Latest news with #441
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
State Secured Record FDIs Last Financial Year, Surge To Continue: CM
Nagpur: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Thursday that the state secured an unprecedented Rs1,64,875 crore in foreign direct investment (FDI) for the financial year 2024-25. This accounts for 40 percent of India's total FDI inflow and marks a 32 percent increase over the previous year. "This year, Maharashtra has broken its own records for the last decade," Fadnavis said in a post on X. He added that the state had already surpassed its previous high within the first nine months of the fiscal year, crediting the surge to the 'leadership of deputy chief ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and the collective effort of the state cabinet'. The chief minister highlighted that the final quarter alone — from January to March 2025 — brought in Rs25,441 crore in FDI, solidifying Maharashtra's position as India's top destination for foreign investment. "Under the leadership of my colleagues Shinde, Pawar and the cabinet, this race for our Maharashtra will continue," Fadnavis said. Official data shared by the chief minister showed Maharashtra's FDI trajectory over the past decade, with major fluctuations: Rs61,482 crore in 2015-16, rising to Rs1,31,980 crore in 2016-17, and rebounding to Rs1,19,734 crore in 2020-21 after brief dips. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like เทรด CFDs ด้วยเทคโนโลยีเทรดสุดล้ำ และ รวดเร็วกว่า IC Markets อ่านเพิ่มเติม Undo The figure for 2024-25 marks the highest to date. Industry experts attribute Maharashtra's continued success in attracting foreign investment to its robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and investor-friendly policies, even amid broader economic uncertainties. Mumbai's longstanding role as India's financial capital has also bolstered the state's appeal to global investors. The record-breaking figure comes as the Mahayuti coalition, comprising the BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and NCP headed by Ajit Pawar, readies for local elections later this year. The FDI milestone is likely to feature prominently in the ruling alliance's pitch to voters, with Fadnavis presenting it as evidence of the state's economic resilience and growth. According to data compiled by the department for promotion of industry and internal trade (DPIIT) through December 2024, Maharashtra leads the country in FDI inflow, followed by Karnataka and Gujarat. The final quarter of the financial year, Fadnavis noted, will only further strengthen Maharashtra's standing. "Of course, there is still one quarter left in this financial year," he added.
Daily Mirror
05-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
DWP warning as pensioners risk losing £441 a month payments if benefit rules broken
Attendance Allowance is a benefit given to those over the State Pension age - which is currently 66 - who need help with day-to-day personal care or supervision due to their illness or disability Pensioners could have payments worth up to £441 a month from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) taken away if they don't follow the benefit rules. Attendance Allowance is a benefit given to those over the State Pension age - which is currently 66 - who need help with day-to-day personal care or supervision due to their illness or disability. The benefit is not means-tested and - depending on your specific needs - is worth between £295.60 and £441.60 a month as there are two different rates that can be paid. The lower rate is £73.80 a week, and it is paid to people who need help or supervision during the day or night. The higher rate is £110.40 a week, and it is for people who need help or supervision during the day or night. People living with terminal conditions are eligible to claim the higher rate. The warning comes as new figures from the DWP showed almost 1.7 million people across the UK received additional financial support through the benefit in August last year. The benefit is designed to help older Brits with daily living expenses, which come with having an illness or disability. It also aims to help them stay independent in their own home for longer. As Attendance Allowance is based on how your condition affects your day-to-day living, you will need to report any changes which occur to the benefits department. This includes any changes in their condition, or if they become hospitalised, as both could impact both eligibility and payment amounts. This is because some of these changes could impact how much money you are entitled to. If you claim more than you should, then this could be seen as benefit fraud. Join Money Saving Club's specialist topics Guidance on the website states: "You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances." According to the DWP, people must contact the Attendance Allowance helpline straight away if: There is a change in the claimant's condition, or the level of help needed The claimant goes into hospital or a care home A medical professional has said the claimant might have 12 months or less to live The claimant plans to leave the country for more than four weeks The claimant goes to prison The claimant changes their name, address or bank details The claimant wants to stop receiving your benefit Doctor's details change Immigration status changes, if the claimant is not a British citizen Claimants can contact the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122, between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday. They can also have someone contact the benefit department on their behalf if needed.
