Maharashtra
YEAREND INTERVIEW: Cong seats won’t grow like Rahul’s beard: Ramdas Athawale
With the nation set to go to the polls in 2024, political parties have already started preparing for the all-important Lok Sabha elections.
While the Congress is covering the length and breadth of the country with its ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, the BJP too is in action mode to ensure painting the nation with saffron colour for the third successive term.
Speaking exclusively with IANS, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, claimed that the BJP will will win 350 seats in 2024, while the NDA’s tally will touch the 400-mark.
Also targeting Rahul Gandhi and his Bharat Jodo Yatra, the President of the Republican Party of India said that he (Rahul Gandhi) might have grown his beard, but that won’t help the Congress grow the number of seats in 2024, as the Yatra will make no difference.
Here are excerpts from the interview:
Q: The year 2022 is nearing its end. How did the year go for your ministry? What were the achievements?
A: This year, we introduced many policies for the SC, OBC and De-notified Tribes (DNTs). We also introduced policies under the Accessible India Campaign or Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, which is a programme for the differently-able community of the country.
Similarly, we have pension policies for the elderly. We have three commissions under our ministry — for the Schedule Caste, Other Backward Class and Safai Mazdoor. We keep working on such policies so that people can get benefits from them.
Q: What are the major plans of the ministry for 2023?
A: We have appointed the Rohini Commission under which there is 27 per cent reservation for OBCs, but the DNTs are demanding separate reservation. Though this falls under the OBC category, the DNT community is not getting any benefits from the commission. So there are talks regarding categorisation of this 27 per cent reservation system.
Also, we have given 10 per cent reservation to economically weaker sections in jobs and admission, whose annual family income is below Rs 8 lakh and who don’t fall under SC/ST/OBC categories. Any family from any caste falls in this category and can avail benefits of this policy.
We have also appointed a three-member commission, headed by former Chief Justice of India, K.G. Balakrishnan, to consider the possibility of granting SC status to ‘new persons who have historically belonged to the Scheduled Castes’, but have converted to religions other than Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. He has also been given the responsibility to study Dalit Muslims and Dalit Christians and submit a report within six months.
Q: India is hosting the G20 meet next year. What will be the contribution of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment?
A: We are in the process of chalking out new programmes for the G20 meet. We will come up with new ideas.
Besides, we have a scheme of overseas scholarship under which we give scholarships to Schedule Caste students to go aboard and study. This year, we sent 125 students abroad and we are targeting to ramp up the numbers next year.
Q: The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are not far away, and the Republican Party of India is in alliance with the BJP. What are you thoughts about the upcoming general elections?
A: In 2024, we are targeting 350+ seats for the BJP, while the NDA should win 400+ seats. In 2019, BJP had got 303 seats alone, so the target is more this time. The Republican Party of India is fully with the BJP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds good thoughts about Babasaheb Ambedkar. He has vowed to strengthen the Constitution framed by Ambedkar. His ideology of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayaas’ is appreciable.
The Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Aatamnirbhar Bharat’ is incomparable. He is a global leader. He has taken the country’s economy to a new level. Leaders like Rahul Gandhi cannot even face Modi in 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Q: The opposition parties seem to be coming together for the next general elections, just like like they formed the Mahagathbandhan in 2019. What is your take on this?
A: It is hard for all the opposition parties to come together. Also, every party wants the PM candidate to be from their party. Even if they come together, facing PM Modi will be tough for them. The Prime Minister not only has the support of the NDA, he also enjoys the support of the common people. He is running a good government.
Q: Rahul Gandhi’s popularity seems to be growing with the Bharat Jodo Yatra that his drawing good crowd. Do you think it will make any difference in 2024?
A: This is not Bharat Jodo Yatra, but ‘Bharat Todo Yatra’. If Congress wanted to do Bharat Jodo, they could have done it during its 70-year rule. But what they did was ‘Bharat Todo’.
Also, Rahul Gandhi should first work on ‘Congress Jodo’ instead. Yes, the Yatra is drawing large crowds, but that will not translate into votes in favour of the Congress. Rahul Gandhi has grown his beard, but Congress’ seats will not grow.
Maharashtra
The Holy Prophet came as a mercy to the world not only to humans but also to animals.

