Category Archives: government

Mumbai News: BMC To Form Landscaping Committee For Reliance-Led Beautification Of 53 Hectares Along Coastal Road

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**Mumbai: BMC to Form Dedicated Landscaping Committee for Coastal Road Beautification Project**

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to appoint a dedicated **Landscaping Committee** tasked with evaluating and approving the design report submitted by Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) for beautifying 53 hectares of reclaimed land along the Mumbai Coastal Road.

### Role of the Landscaping Committee

Beyond design approvals, the committee will function as a single-window facilitator to ensure all necessary permissions for greening and landscaping works are obtained seamlessly and at no cost.

### Coastal Road Accessibility Updates

The entire stretch of the Coastal Road, from the Princess Street flyover at Marine Drive to the Worli end of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL), has been open to traffic 24/7 since August 15. This includes 5.25 kilometers of the planned 7.5-km-long promenade and pedestrian underpasses (PUPs).

Simultaneously, Tata Sons Limited is undertaking the beautification of a 5-hectare central median along this arterial road.

### Reliance Industries’ Involvement

Reliance Industries was among five companies that responded to the BMC’s Expression of Interest (EOI) to develop 53 hectares of open spaces along the Coastal Road under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.

RIL will also be responsible for the maintenance of the gardens, promenade, and pedestrian underpasses (PuPs) for the next 30 years. The proposal recently received final approval from Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani.

### Project Approval and Scope

A senior civic official stated, “With administrative approval in place, a Landscaping Committee will soon be formed to approve the design and serve as a single-window facilitator for obtaining all necessary permissions for the landscaping works.”

The Rs 400-crore project includes:

– Development and maintenance of gardens and parks
– Creation of cycle and pedestrian paths
– Landscaping and infrastructure upkeep including sewage treatment plants (STPs), lighting, CCTV, and security
– Maintenance of public utilities and signage
– Implementation of sustainable practices focusing on water conservation and environmental protection

### Impact of the Coastal Road

The Coastal Road is a 10.58-km, 8-lane expressway connecting Worli to Marine Drive, developed at a total cost of Rs 13,984 crore. This new route has significantly benefited motorists, reducing travel time between Bandra and Marine Drive to just 10-12 minutes.

According to the BMC, the road has reduced travel time by 70% and fuel consumption by 34%.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-news-bmc-to-form-landscaping-committee-for-reliance-led-beautification-of-53-hectares-along-coastal-road

Uttar Pradesh News: Lucknow Police Commissionerate Upgrades Wireless Network, Connects All Stations And Beat Constables

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**Lucknow Police Commissionerate First in UP to Upgrade Wireless Communication Network**

Lucknow: The Lucknow Police Commissionerate has become the first in Uttar Pradesh to connect all police stations and beat constables through an upgraded wireless communication network, significantly enhancing law enforcement coordination across the city.

**Details of the Upgrade**

Previously, the static wireless sets at police stations had a limited range of only three kilometres, while handheld devices operated within just one kilometre. According to DG Telecom Ashutosh Pandey, a total of 1,765 wireless sets have been upgraded, which includes 623 static units and 1,142 handheld devices.

The most notable improvement in the system comes from increasing the number of repeater devices across the city from two to eight. Additionally, all wireless sets have been reprogrammed to operate on a unified network, ensuring seamless connectivity among all police units.

**Enhanced Coordination and Response**

“This upgrade removes earlier communication gaps between distant police units,” said Pandey. He highlighted that now, even police stations located as far apart as BKT and Banthra—roughly 33 kilometres away from each other—can communicate directly via wireless.

Officials explained that the new system will significantly improve coordination and speed up response times. Beat constables can instantly relay crime or emergency information to their respective stations and senior officers, facilitating quicker action.

Furthermore, the direct communication link will aid in better management during public events and law-and-order situations, making police operations more efficient and effective.

