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Time of India
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
CM Oversees Metro Run
Indore: Chief minister Mohan Yadav after Prime Minister Narendra Modi 's public meeting in Bhopal, on Saturday evening arrived in Indore and took a ride in the Metro Train. During his journey, Yadav visited the metro's engine cabin to observe the operational systems and discussed the metro rail's functioning with officials, gathering detailed information. He also took the opportunity to interact with the women passengers, inquiring about their initial experiences with the new service. Upon arrival at the station, the Chief Minister garlanded the statue of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. Accompanying the Chief Minister were several prominent dignitaries, including Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, Water Resources Minister Tulsiram Silawat, MP Shankar Lalwani, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav, MLAs Ramesh Mendola, Madhu Verma, Golu Shukla, Malini Laxman Singh Gaur, and Usha Thakur, along with senior officials concerned. It is noteworthy that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated this metro rail project earlier today from Bhopal, during a Mahasammelan on Women Empowerment held on the occasion of the 300th birth anniversary year of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. The metro rail boasts all modern, convenient, and environmentally friendly transportation facilities. Each train can accommodate over 900 passengers simultaneously, and the stations are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 모공각화증, 이제야 알게된 진실 (+해결법) 현명한소비자 Undo For passenger convenience, stations feature lifts, escalators, AI-based tracking, and a QR-based ticketing system, ensuring a smart travel experience. Swachh transport: Minister Indore: Union minister of state for housing and urban affairs Tokhan Sahu on Saturday lauded the Indore Metro project, calling it a prime example of a clean, safe, and environment-friendly transportation system. His remarks came during the launch of Indore Metro's commercial run at Gandhi Nagar Station, which has been renamed as Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Terminal. On the occasion, he, along with MP Cabinet Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya and other dignitaries, flagged off the train. They also observed the station infrastructure, passenger amenities, and operational readiness. "The Indore Metro project will not only accelerate the city's traffic flow but also stands as an excellent example of a clean, safe, and eco-friendly transport system," said Sahu. He emphasized that the project "realizes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dreams of 'Smart Cities' and a 'Green India.'" "The Metro will also become a new identity of pride and progress of Indore," he said as the minister also remembered Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar on her 300th birth anniversary. Sahu further highlighted the central govt's commitment to strengthening urban transportation systems across the country, citing the Indore Metro as a successful illustration of these efforts. Platform Screen Doors To Be Operated Manually For A Few Days Indore: With the initiation of Indore Metro's commercial run, the real testing of 'Platform Screen Doors' (PSDs) was checked as hundreds of enthusiastic people made a beeline and put a burden on it. "Indore is the country's first city where Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Defence (govt of India), has installed 'Platform Screen Doors' while working in collaboration with the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC)," a senior official, wishing anonymity, said. He added that the doors would initially be manually operated for the next few days. He added that PSDs are crucial for modern metro systems as they isolate platforms from tracks, ensuring enhanced safety. These doors open only when trains align perfectly with the platform, preventing accidents, trespassing, and objects from falling onto tracks. PSDs synchronize with train doors for seamless operation across the platform, ensuring passenger convenience and safety. "MPMRCL has signed an agreement with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to supply indigenously manufactured Platform Screen Doors (PSDs) for the Bhopal and Indore Metro Rail Projects. This initiative aligns with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and enhances passenger safety and operational efficiency on metro platforms," he said, adding that around 400 tests on PSDs have been carried out to check their load capacity and other parameters.


