Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis in the state legislative assembly on Friday reaffirmed that Maharashtra tops the chart when it comes to Foreign Investment (FI) in India. In fact, the CM dismissed the claims by the opposition that Gujarat is the favourite destination for investment and is ahead of Maharashtra. In his reply to the debate on the Governor’s address, Fadnavis maintained that in the first nine months of the financial year, Maharashtra received 1.39 thousand crore through FI. The FI investment received by Mahrashtra is three times higher than Gujarat. “Even if one combines the investment received by Karnataka, Gujarat and Delhi, still they fall way short of Maharashtra’s total,” the CM added. Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has been alleging that the state is losing business and employment opportunities to Gujarat and Mahayuti government is mute spectator to it. Taking dig at the MVA allegations, Fadnavis in a sarcastic manner stated, “Leaders of Maharashtra are talking so much about Gujarat, that it gives a feeling that these leaders are ambassadors of the neighbouring state. Why would Gujarat give advertisements, when they are getting free of cost publicity.” Further comparing the previous highest investment bagged by Maharashtra, the CM cited that in 2016-17 the state had received 1.31 thousand crores through FI. “It is the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) that releases the number after the investment is done. This year in the first three quarters of the financial year, the investment has touched 1.39 thousand crores. Still fourth quarter numbers are yet to be announced and added to the total,” Fadnavis claimed. Last year, when Fadnavis and a delegation visited Davos to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF), the opposition, especially Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray, had criticised the government for signing MoU with Indian companies. Referring to the criticism, Fadnavis stated that in 2022 (January) Aditya Thackeray too had gone to Davos and signed MoUs with Indian companies only. Further responding to the criticism, the CM emphasised that Maharashtra had signed 1,60,000 lakh crore investment. “Davos is a place where financial companies from the entire world are present. Signing such big MoUs is seen as a statement that catches eyeballs of the entire world. Of six states, there was a beeline of investors only at the Maharashtra government counter,” Fadnavis added. Thackeray Jr took through a post on x had alleged that, “Out of the MoUs for proposed investment signed with 29 companies, only 1 is from outside of India. The rest are all Indian or have HQs/bases in India. Of the 29 companies, 20 are based in Maharashtra, 15 of which are in Mumbai where the @CMOMaharashtra is located. What's the point of being busy within ourselves when the CM could have an outreach to the world, for Maharashtra?”
07 March,2025 02:43 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarIn a first-of-its-kind experiment in its ten years of existence, the Reliance Mumbai Metro Blue Line 1, saturated beyond capacity between Ghatkopar and Versova, has now begun operating trains with a shorter turnaround between Andheri and Ghatkopar to increase frequency. The experiment, based on passenger feedback, started on Thursday and is being closely monitored. Most of the crowd during rush hours is concentrated between Andheri and Ghatkopar railway stations. So, instead of running trains all the way to Versova, the team is operating trains in a shorter loop between Andheri and Ghatkopar. A Mumbai Metro Blue Line 1 official confirmed the development. Ghatkopar station upgrade on track, piling work to finish by March-end With debris cleared and barricades reduced, the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) on Thursday assured that piling work at Ghatkopar station will be completed by March-end, further minimising obstructions. Last month, mid-day highlighted how debris and barricades at Ghatkopar station, placed for development work, were leading to overcrowding and a stampede-like situation on the narrow edge of platform 1. Debris has been completely cleared, and barricades have been minimised. To provide better amenities and ensure passenger convenience, phase II station improvement work is actively underway,” an MRVC official said. Providing a timeline, official said, “Work on elevated deck at platform 1 is in progress. Foundation work for PW-3 on platform 1 has already been completed, and barricading was removed on February 15. Pile foundation for the elevated deck (PW-1 & PW-2) began on February 15, with 28 out of 45 pilings completed so far. Additionally, work on a 12m-wide south foot overbridge started on February 25, with 26 out of 70 pilings completed. The remaining piling work is expected to be finished by March 2025, with caps and pillars planned for completion by April 2025.” The railways are upgrading Ghatkopar station following multiple mid-day reports on how it had become a disaster waiting to happen, especially as it also caters to Mumbai Metro Line 