Chandrababu meets union ministers Jitendra Singh and CR Patil, briefs on state issues
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is currently holding a series of high-level meetings with Union Ministers. He met with Union Minister for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, to present a comprehensive proposal seeking central support to establish Andhra Pradesh as a major hub for space manufacturing and innovation. The proposal outlines plans for two space cities near ISRO Shar Space Center and Lepakshi, focusing on satellite production, launch vehicle development, and industry collaboration. Naidu also informed Singh about appointing former ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somnath as the State's Space Technology Advisor, emphasising his role in fostering an internationally competitive space ecosystem.
Earlier, Naidu discussed the Polavaram-Banakacherla Linkage Project with Water Resources Minister CR Patil, aiming to divert Godavari floodwaters to drought-hit areas, supporting national initiatives like Jal Jeevan and Blue Revolution. He also requested swift approvals for the project. Additionally, the CM met with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi to seek solar rooftop allocations for 20 lakh SC and ST households under the PM Suryagarh Yojana, and with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to explore strategic defence and aerospace collaborations.
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Hindustan Times
21 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
SC rejects urgent hearing in Tamil Nadu's plea against Centre over edu funds
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The Hindu
24 minutes ago
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11 years of Modi govt 'golden period' of resolve, dedication towards public service: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday (June 9, 2025) said the 11 years of Modi government was a "golden period" of resolve, endeavour and dedication towards public service. In Narendra Modi's third term as Prime Minister, Mr. Shah said this new India is rapidly progressing towards development and self-reliance with the power of reform, perform and transform. He said this journey of making India "number 1" in every field by bringing positive changes in the lives of the countrymen will continue. "The historic 11 years of the Modi Government have been a golden period of resolve, endeavour and dedication towards public service," he wrote on 'X' in Hindi and called it 11 years of "seva" (service). #11YearsOfSeva राष्ट्रीय सुरक्षा की दिशा में भी मील का पत्थर सिद्ध हुए हैं। नक्सलवाद अपनी अंतिम साँसे गिन रहा है, जम्मू-कश्मीर और पूर्वोत्तर में शांति की स्थापना हुई है, भारत अब आतंकवादी हमलों का जवाब आतंकियों के घर में घुस कर देता है। यह मोदी सरकार में भारत की बदलती तस्वीर को… — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 9, 2025 The Modi government completes the first year of its third term on Monday. The Home Minister said the country has seen a new era of economic revival, social justice, cultural pride and national security. "The Modi government has proved that when the leadership is clear, the resolve is firm and the intention is of public service, then new records of service, security and good governance are created," he said. Mr. Shah said when PM Modi took over the reins of the country in 2014, there was policy paralysis in the country. He said there were no policies, no leadership and scams were at their peak in the government the economy was in shambles and the governance system was directionless. The Home Minister said during the "11 years of seva", the speed and scale of the country's development have been changed by 'Minimum Government, Maximum Governance'. "PM Shri @narendramodi ji brought farmers, women, backwards, Dalits and marginalised to the centre of governance and created a work culture of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas instead of appeasement," he said. Mr. Shah said the 11 years of the Modi government have also proved to be a milestone in the direction of national security. "Naxalism is on its last legs, peace has been established in Jammu-Kashmir and the Northeast, India now responds to terrorist attacks by entering the homes of terrorists. This shows the changing picture of India under the Modi government," he said.
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First Post
25 minutes ago
- First Post
‘Uniting hearts and minds': Modi realises Vajpayee's J&K vision through the Chenab railway bridge
Increased connectivity promotes interpersonal exchanges and greater cultural understanding between Kashmir and the rest of India and helps to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on June 6, inaugurated the iconic Chenab Railway Bridge in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir—the world's highest railway arch bridge, standing taller than France's Eiffel Tower at approximately 359 metres—and flagged off the Vande Bharat Express from Katra to Srinagar. This historic moment marks a major step in Jammu and Kashmir's integration with the rest of India—strategically, economically, psychologically, and socially. As part of the ₹46,000 crore Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, this engineering marvel not only provides all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley but also stands as a powerful symbol of India's developmental resolve and national security vision. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Emphasising this transformative achievement, Prime Minister Modi said, 'Our Jammu and Kashmir is becoming a hub of tunnels, bridges, and ropeways. The highest tunnel in the world is being built here. The highest railroad bridge in the world is being built here.' He added, 'This railway line is not just an infrastructure project but a symbol of India's commitment to peace, progress, and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. It will transform the region's economy and open new opportunities for its people.' End of Isolation Historically, the Kashmir Valley remained vulnerable to frequent disconnections due to landslides, heavy snowfall, and harsh weather that often rendered the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway unusable. Sanctioned in the mid-1990s and declared a National Project in 2002 under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision, the 272-kilometre USBRL traverses some of the most difficult Himalayan terrain, including 36 tunnels and 943 bridges—most notably the world's highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River. The project was implemented in phases, with key sections like Jammu to Udhampur operational since 2005 and the entire route completed recently. Now, with the Vande Bharat Express cutting travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to just three hours, the Valley enjoys all-weather, high-speed, and reliable connectivity. At the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi stated, 'This rail link is not just infrastructure; it symbolises our commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring their progress and integration with the rest of the nation. This historic achievement bridges the physical, economic, and psychological distances that long separated the Valley from India.' Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw called the inauguration a 'historic day', highlighting that this feat was achieved through Prime Minister Modi's 'steely determination'. This project, featuring the world's highest railway arch bridge, boosts regional connectivity while reinforcing India's national security. Boosting Economy, Tourism & Access for All J&K's economic lifeline—horticulture, handicrafts, and local manufacturing—stands to gain immensely. The improved railway infrastructure ensures faster, safer, and more cost-effective access to major Indian markets. Perishable produce like apples, which previously suffered losses due to highway blockages and delays, can now be transported swiftly and efficiently, reducing spoilage and cutting logistical costs. This will significantly enhance the profitability and market competitiveness of local farmers and traders. The improved logistics will also bolster industrial development, inviting investment and enabling broader economic diversification. Local artisans and manufacturers stand to benefit from easier distribution and reduced overheads. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Moreover, the improved rail network is expected to catalyse tourism growth, not only by boosting access to popular destinations but also by opening up lesser-known areas for exploration and development. This expansion in connectivity creates new economic opportunities across the region and supports the broader integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the national economy. Furthermore, the enhanced connectivity is particularly beneficial for students pursuing higher education and patients seeking advanced medical care outside the region. Affordable and dependable travel options will ease their journeys, offering a renewed sense of belonging and opportunity. In turn, this fosters stronger social and cultural integration with the rest of India. A Strategic and Security Asset More than a developmental achievement, the railway line — anchored by engineering marvels like the Chenab and Anji Khad bridges — is a crucial pillar of India's strategic infrastructure. Stretching through geostrategically sensitive terrain and bordering adversarial nations such as Pakistan and China, this line significantly enhances India's defence preparedness. It enables rapid troop mobilisation, seamless movement of military hardware, and sustained logistics supply to forward areas. Engineered to withstand earthquakes of up to magnitude 8 and high-intensity explosions, the bridge is an essential node in India's national security architecture. Additionally, anti-sabotage protocols, blast-resistant construction, and CCTV surveillance across tunnels and tracks make this railway line resilient against both natural and human threats. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha noted, 'Having 365 days of connectivity with the Valley will be a big advantage for us to face any threat from the neighbouring country.' This strategic connectivity ensures rapid response and operational reach during crises. Furthermore, this improved infrastructure significantly reduces travel risks for security personnel, who previously relied on vulnerable highway routes under intense security protocols. A Message to the World The railway's inauguration is a message to the international community that India remains steadfast in its developmental efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, despite geopolitical challenges. It also honours the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose visionary leadership laid the foundation for this transformative project. Vajpayee had famously said, 'The rail link to Kashmir is not just an engineering project but a bridge that will connect the hearts and minds of the people of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India.' The tribute extends to all those who persevered through decades of political and logistical challenges. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the historic achievement, stating, 'Even the Britishers dreamt of a railway to Kashmir, but he [Modi] completed what they could not.' This long-awaited dream is not just a developmental victory but a civilisational commitment. By making travel cheaper and easier, the railway promotes interpersonal exchanges and greater cultural understanding between Kashmir and the rest of India. Increased movement of people will help dispel misconceptions and stereotypes, replacing them with direct human connections and shared aspirations. This is vital in reinforcing a sense of unity and belonging among all citizens. Conclusion The completion and inauguration of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) mark a watershed moment in the modern history of Jammu and Kashmir. More than just steel and concrete laid across the mountains, this railway line symbolises the fusion of vision, engineering excellence, national resolve, and inclusive development. It bridges not only the daunting physical terrain of the Himalayas but also long-standing psychological and economic divides. By bringing high-speed, all-weather, and secure connectivity to the Valley, the USBRL transforms Jammu and Kashmir into a seamlessly integrated part of India's socio-economic and strategic landscape. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD From empowering local communities and boosting industries to reinforcing national security and fostering cultural cohesion, the railway is a force multiplier across domains. It stands as a message to the world—that India's democratic and developmental commitment to its people remains unshaken, even in the face of adversity. As the Vande Bharat now glides through tunnels and over the mighty Chenab, it carries not just passengers but the promise of a new era for Jammu and Kashmir—one of opportunity, dignity, unity, and peace. Imran Khurshid is a visiting research fellow at the International Centre for Peace Studies, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views.