**Next Phase in Mathura**

Following Lucknow’s success, the upgraded wireless communication system is slated for implementation in Mathura next. This comes at a crucial time as frequent crowd gatherings in Mathura often lead to disruptions in mobile networks, hindering effective communication.

The deployment of the new system is expected to enhance the police force’s ability to maintain public safety and order during such events.

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*Also Watch: Next Phase in Mathura*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/uttar-pradesh/uttar-pradesh-news-lucknow-police-commissionerate-upgrades-wireless-network-connects-all-stations-and-beat-constables

PM Narendra Modi’s Special Message Ahead Of Inaugurating Navi Mumbai Airport & Metro 3 Line; Here’s What He Said

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday reiterated his government’s focus on improving Mumbai’s infrastructure and enhancing the Ease of Living, as he prepared to inaugurate two of the city’s most significant projects: Phase 1 of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) and the final phase of Mumbai Metro Line 3.

Taking to X, the Prime Minister wrote, “On the way to Navi Mumbai to take part in the programme marking the inauguration of Phase-1 of the Navi Mumbai International Airport. With this, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region will get its second major international airport, thus boosting commerce and connectivity. The final phase of the Mumbai Metro Line-3 will also be inaugurated. We are committed to enhancing Mumbai’s infrastructure and boosting Ease of Living for the people of this dynamic city.”

Speaking about the inauguration of Mumbai Metro, he added, “Phase 2B of the Mumbai Metro Line-3 is a significant enhancement to Mumbai’s infrastructure! Metro connectivity is essential for a city’s growth. This project will have a positive impact on the lives of the people of Mumbai.”

### Navi Mumbai International Airport: India’s Largest Greenfield Aviation Project

Developed at an estimated cost of ₹19,650 crore, the Navi Mumbai International Airport represents a major step in India’s journey towards becoming a global aviation hub. Built under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, it is India’s largest Greenfield airport project and the second international airport for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

Spread over 1,160 hectares, NMIA has been designed for maximum efficiency, with the capacity to handle 90 million passengers and 3.25 million metric tonnes of cargo annually. The airport will feature an Automated People Mover (APM) connecting all four passenger terminals for smooth inter-terminal transfers, along with another landside APM linking city-side facilities.

Environmentally conscious in design, NMIA incorporates Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) storage, 47 MW of solar power generation, and electric bus services for city-wide connectivity. It will also become India’s first airport connected by a Water Taxi service, enhancing accessibility while reducing carbon emissions.

### Metro Line 3: Mumbai’s First Fully Underground Metro

Alongside the airport inauguration, PM Modi will also inaugurate Phase 2B of Mumbai Metro Line 3, stretching from Acharya Atre Chowk to Cuffe Parade. Built at an estimated cost of ₹12,200 crore, this milestone will allow the Prime Minister to dedicate the entire Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) to the nation.

Constructed at a total cost of over ₹37,270 crore, this project marks a monumental leap in Mumbai’s urban mobility network. The city’s first fully underground metro line, Metro 3 is expected to transform daily commuting by providing faster, cleaner, and more efficient travel between North and South Mumbai.

By connecting major business, residential, and transport hubs, Metro Line 3 promises to ease congestion, reduce pollution, and redefine public transport for millions of Mumbaikars.

*Text: Kamal Mishra*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/pm-narendra-modi-special-message-ahead-of-inaugurating-navi-mumbai-airport-metro-3-line-heres-what-he-said

EPFO Cracks Down On Corruption, New Guidelines Alert Staff & Subscribers – Here’s What You Need To Know

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**EPFO Takes Strong Action to Curb Corruption and Improve Services**

**New Delhi:** The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced a major initiative to eliminate corruption within its system. This step follows numerous complaints on social media, where users alleged that certain EPFO officials were demanding bribes to process PF claims.

Many users reported that their applications were rejected without explanation, while others claimed that work only progressed after paying money under the table.