1. A front-page report on August 30, 2019, titled ‘Next Disaster Arriving on Platform No.1’ highlighted how the station had turned into a death trap. Following this, former MP Manoj Kotak raised the issue with then Railway Minister Piyush Goyal. At a public function on September 13, 2019, Goyal directed railway officials to devise a detailed plan and upgrade the station. Voices Paresh Nagrani, regular commuter“Crowding for the Metro at Ghatkopar station often gets out of hand. On Thursday, the crowd occupied the entire foot overbridge, leaving no space for commuters. The station needs better connectivity, and an upgrade to the Metro link.” Ranjan Jaiswal, commuter“Ghatkopar station serves a massive crowd. The railways must be careful with upgrades, as even minor changes affect thousands. If the project has started, it must be completed on time.” Hrishikesh Kadam, Ghatkopar West resident“The authorities must try to finish significant work before the monsoon and install a roof at the station. It’s unbearable to stand in the heat, and this temporary phase needs to end fast.” Robert D’Souza, a resident of Vikhroli“Work at Ghatkopar station has been going on for a long time, and it is high time it is completed. The station also needs an additional foot overbridge at the CSMT end to accommodate the increasing crowds. The Metro is adding to the congestion, further burdening Ghatkopar station.” Subhash Gupta from Yatri Sangh Mumbai“The divisional railway manager recently visited all stations, yet Ghatkopar station remains in a mess. These are basic necessities, and commuters should at least have a proper place to stand. The railways must be cautious, as such situations can lead to stampedes given the volume of crowds at the station.” Ananya Shah, Mulund resident“The CSMT end of the station is where the ladies’ compartment halts, and it’s a struggle every evening as the crowd swells. Authorities must deploy adequate police to manage the rush.”
07 March,2025 12:34 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarResidents of dilapidated buildings and stalled redevelopment projects can breathe a sigh of relief as the state government has promised to change housing policy rules, if required. On Thursday, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, in the state Legislative Assembly, mentioned that the government is sensitive and committed when it comes to ensuring safe homes for everyone. Shinde, who heads the Urban Development Department (UDD) and Ministry of Housing in the Devendra Fadnavis-led Mahayuti government, assured Assembly members that a meeting to resolve the issue will be held soon. Congress MLA Amin Patel, meanwhile, called attention notice raising the issue of delays in government agencies granting permissions when it comes to redevelopment of the cess buildings in the city. “The government should do something about issues with cess building redevelopment,” Patel said. Dy CM Eknath Shinde (centre) with party leaders at Vidhan Bhavan on Thursday. Pic/PTI The state government has authorised MHADA (Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority) to undertake redevelopment, in cases where the society or owner fails to appoint a developer within six months of the premises being declared dangerous and unfit to occupy. MHADA maintains and repairs the cessed buildings which are decades old. Several residents faced delays in redevelopment due to differences between the tenants, developer and more importantly the landlord. Echoing similar views, BJP MLA Parag Alavani cited cases where the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has flagged a structure as C-1 category (dilapidated structure not in habitable condition and needs to be pulled down immediately), but no construction activity has commenced. “Will the government consider acquisition of such buildings?” the BJP MLA questioned. Ajay Choudhary, MLA, Shiv Sena (UBT) stated that there are about 16,000 dilapidated structures and the government is moving at slow pace when it comes to issuing permission for redevelopment of these buildings.Yogesh Sagar, BJP MLA alleged that the suburbs are given step-motherly treatment. “A meeting of the agencies concerned should be called and all MLAs from Mumbai (city and suburbs) should be invited to find a solution to the problem,” he demanded. Convinced by Sagar’s suggestion, Dy CM Shinde assured the members that a meeting of all officials concerned, along with Mumbai’s MLAs, will soon be called. “The government is coming up with a housing policy. If needed, rules would be changed to ensure smooth and expeditious redevelopment and restart of stalled projects,” Shinde added. Shamburaje Desai (Shinde’s colleague in the Mahayuti government), told mid-day in the Vidhan Bhavan premises that the issue that needs to be addressed on a priority basis. “A request to appoint one officer of deputy rank with MHADA and SRA (Slum Redevelopment Authority), specifically to handle this issue, will be sent to Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. We will have the officer appointed at the earliest, possibly by this (Thursday) evening,” Desai added.
