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Adani Acquires Orient Cement for ₹8,100 Crore: Key Milestone in Expansion Strategy

Vikas Balani
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Adani Acquires Orient Cement for ₹8,100 Crore: Key Milestone in Expansion Strategy

Ahmedabad(Gujarat): Ambuja Cements, a subsidiary of the Adani Group, has taken a significant step in its expansion by acquiring a 46.8% stake in Orient Cement Ltd for ₹8,100 crore. This acquisition is crucial for Adani’s vision to achieve over 100 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) operational capacity by FY25, and an ambitious 140 MTPA by 2028.

Orient Cement, part of the CK Birla Group, contributes to this growth with a clinker capacity of 5.6 MTPA and a cement production capacity of 8.5 MTPA. The company also boasts a renewable energy portfolio, including a 95 MW captive power plant and a 10 MW waste heat recovery system, along with a 33 MW renewable energy spread across key Indian states like Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. These assets offer tremendous growth potential, with Orient’s total cement capacity expected to increase to 16.6 MTPA.

Commenting on the acquisition, Karan Adani, Director of Ambuja Cements, said, “This acquisition marks another significant step in Ambuja Cements’ accelerated growth journey, increasing our cement capacity by around 30 MTPA within two years. By acquiring Orient Cement, Ambuja is poised to achieve its milestone of 100 MTPA operational capacity by FY25, while also positioning itself strongly for further expansion.”

This strategic move not only enhances Adani’s market share in the cement industry but also strengthens its pan-India presence, adding approximately 2% to its existing market share. Additionally, the acquisition is expected to be funded entirely through Ambuja’s internal accruals, maintaining its debt-free status.(Input from agencies)

India and China Agree on Disengagement in Ladakh Border Areas

Naveen Tilani
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India and China Agree on Disengagement in Ladakh Border Areas

India and China have reached a significant agreement to de-escalate tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The standoff, which began in May 2020 with heightened military activity, had strained bilateral ties between the two nations. Both sides now plan to revert to pre-2020 patrolling norms as part of the disengagement process, aiming to restore peace along the disputed border.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that the disengagement would allow both nations to resume patrolling along agreed sectors of the LAC, facilitating a return to the previous status quo. He emphasized that normalizing relations with China hinges on resolving these border disputes. Similarly, Chinese Foreign Ministry representatives expressed optimism, affirming that the solution reflects ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the two countries through diplomatic and military channels.

Indian officials noted that prior disengagement efforts had resolved tensions in various friction points, such as the Galwan Valley and Pangong Lake. However, complete normalization had remained elusive, as some areas continued to see military buildup. With this new agreement, both nations have agreed to maintain stability and explore further ways to ease tensions.

Maharashtra’s Nanded Experiences 3.8-Magnitude Earthquake, No Damage Reported

Naveen Tilani
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Maharashtra’s Nanded Experiences 3.8-Magnitude Earthquake, No Damage Reported

On the morning of October 22, 2024, a moderate earthquake of magnitude 3.8 struck Nanded district in Maharashtra at 6:52 AM IST, as reported by the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The earthquake’s epicenter was located at 19.38° North latitude and 77.46° East longitude, with a depth of 5 kilometers. Fortunately, no damage or casualties have been reported so far, and local authorities have reassured residents that the situation is under control.

Although this region of Maharashtra is not known for frequent seismic activity, the tremors were felt mildly in and around Nanded, raising initial concerns among citizens. However, the Nanded Disaster Management team confirmed that no infrastructure damage has occurred, and all essential services remain fully operational. The district administration remains on alert, and teams have been mobilized to ensure the safety of residents and assess any potential damage to public property.

Seismologists have noted that while a 3.8 magnitude earthquake is moderate in intensity, it serves as a reminder that even regions not typically prone to earthquakes should not overlook preparedness. Dr. Rajendra Gavit, a prominent geologist, remarked, “Maharashtra may not be a major earthquake-prone zone like regions of North India, but events like these indicate the importance of preparedness, even in areas where seismic activity is uncommon. It is crucial that we educate citizens about safety measures and improve our disaster management systems.”

The National Center for Seismology took to social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to inform the public about the earthquake shortly after it occurred. The NCS posted, “EQ of M: 3.8, On: 22/10/2024 06:52:40 IST, Lat: 19.38 N, Long: 77.46 E, Depth: 5 Km, Location: Nanded, Maharashtra.” This prompt update helped calm fears among residents who had experienced the tremors.

