with advanced weapon-sensor systems and network-centric capabilities. INS Nilgiri, the first warship of the P17A stealth frigate project, represents the next generation of indigenous frigates, designed by the Warship Design Bureau of the Indian Navy. It is equipped with enhanced capabilities, extended lifespan at sea, and improved stealth features. INS Waghshir, the sixth and final submarine of the P75 Scorpene project, highlights India's growing expertise in submarine construction and was built in collaboration with the French Naval Group. Later in the day, around 3.30 pm, PM Modi will inaugurate the Sri Sri Radha Madan Mohan Ji Temple at Kharghar in Navi Mumbai, an ISKCON project. Spread over nine acres, the temple complex includes idols of several deities, a Vedic education centre, a proposed museum and auditorium, as well as a treatment centre. The project aims to promote universal brotherhood, peace, and harmony through Vedic teachings, in line with the Prime Minister's commitment to promoting India’s cultural heritage. PM Modi expresses gratitude to veterans, calls them 'heroes and enduring symbols of patriotism' Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude to veterans on Armed Forces Veterans Day, describing them as "heroes and enduring symbols of patriotism", news agency ANI reported. In his message, PM Modi praised the sacrifices, courage, and unwavering commitment of veterans, calling them exemplary in their service to the nation. "On Armed Forces Veterans Day, we express gratitude to the brave women and men who dedicated their lives to safeguarding our nation. Their sacrifices, courage and unwavering commitment to duty are exemplary. Our Veterans are heroes and enduring symbols of patriotism," PM Modi wrote on X. He also reiterated the NDA-led government's commitment to the welfare of veterans, stating, "Ours is a Government that has always worked for the welfare of veterans and we will continue to do so in the times to come." Earlier in the day, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the 9th Armed Veterans' Day event in Akhnoor, Jammu and Kashmir, where he hoisted a 108-foot national flag and inaugurated a heritage museum, ANI reported. (With ANI inputs)
14 January,2025 06:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA tragic incident unfolded in Maharashtra's Nashik city on Tuesday when a 23-year-old man lost his life after his throat was slit by nylon manja (kite string coated with glass particles) while riding his motorcycle, according to PTI reports. The victim, identified as Sonu Kisan Dhotre, was riding his two-wheeler towards Pathardi Phata from Deolali Camp when the accident occurred in the Pathardi village circle area around 12:30 pm, an official stated. The nylon manja, known for its sharpness, inflicted a severe wound on his neck, causing him to bleed profusely. As per police sources, a team from Indiranagar police station immediately rushed Dhotre to the district hospital after being alerted about the incident. Despite their swift action, the young man succumbed to his injuries due to excessive blood loss, the official said. Sonu, a resident of Nashik, was employed as a contract worker in Gujarat, as per PTI. He had returned home recently and was reportedly heading towards Pathardi Phata when the fatal mishap took place. A case of accidental death has been registered, and further investigation into the matter is underway, the official confirmed. Authorities have yet to ascertain whether the manja was discarded or actively being used during the incident. The use of nylon manja has been banned in many parts of India, including Maharashtra, due to its hazardous nature. The string, often coated with powdered glass to enhance its cutting ability during kite-flying competitions, poses a significant risk to both humans and animals. Despite the ban, its usage persists, particularly during festive seasons like Makar Sankranti, when kite flying is a popular activity. According to PTI, incidents involving nylon manja are not uncommon, with numerous injuries and even fatalities being reported annually. Activists and authorities alike have called for stricter enforcement of the ban and public awareness campaigns to prevent such tragic occurrences.
14 January,2025 06:10 PM IST | MumbaiSupporters of Walmik Karad, who was arrested in an extortion case connected to the murder of a sarpanch in Beed district, on Tuesday threw stones at buses and set tyres on fire in Parli town after MCOCA was invoked against him, police said. Karad, an aide to Maharashtra minister Dhananjay Munde, has been charged under the Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MCOCA), an official said. In their demonstration, hundreds of his supporters targeted public transport, set tyres ablaze, damaged property, and attempted to block roads while chanting slogans in Karad’s favour and calling for a bandh (shutdown), reported news agency PTI. The protest took place despite the prohibitory orders in Beed district that are effective until January 28. Authorities reported that they have filed two cases related to the damage inflicted during these protests on Tuesday. The prohibitory orders have been imposed because of the protests against the sarpanch murder case and quota-related agitations by Maratha and OBC activists, PTI stated. The district administration said in a release issued on Monday that the assembly of five or more persons without permission from authorities has been prohibited, and people are not allowed to carry weapons in public places. The context of these events stems from the abduction, torture, and murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village, on December 9. Preliminary investigations indicate that Deshmukh had opposed an extortion attempt targeting an energy firm involved in windmill projects in the area. So far, the Kej police have arrested seven individuals in connection with the murder, while one more suspect remains at large. On Tuesday, a court placed Karad in 14-day judicial custody. Beed sarpanch murder: Walmik Karad’s mother protests in Beed, demands his release Parubai Karad, mother of extortion case accused Walmik Karad, staged a protest outside the Parli police station in Beed district on Tuesday, demanding her son's release and claiming his innocence. Karad, an associate of Maharashtra minister Dhananjay Munde, was arrested on 31 December 2024, in connection with an extortion case tied to the murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village. According to PTI reports, Parubai Karad vocally asserted her son’s innocence, stating, "My son has not done anything, and he should be released. Even if my life ends, I will not get up from here." The protest witnessed the participation of approximately 50 of Walmik Karad’s supporters, who gathered in solidarity outside the police station. When questioned about the allegations against her son, Parubai dismissed them as fabricated, saying, "I don’t know who is doing this, but this is all fake." She further accused BJP MLA Suresh Dhas and NCP (SP) MLA Sandeep Kshirsagar of falsely implicating her son and demanded their arrest. (With inputs from PTI)
14 January,2025 05:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnion minister Nitin Gadkari emphasised the significance of developing a strong and self-sufficient defence sector while underlining the need for India to lead the world through research and development. Speaking at the ninth Armed Forces Veterans’ Day celebrations held at the Headquarters Maintenance Command of the Indian Air Force in Vayusena Nagar, Nagpur, Gadkari highlighted the critical role played by the armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. The event honoured the unparalleled service and sacrifices of veterans, bringing together retired and serving personnel, their families, and dignitaries. Air Marshal Vijay Kumar Garg, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Maintenance Command, was also present at the gathering, which paid homage to the country’s brave soldiers. Gadkari remarked, “We must strive to build a powerful and self-reliant defence system and surpass global standards with advanced research and development.” He added that India’s strength should act as a deterrent to injustice globally while fostering peace and harmony. Acknowledging the sacrifices of the armed forces, Gadkari said, “Our soldiers have made immense sacrifices for the nation. In every war fought by our country, their bravery and commitment have ensured the security of our people. The nation can never forget their contributions.” He reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of veterans and emphasised the importance of preserving their legacy to inspire future generations. “The veterans embody courage, service, and sacrifice. Their legacy will forever guide the path of our nation,” he added. The Armed Forces Veterans’ Day, celebrated annually on January 14, honours the contributions of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, who retired on this day in 1953. The occasion was first marked in 2016 and has since become a yearly tradition to recognise and celebrate the service of ex-servicemen. Tributes were paid to the veterans for their dedication and patriotism, with interactive events organised to bring the armed forces community closer and acknowledge their contributions to the nation. (With inputs from PTI)
14 January,2025 05:11 PM IST | MumbaiA close aide of Maharashtra’s NCP minister Dhananjay Munde, Walmik Karad, was sent to 14-day judicial custody on Tuesday in connection with a ₹2 crore extortion case related to the murder of a sarpanch in Beed district. Karad, who had surrendered to the Pune police on December 31, was initially remanded to 14-day police custody. On Tuesday, he was transferred from Beed and presented before the Kej court in Beed district, which ordered his judicial custody. According to officials, Karad has been charged under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). The extortion case and murder are linked to the abduction and killing of Santosh Deshmukh, sarpanch of Massajog village in Kej tehsil. Deshmukh was reportedly targeted after he opposed an extortion attempt involving Rs 2 crore, allegedly demanded from a windmill company operating in the region. Deshmukh’s brutal killing on December 9 sparked outrage in the area, with his family demanding justice and a thorough investigation. Santosh Deshmukh’s brother, Dhananjay Deshmukh, held a protest in Massajog village on Monday, urging authorities to invoke MCOCA against Karad. The demand was met after evidence and details surrounding the case were scrutinised, police said. Before surrendering to the police, Karad released a video on social media in which he alleged that the accusations against him were politically motivated. He claimed he was being linked to the case as part of a vendetta. The police are currently investigating the allegations and are examining evidence, including digital trails and other records. The case has drawn significant attention due to Karad’s close association with NCP minister Dhananjay Munde. The opposition has also called for greater transparency and accountability in the matter, given the political links. The Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act, under which Karad has been booked, is generally invoked in cases involving organised criminal activities. The court’s decision to remand Karad to judicial custody is seen as a critical step in the investigation. (With inputs from PTI)
14 January,2025 04:57 PM IST | MumbaiMaharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has announced that private passenger transport providers to be brought under single regulatory framework, an official statement said on Tuesday. The statement said that private passenger transport providers including Ola, Uber, and Rapido will also soon be regulated under a unified set of rules. "The new regulations will focus on passenger safety, carpooling, licensing, and traffic issues, with an emphasis on creating a transparent grievance redressal system", it said. The statement further said that a meeting was held on Tuesday at the state secretariat to discuss bringing private passenger transport providers under a single government framework. The meeting was attended by key officials including Additional Chief Secretary of Transport Sanjay Sethi, Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, and Dr. Madhav Kusekar, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Maharashtra State Transport Corporation. The representatives from private transport companies also participated through video conferencing in the meeting. Pratap Sarnaik stated that in line with the central government’s policies, it is important to regulate private transport companies under one set of transport rules. Passenger safety will be prioritised, and the regulation will include four-wheelers, bikes, and taxis. He said that special consideration will be given to women drivers, and efforts will be made to create more job opportunities in the sector, the statement said. Sarnaik also called for private companies to implement safety measures for their drivers and passengers, urging them to take proactive steps in ensuring security for the passengers and the drivers. In another important announcement during the meeting, Pratap Sarnaik revealed plans to set up 100-bed hospitals for state transport (ST) employees in Borivli in Mumbai. The hospital will provide medical treatment to ST employees and their families under the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana. The state government will cover surgery costs up to Rs 5 lakh, it said. He stated that bus stations across the state are being developed on the "Build, Operate, Transfer" model, and more hospitals for ST employees will be set up in districts such as Pune, Kolhapur, Pusad, and Washim. These hospitals will provide cashless medical services to ST employees and their families, ensuring they do not need to seek expensive private healthcare, the statement said.
14 January,2025 04:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