07 March,2025 12:06 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarWith debris cleared and barricades reduced, the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) on Thursday assured that piling work at Ghatkopar station will be completed by March-end, further minimising obstructions. Last month, mid-day highlighted how debris and barricades at Ghatkopar station, placed for development work, were leading to overcrowding and a stampede-like situation on the narrow edge of platform 1. Debris has been completely cleared, and barricades have been minimised. To provide better amenities and ensure passenger convenience, phase II station improvement work is actively underway,” an MRVC official said. Debris and barricades that could be seen earlier Providing a timeline, official said, “Work on elevated deck at platform 1 is in progress. Foundation work for PW-3 on platform 1 has already been completed, and barricading was removed on February 15. Pile foundation for the elevated deck (PW-1 & PW-2) began on February 15, with 28 out of 45 pilings completed so far. Additionally, work on a 12m-wide south foot overbridge started on February 25, with 26 out of 70 pilings completed. The remaining piling work is expected to be finished by March 2025, with caps and pillars planned for completion by April 2025.” Spacious platform after debris was cleared on Thursday. Pics/Rajendra B. Aklekar The railways are upgrading Ghatkopar station following multiple mid-day reports on how it had become a disaster waiting to happen, especially as it also caters to Mumbai Metro Line 1. A front-page report on August 30, 2019, titled ‘Next Disaster Arriving on Platform No.1’ highlighted how the station had turned into a death trap. Following this, former MP Manoj Kotak raised the issue with then Railway Minister Piyush Goyal. At a public function on September 13, 2019, Goyal directed railway officials to devise a detailed plan and upgrade the station. Voices Paresh Nagrani, regular commuter“Crowding for the Metro at Ghatkopar station often gets out of hand. On Thursday, the crowd occupied the entire foot overbridge, leaving no space for commuters. The station needs better connectivity, and an upgrade to the Metro link.” Ranjan Jaiswal, commuter“Ghatkopar station serves a massive crowd. The railways must be careful with upgrades, as even minor changes affect thousands. If the project has started, it must be completed on time.” Hrishikesh Kadam, Ghatkopar West resident“The authorities must try to finish significant work before the monsoon and install a roof at the station. It’s unbearable to stand in the heat, and this temporary phase needs to end fast.” Robert D’Souza, a resident of Vikhroli“Work at Ghatkopar station has been going on for a long time, and it is high time it is completed. The station also needs an additional foot overbridge at the CSMT end to accommodate the increasing crowds. The Metro is adding to the congestion, further burdening Ghatkopar station.” Subhash Gupta from Yatri Sangh Mumbai“The divisional railway manager recently visited all stations, yet Ghatkopar station remains in a mess. These are basic necessities, and commuters should at least have a proper place to stand. The railways must be cautious, as such situations can lead to stampedes given the volume of crowds at the station.” Ananya Shah, Mulund resident“The CSMT end of the station is where the ladies’ compartment halts, and it’s a struggle every evening as the crowd swells. Authorities must deploy adequate police to manage the rush.”
