Month: October 2024

Israeli PM Netanyahu Urges UN Chief to Relocate Peacekeepers from Southern Lebanon

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called on UN Secretary-General António Guterres to move UN peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon out of harm’s way, amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah militants along the border. Netanyahu’s appeal comes just a day after the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) refused to withdraw from the volatile area, despite five of its peacekeepers being injured by recent Israeli fire.

Renewed Conflict: Israel-Lebanon War 2024

In 2024, the long-standing rivalry between Israel and Hezbollah erupted into renewed conflict following cross-border skirmishes and missile attacks. The conflict intensified after a series of rocket launches from southern Lebanon into northern Israel, prompting Israel to carry out targeted airstrikes in Lebanon. Hezbollah, a militant group with close ties to Iran, retaliated with more missile barrages, raising concerns of a broader regional confrontation.

This latest conflict is reminiscent of previous wars, including the devastating 2006 Lebanon War, which caused widespread destruction and displaced thousands. However, the 2024 flare-up features heightened regional tensions, fueled by ongoing geopolitical shifts, including the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Hezbollah’s involvement has drawn attention to fears of a multi-front war, with Israel now confronting security challenges both in the north and south.

UNIFIL’s Role and Netanyahu’s Appeal

UNIFIL, tasked with maintaining the fragile peace along the Israel-Lebanon border since 1978, finds itself in an increasingly dangerous situation. Despite the recent injuries to its personnel, the peacekeeping force has emphasized the importance of staying in place to prevent the escalation of hostilities. Netanyahu, however, argues that the lives of peacekeepers are at risk and has urged the UN to relocate them to safer areas.

As the situation along the border remains volatile, the international community is closely monitoring developments, with fears that the conflict could spiral into a wider regional crisis involving other actors such as Iran and Syria. The coming days will be critical in determining whether diplomatic efforts can de-escalate the situation or if the violence will continue to escalate.

मुख्यमंत्री एकनाथ शिंदे यांच्याकडून गोमातांचे पूजन: देशी गायींना ‘राज्यमाता-गोमाता’ म्हणून मान्यता

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नांदेड, 13 ऑक्टोबर 2024: मुख्यमंत्री एकनाथ शिंदे यांनी आज नांदेड येथे आयोजित महिला सशक्तीकरण कार्यक्रमाच्या प्रारंभी देशी गोमातांचे विधिवत पूजन करून शुभारंभ केला. कार्यक्रमापूर्वी त्यांनी लाल कंधारी, मथुरा लभाण आणि देवणी या देशी गायींना पुष्पहार अर्पण करून श्रद्धापूर्वक वंदना केली.

गेल्या काही दिवसांपासून महाराष्ट्र शासनाने देशी गायींना ‘राज्यमाता-गोमाता’ म्हणून अधिकृत मान्यता दिली आहे. या उपक्रमाचा उद्देश स्थानिक गोवंश संवर्धनाला चालना देणे आणि पर्यावरणपूरक तसेच पारंपरिक पद्धतींच्या शेतीचे महत्त्व अधोरेखित करणे हा आहे. देशी गायींच्या दुग्धजन्य उत्पादनांमुळे पोषणवर्धक मूल्यांसोबतच शेतकऱ्यांच्या अर्थकारणातही सुधारणा घडवता येईल, असा शासनाचा विश्वास आहे.

मुख्यमंत्री शिंदे यांनी या पूजनाच्या माध्यमातून गोसेवा आणि महिलांच्या सशक्तीकरणाला जोडण्याचा संदेश दिला. त्यांनी आपल्या भाषणात सांगितले की, “गायींशी आपले नाते फक्त धार्मिकच नाही तर आर्थिक आणि पर्यावरणीयदृष्ट्याही महत्त्वाचे आहे. देशी गायींचे संरक्षण आणि संवर्धन करणे हे आपले कर्तव्य आहे.”

कार्यक्रमादरम्यान मुख्यमंत्री शिंदे यांनी महिला सशक्तीकरणासाठी राबवण्यात येणाऱ्या विविध सरकारी योजना आणि उपक्रमांची माहिती दिली. ग्रामीण भागातील महिलांना स्वावलंबी बनवण्यासाठी गायपालन, दुग्ध व्यवसाय आणि स्वयंरोजगाराच्या संधी उपलब्ध करून दिल्या जातील, असेही त्यांनी जाहीर केले.