In a firm statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), EPFO reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and corruption. The organization emphasized that all services are completely free, and no one should pay even a single rupee to get their work done.

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### How to File a Complaint if Asked for a Bribe

EPFO has advised individuals who are asked to pay a bribe for services such as claim settlement, registration, or any other assistance to immediately file a complaint. Complaints can be submitted to the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) or the Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) of EPFO.

The organization has warned that strict action will be taken against any employee caught demanding or accepting bribes.

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### Where and How to Complain?

To make it easier for users, EPFO has provided clear complaint options:

– **Online:** File a complaint through the official portal at [www.portal.cvc.gov.in](https://www.portal.cvc.gov.in)
– **Offline:** Send a complaint letter via courier to the postal address mentioned in EPFO’s official social media announcement.

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### Major Changes Recently Made in EPFO

EPFO has introduced several significant changes aimed at making its services faster and smoother:

– **Instant Withdrawals:** Users can now withdraw up to Rs 1 lakh instantly using UPI or ATM, which proves helpful during emergencies.
– **Auto-Settlement Limit Increased:** The auto-settlement limit for claims has been raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. This means smaller claims will be processed automatically without needing physical verification.
– **Reduced Documentation:** The number of documents required for PF withdrawal has been reduced from 27 to just 18, shortening the processing time to only 3–4 days.
– **Higher Withdrawal for Home Purchase:** Members with more than 3 years of employment can now withdraw up to 90% of their PF balance for buying a house or paying EMIs.

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### EPFO 3.0: The Upcoming Upgrade

A new version of the EPFO system, **EPFO 3.0**, is set to launch soon. It will bring several new features including:

– Integration of UPI payments
– A dedicated mobile app
– ATM card withdrawals
– Real-time service tracking

These enhancements aim to provide a better, more transparent user experience for all EPFO members.

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Stay tuned for more updates, and remember: EPFO services are free, and any demand for bribes should be reported immediately.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/epfo-cracks-down-on-corruption-new-guidelines-alert-staff-subscribers-heres-what-you-need-to-know

Kerala High Court Slams Centre Over Refusal To Waive Loans For 2024 Wayanad Landslide Victims

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Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Wednesday expressed strong disappointment with the Central government over its refusal to waive loans of people affected by the 2024 Wayanad landslides.

The disaster, which occurred on July 30, 2024, decimated four villages, injured hundreds, claimed over 200 lives, and left 32 people still missing.

A Division Bench of the High Court criticised the Union government for what it described as “bureaucratic babble” and a failure to stand by the citizens of Kerala in a time of crisis.

During the hearing, the Bench told the Central government’s counsel, “Please tell the Union Government it has failed the people of Kerala. We had made it very clear that it is not a situation where the Union is powerless to act. By this affidavit, you’ve again shown that you are hiding behind this argument of powerlessness. Why is that being done?”

The Bench was responding to the Centre’s contention that there is no legal provision for waiving bank loans for natural disaster victims.

“This is just bureaucratic babble. It is not about whether the Union can act, but whether they are willing to act. If you are unwilling, have the courage to say it. Who are you trying to fool?” they asked.

The Court further emphasised that the government should be transparent about its position.

“Please tell your government that these kinds of tactics are not going to carry the day. If they have the courage, let them say that they are not willing to help. At least the people should know that in moments like these, the Union government has failed them,” said the court.

“Having said all this, we can’t be behaving like them. Our sense of Constitutional morality requires us to respect in regard the principle of separation of powers and therefore, we will not issue directions to the Union government. That is because of our magnanimity and as a body, an integral part of the State, which respects the Constitution. Enough is enough. We don’t need the Union’s charity,” it remarked.

The Court thereafter asked for a list of banks and financial institutions controlled by the Union.

It also noted that, as far as some of the state government-controlled banks are concerned, the loans are waived off.

Noting banks such as Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, and some others, the Bench orally observed that it would implead those banks and issue notices to them while staying the recovery action for the time being.