Zawya
14-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman and the Netherlands: Evolving Dynamic Partnership Rooted in Shared Maritime Heritage
Muscat: The bilateral relations between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands reflect significant diplomatic importance, demonstrating mutual and profound respect, as well as a shared commitment between the two friendly nations. These ties are reinforced by advanced bilateral cooperation covering diverse fields, which both sides are working to expand further. The state visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the Kingdom of the Netherlands underscores the depth of the relationship and shared priorities, particularly in trade, investment, sustainable development, and close collaboration for the benefit and stability of the international community. The volume of trade between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands has seen notable growth in recent years, reaching OMR181,272,683 (approximately $471.5 million) in 2024. Oman's exports to the Netherlands last year (2024) amounted to OMR41,441,629 while total imports from the Netherlands reached OMR125,871,705. Oman's key exports to the Netherlands in 2024 included base metals and their products, while machinery, electrical equipment, and related goods topped the list of imports from the Netherlands. Preliminary foreign investments from the Netherlands into Oman amounted to OMR390.5 million by the end of 2024, while Omani investments in the Netherlands reached OMR278.3 million by the end of 2023. The number of Dutch visitors to Oman in 2024 reached 18,207. Meanwhile, the total number of registered companies with Dutch participation in Oman stood at 155 by the end of 2024, with a total investment value exceeding OMR147,637,000. Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Salim Al Harthy, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, stated that the official relations between the two friendly nations date back to 1670, when the Netherlands established an office in Muscat during the reign of Imam Sultan bin Saif to strengthen bilateral ties. Since then, the two friendly peoples have extended bonds of friendship, cooperation, and trade for their mutual benefit, maintaining peaceful relations free from conflicts and wars. He added that contemporary diplomatic representation began with the Netherlands opening a non-resident mission in Oman in 1972, followed by the establishment of an embassy in Muscat in 1982. In 1990, Oman opened its embassy in The Hague. He explained that bilateral relations have advanced across political, economic, cultural, and other fields since His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik assumed power. His Majesty's directives and "Oman Vision 2040" have emphasized economic diplomacy, with both nations exploring investment opportunities through official delegations and private sector engagement. The ambassador noted that the state visit of His Majesty the Sultan to the Netherlands will lay the foundation for a strong and enduring strategic partnership, significantly benefiting both nations. Preparations have focused on enhancing cooperation in political, economic, technological, logistical, educational, cultural, and tourism sectors. He affirmed that both sides are exploring the possibility of signing joint agreements and memoranda of understanding. His Majesty's state visit will serve as a cornerstone for lasting and robust relations, leveraging both nations' strategic locations, maritime heritage, and historical ties to reposition Oman and the Netherlands as major hubs for trade redistribution—facilitating the flow of Asian and African goods to Europe via Oman and European and American products to Oman via the Netherlands. He highlighted the broad and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, particularly in trade and economy. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion is actively developing economic collaboration and exploring investment opportunities, while Oman's embassy in the Netherlands works to facilitate and promote these efforts. He noted cooperation in oil and gas, water management, agricultural products, logistics, ports, technology, innovation, and renewable energy, including green hydrogen. Regarding tourism, the ambassador mentioned Oman's participation in the Dutch Travel Week in 2024 and 2025, as well as hosting prominent Dutch athletes in the Governorate of Dhofar, who later promoted Oman through media and social platforms. The popular Dutch TV program 'Wie is de Mol' also featured Oman, reaching a wide audience. He added that the Dutch Tourism Association held its 2024 annual conference in Oman, attended by over 200 Dutch companies. Oman's embassy in the Netherlands annually participates in the Embassy Festival, attracting 70,000 visitors and showcasing Omani products, cuisine, and tourist attractions. The ambassador emphasized the Netherlands' status as a knowledge and technology leader and the EU's third-largest economy, offering diverse cooperation opportunities. Oman looks forward to building a broad strategic partnership and has established an annual political consultation committee to discuss bilateral matters and future collaboration plans. On enhancing economic ties, the ambassador underscored Oman's potential to encourage Dutch companies to establish regional branches, leveraging Oman's competitive advantages—low energy costs, affordable labour, tax incentives, and strategic access to Middle Eastern markets. He concluded that Dutch factories opening branches in Oman would benefit the Netherlands amid the global shift toward clean energy and