Category Archives: politics

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

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

Tata Group Crisis Brewing? Top Guns Meet Amit Shah As Tensions Rise Over Governance & Board Appointments

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A Crisis Brewing Within the Tata Empire: Government Intervention Underway

A crisis appears to be brewing within the highly respected Tata empire. Reports indicate escalating tension primarily between Tata Sons and a section of Tata Trusts over board appointments and governance issues.

Key Tata Group leaders—including Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata, Tata Sons chairman N. Chandrasekaran, Tata Trusts vice-chairman Venu Srinivasan, and trustee Darius Khambata—met on Tuesday with Union Home Minister Amit Shah at his residence. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was also present during the meeting. The Tata Group has refrained from commenting on the matter.

### Government Steps In to Maintain Stability

The Central government, reportedly keen on preserving stability within the $180 billion corporate behemoth, has decided to intervene in order to prevent the crisis from escalating. This development comes on the eve of the first death anniversary of Ratan Tata, the visionary leader who propelled the group to global prominence through major acquisitions in the West.

### Roots of the Conflict

It is understood that tensions began surfacing as early as 2017—not only between Tata Sons and Tata Trusts but also within the Trust itself. Ratan Tata’s towering personality and astute leadership had historically ensured internal stability, but his absence has allowed these fissures to widen.

Tata Trusts wields decisive influence over India’s most valuable conglomerate through its approximately 66% stake in Tata Sons, the promoter and holding company of the salt-to-semiconductor group.

### Divisions Within Tata Trusts

Sources reveal that Tata Trusts is currently vertically split. One faction aligns with Noel Tata, who took over as chairman of the Trusts following Ratan Tata’s death. The opposing faction consists of four trustees led by Mehli Mistry, who has affiliations with the extended Shapoorji Pallonji family—the family that owns roughly 18.37% of Tata Sons.

Mehli Mistry reportedly feels excluded from key decisions, exacerbating existing tensions.

### The Core Dispute: Board Seats at Tata Sons

The flashpoint centers on board seats at Tata Sons, which controls the 156-year-old Tata Group—comprising around 400 companies, including 30 publicly listed firms.

A source commented, “The primary question before the government, considering how significant the Tata Group is to the country’s economy, is whether it can allow an individual to take control of it. The infighting among trustees of Tata Trusts has an impact on Tata Sons.”

As one of India’s most iconic business conglomerates, the outcome of this internal dispute will be closely watched by industry experts and stakeholders alike. The government’s involvement underscores its commitment to safeguarding the stability of this vital corporate entity.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/tata-group-crisis-brewing-top-guns-meet-amit-shah-as-tensions-rise-over-governance-board-appointments

Two years since the October 7 massacre and the trauma is far from over – opinion

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Two Years Since the October 7 Massacre: The Trauma Is Far From Over

The calculated sadism inflicted on women and men, soldiers and civilians, young and old—entire communities—was unprecedented. Sexual violence was an intentional component of the enemy strategy.

Demonstrators hold signs against what they describe as international silence over sexual violence perpetrated against Israeli women during the attack by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, at a protest in Jerusalem, November 27, 2023.
(Photo credit: REUTERS/DEDI HAYUN)

By ORIT SULITZEANU
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-869608

Two years since the October 7 massacre and the trauma is far from over – opinion

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Two Years Since the October 7 Massacre: The Trauma Is Far from Over

The calculated sadism inflicted on women and men, soldiers and civilians, young and old—entire communities—was unprecedented. Sexual violence was not incidental; it was an intentional component of the enemy’s strategy.

Demonstrators recently held signs protesting what they describe as international silence over sexual violence perpetrated against Israeli women during the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7. The protest took place in Jerusalem on November 27, 2023.

(Photo credit: REUTERS/DEDI HAYUN)

By ORIT SULITZEANU
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-869608

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/

Two years since the October 7 massacre and the trauma is far from over – opinion

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Two Years Since the October 7 Massacre: The Trauma Is Far from Over

The calculated sadism inflicted on women and men, soldiers and civilians, young and old—entire communities—was unprecedented. Sexual violence was not incidental; it was an intentional component of the enemy’s strategy.

Demonstrators hold signs protesting what they describe as international silence over sexual violence perpetrated against Israeli women during the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7. The protest took place in Jerusalem on November 27, 2023.
(Photo credit: REUTERS/DEDI HAYUN)

By ORIT SULITZEANU
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-869608

East Indians Demand Naming Of Mumbai Airport Terminal After Freedom Fighter Joseph ‘Kaka’ Baptista

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Following the government’s decision to name the Navi Mumbai International Airport after D. B. Patil, a late local leader, members of the East Indian community have now urged authorities to rename the domestic terminal of the Mumbai airport in honour of freedom fighter Joseph Baptista, one of the city’s original inhabitants.

### Call for Recognition of East Indian Heritage

The East Indian community has drawn parallels between the histories of the two airports. While the Navi Mumbai airport was constructed on land acquired from Agris, Kolis, and other local castes, the Mumbai airport too was built on farmland belonging to East Indians, who are Roman Catholic converts from the same castes.

Community members argue that the contribution of East Indians, who gave up their ancestral land for urban development, deserves similar recognition.

### Honouring an Unsung Hero

Joseph “Kaka” Baptista, a close associate of Lokmanya Tilak, was a prominent freedom fighter, lawyer at the Bombay High Court, and also served as Mayor of Bombay.

Vicky Misquitta, from the Mobai Gaothan Panchayat’s Mumbai East Indian Bhumiputra Rights project, said that renaming one of the airport terminals after Baptista would be a fitting tribute to an unsung national hero and would acknowledge the East Indian community’s sacrifices.

“The East Indian community has a rich history, and their ancestral lands, including those in the Mumbai airport, are a testament to their significant contributions to the city as its indigenous people. The 7/12 extracts serve as proof of their ownership and connection to the land,” said Misquitta.

### Appeal for Government Consideration

Alphi D’Souza, MGP chief, whose family once owned land where the Mumbai airport now stands, commended the Navi Mumbai Agri community’s efforts to have the new airport named after D. B. Patil.

He urged the government to similarly honour Kaka Baptista for his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle and for representing the voice of Mumbai’s original inhabitants.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/east-indians-demand-naming-of-mumbai-airport-terminal-after-freedom-fighter-joseph-kaka-baptista

The Us@250 Experience

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**Pride. Reckoning. Aspiration.**

As an American, you can experience all of these feelings at the same time: hold pride in our progress, reckon with our problematic past, and aspire for a better future.

That is at the heart of New America’s *Us@250* initiative—an effort to deepen our understanding of our national identity by expanding the American narrative to include the rich, complex histories of all of us.

Ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, join New America this fall for robust conversations on these themes with policymakers, visual artists, community organizers, and more.

Together, we’ll explore the truths and contradictions about ourselves and our country through poetry, film, comedy, story, and music.

We’ll also ask big questions: Given the nation’s history, who might we become if we truly live up to its founding ideals? Who belongs here, and who will be welcome? And how can we make the promise of America available to all?
https://www.newamerica.org/new-america/events/the-us250-experience/

To attract more funds, Philippines told to bolster sustainability rules

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MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines needs to strengthen sustainability standards in major infrastructure projects to attract discerning foreign investors and donors, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said.

In a report released on Tuesday, the OECD noted that the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028 had already laid out specific strategies and measurable actions that signal a commitment to sustainable development.

https://business.inquirer.net/551311/to-attract-more-funds-ph-told-to-bolster-sustainability-rules