Mumbai: Shiv Sena organised a ‘Yuva Samvad’ (Youth Dialogue) programme in Andheri Assembly constituency, which was enthusiastically attended by a large number of youth. During the event, the youth asked Dr. Shrikant Shinde questions related to education, startups, artificial intelligence (AI), competitive exams, the arts sector, and learning Marathi language. Dr. Shrikant Shinde answered their questions in a pleasant and conversational atmosphere, emphasizing that the youth should not be seen as a mere ‘vote bank’ but through the lens of their future.

The event was organised by Shiv Sena MLA from Andheri, Murji Patel and was attended by Industries Minister Uday Samant, MP Ravinder Waikar and several other Shiv Sena office bearers.

Speaking on the occasion, Murji Patel said that today the youth have high expectations from Shiv Sena. Highlighting the journey of Dr. Shrikant Shinde, he said that the youth are eager to know how Shrikant Shinde overcame difficult circumstances to complete his medical education and achieve success. Marji Patel said that he has vowed to take the party to every home and the work of taking the message of Shiv Sena to every home is underway. He described himself as a grassroots worker, noting that a large number of people who connect with him come from ordinary families and slums. Praising Dr. Shrikant Shinde’s leadership, he remarked that Shinde answers calls from party workers even at 2 am. Uday Samant praised Dr. Shrikant Shinde for his hard work and patriotism. He said Shrikant Shinde completed his medical education with hard work and has a deep sense of patriotism. Referring to ‘Operation Sindhoor’, he said that India gave a befitting reply after the terrorist attack on the country. He said that Shrikant Shinde took the initiative to reveal the truth behind ‘Operation Sindhoor’ to the world.

Jain community should not be seen as just a vote bank

Dr. Shrikant Shinde said that the aim of this programme is to directly interact with the youth. He mentioned that the government listens seriously to any demand of the Jain community and pays attention to them.

He remarked that while some people see the Jain community as just a vote bank and exploit them politically, this is not the intention of the government. Stressing on the need to talk about the future of the youth, he said that this dialogue should be a two-way process rather than a one-sided one. It is very important to understand what the youth want for their future.

Questions related to online education and competitive exams
Raising the issue of high fees for online classes, the youth asked what the government can do for economically backward students. A student suggested starting online classes for competitive exam preparation so that students from financially weaker backgrounds can prepare without having to rely on expensive coaching.

Acknowledging the importance of this suggestion, Dr. Shrikant Shinde noted that such classes have already been started in some places. He said that efforts will be made to start similar classes in every assembly constituency after consulting all stakeholders. Youth enthusiasm for startups and AI
The youth also asked questions about starting a business and the use of AI. In response, Shrikant Shinde said that Maharashtra is at the forefront of the country in the startup sector. He added that the government has made a policy on AI and is working to prepare the youth for new opportunities in this sector.

Recognition of artists
A student stressed on increasing employment and income opportunities for artists. The student said that just as doctors and engineers command respect in the society, artists also deserve recognition and respect. Responding to this, Dr. Shrikant Shinde said that the suggestion will definitely be considered. He stressed the need to work to ensure better opportunities and respect for artists.

UP youth ask: How can we learn Marathi?
During the event, a student from Uttar Pradesh expressed his desire to learn Marathi and asked if arrangements could be made to teach it. Shrikant Shinde said that efforts are already underway to teach Marathi to auto-rickshaw drivers and similar initiatives will be tried for the youth soon.
Judge for yourself the pre-2014 and post-2014 periods
Dispelling concerns that some individuals are misleading the youth, Shrikant Shinde said that this is debatable. He said that while some people try to spread misinformation, the youth are sensible and intelligent.

He urged the youth to seek information for themselves instead of blindly believing what others say. He suggested that they compare the period before 2014 with the period after. By comparing the two, they themselves will be able to distinguish between right and wrong.
The Shiv Sena has established a direct connection with the youth through the ‘Yuva Samvad’ (Youth Dialogue) programme.

On the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi on Wednesday, members of the Muslim community in Mumbai offered prayers and sought special blessings at various locations across the city, including the Minara Masjid.

Highlighting the significance of this auspicious day, a local resident said, “This is a day of Allah’s mercy and blessings. May Allah Almighty remove all our troubles on this holy day. May He keep the entire Muslim community under His protection and keep the city of Mumbai safe. May Allah grant us the opportunity to witness this blessed day again and again. Prominent figures and celebrities are expected to visit throughout the day. Food will be distributed among the people, and processions as well as various other programs will be organized.”

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended his greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his best wishes to the people on this occasion. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Greetings on Milad-un-Nabi. I hope this occasion further enhances unity and happiness among us. May the spirit of compassion and service to society continue to guide us.”

Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi also extended his greetings via X. He wished everyone “peace, happiness, prosperity, and good health.”

On the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, various dargahs (shrines) in Mumbai have been adorned with attractive lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere across the city. Images and videos from Mumbai’s Mahim Dargah showed the shrine illuminated with colorful lights, with a large number of pilgrims and devotees arriving to offer prayers and worship.

Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid, is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. Traditionally, this occasion is observed on the 12th day of Rabi-ul-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

On this day, the Muslim community across the world reflects upon the life, teachings, and message of Prophet Muhammad. During this time, special emphasis is placed on values ​​such as compassion, humanity, justice, and mutual brotherhood.

A holiday has been declared in schools and colleges across Maharashtra on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi. Meanwhile, banks and many offices also remained closed, allowing people to celebrate this holy occasion with religious fervor and reverence.

Following the death of Class 1 student at a government-aided school in Masvan, Palghar district of Maharashtra, the administration initiated strict action against officials and suspended the suprintendent.

The student, identified as Shreyansh Shailesh Ambat, died on Monday. Officials visited the school the following day to assess the situation and inspect the arrangements. The ashram school’s superintendent was suspended with immediate effect over alleged negligence, according to the information provided by the local administration.

Palghar Zilla Parishad Chief Executive Officer and Integrated Tribal Development Project, Dahanu, Project Officer Vishal Khatri, IAS, inspected the school and issued necessary directions to the institution’s office-bearers and staff regarding the safety and well-being of the students.

Officials from the Food and Drug Administration Department also visited the school and seized food ingredients, including spices, turmeric, chilli and cooking oil, used in preparing meals for the students. The seized materials have been sent for examination. A water filter has also been installed at the school, the administration said.

At present, 30 students are currently undergoing treatment at the Masvan Primary Health Centre. The group includes 14 boys and 11 girls. On the advice of doctors, four girls and one boy were shifted to the Rural Hospital in Manor for further treatment.

All the students are reported to be out of danger, according to the information provided by the administration.

Show-cause notices have been issued to the president and secretary of Adisi Seva Mandal, Mumbai, which runs the institution, as well as the primary headmaster and the Class 1 teacher.

A special inquiry committee has also been constituted to conduct a detailed investigation into the student’s death.

Further administrative action against those found responsible will be taken based on the committee’s report, the administration said.