शासनाने दिलेल्या ‘राज्यमाता-गोमाता’ दर्जामुळे देशभरात गोसेवा आणि गोसंवर्धनाची चळवळ अधिक गतीने पुढे नेण्याचा प्रयत्न होत आहे. या उपक्रमामुळे महाराष्ट्रातील पारंपरिक देशी गोवंशांचे पुनरुज्जीवन होण्यासह ग्रामीण अर्थव्यवस्थेत सकारात्मक बदल घडण्याची अपेक्षा आहे.

Sanath Jayasuriya Appointed as Head Coach of Sri Lanka’s National Cricket Team

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Colombo, Oct 13: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially named Sanath Jayasuriya as the head coach of the national team. The board announced that the decision was made by the Executive Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket, citing the team’s commendable performances during recent tours against India, England, and New Zealand.

Jayasuriya had taken on the role of interim coach in July 2024, providing stability and guidance to the team. His contributions over the past few months have earned him the board’s confidence, resulting in his permanent appointment.

SLC stated that Jayasuriya’s leadership has been instrumental in helping the squad deliver consistent performances in challenging series. “The decision to appoint Jayasuriya as head coach aligns with our vision to build a competitive and resilient team,” an SLC spokesperson said during the media briefing.

Jayasuriya, known for his aggressive approach both as a player and coach, is expected to continue shaping the team’s tactical mindset ahead of key tournaments, including the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.

Sanath Jayasuriya: A Legend of Sri Lankan Cricket

Sanath Jayasuriya, widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, transformed the way limited-overs cricket is played. Born on June 30, 1969, in Matara, Sri Lanka, Jayasuriya made his debut for the national team in 1989. However, it was during the 1996 World Cup that he became a global sensation. His explosive batting at the top of the order, combined with effective left-arm spin bowling, was pivotal in Sri Lanka’s first World Cup triumph.

Throughout his career, Jayasuriya amassed over 13,000 runs and took more than 300 wickets in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). In Tests, he scored 14 centuries, including a career-best 340 against India. His fearless stroke play redefined power-hitting in the opening overs, influencing the modern-day style of aggressive batting in limited-overs cricket.

After his playing career ended in 2011, Jayasuriya continued to contribute to cricket in various roles, including a brief stint as a selector and mentor. His appointment as head coach now offers a new chapter for both the player-turned-coach and Sri Lankan cricket as they aim to regain their prominence on the international stage.

Sri Lankan cricket fans and former players have welcomed his appointment, hoping his vast experience and passion will inspire a new generation of cricketers.

#Cricket | #SriLanka | #SanathJayasuriya | #CricketNews | #JayasuriyaCoach | #TeamSriLanka | #CricketUpdates

Kim Yo Jong  sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Warns Seoul of “Horrible Disaster” Over Drone Incursions

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Pyongyang, North Korea – Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, issued a stern warning to South Korea, threatening a “horrible disaster” if South Korean drones are detected flying over Pyongyang. Her statement comes amidst growing tensions between the two nations over alleged airspace violations.

Kim criticized the South Korean military’s response to Pyongyang’s recent accusations that South Korean drones entered the capital’s airspace. While Seoul has denied the allegations, she dismissed the denial as irresponsible and provocative.

“The reckless actions of South Korean drones could trigger unforeseen disasters,” Kim Yo Jong warned, adding that the North will not hesitate to respond with decisive measures. This latest statement underscores North Korea’s sensitivity to perceived threats, particularly when it involves its capital city.

Relations between the two Koreas have deteriorated sharply in recent months, with both sides conducting military drills and accusing each other of aggressive postures. This drone controversy adds another layer to the ongoing diplomatic standoff. South Korea, meanwhile, has stated it will continue to monitor the North’s activities and safeguard its airspace.

As the tension escalates, experts caution that any miscalculation could lead to military escalation on the Korean Peninsula, jeopardizing regional stability.

Both Pyongyang and Seoul have yet to confirm further dialogue to address the issue, leaving the situation fraught with uncertainty.