India Gazette
a day ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
"Lokmata Ahilyabai was great guardian of India's heritage": PM Modi
New Delhi [India], May 31 (ANI): On the occasion of the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh today. He also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects in Bhopal, the PM's office said in an official statement. Speaking at the event, he began by paying tribute to 'Maa Bharati' and acknowledging the strength of India's women. He expressed gratitude for the large gathering of sisters and daughters who had come to bless the event, stating that he felt honored by their presence. The Prime Minister highlighted that today marks the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, an occasion of inspiration for 140 crore Indians and a moment to contribute to the monumental efforts of nation-building. Quoting Devi Ahilyabai, he reiterated that true governance means serving the people and improving their lives. He remarked that today's program embodies her vision and carries forward her ideals. The Prime Minister noted the launch of the Indore Metro, along with the addition of air connectivity for Datia and Satna. He emphasised that these projects will enhance infrastructure in Madhya Pradesh, accelerate development, and create new employment opportunities. He extended his congratulations to all present. Expressing deep reverence upon hearing the name of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, PM stated that words fall short in describing her remarkable personality. He underscored that Devi Ahilyabai symbolizes the power of strong will and determination, demonstrating that no matter how adverse the circumstances, transformative outcomes can be achieved. Reflecting on history, Modi highlighted that two-and-a-half to three centuries ago, when the nation was shackled by oppression, accomplishing such extraordinary feats--so profound that generations continue to discuss them--was no easy task. Highlighting that Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar never distinguished between service to the divine and service to the people, the Prime Minister noted that she was known to always carry a Shiva Lingam with her, signifying her deep devotion. Reflecting on the challenges of her time, he emphasised that leading a state during such an era was akin to wearing a crown of thorns. Yet, Lokmata Ahilyabai provided a new direction for her state's prosperity, dedicating herself to empowering even the poorest. 'Lokmata Ahilyabai was a great guardian of India's heritage', said PM Modi, mentioning that at a time when the country's culture, temples, and pilgrimage sites were under attack, she took on the responsibility of preserving them. He remarked on her contribution to the restoration of numerous temples across the country, including Kashi Vishwanath. He expressed his privilege in being granted the opportunity to serve in the very city, Varanasi, where Lokmata Ahilyabai had undertaken extensive development work. 'Mata Ahilyabai implemented an exemplary governance model that prioritised the welfare of the poor and marginalised', underlined PM Modi, noting that she launched numerous initiatives to boost employment and entrepreneurship. She actively promoted agriculture, cottage industries based on forest produce, and handicrafts. To enhance agricultural productivity, she developed small canals and undertook extensive water conservation efforts, constructing numerous ponds around 250-300 years ago. She encouraged cotton and spice farming to increase farmers' income and promote crop diversity. PM Modi emphasised her vision for tribal communities and nomadic groups, facilitating agricultural plans on unused land to support their livelihoods. The PM said that it was his privilege to work under the direction of a tribal woman, President Draupadi Murmu. He acknowledged Devi Ahilyabai's contribution to the textile sector, establishing new industries for the world-renowned Maheshwari sarees, significantly benefiting the country's weavers. He narrated that Devi Ahilyabai had invited a few saree weaving families from Junagarh, Gujarat to start the same around 250-300 years ago. 'Devi Ahilyabai Holkar will always be remembered for her significant social reforms, including advocacy for raising the minimum age for girls' marriage, securing women's right to property, and supporting widows' remarriage--issues that were difficult to even discuss in her time', said PM Modi. He emphasised that Devi Ahilyabai strongly backed these progressive reforms despite societal challenges. She also formed a special women's unit in the Malwa army and established women's safety groups in villages, ensuring protection and empowerment. 'Mata Ahilyabai stands as a symbol of the invaluable contribution of women in nation-building', remarked PM, paying respects to her, offering his prayers for her continued blessings upon all. Recalling an inspiring statement by Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, emphasising that everything received is a debt owed to the people, which must be repaid, the Prime Minister highlighted that their government is working in alignment with her values, upholding the principle of 'Nagarik Devo Bhava' as the mantra of governance. He underscored that the vision of women-led development is being placed at the core of the nation's progress. He stressed that every major government initiative is centred around empowering mothers, sisters, and daughters. The Prime Minister noted that four crore homes have been built for the underprivileged, with a majority registered in the names of women. He pointed out that for many of these women, it is the first time their names have been associated with property ownership, marking a historic shift where crores of women across the country have become homeowners for the first time. Emphasising that the government is ensuring water supply through tap connections to every household, alleviating difficulties faced by women, PM Modi highlighted that previously, crores of women lacked access to essential amenities such as electricity, LPG gas, and toilets. The government has now provided these critical facilities, significantly improving the lives of mothers and sisters in rural and economically disadvantaged families. The Prime Minister highlighted