hydrogen, positioning Oman as a key partner in sustainable development. Stella Kloth, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Sultanate of Oman, emphasized that the state visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the Netherlands holds special significance, as it builds upon a long history of cooperation between the two nations. The visit of former Queen Beatrix to Oman in 2012, along with various ministerial exchanges over the years, laid solid foundations for collaboration and reaffirmed the depth of bilateral relations and shared priorities in trade, investment, and sustainable development. The ambassador added that Oman and the Netherlands share deep-rooted historical ties dating back to the 17th century—nearly 400 years—when Dutch East India Company ships first sailed through the Gulf of Oman, followed by Dutch traders arriving at Muttrah Port in 1624. In 1651, the Dutch ship 'Concordia' visited Oman, marking the beginning of formal trade relations. These early exchanges established the groundwork for a lasting partnership built on maritime trade and economic cooperation. She noted that today, the two nations are bound by a dynamic and evolving partnership, rooted in a shared maritime heritage, mutual reliance on international trade, and a joint commitment to dialogue and peace. This relationship continues to thrive, particularly in sustainable logistics, water management, and energy transition. The ambassador highlighted that Dutch companies such as the Port of Rotterdam and Steinweg celebrated their 20th anniversaries in Oman last year, underscoring the enduring Dutch-Omani partnership. She stressed that bolstering commercial ties is crucial, as it enhances cultural exchange, fosters new partnerships, and solidifies both nations' positions on the bilateral relations map. This vision, she affirmed, is vital not only for diplomacy but also for expanding business opportunities and deepening collaboration across sectors. She stated that Oman and the Netherlands enjoy a multifaceted partnership spanning key areas such as energy transition—particularly green hydrogen—as well as water management and sustainable logistics. The long-standing collaboration between the Port of Rotterdam and Sohar Port and Freezone, alongside the presence of Dutch company APM Terminals in Salalah Port, reflects a shared commitment to strengthening global trade networks and supply chain resilience. The ambassador added that expanding trade and investment requires building on solid foundations by encouraging partnerships, trade missions, and private-sector collaboration. Both Oman and the Netherlands possess strategic geographic advantages that can be leveraged to unlock new economic opportunities. She explained, "Cooperation extends beyond economics to governance and knowledge exchange, which are pillars of bilateral relations. Partnerships between Dutch knowledge institutions and the Royal Academy for Management (RAM) contribute to institutional ties and expertise sharing—essential for long-term development." The ambassador noted that broadening cultural and educational exchanges deepens people-to-people bonds and ensures sustained collaboration across all fields. By continuing to invest in these partnerships, Oman and the Netherlands can drive innovation and contribute to a more sustainable and interconnected world. She remarked, "A key aspect of this partnership is our shared belief in multilateral cooperation. Both nations recognize that the greatest challenges—whether geopolitical, climate-related, economic resilience, or sustainable development—cannot be tackled alone but through active engagement in international frameworks and a commitment to a rules-based global order that fosters stability and progress." The ambassador highlighted successful areas of cooperation, including energy transition and the signing of a green hydrogen MoU at COP27. She emphasized that this agreement is not merely symbolic but lays the groundwork for tangible action, such as developing green hydrogen corridors between Oman and Europe to boost trade, drive innovation, and advance global sustainable development goals. Regarding education and culture, both countries aim to enhance academic and cultural exchanges through student programs and joint events. Currently, 61 Omani students are pursuing their studies in the Netherlands—5 in postgraduate programs and 56 in undergraduate studies. Oman has also established the Sultan of Oman Chair for Oriental Studies and another Chair for Water Management, while the Omani Village in Nijmegen stands as a shining example of Omani heritage. © Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
12-04-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman and the Netherlands: Evolving Dynamic Partnership Rooted in Shared Maritime Heritage