Citizens March for Peace & Unity Held in Moira, Aldona

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Moira, October 12, 2024 – In a powerful display of solidarity, the Citizens March for Peace and Unity took place in Moira, bringing together people from across Aldona and neighboring villages. Organized to promote harmony and combat divisive forces, the march witnessed enthusiastic participation from locals, with representatives from Mapusa, Bastora, Ucassaim, Paliem, Moira, Nachinola, Aldona, Corjuém, Calvim, Carona, Olaulim, Pomburpa, and Ecoxim.

Among the prominent figures present was the Aldona MLA, Advocate Carlos Alvares Ferreira, who delivered a stirring message emphasizing the need for unity in these challenging times. Speaking to the media, Ferreira urged Goans to remain true to the values that define Goa’s spirit – peace, harmony, and mutual respect.

In his address, Ferreira remarked:

*”My fellow Goans,
In these challenging times, we must remember the essence of who we are as Goans – a people united by love for our land, not divided by religion, caste, or creed. Goa has always been a beacon of peace, where harmony and respect for one another have been our strength.

Let us not fall prey to those who seek to divide us with hatred and fear. We have inherited a legacy of togetherness, and it is our duty to preserve it. Now more than ever, we must stand together, side by side, as true Goans. Together, we can protect the spirit of unity, restore peace, and nurture the harmony that makes Goa so special.

Let us rise above the rhetoric and show the world that in Goa, love and unity always prevail. Our beautiful state deserves nothing less.

Many thanks to the huge number of people who, at very short notice, came from Mapusa, Bastora, Ucassaim, Paliem, Moira, Nachinola, Aldona, Corjuém, Calvim, Carona, Olaulim, Pomburpa, and Ecoxim.
Viva Goa!

Carlos Alvares Ferreira

GoaJodo”*

The march aimed to convey a message of peace amidst growing social tensions, encouraging Goans to rise above differences and maintain the communal harmony that the state is known for.

Participants carried banners promoting peace and love, and the event concluded with cultural performances and local musicians singing traditional Goan songs, further highlighting the message of unity. The large turnout at short notice was seen as a testament to the deep-rooted sense of brotherhood shared by the people of Aldona and nearby areas.

The Citizens March was not just a call for peace but a reminder of the values Goans hold dear – unity in diversity, respect for all, and love for the land they call home.

With the rallying cry of #GoaJodo, the event reinforced the need for collective efforts to maintain Goa’s essence of peaceful coexistence.

Former Maharashtra Minister Baba Siddique Shot Dead in Mumbai; Ajit Pawar, Praful Patel Express Grief

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Mumbai, October 12, 2024: Former Maharashtra minister and Congress leader Baba Siddique was shot dead late Saturday night in Mumbai’s western suburbs. The incident has sent shockwaves across the state, with several political leaders expressing deep grief.

According to sources, Siddique was attacked by three assailants near Bandra today evening. He sustained two bullet wounds to the chest and was immediately rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Political Reactions and Condolences

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar expressed sorrow, calling Siddique’s demise “a heartbreaking loss.” He described Siddique as a trusted friend and a leader who stood for unity. NCP leader Praful Patel also conveyed his condolences, highlighting Siddique’s efforts toward fostering communal harmony.

The Mumbai Congress offered its condolences, emphasizing the former minister’s contribution to the party and the people of Maharashtra. Siddique was well-known for hosting grand Iftar gatherings, bringing together politicians and Bollywood celebrities.

Investigation and Arrests

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed the arrests of two suspects — one from Haryana and another from Uttar Pradesh. “The third suspect is on the run, but police are confident of capturing him soon. We will fast-track the case to ensure justice,” Shinde said.

Police sources confirmed that three rounds were fired at Siddique, with one other individual also sustaining injuries during the attack. CCTV footage from the area is being examined, and officials are working to determine the motive behind the shooting.

The tragedy comes amid heightened political tensions in Maharashtra, adding to the uncertainty ahead of the upcoming elections.

Siddique’s last rites will take place on Sunday, with several prominent leaders expected to attend.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Upgraded to 14th Maharatna CPSE

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The Government of India has approved the upgradation of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to the status of a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE). The announcement was made by the Department of Public Enterprises, following the approval from Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

With this decision, HAL becomes the 14th public sector company to achieve Maharatna status, marking a significant milestone for the defense and aerospace company. The Maharatna designation provides enhanced financial autonomy and greater decision-making authority, allowing the enterprise to expand operations, invest in new projects, and undertake strategic initiatives more independently.