07 March,2025 12:02 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarMumbaikars, brace for another scorching spell as meteorologists warn of fresh heatwave. After a brief dip in temperatures, the mercury is set to soar again, reaching 37°C–39°C along the coastal belt and 39°C–41°C in the interiors of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), particularly Thane and Navi Mumbai. With temperatures already climbing, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and Ratnagiri from March 9 to March 11. Officials from IMD’s Regional Meteorological Centre in Mumbai attribute the spike in daytime temperatures to strong easterly winds. Private meteorologists and weather enthusiasts predict that peak temperatures will likely be recorded between March 7 and 11. This pattern mirrors late February, when similar heatwave conditions prompted the IMD to issue alerts on February 25, 26, and 27. However, temperatures dropped slightly in the following days, dipping by 2–3°C. On Wednesday, the IMD’s Santacruz observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 37.4°C, up from 36.8°C on Tuesday. The Colaba observatory registered 33.4°C, which was 2.2°C above normal and slightly higher than Tuesday’s 33.1°C. “With rising temperatures and heatwave alerts in place, residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure,” an IMD official said. Experts weigh in Rajesh Kapadia, climatologist, Vagaries of Weather: “As western disturbances pass, Mumbai, Konkan, and Interior Western Maharashtra are experiencing warm to hot days and cooler nights, with a diurnal temperature range exceeding 20°C. While this is typical for early March, the unusual factor is that it has persisted since late February, when such conditions are rare.” Mumbaikars trying to protect themselves from the heat. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi Kapadia issued a heatwave alert for Maharashtra, warning that temperatures will rise to 37°C–39°C in coastal areas, while interiors like Thane and Navi Mumbai may hit 39°C–41°C. Pune is expected to hover around 36°C until the weekend, rising to 39°C–40°C next week. Mahesh Palawat, VP, Meteorology & Climate Change, Skymet Weather: “Temperatures will rise from March 7 and 8, triggering heatwave conditions. Over the last 24 hours, temperatures dropped by 2–3°C across Maharashtra, thanks to northerly winds. However, a fresh western disturbance will disrupt this pattern, intensifying the heatwave, especially in Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Telangana. Dry, hot winds will persist, delaying the cooling sea breeze and making the weather hotter and more humid across Maharashtra and Goa.” Rushikesh Agre, independent weather enthusiast ("Mumbai Rains" on X): “Mumbai and its suburbs are set for one of the hottest spells of 2025 from March 6–11, likely breaking February records. Suburban areas could exceed 40°C.”
07 March,2025 11:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghBenchmark indices Sensex and Nifty faced volatile trends in early trade on Friday as uninterrupted foreign fund outflows and uncertainties over global trade war dampened investors' sentiment, reported news agency PTI. After two days of breather, the 30-share Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) benchmark Sensex declined 243.51 points or 0.33 per cent to 74,096.58 in the morning trade. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) Nifty dipped 53.35 points or 0.24 per cent to 22,491.35. From the Sensex pack, IndusInd Bank, NTPC, HCL Technologies, Tech Mahindra, Zomato, Power Grid, ICICI Bank, Infosys, ITC, Hindustan Unilever and Bharti Airtel were among the laggards, while Tata Motors, Reliance Industries, Tata Steel, Adani Ports, Larsen & Toubro, and Axis Bank were the gainers, PTI reported. "(US President Donald) Trump dilly dallying on tariffs with the latest decision to postpone imposition of tariffs on Canada and Mexico to April 2 is being viewed by markets seriously. Markets feel that Trump is keen to negotiate deals rather than stick to high tariffs for the long term," VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, said. In Asian markets, Tokyo and Seoul were trading lower, while Shanghai was flat, PTI reported. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong stock markets was quoting in the positive zone. The US markets ended lower in overnight deals on Thursday. According to Vijayakumar, this acknowledgement of the fact that high tariffs for long term will impact the US economy, too. The sell-off in the US stock markets also is an indication that Trump's policies might impact growth and earnings in the US. "China and Germany are implementing reforms to stimulate their domestic economies from Trump's policies. This change in the global construct can impact stock markets. The dollar index is steadily softening; this is good news for India. India's growth is recovering and stock market valuations are fair now. Despite FII (Foreign Institutional Investors) selling exceeding DII (Domestic Institutional Investor) buying, the market is moving up indicating increasing retail, HNI (High-net-worth Individual) and UHNI (Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individual) buying. This trend can continue," he said. Meanwhile, FIIs offloaded equities worth Rs 2,377.32 crore, while DIIs bought equities worth Rs 1,617.80 crore on net basis on Thursday, according to exchange data. Global oil benchmark Brent crude edged up by 0.07 per cent to USD 69.51 a barrel. Traders are closely watching the US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's commentary and the central bank's balance sheet to be released later on Friday. Meanwhile, President Trump said he has postponed 25 per cent tariffs on most goods from Mexico for a month after a conversation with that country's president. The announcement came after his Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said tariffs on both Canada and Mexico would "likely" be delayed. On Thursday, the 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 609.86 points to settle at 74,340.09, marking its second straight day of gains. The broader Nifty of NSE advanced 207.40 points to close at 22,544.70. (With PTI inputs)
07 March,2025 11:56 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra received the highest number of foreign investments of the past 10 years in the first nine months of the financial year 2024-25, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis revealed. He quoted the Ministry of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade's (DPIIT) foreign investment report 2024 of the Central Government. According to the Chief Minister, Maharashtra has received a total of Rs 1,39,434 crore in foreign investment. This is the highest foreign investment ever received in a single year in Maharashtra in the past 10 years, he stated, adding that the Mahayuti government has broken its own record set in the financial year 2016-17, with one more quarter left in this financial year. "Heartfelt congratulations once again to the entire state of Maharashtra! Under the leadership of my colleagues Deputy Chief Minister Eknathrao Shinde, Ajitdada Pawar, and the Cabinet, Maharashtra’s progress will continue at this galloping pace," CM Fadnavis said. गेल्या 10 वर्षांतील विक्रमी परकीय गुंतवणूक महाराष्ट्रात आली केवळ 9 महिन्यात !केंद्र सरकारच्या डीपीआयआयटीने परकीय गुंतवणुकीचा डिसेंबर 2024 अखेरचा अहवाल जाहीर केला असून, गेल्या 10 वर्षांतील सर्वाधिक वार्षिक परकीय गुंतवणूक ही अवघ्या 9 महिन्यात महाराष्ट्राने प्राप्त केली आहे.… pic.twitter.com/wPkpWvY4yU — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) March 7, 2025 Everyone in state must learn Marathi, says CM Fadnavis Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and state BJP President and Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule reiterated that everyone should learn and speak Marathi. On Thursday, speaking in the Legislative Assembly, the chief minister stated that respecting other languages is important but while doing so, one has to respect Marathi. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Bhaskar Jadhav brought to notice of the House Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Suresh ‘Bhaiyyaji’ Joshi’s statement that those coming to Mumbai need not learn the Marathi language. “The government has been talking about Marathi pride. The Mahayuti government has even made it mandatory to use the Marathi language for communication in all its offices and semi-government institutions. But, the language has been insulted and the government needs to explain its stand on the same,” Jadhav said. Jadhav was referring to media reports quoting the RSS leader as stating at a public event in the city that it was not necessary to learn Marathi as Mumbai did not have a single language. He cited the example of Ghatkopar where the dominant language is Gujarati. Joshi, in a later clarification, claimed that his remarks were misconstrued. Replying to Jadhav, Fadnavis said, “I have not heard Bhaiyyaji Joshi’s statement. I obtain information before making any statement on this.” Elaborating on his government’s stand, Fadnavis stated that everyone in the state should learn and speak Marathi. The CM further clarified that his government respected other languages as well. “If one respects his or her language, they will do the same to another language too,” Fadnavis added.