“We will give them the opportunity to seek a modification of this interim order after filing a counter-affidavit, where they will say whether or not they will waive or not the entire loan. If they are not going to waive the loan, either entirely or partially, then let them give reasons as to why they are insisting on this despite this calamitous situation,” the court added.

The case was posted for further hearing after two weeks.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/kerala-high-court-slams-centre-over-refusal-to-waive-loans-for-2024-wayanad-landslide-victims

Good News For IRCTC Users! Indian Railways To Allow Free Date Change For Online Tickets From January 2026, Says Report

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New Delhi: The Indian Railways is set to introduce a passenger-friendly feature allowing travelers to modify the travel date of confirmed online tickets without any additional fees. This move aims to make online ticketing more flexible and convenient. However, this change will come into effect only from January 2026, and not during the current festive season, according to reports.

### Free Date Modification for Online Tickets

A senior railway ministry official informed News18 that the Minister’s office has issued directions to enable free date modification for online tickets, with final details currently being worked out.

“The new system is likely to be implemented from January 2026 and will apply to tickets booked online,” the official said.

Passengers will have the option to change their travel date for the same origin and destination. However, seat confirmation on the new date will depend on availability.

“If you modify a confirmed ticket, there is no guarantee that you will get a confirmed seat for the new date. Confirmation will be subject to availability,” the official added.

In cases where the fare for the new travel date is higher, passengers will be required to pay the fare difference. The ministry is expected to clarify soon whether changing the class of travel will be permitted under this new system.

### Part of Wider Ticketing Reforms

Currently, passengers who wish to change their travel date must cancel their confirmed online ticket and rebook a new one, often incurring cancellation charges of up to 50%. The upcoming feature will simplify this process by allowing direct date changes without the need to re-enter passenger details.

This reform is part of a broader initiative by Indian Railways to modernize and simplify its digital services. With over 80% of tickets now booked through the IRCTC platform, officials believe this feature will significantly reduce cancellations and refund requests.

### Other Recent Measures

In recent months, the railway ministry has also introduced several other measures to improve transparency and accessibility:

– From October 1, only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book general reservation tickets during the first 15 minutes of the booking window.
– Last year, the advance reservation period for train bookings was reduced from 120 days to 60 days to better reflect genuine travel demand.

These initiatives reflect Indian Railways’ ongoing commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through technology and streamlined processes.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/good-news-for-irctc-users-indian-railways-to-allow-free-date-change-for-online-tickets-from-january-2026-says-report

NASHVILLE GOES DARK

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The government shutdown has caused another major air traffic control tower to go dark, leaving no one available to direct planes due to staffing shortages. Nashville’s air traffic approach control is expected to remain dark until after midnight, resulting in significant flight delays and ground stops.

According to the FAA’s website, the ground delay has already backed up flights by more than two hours at Nashville International Airport (BNA). BNA officials noted that the FAA informed them this reduction in manpower “will remain in effect until further notice.” All airlines have been notified of the slowdown, and travelers are advised to check the status of their flights with their airlines before arriving at the airport.

On Monday, a dozen facilities experienced staffing shortages, including Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy attributed some of these issues to many air traffic control workers calling out sick. “If we see there are issues in the tower that are affecting controllers’ ability to effectively control the airspace, we’ll reduce the rate, and you’ll see more delays or you might see a cancellation,” Duffy said.

Another major hub facing travel disruptions due to the government shutdown is Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. The FAA announced a ground delay there starting at 7 p.m. ET and lasting until midnight. O’Hare, one of the busiest airports in the US and the world, handles over 80 million passengers annually and thousands of flights daily.

According to Axios, O’Hare has been experiencing staffing shortages and is expected to remain understaffed in its air traffic control tower for most of the day. FlightAware’s “Misery Map” tracks delayed flights at US airports and highlights travel hubs particularly impacted by the shutdown. So far, O’Hare has seen the most delays Tuesday afternoon, postponing over 60 flights since 2 p.m. ET.