The proposal to elevate HAL to this prestigious status was earlier recommended by an Inter-Ministerial Committee chaired by the Finance Secretary. It also received approval from the Apex Committee, headed by the Cabinet Secretary.

HAL has played a crucial role in India’s defense sector, specializing in the manufacturing and maintenance of military aircraft, helicopters, and other aerospace products. Its new status as a Maharatna CPSE will empower the organization to undertake larger investments and boost India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

The upgradation reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s public sector enterprises and promoting their global competitiveness. HAL’s elevation to Maharatna status aligns with India’s broader objectives of achieving self-sufficiency in defense and aerospace technology.

This development is expected to encourage further innovation, research, and development within HAL, ultimately enhancing India’s indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd. (KTCL) Celebrates 44th Foundation Day

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Panaji, October 12, 2024: Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd. (KTCL) marked its 44th Foundation Day with a grand celebration attended by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, KTCL Chairman and MLA Shri Ulhas Tuenkar, and other dignitaries. Dr. Sawant inaugurated the event by performing a traditional pooja and extended his best wishes to the corporation’s dedicated staff.

In his address, Dr. Sawant acknowledged KTCL’s consistent service to the people of Goa and announced several upcoming reforms. He assured employees that the 7th Pay Commission benefits would be implemented soon. Additionally, he promised that temporary employees will be regularized, and new staff will be hired to address manpower shortages.

Highlighting the challenges faced by KTCL, the Chief Minister noted that a shortage of buses has disrupted inter-state services. To overcome this, he confirmed that electric buses (e-buses) will be introduced across Goa to improve public transportation.

Dr. Sawant also addressed concerns surrounding the introduction of the “Majhi Bus” initiative. He clarified that the scheme is not intended to compete with KTCL but to strengthen public transportation in Goa.

KTCL continues to provide several concessions to passengers. Students, senior citizens, private company employees, and cancer patients benefit from discounted bus passes. In a compassionate move, KTCL offers free transport services to cancer patients, HIV patients, and people with disabilities.

Encouraging citizens to opt for public transportation, Dr. Sawant urged those traveling long distances to avoid using personal vehicles and instead make use of KTCL’s services.

The Chief Minister commended KTCL’s ongoing efforts to embrace new technologies and innovations in its operations, ensuring reliable and efficient transport for all. The Foundation Day celebration concluded with a renewed commitment to improve public transportation in Goa and better serve its people.

Successful Runway Test of Navi Mumbai International Airport Marks a Milestone

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Navi Mumbai, October 12, 2024 – In a historic moment, the runway of the Navi Mumbai International Airport was successfully tested today in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Sambhaji Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. An Air Force C-295 aircraft made a smooth landing, greeted with a water cannon salute, marking an important milestone in the airport’s development. The test also featured a successful flight by a Sukhoi-30 fighter jet, demonstrating the airport’s readiness to handle advanced aviation operations.

The landing of the C-295 was a highlight of the event, and the pilot received a special honor from both Chief Minister Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Shinde hailed the achievement as a moment that would be remembered with “golden letters” in Maharashtra’s history.

With the airport project now in its final phase, the successful runway test represents a crucial step toward the official opening, which is scheduled for March 2025. “This new airport will not only enhance connectivity but also generate thousands of employment opportunities, accelerating Maharashtra’s progress,” Chief Minister Shinde said. He praised CIDCO for its efforts, noting that the airport construction is advancing ahead of schedule.

The Deputy Chief Minister also lauded the team for their dedication, emphasizing that the airport would become a hub for economic activity, with IT parks and commercial centers planned around it. “This project is a symbol of Maharashtra’s future growth,” Fadnavis remarked.

The event was held on the eve of Vijayadashami, adding to the celebratory atmosphere for both citizens and aviation enthusiasts. The dignitaries present included Union Minister of State Muralidhar Mohol, CIDCO President Sanjay Shirsat, MPs Shrirang Barne and Sunil Tatkare, Dr. Shrikant Shinde, and several MLAs such as Ganesh Naik, Prashant Thakur, and Mahesh Baldi.

Senior officials including Navi Mumbai Police Commissioner Milind Bharambay, Divisional Commissioner Dr. Deshmukh, Raigad District Collector Kishan Jawale, and CIDCO Vice President Vijay Singhal were also in attendance, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

The successful runway test is a promising indicator that the Navi Mumbai International Airport will soon transform the region into a bustling economic zone, benefiting both passengers and businesses across Maharashtra.