that earlier, many women were compelled to conceal their health issues, often avoiding hospital visits during pregnancy due to financial concerns. He emphasised that the Ayushman Bharat scheme has alleviated this burden, enabling them to receive free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh in hospitals. He stressed that alongside education and healthcare, financial independence is critical for women's empowerment. He noted that when a woman has her own income, her self-respect grows, and her involvement in household decision-making strengthens. The Prime Minister underscored the government's continuous efforts over the past 11 years to economically empower women. He pointed out that before 2014, over 30 crore women did not have a bank account. The government facilitated the opening of Jan Dhan accounts for them, where funds from various schemes are now being directly transferred. He remarked that women across rural and urban areas are increasingly engaged in work and self-employment, supported by the Mudra Yojana, which provides collateral-free loans. 'More than 75% of Mudra's beneficiaries are women', said the Prime Minister, demonstrating the initiative's impact on financial inclusion. Emphasising that 10 crore women across the country are now part of self-help groups, actively creating new sources of income with substantial financial support from the government, PM Modi underscored the commitment to empowering 3 crore women as Lakhpati Didis and expressed satisfaction that more than 1.5 crore women have already achieved this milestone. He noted the role of Bank Sakhis, who connect people with banking services in villages, and emphasised the government's initiative to establish Bima Sakhis. He stressed that women and daughters are now playing a significant role in expanding insurance coverage nationwide. The Prime Minister highlighted that there was a time when women were kept away from emerging technologies. He emphasised that the country has moved beyond that era, ensuring that women actively participate in technological advancements and stated that the government is committed to enabling women and daughters to take leadership roles in modern technology. He pointed to the drone revolution in agriculture, underscoring that rural women are leading this transformation. 'Namo Drone Didi initiative is boosting the confidence of rural women and enhancing their income opportunities and creating a unique identity for them', remarked the Prime Minister. Underlining that many daughters across the country are pursuing careers as scientists, doctors, engineers, and pilots, PM Modi emphasised that the enrollment of girls in science and mathematics education is steadily increasing. 'Today, a large number of women scientists are working in all our major space missions', said PM Modi, mentioning that over 100 women scientists and engineers contributed to the Chandrayaan-3 mission. He further remarked on the remarkable contributions of women in the startup sector, pointing out that nearly 45 per cent of startups in India have at least one woman as a director, and this number continues to rise. The Prime Minister highlighted the progressive steps taken over the past decade to achieve this goal, emphasising the government's commitment to increasing women's participation in policymaking. He noted that for the first time, India has had a full-time woman Defence Minister and a woman Finance Minister. He further emphasised that the representation of women from panchayats to Parliament has steadily increased, with 75 women currently serving as Members of Parliament. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of further enhancing this participation, underscoring that the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam embodies this vision. He remarked that while this legislation faced delays for years, the government successfully ensured its passage, solidifying women's reservation in Parliament and legislative assemblies. He reaffirmed that their government is empowering women at every level and in every sector. 'India is a land of deep-rooted culture and traditions, where sindoor symbolizes feminine strength', emphasised PM Modi, mentioning that even Lord Hanuman, immersed in devotion to Lord Ram, adorned himself with sindoor, and it is offered in shakti puja rituals. 'Sindoor has now become a symbol of India's valor', said PM Modi. Referring to the attack in Pahalgam, he stated that the terrorists not only shed the blood of Indians but also struck at the nation's cultural ethos and attempted to divide society. Most significantly, they challenged India's Nari Shakti and this challenge proved fatal for the terrorists and their handlers. 'Operation Sindoor is India's largest and most successful counter-terrorism operation in history', emphasised PM Modi, highlighting that at locations where Pakistan's forces never anticipated action, Indian armed forces dismantled terrorist bases. He remarked that Operation Sindoor has sent a clear message that proxy wars through terrorism will not be tolerated. He stressed that India will not only eliminate threats within its territory but will also ensure a heavy price is paid by those supporting terrorists. 'Every Indian now echoes the same sentiment, if you fire bullets, you will face artillery shells', said PM Modi. 'Operation Sindoor stands as a testament to the strength and valor of India's Nari Shakti', stressed the Prime Minister. He highlighted the crucial role played by the Border Security Force (BSF) in this operation, noting that from Jammu to Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, a significant number of BSF women personnel were at the frontlines. He commended their resolute response to cross-border firing and their active participation in command and control centers, as well as in eliminating enemy positions. The Prime Minister remarked that the world is witnessing the capability of India's daughters in national defense. He emphasized that over the past decade, the government has undertaken several measures to strengthen women's role in security forces. He pointed out that the doors of Sainik Schools have been opened for girls, marking a historic step. He noted that in 2014, only 25 per cent of National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets were female, whereas