Maharashtra officials have also emphasized the need to develop better infrastructure and early warning systems, particularly in districts like Nanded, which have limited experience dealing with such natural events. The absence of casualties or significant damage in this case highlights the importance of maintaining calm and following safety protocols during such occurrences.

In the wake of this earthquake, local authorities continue to monitor the situation, assuring residents that there is no cause for further concern.

Kejriwal’s AAP to Shake Up Maharashtra Polls with Konkan Candidates

Naveen Tilani
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Kejriwal’s AAP to Shake Up Maharashtra Polls with Konkan Candidates

As the Maharashtra Assembly elections near, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is weighing its options to contest a limited number of constituencies, particularly in the Konkan region, despite being a part of the I.N.D.I.A. bloc. Led by Arvind Kejriwal, AAP is focused on regions like Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, and Kolhapur, where the party believes it stands a chance to make an impact, particularly as an alternative to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its local leader, Union Minister Narayan Rane.

During a press conference in Sindhudurg, AAP’s Goa unit president, Amit Palekar, hinted that the party might contest a few seats, based on the potential for success and growing local support. He explained that many residents of the Konkan region are dissatisfied with the politics of Rane, accusing him of a “politics of vendetta.” The Rane family, once part of the Congress and now firmly aligned with the BJP, has dominated the political landscape of this region for decades. However, according to Palekar, local people are looking for alternatives to what they perceive as the Rane family’s “language of arrogance”.

Despite being aligned with the opposition I.N.D.I.A. bloc, which includes Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), AAP is contemplating fielding candidates independently in constituencies where it believes it has strong support. This move reflects the pressure from AAP’s local workers and supporters, particularly in Kolhapur and Sindhudurg, to challenge the BJP directly.

Palekar emphasized AAP’s commitment to “clean and honest politics,” noting that the party is gaining popularity in these areas because of its message of governance without corruption and its appeal to those frustrated with traditional political parties.

Interestingly, in a bolder move, AAP has announced plans to contest all 36 assembly seats in Mumbai, a key battleground where the party aims to expand its footprint. This decision highlights AAP’s broader ambitions in Maharashtra, as it looks to transition from being a Delhi-centric party to one with national relevance.

The party’s growing presence in Maharashtra, especially in politically significant regions like Mumbai and the Konkan belt, suggests that AAP is positioning itself as a serious contender in state politics, even as it continues to work alongside its I.N.D.I.A. bloc allies.

No Halt on Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, Confirms Minister

Naveen Tilani
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No Halt on Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, Confirms Minister

Mumbai: Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare has clarified that there will be no interruption to the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana in Maharashtra, dispelling rumors that the scheme had been halted due to the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) ahead of the November 20 elections. Tatkare’s announcement comes amid rising speculation regarding the future of this significant initiative aimed at supporting women in the state.

In a post on X, Tatkare detailed the ongoing benefits of the scheme, which was launched in July 2024. Eligible women in Maharashtra receive Rs.1,500 per month, directly deposited into their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. She confirmed that benefits for July, August, and September have already been credited, and between October 4 and 6, payments for October and November were distributed to 2.34 crore eligible beneficiaries. Furthermore, she assured that the December benefits would also be processed, urging women in Maharashtra not to fall for any misinformation surrounding the scheme.

The concern over the scheme’s status had been amplified by earlier reports suggesting that the Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra had put a stop to it. Shiv Sena UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi took to social media to express her worries, stating that it was not surprising if the Election Commission had indeed halted the Ladki Bahin Yojana. Such assertions fueled anxiety among beneficiaries about the continuity of the support they rely on.

In response to these concerns, Maharashtra’s Additional Chief Electoral Officer, Kiran Kulkarni, clarified the situation. He confirmed that while the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana would continue, the MCC guidelines prohibit adding new beneficiaries during the election period. Kulkarni emphasized that any further disbursements under the scheme would require prior approval from the Election Commission of India (ECI). He noted that the state government is committed to adhering to MCC instructions, which are communicated routinely as soon as the MCC comes into effect.

Launched with the goal of empowering women, the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana has made a significant impact since its inception. By providing financial support to over 2.34 crore women, the scheme aims to enhance their economic independence and overall well-being. Each beneficiary receiving Rs 1,500 per month exemplifies the government’s effort to create a safety net for women across Maharashtra. As the election approaches, the state government appears to be navigating the complexities of compliance with the MCC while ensuring that existing beneficiaries continue to receive their due support.