These new travel headaches come less than a day after air traffic control towers at Hollywood Burbank Airport in California were left unmanned for hours due to the ongoing shutdown.

When The Daily Mail requested a comment from the White House on Monday, they received an automatic reply blaming Democrats for the shutdown. The message read: “Due to staff shortages resulting from the Democrat Shutdown, the typical 24/7 monitoring of this press inbox may experience delays.”

Despite the widespread delays, flight cancellations have so far been kept to a minimum nationwide, with only 61 flights into and out of the US cancelled on Tuesday.

Nick Daniels, President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), called for an immediate end to the shutdown during Duffy’s news conference. NATCA represents over 20,000 air traffic controllers and reports that many members have been working 10-hour shifts, six days a week. The shutdown has further strained these vital workers by furloughing support staff and suspending support programs.

Some major airports were already dealing with staffing shortages before Congress failed to pass a new spending bill on October 1. Newark Liberty International Airport, for example, has been plagued by staffing issues and dangerous radar blackouts throughout the year.

As the shutdown continues, travelers are urged to stay informed and prepare for possible delays at several key US airports.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-15171553

Air traffic staffing shortage causes delays at O’Hare amid government shutdown

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Flight Delays at Chicago O’Hare Airport Amid Government Shutdown

CHICAGO (WLS) — The ongoing government shutdown led to flight delays at Chicago O’Hare Airport on Tuesday. Although the airport was not very busy on Tuesday evening, travelers still experienced delays.

Earlier Tuesday, the FAA reported, “Departures to Chicago O’Hare International are delayed an average of 41 minutes due to other delays assigned to departures within 1,200 nautical miles.” This alert has since been removed from the FAA website.

Air traffic controllers are considered essential workers, so they must continue working during the shutdown; however, they are not receiving pay. This situation has left people taking off, coming home, or simply transiting through the airport feeling more than inconvenienced.

“We want to make sure we have air travel safe, and controllers focused not on their mortgages, not on the next paycheck, not on food on the table, but actually on making sure you and your family are safe,” said Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.

Despite these assurances, many passengers remain frustrated about being caught in the middle of a political standoff in Washington, D.C.

An FAA statement reads: “Due to a recent lapse in funding, we know there are many questions about flight delays and staffing shortages across the system. For real-time updates at U.S. airports, including staffing and weather, visit the FAA’s official website.”

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch.

https://abc7chicago.com/post/chicago-ohare-delays-possible-amid-air-traffic-controller-shortage-government-shutdown-continues/17959136/

Maharashtra Approves Independent Navi Mumbai International Airport Police Station With 108 Posts To Boost Security

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**State Government Approves Independent Airport Police Station for Navi Mumbai International Airport**

In a significant move to bolster security around the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), the state government has approved the establishment of an independent airport police station. This new station will comprise a total of 108 posts across various ranks, ensuring a robust security presence for the sprawling airport complex.

**Funding and Expenditure**

The government has sanctioned Rs 3.38 crore as recurring expenditure and Rs 1.76 crore as non-recurring expenditure for the setup and maintenance of the new police station. These funds will help cover infrastructure, staffing, and operational costs.

**Jurisdiction and Structure**

The airport police station will be carved out by dividing the existing jurisdictions of the Panvel City and Ulwe police stations, both under the Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate. The exact jurisdiction boundaries for Panvel, Ulwe, and the new airport police station will soon be finalized and submitted to the state government for approval.

**Airport Development and Security Needs**

The foundation stone for NMIA was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 18, 2018, at Koparbhujhe. The airport is being developed in five phases, with plans to feature four passenger terminals, two runways, a cargo truck terminal, and other vital civil and defense aviation facilities.

Once fully operational, NMIA is expected to handle an impressive capacity of 90 million passengers and 360 million metric tonnes of cargo annually. Given these large-scale operations and the critical need for stringent security measures, the establishment of an independent airport police station was deemed essential.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (HQ) Sanjay Patil stated, “Considering the large-scale operations and the need for stringent security, an independent police station was deemed essential.”

**Reorganisation of Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate**

In July 2025, the Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate underwent a reorganisation, resulting in the creation of Zone-3 (Belapur) by dividing the earlier Zones 1 (Vashi) and 2 (Panvel). During this restructuring process, the proposal for the airport police station was submitted to ensure efficient law enforcement at NMIA and its surrounding areas.

Following a thorough review, the State Home Department approved the proposal and issued an official Government Resolution (GR) on Monday.

**Posts and Staffing Details**

The 108 newly sanctioned posts for the airport police station are distributed as follows:

– 2 Police Inspectors
– 3 Assistant Police Inspectors
– 6 Police Sub-Inspectors
– 6 Assistant Police Sub-Inspectors
– 27 Head Constables
– 42 Constables
– 19 Women Constables
– 3 Driver Constables

**Enhancing Security and Rapid Response**

With this dedicated police station, authorities aim to enhance security, ensure rapid response to incidents, and maintain law and order in and around the Navi Mumbai International Airport. This initiative marks a major step toward safeguarding one of India’s emerging aviation hubs.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-approves-independent-navi-mumbai-international-airport-police-station-with-108-posts-to-boost-security

MP News: CM Mohan Yadav Concerned Over Delay In Allocation Of EWS Houses

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**Chief Minister Mohan Yadav Urges Prompt Allocation of EWS Houses and Planned Urban Development in Madhya Pradesh**

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday expressed concern over the delay in allocation of houses for the economically weaker sections (EWS) constructed by builders during the development of colonies. He emphasized that collectors should promptly ensure 100% allocation of EWS houses to eligible beneficiaries.

Addressing the sectoral discussion on urban areas during the Collector-Commissioner Conference held in Bhopal, Yadav underlined the necessity to draft an action plan for planned urban development across districts. He stressed that this plan must be prepared with a long-term vision, keeping “Vision 2047” in mind.

**Timely Payment for Land Acquisition**

The Chief Minister highlighted that compensation is being provided for land acquired under Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) in urban areas. He urged officials to ensure timely payments are made to landowners whose land has been acquired, to maintain trust and efficiency in the process. Additionally, he issued directives for improving traffic arrangements in urban centers to ease congestion and enhance public safety.

**Development of Bhopal-Indore Metropolitan Area**

Mohan Yadav announced the decision to develop the Bhopal-Indore Metropolitan Area as a major hub. He instructed the collectors of the respective regions to formulate comprehensive plans aimed at making this metropolitan area a center of employment, industrial growth, education, and healthcare facilities. The goal is to boost regional development and improve the quality of life for residents.

**Enhancing Health Services**

In the health and nutrition sector discussion, the Chief Minister called on collectors to ensure significant quality improvements in health services. He encouraged regular visits to hospitals to identify and rectify shortcomings promptly. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of ensuring that all beneficiaries holding Ayushman Cards receive the full benefits of the scheme without any obstacles.

**Creation of Land Banks and Industrial Revival**

Addressing employment, industry, and investment promotion, Yadav directed officials to create land banks by utilizing unused land in urban areas. He highlighted the need for solid steps to make districts self-reliant economically. Special efforts should also be made to promote religious tourism as a growth sector.

The Chief Minister also urged prioritizing the resolution of pending issues related to the Kelaras-based sugar mill. He stressed that cases of closed industrial units must be addressed promptly and resolved within a fixed timeframe to revive industrial activity and generate employment.

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*This comprehensive approach by the Madhya Pradesh government aims to foster sustainable urban development, improve public services, and boost economic growth across the state.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-news-cm-mohan-yadav-concerned-over-delay-in-allocation-of-ews-houses