today, their participation is increasing towards 50 per cent. The Prime Minister celebrated a landmark moment as the first batch of women cadets passed out from the National Defence Academy (NDA). He emphasised that women are now serving in forward positions in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. He further highlighted that women officers are showcasing their courage and leadership from fighter jets to the INS Vikrant warship, demonstrating their growing role in India's defense forces. Highlighting a recent demonstration of courage by the women of the Indian Navy, referencing the Navika Sagar Parikrama, PM Modi noted that two brave women officers completed a nearly 250-day maritime journey, circumnavigating the globe. He emphasized the remarkable feat of covering thousands of kilometers using a sailboat powered solely by wind, enduring prolonged periods at sea without sight of land. He acknowledged the severe weather conditions and storms they overcame, showcasing their resilience. PM Modi remarked that their achievement is a testament to the ability of India's daughters to conquer even the most formidable challenges. He underscored their growing role in safeguarding the nation, whether in anti-Naxal operations or countering cross-border threats. From the land of Devi Ahilyabai, he once again saluted the strength and determination of India's Nari Shakti. The Prime Minister emphasized that during her reign, Devi Ahilyabai not only advanced development but also preserved India's heritage. He underscored that modern India is following the same path, balancing progress with cultural preservation. He highlighted the nation's commitment to accelerating infrastructure development, citing today's program as an example. Noting that Madhya Pradesh has received its first metro service, marking a significant milestone, the Prime Minister remarked that Indore, already recognized globally for its cleanliness, will now be identified by its metro as well. He added metro construction in Bhopal is also progressing rapidly. The Prime Minister noted that the central government recently approved the expansion of the Ratlam-Nagda route to four lines, facilitating increased train movement and reducing congestion. Additionally, he highlighted the government's approval of the Indore-Manmad rail project, further enhancing connectivity and infrastructure in the region. The Prime Minister announced that Datia and Satna have now been integrated into the country's air travel network, improving connectivity across the Bundelkhand and Vindhya regions. He emphasized that this development will facilitate easier access to sacred sites such as Maa Pitambara, Maa Sharda Devi, and the revered Chitrakoot Dham. 'India stands at a pivotal moment in history, where the nation must work simultaneously on its security, strength, and cultural heritage', exclaimed PM Modi, stressing the importance of increased efforts and highlighted the significant role of Matrushakti--India's mothers, sisters, and daughters--in shaping the country's future. He invoked the inspiration of Lokmata Ahilyabai, alongside the legacy of great women leaders such as Rani Lakshmibai, Rani Durgavati, Rani Kamalapati, Avantibai Lodhi, Kittur Rani Chennamma, Rani Gaidinliu, Velu Nachiyar, and Savitribai Phule. He noted that each of these names fills the nation with pride. Expressing hope that the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Ahilyabai will continue to inspire generations, PM Modi concluded by urging the nation to strengthen the foundations of a Sashakt Bharat for the centuries to come. The Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav were present among other dignitaries at the event. (ANI)


New Indian Express
a day ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Indore becomes India's 16th city and MP's first to get metro rail service
BHOPAL: The country's cleanest city Indore on Saturday became Madhya Pradesh's first city and India's 16th to get an operational metro rail service. Before addressing the Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Mahila Sashaktikaran Maha Sammelan in Bhopal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the commercial run of Indore's much-awaited metro rail service. 'Today Madhya Pradesh has got its first metro rail service. Indore has already established a distinct identity in the world for cleanliness. Now Indore's identity will be redefined by its metro rail service. The work on starting a metro rail service in Bhopal too is underway in an accelerated manner,' Modi said after virtually inaugurating the Indore metro's first commercial run from Bhopal. Conceptualized to cover a stretch of more than 31 km with 28 stations in multiple phases at a total cost of Rs 7500 crore, around Rs 1520 crore has been spent on the 6-km long five stations-strong super priority corridor on which the commercial run started on Saturday. As a tribute to women power, the five stations on the 6-km long route have been named after famous queens and women warriors -- Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Durgavati, Maharani Laxmi Bai, Rani Avantibai Lodhi and Veerangana Jhalkaribai. The inaugural trip of the Indore Metro only had women passengers, including Swachhata Didis (female sanitation workers) and women working with companies in Indore's Super Corridor area, like Infosys and TCS. Many of the women wore Sindoori (vermillion coloured) sarees, as a salute to the recent Operation Sindoor by the Indian armed forces. Interestingly, the Indore Metro will operate free of cost for all passengers in the first week, followed by discounted ticket rates in the next two weeks (75% and 50% discount respectively). The inauguration of the Indore Metro, meanwhile, wasn't bereft of its share of partisan politics, as the opposition Congress took credit for it. 'Many years back while I was the Union minister and Babulal Gaur was a cabinet minister in the BJP government in MP, I called him to Delhi and said that we feel ashamed that MP doesn't have a metro rail service. He told me that Rs 17 crore was needed to prepare the detailed project report (DPR), the money was sanctioned and the report was prepared. When I was the CM (in 2019), I had laid the foundation of the metro rail project (in Indore and Bhopal),' former CM Kamal Nath said in Chhindwara.