Mumbai: the arrival of the government, the arrival of the master, the arrival of the lord, the streets of Mumbai echoed with the loud slogans of “Welcome, welcome, welcome” when the historic Muhammadi procession was taken out from the Khalifat House. The procession was warmly welcomed at every place. The procession was accompanied by a convoy of lovers of the Prophet, reciting Naat and Manaqabat along the way, playing drums. The convoy of lovers of the Prophet passed through the Muslim-majority areas of Nagpara, Madnapura, Do Tanki and other highways and came to a peaceful end at Mastan Talab after reciting Naat, Manaqabat and prayers. Before the procession, a meeting was held at the Khalifat House, where scholars described the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) as a mercy for the worlds and said that today the world has come to his aid. Addressing the gathering, Mufti Hazrat Allama Khaliq Ashraf, Principal of Darul Uloom Ashrafia Mazhar Uloom, said that until 40 years before the announcement of Prophethood, people were indeed human, but they did not have human qualities. He (PBUH) transformed the beasts, i.e., beasts, into humans on the land of Arabia. My Holy Prophet did not come as a mercy only for humans, but he came as a mercy for animals as well. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) visited the house of a deer owner, the deer said that it had two children and wanted permission to breastfeed them. The Prophet (peace be upon him) told the deer owner that this deer is the mother of two children and wants permission to breastfeed her children and will return after breastfeeding. The owner then asked who would guarantee that the deer would return. The Prophet (peace be upon him) guaranteed the return of the deer and the deer returned after breastfeeding. The Prophet (peace be upon him) expressed his desire to buy the deer. The deer owner gave the deer to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and then he untied its rope and set it free. The deer said that you are Muhammad Mustafa (peace be upon him), you were the only one who could set me free. You (peace be upon him) were merciful not only to humans but also to animals. This Muhammadan procession will be successful when humanity is shown in the procession. If an ambulance comes on the way, give way to it. Eid Priority should be given to welfare works on Milad-un-Nabi and good deeds should be done on the birth of Muhammad (peace be upon him). This will be our true tribute to the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him). Deputy Chairperson of the Legislative Council Sachin Ahir said that the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) has spread the message of peace and is the standard bearer of justice and humanity. The message of brotherhood and peace is spread in the procession of Eid Milad-un-Nabi and unity is achieved. We are different, our ways of worship are unique, but our homeland is one and our goal is to promote unity. Member of Parliament Congress Senior Leader Imran Pratap Garhi started his speech with a poem and said that.
I respect all the people in the world, but after Mustafa, Imran Pratap Garhi narrated the history of the Khilafat Movement and said that Gandhiji had started the Non-Cooperation Movement along with the Khilafat Movement. When the Messenger of Allah was sent into the world, he was sent as a mercy for the whole world. India is like a bouquet and we have made countless sacrifices for the freedom of this country. Therefore, the unity and solidarity of this country is its specialty. Former MLA Waris Pathan said that this is not a political procession, by the grace of Allah Almighty, we have all gathered here to celebrate the birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet. MLA Amin Patel said that you (PBUH) have come to this earth as a mercy for the worlds and we, the lovers of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), celebrate his birth anniversary. Member of Assembly Manoj Jamsatkar said that the Khilafat Committee is of historical importance and the procession of Milad is taken out from here. You (PBUH) have broken the chains of ignorance, oppression and oppression and given a new life to humanity. After the meeting, after the prayers and greetings, the meeting took the form of a procession. In the procession, the leader of the procession, Allama Khaliq Ashraf, Congress leader and MP Imran Parpapgarhi, MP Amin Patel and others rode in an open jeep and led the procession. The procession was given a grand welcome by the Baikla Fruit Market. Before the vehicle of these leaders, a convoy of lovers of the Prophet was playing Naat and Manaqabat of the Prophet of Mercy in a respectful and respectful manner, which was very unique. The procession also included tableaux of the holy place, in which the attractions of Medina and Mecca were also included on trucks. In view of Eid Milad-un-Nabi, the police had also made strict security arrangements. Additional Commissioner Central Region Vikram Di Mane, along with the procession staff, was on duty to provide security for the procession. No untoward incident of any kind was reported during the procession and the procession ended peacefully.
Maharashtra
Shiv Sena’s ‘Yuva Samvad’ (Youth Dialogue) in Andheri

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.
Maharashtra
Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2026: Festival celebrated with grand festivities in Mumbai; CM Fadnavis and other leaders extended their greetings.

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.
-
Crime4 years agoClass 10 student jumps to death in Jaipur
-
Maharashtra2 years agoMumbai Local Train Update: Central Railway’s New Timetable Comes Into Effect; Check Full List Of Revised Timings & Stations
-
Maharashtra2 years agoMumbai To Go Toll-Free Tonight! Maharashtra Govt Announces Complete Toll Waiver For Light Motor Vehicles At All 5 Entry Points Of City
-
Maharashtra2 years agoFalse photo of Imtiaz Jaleel’s rally, exposing the fooling conspiracy
-
National News2 years agoMinistry of Railways rolls out Special Drive 4.0 with focus on digitisation, cleanliness, inclusiveness and grievance redressal
-
Maharashtra2 years agoMaharashtra Elections 2024: Mumbai Metro & BEST Services Extended Till Midnight On Voting Day
-
National News2 years agoJ&K: 4 Jawans Killed, 28 Injured After Bus Carrying BSF Personnel For Poll Duty Falls Into Gorge In Budgam; Terrifying Visuals Surface
-
Crime2 years agoBaba Siddique Murder: Mumbai Police Unable To Get Lawrence Bishnoi Custody Due To Home Ministry Order, Says Report