राष्ट्रीय स्वयंसेवक संघाचे प्रमुख डॉ. मोहन भागवत यांनी महिलांवरील अत्याचाराचा निषेध केला, गुन्हेगारी आणि राजकारण यांच्यातील संबंध असल्याचे सांगितले

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नागपूर, 12 ऑक्टोबर: राष्ट्रीय स्वयंसेवक संघ (आरएसएस) प्रमुख डॉ. मोहन भागवत यांनी भारतातील महिलांवरील वाढत्या हिंसाचाराच्या घटनांबद्दल तीव्र चिंता व्यक्त केली आणि अशा गुन्ह्यांमुळे गुन्हेगारी आणि राजकारण यांच्यातील अस्वस्थ संबंध दिसून येतात. आरएसएसच्या ९९व्या स्थापना दिनानिमित्त नागपुरातील विजयादशमी कार्यक्रमात बोलताना भागवत यांनी कोलकाता येथील आरजी कार मेडिकल कॉलेज आणि हॉस्पिटलमधील अलीकडील लज्जास्पद घटनेचा विशेष उल्लेख केला.

“आरजी कार हॉस्पिटलमधील घटना ही आपल्या समाजासाठी लांच्छनास्पद आहे,” असे भागवत यांनी आपल्या भाषणात सांगितले. त्यांनी भर दिला की अशी कृत्ये अलिप्त नसून गुन्हेगारी आणि राजकीय हितसंबंधांच्या वाढत्या गुंफणामुळे होतात, ज्यामुळे न्याय सुनिश्चित करणे कठीण होते. “या हानिकारक आघाड्या मोडून काढण्यासाठी समाजाने एकत्र येण्याची वेळ आली आहे,” ते पुढे म्हणाले.

भागवत यांनी विजयादशमी व्यासपीठाचा वापर केला – आरएसएससाठी महत्त्वपूर्ण सांस्कृतिक आणि प्रतीकात्मक महत्त्वाचा प्रसंग – महिलांची सुरक्षा आणि सन्मान सुनिश्चित करण्यासाठी सरकार आणि नागरिकांना एकत्र काम करण्याचे आवाहन करण्यासाठी. “जो समाज आपल्या महिलांचे संरक्षण करण्यात अयशस्वी ठरतो तो त्याचे नैतिक स्थान गमावून बसतो,” त्यांनी जोर दिला.

समाजाच्या प्रत्येक स्तरावर आदर, जबाबदारी आणि उत्तरदायित्व यांसारख्या मूल्यांना चालना देण्याच्या महत्त्वाचा पुनरुच्चार करून, अशा हिंसाचाराला कारणीभूत असलेल्या मूळ मुद्द्यांचा सामना करण्यासाठी आत्मनिरीक्षण आणि सामूहिक प्रयत्नांचे आवाहन आरएसएस प्रमुखांनी केले.

नागपुरातील RSS मुख्यालयात आयोजित वार्षिक विजयादशमी उत्सवात हजारो स्वयंसेवक आणि मान्यवर येतात. या वर्षीच्या कार्यक्रमाला अतिरिक्त महत्त्व प्राप्त झाले कारण संस्थेची शताब्दी जवळ येत आहे, भागवतांच्या भाषणाने RSS च्या प्राधान्यक्रम आणि चिंता पुढे जाण्यासाठी टोन सेट केला.

भागवत यांनी आपल्या भाषणाचा समारोप ऐक्याचा संदेश देऊन केला, “विजयादशमी हे वाईटावर चांगल्याच्या विजयाचे प्रतीक आहे. नागरिक या नात्याने, कोणत्याही स्वरूपातील वाईट- मग तो गुन्हा, भ्रष्टाचार किंवा अन्याय असो- आपल्या समाजातून उखडून टाकणे हे आपले कर्तव्य आहे.”

आरजी कार हॉस्पिटलमधील घटना आणि भागवत यांच्या तीक्ष्ण टिप्पणीमुळे राजकीय वर्तुळात प्रतिक्रिया उमटल्या आहेत, आता अनेक नेत्यांना महिलांच्या सुरक्षेसाठी निर्णायक पावले उचलण्याचे आवाहन केले जात आहे.