Hans India
a day ago
- Politics
- Hans India
'He's uplifted us in every way': PM Modi gets thumbs up from women
Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for several development projects on Saturday, including airports in Datia and Satna in Madhya Pradesh. Women who came to hear the Prime Minister speak at a programme in Bhopal praised the government's efforts and stated that PM Modi has done commendable work for women. Speaking to IANS after listening to the Prime Minister, a woman named Varsha said that ever since PM Modi came to power, he has launched numerous initiatives for women. 'Schemes Ladli Behna Yojana and many others have directly benefited women. 'Operation Sindoor' has become a symbol of women's strength. I thank PM Modi for transforming the lives of women,' she said. Another woman, Deepti, lauded the Prime Minister's speech, saying that he touched upon many important issues, particularly Operation Sindoor. 'PM Modi has taken several decisions in favour of women, including providing reservations and empowering them. I believe that if women are empowered, society becomes stronger,' she added. Shivani Yadav noted that the Prime Minister made special mention of women in his address. 'He said that women are not just limited to managing their households, but are also standing strong at the borders, defeating enemies,' she said. Pratibha, another attendee, shared that PM Modi has significantly boosted women's empowerment. 'He said in his address that women are advancing, and the country is greatly benefiting from their progress,' she said. Another woman highlighted that PM Modi spoke about the growing participation of women in governance and their continued rise in various sectors. Apart from women, numerous young girls also gathered to hear the Prime Minister. Shivani pointed out that he mentioned women's empowerment and also announced the Indore Metro as a major gift for the region. Shikha said that PM Modi unveiled several key projects for Madhya Pradesh on Saturday. "He also released a special commemorative coin on the occasion of the 300th birth anniversary of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. He talked about the importance of women's empowerment and gifted the Indore Metro as well,' she added.


Time of India
a day ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Operation Sindoor is the biggest and most successful anti-terror operation in the history of India: PM Modi in Madhya Pradesh
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday praised the valour of women personnel in the Border Security Force (BSF), particularly during , calling them the "brave daughters" of India and lauding their frontline role in the country's largest counter-terrorism operation. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Speaking at the Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan in Bhopal, the Prime Minister said, 'Operation Sindoor is India's largest and most successful counter-terrorism operation... From the Command and Control Centre to destroying enemy posts, the brave daughters of the BSF displayed exceptional valour.' He said the operation had exposed terrorist hideouts in locations even the Pakistani army never expected. 'Proxy wars through terrorism will no longer be tolerated. Now, we will strike even inside enemy territory,' he declared. Referring to an incident in Pahalgam, Modi stated, 'Terrorists not only shed the blood of Indians, but they also attacked our culture... They challenged the women's power of India – a challenge that has now turned into a nightmare for the terrorists and their handlers.' He also said the operation has become a new symbol of 'Nari Shakti'. 'BSF's daughters were holding the front lines from Jammu to Punjab, Rajasthan, and the Gujarat border. They gave a strong reply to cross-border firing,' he noted. PM Modi emphasised India's growing trust in the capability of its daughters – from battlefields to classrooms. 'Today, women are being deployed in frontline positions in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. From flying fighter planes to serving on INS Vikrant, women officers are demonstrating outstanding bravery,' he said. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now He highlighted initiatives such as the opening of Sainik Schools to girls, the increasing share of women in the NCC, and the success of female cadets in the NDA. He also mentioned technological strides like the NaMo Drone Didi scheme, saying it is boosting rural women's confidence and income. 'Today, a large number of our daughters are becoming doctors, engineers, and scientists. In the Chandrayaan-3 mission, over 100 women scientists and engineers were involved,' he added. PM Modi releases Ahilyabai Holkar commemorative coin, inaugurates Indore Metro and MP airports During the same event, the Prime Minister also released a commemorative coin and postal stamp marking the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar. He virtually inaugurated the Indore Metro and newly constructed airports in Datia and Satna, and laid foundation stones for several development projects in Madhya Pradesh. 'All these projects will enhance facilities in Madhya Pradesh, accelerate development, and create many new employment opportunities,' Modi said. Paying homage to Ahilyabai Holkar, the Prime Minister said her life symbolised the transformative power of strong public will and resilience. 'She is a symbol of how, when there is public willpower and firm determination, even the most adverse circumstances can be overcome,' he remarked. He praised Ahilyabai's efforts in preserving India's cultural and religious heritage, especially during times of colonial oppression. 'She undertook the restoration of countless temples and pilgrimage sites, including the Kashi Vishwanath temple,' he noted. PM Modi also referred to her advocacy for crop diversification, urging today's farmers to adopt similar practices for better incomes. 'Even today, after 250-300 years, we have to continuously tell our farmers to practice crop diversification,' he said. Ahilyabai Holkar is remembered for her progressive approach to governance, women's education, infrastructure development, and revival of sacred spaces. Her patronage of the Maheshwari saree tradition and creation of water bodies, dharamshalas, and roads continues to be celebrated as part of India's cultural legacy.