BJP Seeks Public Input for Election Manifesto Ahead of Maharashtra Assembly Polls

Ashtha Upadhyay
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BJP Seeks Public Input for Election Manifesto Ahead of Maharashtra Assembly Polls

Mumbai: A day after announcing its first list of 99 candidates for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took a proactive step by inviting developmental suggestions from various segments of society. This initiative aims to shape the party’s manifesto for the November 20 elections, focusing on an “inclusive and dynamic” vision for the development of Maharashtra.

The BJP’s appeal extends to a broad array of professionals, including social workers, farmers, journalists, doctors, professors, teachers, engineers, and women activists. Sudhir Mungantiwar, president of the party’s poll manifesto committee, emphasized the importance of these contributions in crafting a comprehensive plan for the state. The draft proposal is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “spectacular achievements” across various sectors, which have elevated India’s standing on the global stage.

Meanwhile, political tensions are rising as opposition parties in Maharashtra rally their efforts. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut announced that the Maha Vikas Aghadi, which includes the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and Sharad Pawar’s NCP, has reached a consensus on contesting 210 out of the 288 Assembly seats. This announcement contradicts statements made by Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole, who claimed discussions had only concluded for 96 seats. Both leaders accused the BJP of disseminating “misinformation” ahead of the elections.

Meanwhile Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena (UBT) said, “MVA will contest polls as a joint force and will defeat the forces looting Maharashtra.” This sentiment reflects a broader strategy among opposition parties to consolidate their efforts in the face of the BJP’s stronghold in the state.

Adding to the political drama, allegations have surfaced concerning the ruling Shiv Sena’s handling of an individual linked to the Gauri Lankesh murder case. NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule claimed that the Shiv Sena had “temporarily removed” the accused, Shrikant Pangarkar, from party positions for the election period. Pangarkar, who recently joined the CM’s Shiv Sena, had been granted bail by the Karnataka High Court

BJP Follows Haryana Blueprint, Focuses on Caste Dynamics for Maharashtra Win

Naveen Tilani
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BJP Follows Haryana Blueprint, Focuses on Caste Dynamics for Maharashtra Win

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), drawing lessons from its successful caste strategy in Haryana, has unveiled its candidate list for the Maharashtra assembly elections, focusing on balancing Maratha and OBC representation. The move is seen as a response to voter polarization triggered by Maratha reservation protests, led by activist Manoj Jarange.

Top BJP leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and state party president Chandrashekhar Bawankule, both OBC faces, have been given tickets, reinforcing the party’s outreach to OBC voters. At the same time, prominent Maratha names like Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil and the families of Raosaheb Danve and Ashok Chavan have been included to rebuild support within the Maratha community.

A senior BJP leader acknowledged that the “Jarange factor” impacted the party’s performance during the Lok Sabha elections, leading to a recalibration of the party’s strategy in Maharashtra. The aim is to send a clear message that no single community will be favored over another, appealing to both Marathas and OBCs, who have significant electoral influence.

Analysts suggest that this blend of caste considerations echoes the BJP’s success in Haryana, where the party consolidated non-Jat votes while containing opposition from Jat leaders. Prakash Pawar, a political analyst, said the party’s strategic focus on social engineering could provide it with an edge in the 2024 Maharashtra elections.

This strategy is part of a larger effort by the BJP-led Mahayuti government, which is also rolling out popular schemes like toll waivers and the Ladli Behen initiative, targeting various voter groups. With alliances complicated by factional splits in the Shiv Sena and the NCP, the BJP hopes its balanced candidate selection will resonate with voters across castes and regions.

MNS announces candidates, will compete assembly elections independently

Naveen Tilani
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MNS announces candidates, will compete assembly elections independently

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has officially announced a roster of nine candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections. Party chief Raj Thackeray revealed these names during his extensive tour across Maharashtra, marking a decisive step in the MNS’s electoral strategy.

Abstains from coalition:
During his announcement, Thackeray emphasized the MNS’s commitment to contesting the elections independently, without forming any alliances. This strategy represents a significant shift from the party’s past approach, where collaboration with other political entities was commonplace. Thackeray’s insistence on independence underscores the MNS’s determination to carve out a distinct identity in Maharashtra’s political landscape. This move aims to resonate with voters who are increasingly wary of coalition politics and are seeking more straightforward, principled representation.

Thackeray’s political history has seen him support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s candidacy for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and actively campaign for candidates within the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition. After exiting Shiv Sena in 2006, Thackeray created MNS. He initially supported Modi but later criticised the NDA government for its unfulfilled promises.