Muscat: The bilateral relations between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands reflect significant diplomatic importance, demonstrating mutual and profound respect, as well as a shared commitment between the two friendly nations. These ties are reinforced by advanced bilateral cooperation covering diverse fields, which both sides are working to expand further. The state visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the Kingdom of the Netherlands underscores the depth of the relationship and shared priorities, particularly in trade, investment, sustainable development, and close collaboration for the benefit and stability of the international community. The volume of trade between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands has seen notable growth in recent years, reaching OMR181,272,683 (approximately $471.5 million) in 2024. Oman's exports to the Netherlands last year (2024) amounted to OMR41,441,629 while total imports from the Netherlands reached OMR125,871,705. Oman's key exports to the Netherlands in 2024 included base metals and their products, while machinery, electrical equipment, and related goods topped the list of imports from the Netherlands. Preliminary foreign investments from the Netherlands into Oman amounted to OMR390.5 million by the end of 2024, while Omani investments in the Netherlands reached OMR278.3 million by the end of 2023. The number of Dutch visitors to Oman in 2024 reached 18,207. Meanwhile, the total number of registered companies with Dutch participation in Oman stood at 155 by the end of 2024, with a total investment value exceeding OMR147,637,000. Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Salim Al Harthy, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, stated that the official relations between the two friendly nations date back to 1670, when the Netherlands established an office in Muscat during the reign of Imam Sultan bin Saif to strengthen bilateral ties. Since then, the two friendly peoples have extended bonds of friendship, cooperation, and trade for their mutual benefit, maintaining peaceful relations free from conflicts and wars. He added that contemporary diplomatic representation began with the Netherlands opening a non-resident mission in Oman in 1972, followed by the establishment of an embassy in Muscat in 1982. In 1990, Oman opened its embassy in The Hague. He explained that bilateral relations have advanced across political, economic, cultural, and other fields since His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik assumed power. His Majesty's directives and "Oman Vision 2040" have emphasized economic diplomacy, with both nations exploring investment opportunities through official delegations and private sector engagement. The ambassador noted that the state visit of His Majesty the Sultan to the Netherlands will lay the foundation for a strong and enduring strategic partnership, significantly benefiting both nations. Preparations have focused on enhancing cooperation in political, economic, technological, logistical, educational, cultural, and tourism sectors. He affirmed that both sides are exploring the possibility of signing joint agreements and memoranda of understanding. His Majesty's state visit will serve as a cornerstone for lasting and robust relations, leveraging both nations' strategic locations, maritime heritage, and historical ties to reposition Oman and the Netherlands as major hubs for trade redistribution—facilitating the flow of Asian and African goods to Europe via Oman and European and American products to Oman via the Netherlands. He highlighted the broad and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, particularly in trade and economy. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion is actively developing economic collaboration and exploring investment opportunities, while Oman's embassy in the Netherlands works to facilitate and promote these efforts. He noted cooperation in oil and gas, water management, agricultural products, logistics, ports, technology, innovation, and renewable energy, including green hydrogen. Regarding tourism, the ambassador mentioned Oman's participation in the Dutch Travel Week in 2024 and 2025, as well as hosting prominent Dutch athletes in the Governorate of Dhofar, who later promoted Oman through media and social platforms. The popular Dutch TV program 'Wie is de Mol' also featured Oman, reaching a wide audience. He added that the Dutch Tourism Association held its 2024 annual conference in Oman, attended by over 200 Dutch companies. Oman's embassy in the Netherlands annually participates in the Embassy Festival, attracting 70,000 visitors and showcasing Omani products, cuisine, and tourist attractions. The ambassador emphasized the Netherlands' status as a knowledge and technology leader and the EU's third-largest economy, offering diverse cooperation opportunities. Oman looks forward to building a broad strategic partnership and has established an annual political consultation committee to discuss bilateral matters and future collaboration plans. On enhancing economic ties, the ambassador underscored Oman's potential to encourage Dutch companies to establish regional branches, leveraging Oman's competitive advantages—low energy costs, affordable labour, tax incentives, and strategic access to Middle Eastern markets. He concluded that Dutch factories opening branches in Oman would benefit the Netherlands amid the global shift toward clean energy and hydrogen, positioning Oman as a key partner in sustainable development. Stella Kloth, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Sultanate of Oman, emphasized that the state visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the Netherlands holds special significance, as it builds upon a long history of cooperation between the two nations. The visit of former Queen Beatrix to Oman in 2012, along with various ministerial exchanges over the years, laid solid foundations for collaboration and reaffirmed the depth of bilateral relations and shared priorities in trade, investment, and sustainable development. The ambassador added that Oman and the Netherlands share deep-rooted historical ties dating back to the 17th century—nearly 400 years—when Dutch East India Company ships first sailed through the Gulf of Oman, followed by Dutch traders arriving at Muttrah Port in 1624. In 1651, the Dutch ship 'Concordia' visited Oman, marking the beginning of formal trade relations. These early