07 March,2025 11:55 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai is set to experience clear skies throughout the week, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). As March progresses, temperatures are on the rise, with warmer days ahead. The IMD has forecasted a sunny day for 7th March, with light breezes at around 8 km/h and humidity levels at 18% as of 10 AM. The heat is expected to intensify as the day unfolds, marking a shift towards significantly warmer conditions over the coming days. Weather Report for Mumbai On 7th March, Mumbaikars can expect a predominantly clear day. The IMD predicts temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C to a maximum of 33°C. Sunrise is expected at 6:54 AM, with sunset at 6:46 PM. These temperatures are noticeably warmer compared to previous weeks. Moving into 8th March, the city will continue to witness clear skies, with temperatures fluctuating between 23°C and 35°C. Air Quality Index (AQI) for Mumbai Mumbai's air quality remains a mixed bag, with some areas experiencing satisfactory air quality while others see moderate to poor levels. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in Colaba currently stands at 90, which falls under the 'Satisfactory' category. However, individuals with respiratory issues are advised to limit outdoor activities and consider wearing masks. AQI Levels in Different Areas of Mumbai: Satisfactory AQI: Sewri - 100 Sion - 96 Kandivali East - 82 Borivali East (Khodiyar Nagar) - 90 Kapurbawadi Naka, Thane - 86 Moderate AQI: Shivaji Nagar - 119 Ghatkopar - 106 Byculla - 103 Chembur (Dreamland Society) - 112 Kherwadi (Bandra East) - 137 Vile Parle West - 120 Deonar - 170 Powai - 108 Khindipada-Bhandup West - 107 Siddharth Nagar (Worli) - 129 Worli - 118 Mindspace (Malad West) - 146 Mazgaon (Dockyard) - 132 Malad West - 118 Borivali East - 145 Navy Nagar (Colaba) - 131 Poor AQI: Bandra Kurla Complex - 204 Good AQI: Mulund West - 37 Meanwhile, AQI data for Kurla and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (T2) remains unavailable at the moment. With temperatures climbing and air quality fluctuating, residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and take necessary precautions to maintain respiratory health. As Mumbai moves deeper into March, the heatwave is likely to intensify, making it essential to prepare for warmer days ahead.
07 March,2025 10:48 AM IST | MumbaiShiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant has demanded the cancellation of Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi’s membership from the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly over his remarks on Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. According to ANI, Sawant strongly condemned Azmi’s statement, stating that glorifying Aurangzeb amounts to insulting Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Speaking to ANI, Sawant said, “His membership from the Legislative Assembly should be cancelled. You should understand that glorifying Aurangzeb means insulting Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. What could have been the reason for this statement?” He further alleged that the statement was a deliberate distraction from ongoing controversies in Maharashtra. “In Maharashtra, there was a demand for the resignation of those ministers who were involved in corruption and misconduct... Someone must have told him (Abu Azmi) to make such a statement to divert attention. BJP is an expert in misleading. It is a conspiracy of BJP,” Sawant asserted. According to ANI reports, Sawant accused Azmi of attempting to divert public attention from pressing issues and claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was behind the controversy. Despite widespread criticism of Azmi’s statement, he found support from Samajwadi Party Chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. Yadav questioned the basis of Azmi’s suspension, stating that it violated freedom of expression. “If the basis of suspension starts getting influenced by ideology, then what difference will there be between freedom of expression and subjection? Whether it is our MLAs or MPs, their fearless wisdom is unmatched. If some people think that by 'suspension' one can rein them in, then this is the childishness of their negative thinking,” Yadav remarked, as per ANI reports. The controversy erupted after Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar suspended Abu Azmi for the entire duration of the ongoing budget session on Wednesday. The decision followed Azmi’s remarks in the Assembly, where he reportedly stated that Aurangzeb was not a “cruel administrator” and had built many temples. He further claimed that the battle between Aurangzeb and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was about state administration rather than religious conflict. As per ANI reports, a proposal was presented in the Maharashtra Assembly against Azmi’s remarks, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandrakant Patil arguing that the statement had damaged the dignity of the House. The Speaker subsequently approved the proposal, leading to Azmi’s suspension for the duration of the budget session. Azmi’s comments have triggered widespread political debate, with various parties reacting strongly to his views. The issue continues to be a focal point of political discourse in Maharashtra, as the state grapples with multiple political and governance challenges.