Candidates in the battlefield:
1. Bala Nandgaonkar – Shivadi
2. Dilip Bapu Dhotre – Pandharpur
3. Santosh Bhau Nagargoje – Latur Rural
4. Bandu Bhau Kute – Hingoli
5. Rajubhau Umberkar – Voice
6. Sachin Dada Bhoyar – Rajura
7. Mandeep Bhau Rode – Chandrapur City
8. Rajudada Patil – Kalyan Rural (the only sitting MLA declared)
9. Avinash Jadhav – Thane City

Thackeray’s tour across Maharashtra has been instrumental in re-establishing connections with the electorate. His engagements have not only served as platforms for announcing candidates but have also provided opportunities to listen to the concerns of citizens. MNS is set to take centre stage in its battle in the upcoming elections. The party will also look to improve on its performances. They won one seat in each of 2014 and 2019 elections.

In summary, the MNS’s announcement of its candidates and the commitment to an independent campaign reflect a strategic repositioning in Maharashtra’s political landscape. The Maharashtra Assembly elections are set to take place on 20th November, 2024 and counting of votes are scheduled for November 23.

Lawrence Bishnoi Offered Political Platform by UBVS: ‘We See Bhagat Singh in You’

Naveen Tilani
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Lawrence Bishnoi Offered Political Platform by UBVS: ‘We See Bhagat Singh in You’

Jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi has been offered a chance to contest the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections by the Uttar Bharatiya Vikas Sena (UBVS), a political party that advocates for the rights of North Indians in Maharashtra. UBVS, led by Sunil Shukla, wrote a letter to Bishnoi, comparing him to revolutionary Bhagat Singh and inviting him to be the face of their campaign. The party also plans to announce 50 candidates in its election bid, focusing on those of North Indian descent who have been denied reservation in Maharashtra due to their non-local ancestry.

Shukla emphasized that North Indians from Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Bihar, many of whom belong to the OBC, SC, and ST categories, face systematic exclusion from reservations because of their origins, despite being born and raised in Maharashtra. He further stressed the need for uniting these communities to fight for their rights in the state, with Bishnoi as a potential leader.

This development has caused considerable controversy, especially given Bishnoi’s criminal background. Known for orchestrating a widespread criminal network, Bishnoi has been implicated in various high-profile cases, including the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala and threats to Bollywood star Salman Khan. His gang has been linked to extortion and contract killings, including the recent assassination of NCP leader Baba Siddique.

The proposal from UBVS has sparked debate over the increasing intersection of crime and politics, especially as Bishnoi remains behind bars in Gujarat’s Sabarmati Central Jail. Critics argue that the political offer only highlights the dangerous nexus between politics and crime, while supporters of UBVS believe Bishnoi’s influence could rally the disenfranchised North Indian communities.

As Maharashtra gears up for the 2024 elections, the offer to Bishnoi raises questions about the ethical and legal implications of allowing criminal figures to engage in the political process. Bishnoi’s response to the offer remains to be seen, but the controversy is already fueling heated discussions in political circles.

Countdown Begins: MVA Seat-Sharing Finalization Set for Tuesday

Naveen Tilani
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Countdown Begins: MVA Seat-Sharing Finalization Set for Tuesday

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance in Maharashtra is on the verge of finalizing its seat-sharing agreement for the upcoming state assembly elections. In a crucial meeting held on Tuesday in Mumbai, Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) moved closer to consensus, resolving key disputes over the majority of seats.

According to reports, the alliance has agreed on the distribution of around 260 seats out of the 288 constituencies. The Congress is expected to contest 110-115 seats, bolstered by its strong performance in recent elections. The Shiv Sena (UBT) is eyeing 83-86 seats, while the NCP will likely contest around 72-75 seats. However, disputes remain over 25-30 seats, particularly in regions like Vidarbha, where the Congress is resisting Shiv Sena’s claims on certain strongholds.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut expressed optimism, saying that while there are some unresolved issues, most disagreements have been addressed, and the alliance is determined to contest as a united front. Congress leader Nana Patole also reiterated that the party is working towards a swift resolution and remains committed to the alliance’s success.

Despite rumors of internal rifts, including speculation that Shiv Sena might contest all 288 seats independently, both Raut and Patole dismissed these claims, attributing them to BJP’s efforts to destabilize the opposition.

With the seat-sharing deal expected to be finalized by Tuesday evening, the MVA is positioning itself as a strong contender against the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) alliance in the assembly elections, scheduled for November 20, 2024.

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