exchanges established the groundwork for a lasting partnership built on maritime trade and economic cooperation. She noted that today, the two nations are bound by a dynamic and evolving partnership, rooted in a shared maritime heritage, mutual reliance on international trade, and a joint commitment to dialogue and peace. This relationship continues to thrive, particularly in sustainable logistics, water management, and energy transition. The ambassador highlighted that Dutch companies such as the Port of Rotterdam and Steinweg celebrated their 20th anniversaries in Oman last year, underscoring the enduring Dutch-Omani partnership. She stressed that bolstering commercial ties is crucial, as it enhances cultural exchange, fosters new partnerships, and solidifies both nations' positions on the bilateral relations map. This vision, she affirmed, is vital not only for diplomacy but also for expanding business opportunities and deepening collaboration across sectors. She stated that Oman and the Netherlands enjoy a multifaceted partnership spanning key areas such as energy transition—particularly green hydrogen—as well as water management and sustainable logistics. The long-standing collaboration between the Port of Rotterdam and Sohar Port and Freezone, alongside the presence of Dutch company APM Terminals in Salalah Port, reflects a shared commitment to strengthening global trade networks and supply chain resilience. The ambassador added that expanding trade and investment requires building on solid foundations by encouraging partnerships, trade missions, and private-sector collaboration. Both Oman and the Netherlands possess strategic geographic advantages that can be leveraged to unlock new economic opportunities. She explained, "Cooperation extends beyond economics to governance and knowledge exchange, which are pillars of bilateral relations. Partnerships between Dutch knowledge institutions and the Royal Academy for Management (RAM) contribute to institutional ties and expertise sharing—essential for long-term development." The ambassador noted that broadening cultural and educational exchanges deepens people-to-people bonds and ensures sustained collaboration across all fields. By continuing to invest in these partnerships, Oman and the Netherlands can drive innovation and contribute to a more sustainable and interconnected world. She remarked, "A key aspect of this partnership is our shared belief in multilateral cooperation. Both nations recognize that the greatest challenges—whether geopolitical, climate-related, economic resilience, or sustainable development—cannot be tackled alone but through active engagement in international frameworks and a commitment to a rules-based global order that fosters stability and progress." The ambassador highlighted successful areas of cooperation, including energy transition and the signing of a green hydrogen MoU at COP27. She emphasized that this agreement is not merely symbolic but lays the groundwork for tangible action, such as developing green hydrogen corridors between Oman and Europe to boost trade, drive innovation, and advance global sustainable development goals. Regarding education and culture, both countries aim to enhance academic and cultural exchanges through student programs and joint events. Currently, 61 Omani students are pursuing their studies in the Netherlands—5 in postgraduate programs and 56 in undergraduate studies. Oman has also established the Sultan of Oman Chair for Oriental Studies and another Chair for Water Management, while the Omani Village in Nijmegen stands as a shining example of Omani heritage.
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
TN Bill proposes exceptions for firearms in restricted zones
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Two pieces of legislation are causing controversy as they move into the next phase, but they still have a long way to go. Senate Bill 441 and House Bill 478 are looking to change the current law surrounding the possession of weapons on properties that prohibit firearms. The bills look to create an exception to the offense of possessing or carrying a firearm into an area where weapons are not permitted. An amendment was made to the bill on Tuesday. Memphis voters say yes to 3 gun control measures 'There was an amendment added by a committee member yesterday. It was a former law enforcement officer. Yeah, that kind of creates a due process,' said Rep. Ed Butler (R), District 41. The proposed legislation means you won't get in trouble if the property owner sees the gun and you leave immediately at their request, or if you put the gun in your car, you won't be fined. 'The amendment improves the situation. But I can see circumstances under which it's going to be very difficult to determine whether someone inadvertently brought a firearm onto the premises, were firearms or prohibited or intentionally did so. So that's going to continue to be a challenge,' said Bill Gibbons, Memphis Shelby Crime Commission. Gibbons believes much more must be ironed out to make sure bad actors aren't taking advantage. 📡 for Memphis and the Mid-South. 📧 and have the latest top stories sent right to your inbox. 'It would apply to hospitals, to restaurants, to various government buildings, city buildings, county buildings and so on,' Gibbons said. The next step is for the bill to go through the full judiciary committee before it reaches the Senate. 'You know, we're just trying not to penalize law abiding citizens that have made mistakes and honest mistakes,' Butler said. The legislation would become effective this summer if enacted. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
