In a press conference at the MCA Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on October 16, 2024, the MahaYuti coalition, featuring Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, along with other key leaders, unveiled their report card ahead of the Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha Elections. The leaders addressed various issues, with Shinde launching a sharp critique of the opposition, dismissing their claims of providing freebies for electoral gain. Ajit Pawar humorously responded to rumors about rejoining his uncle, Sharad Pawar, while also commenting on the ongoing CBI inquiry involving Baba Siddique. The event highlighted the coalition's unified stance as they prepared for the electoral battle, seeking to reassure voters of their governance record and countering opposition narratives effectively.
16 October,2024 02:29 PM IST
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that five toll plazas in Mumbai will now be free for cars. He explained that this decision was made during a cabinet meeting and was not influenced by upcoming elections. Shinde highlighted that his government focuses on public welfare rather than political benefits. He criticized the Congress party, claiming they make empty promises in states like Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh. According to Shinde, while his government aims to provide for the people, the opposition is only looking to gain power. He stated that the opposition has lost the trust of the public and is more concerned about their leadership struggles than serving the citizens. This move is part of Shinde’s commitment to prioritize the needs of the people over political interests.
15 October,2024 10:46 AM IST
The Maharashtra government has announced a complete toll waiver for light motor vehicles at all five toll booths in Mumbai. The toll waiver will take effect from midnight on Monday, providing relief to motorists as they enter the city. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde made the announcement during a Cabinet meeting, describing the move as a "masterstroke" ahead of the upcoming Assembly polls. The toll waiver is expected to provide significant relief to commuters traveling in and out of Mumbai, particularly with Diwali approaching. Travelers have often complained about long waiting times at these toll booths, which include Dahisar, LBS Road-Mulund, Eastern Express Highway-Mulund, Airoli Creek Bridge, and Vashi. Light motor vehicles, such as cars, jeeps, vans, auto-rickshaws, taxis, delivery vans, and small trucks, make up about 80% of the more than six lakh vehicles that cross Mumbai daily. This initiative aims to save time, reduce fuel consumption, and lower pollution levels in the city.
14 October,2024 03:28 PM IST
Ratan Tata, the 86-year-old chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, one of India's largest and most prominent companies, passed away on October 9. The business tycoon was taken to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital for a routine checkup due to his age. However, his condition worsened over the past week. Political leaders took to X to pay tribute to Ratan Tata for his exemplary contribution to India’s industrial growth. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X over the death of Ratan Tata. Rajnath Singh also expressed his grief, calling him a Titan of Indian industry. Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis arrived at Breach Candy Hospital following Ratan Tata's passing on October 9. Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde expressed his condolences, stating, "The gem of India, Ratan Tata, is no more. This is very sad news for everyone. A large number of people were inspired and motivated by him. He is the pride of Maharashtra and has helped thousands. Ratan Tata was the Kohinoor of our country. He contributed immensely to the nation; he was a patriot and a true 'desh premi.' His relatives have announced that he will be available for darshan at NCPA from 10 AM to 4 PM."
10 October,2024 09:33 AM IST
The Union Cabinet has officially recognized Marathi as a classical language, along with four other languages. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his gratitude for this decision, highlighting that it comes at the start of Navratri, a festive occasion. He thanked Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for supporting this longstanding demand. Shinde emphasized that the central government is actively addressing many issues in Maharashtra, referring to it as a "double-engine government" because both the state and central governments are working together for progress. This recognition of Marathi is seen as an important step in preserving and promoting the language's rich heritage and cultural significance. The decision is celebrated by many in Maharashtra, marking a proud moment for those who speak and cherish the language.
04 October,2024 01:02 PM IST
On September 30, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that the indigenous cow will be given the status of 'Rajya Mata,' or state mother, in Maharashtra. This decision comes just before the state Assembly elections. The government aims to honor these cows, which are considered valuable for farmers. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that indigenous cows are essential for farming and that the government will provide support for their care in cow shelters, known as goshalas. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the ruling Mahayuti government to show respect for indigenous cows and assist farmers in the state. The timing of this announcement is significant as it aligns with the upcoming elections, highlighting the government's commitment to rural and agricultural issues.
01 October,2024 01:03 PM IST
Salman Khan recently visited Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s residence to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. The Bollywood superstar performed a special Ganesh Puja at the Maharashtra CM's home, accompanied by his sister, Arpita Khan. Photos shared by the Chief Minister on Instagram captured Salman praying before the idol of Lord Ganesha. Other celebrities, including Asha Bhosle, Shilpa Shetty, Suniel Shetty, Sonakshi Sinha, Sanjay Dutt, and Disha Patani, also made appearances at Shinde’s house 'Varsha' to seek blessings from Bappa. Moreover, Govinda, R. Madhavan, Rohit Shetty, Rajkumar Hirani, Shekhar Suman, Sonal Chauhan, Sharad Kelkar, Jackky Bhagnani, Aayush Sharma, and others also came to seek blessings from Ganpati Bappa at his home. Watch the video for more stars who attended the puja!
16 September,2024 03:49 PM IST
On September 12, Maharastra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, along with his deputies Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, officially opened a new ‘bow-string’ arch bridge. This bridge connects Mumbai's Coastal Road with the Bandra Worli Sea Link (BWSL). It is a significant milestone in the development of Mumbai’s infrastructure. The new arch bridge is impressive in size, weighing about 4,000 metric tonnes and stretching roughly 140 meters in length. This bridge is part of a larger project that aims to improve travel in Mumbai. The Coastal Road is currently open to traffic from 7am to 11pm on weekdays. This major project, costing approximately Rs 14,000 crore, is designed to create a direct link between the Coastal Road and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. This connection is expected to significantly cut down travel time. Before the bridge, it could take between 45 minutes to an hour to drive from Marine Drive to Bandra. With the new bridge, this journey will be reduced to just 10 minutes. This will make commuting much more convenient and comfortable for Mumbai’s residents. The construction of Mumbai Coastal Road project which is 10.58 kilometers long, started in October 2018. It is set to enhance the overall commuting experience by easing traffic congestion and providing a quicker route between different parts of the city.
12 September,2024 06:01 PM IST
On September 9, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his family participated in the Ganapati Visarjan ceremony in Thane, marking the culmination of the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Ganesh Chaturthi is a vibrant Indian festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity. The festival involves elaborate installations of Ganesha idols, followed by a series of rituals and prayers. The Visarjan, or immersion ceremony, is a significant event where the idol is immersed in water, symbolizing the deity's return to his heavenly abode. Shinde's participation underscores the cultural and religious importance of the festival, reflecting his connection to the traditions cherished by many. The occasion was marked by fervent devotion and community spirit, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
09 September,2024 12:28 PM IST
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has strongly condemned the recent Shivaji statue collapse incident, calling it a deeply saddening event. Shinde emphasized that Shivaji Maharaj represents more than just a political issue; he is a symbol of identity and faith for the people of Maharashtra. He criticized the opposition for allegedly politicizing the incident, stating that such actions are regrettable. Shinde also referred to the destruction of a Shivaji Maharaj statue in Karnataka, expressing anger and suggesting that those responsible should face severe consequences. He accused the MVA (Maha Vikas Aghadi) of staging protests to exploit the situation politically, asserting that the people of Maharashtra are discerning and will express their dissatisfaction at the polls, potentially dealing a strong electoral rebuke to the opposition.
01 September,2024 02:34 PM ISTADVERTISEMENT