07 March,2025 09:36 AM IST | MumbaiThe Konkan Housing and Area Development Board, a regional division of the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), has initiated the tender process for the sale of land designated for schools and multispecialty hospitals in Shirdhon and Khoni, Kalyan Taluka, Thane district, under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), ANI reports. According to ANI, the Chief Officer of the Konkan Board, Revati Gaikar, has invited eligible applicants, including individuals, companies, public charitable trusts, registered societies, educational institutions, healthcare organisations, partnership firms, trusts, and joint ventures, to participate in the bidding process. Interested applicants must submit their tenders through the official website https://mahatenders.gov.in by 18th March 2025. As per ANI, the housing project in Shirdhon, located at Survey No. 86 and 95 in Kalyan, Thane, has been meticulously designed to establish a model residential township. The development consists of 7,141 housing units for the economically weaker section (EWS) under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and 528 units for the low-income group (LIG) under the MHADA housing scheme. Of these, 1,905 units have already received occupancy certificates, while the remaining units are undergoing the certification process. Additionally, approval has been granted for the construction of 11,023 new LIG units under the MHADA scheme. ANI reports that the project’s layout plan includes two plots measuring 765.64 square metres and 596.87 square metres reserved for multispecialty hospitals, as well as two plots of 3,033.25 square metres and 2,768.67 square metres designated for schools and playgrounds. The development is well-connected, with access to water and electricity supply, and is further enhanced by the proposed Virar-Alibaug Multimodal Corridor, which passes through the site, improving connectivity and transport facilities. Furthermore, the project includes various amenities, such as a multipurpose clubhouse with a community hall and gymnasium, commercial shops, landscaped gardens, and other community-centric facilities. Given these advantages, the available plots for educational and healthcare infrastructure are expected to be highly beneficial for prospective buyers. At Khoni, as per ANI, the construction of 5,060 EWS units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) has been completed, with 4,048 units already granted occupancy certificates. The process of handing over possession is currently underway. Additionally, 2,114 LIG units are under construction. The project is situated near the Katai-Badlapur Pipeline and has access to water and electricity supply, ensuring a well-equipped living environment. ANI reports that MHADA has planned various amenities within the Khoni project, including a community hall, gymnasium, 60 commercial shops, office spaces, a hospital, and gardens. The layout plan designates a 2,464.60 square metre plot for a school, complemented by an adjacent playground. Given that the development consists of 7,174 housing units, a sufficient number of students is anticipated for the proposed educational institution. Considering these factors, the Konkan Board has extended an invitation to eligible applicants to take part in the tender process for the available school and hospital plots in both Shirdhon and Khoni. (With inputs from ANI)
07 March,2025 09:18 AM IST | MumbaiDo 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 March 7. Aries March 21 – April 20Some may apply for 2 days leave to complete personal work. A friend needs counselling. Cosmic tip: Work systematically but without any stress as this karmic cycle is one of gentle forward movement. Taurus April 21 – May 20Be aware about what you think, as reality is created via thoughts. Confidence levels increase as decisions have family support. Cosmic tip: Harvest karmas sowed a long time ago. This works to your advantage. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Dealing with a complex issue is resolved with patience and an exchange of ideas. Regularly get enough sleep at night.Cosmic tip: Take it in your stride if a plan nosedives at the last minute. Cancer June 22 – July 23Check an email for accuracy before clicking on ‘send’. An assignment may be required a day earlier.Cosmic tip: Don’t allow yourself to be swept away in a flood of charm and complimentary words. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Finance is highlighted (a raise in salary, making investments, selling property and maintaining balance between income and expenditure). Cosmic tip: Be appreciative about recognition and praise received. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Some Virgos have reached a crossroads in their professional life. Moving ahead, make decisions very, very carefully. Cosmic tip: Bring clarity to thoughts by discussing a matter with someone trustworthy. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22A change of planetary positions affects career and relationships. Cosmic tip: Wait till the universe waves its magic wand, bringing clarity in a simple manner. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22One financial issue takes a couple of days to be sorted. Cosmic tip: Control what you actually want to say, as against what you do finally speak. You will be glad about it later on. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Experiencing true love is a surprise for some. This in turn makes you introspect how karma actually works. Don’t worry as long as you incur positive karma. Cosmic tip: Sleep with a peaceful mind. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Making it quite clear the person has no business being rude to you quietens them down immediately. Cosmic tip: Believe in Divine intervention when faced with a situation not of your making. Have faith. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19A relationship going through an insecure period recovers. Career or business is moving ahead satisfyingly. Cosmic tip: Remain motivated at work since you experience an important karmic cycle. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Travel, either short/ long distance begins a karmic phase of projects getting completed. A trip makes you anxious. Don’t be.Cosmic tip: Be careful about the topic chosen for discussion when meeting relatives.
07 March,2025 08:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseADVERTISEMENT
