There has been a frenzy surrounding the sale of branded sneakers on Instagram, with people rushing to grab the best pair, often without verifying the authenticity of the shoes, despite sellers’ claims of legitimacy. To investigate, undercover reporters from mid-day logged into various online platforms and contacted several sellers, uncovering an extensive network of counterfeit sneaker vendors operating out of Agra. Astonishingly, as the investigation deepened, it was revealed that nearly every house in the area doubles as a factory outlet for mass-producing counterfeit sneakers at throwaway prices. Mimicking designs of OG The sneaker fanatics, driving the high-end sneaker market, have turned sneakers into a cornerstone of fashion, blurring the lines between athletic wear and luxury. The craze for limited-edition releases and exclusive collaborations has fuelled demand, making sneakers a symbol of status, culture, and style. Fake Air Jordan purchased by mid-day. Pic/Ashish Raje (right) Fake Adidas Samba purchased by mid-day. Pic/Ashish Raje As the market evolved, demand for high-end sneakers skyrocketed, with prices reaching astronomical levels in secondary markets. Simultaneously, the rise of ‘first copy’ sneakers—high-quality replicas mimicking coveted originals—gained traction among budget-conscious buyers. These enthusiasts, passionate about stylish footwear yet constrained financially, seek deals and alternatives to expensive limited-edition releases. The counterfeiters not only replicate the look of branded sneakers but also imitate packaging, including trademarks, to deceive buyers. Counterfeiters in Agra revealed to mid-day that they source soles, laces, and packaging materials from nearby markets, including Delhi/NCR and Ludhiana. Agra, a manufacturing hub mid-day discovered that Hing Ki Mandi in Agra is a hub for manufacturing first-copy branded sports shoes. Almost every house in the area is involved in this illegal activity, selling replicas locally and exporting them across India. Manufacturers sell these shoes to wholesalers for as little as R240–R400 per pair, regardless of exclusive branding. mid-day reporter with the fake shoes. Pics/Ashish Raje During a three-day investigation, undercover reporters visited multiple manufacturing units in Agra, posing as wholesalers and retailers. They discovered that small houses in Hing Ki Mandi produce 200–300 pairs of shoes daily. Materials, including soles from Jalandhar and branded cloth from Delhi, are assembled by labourers who heat and paste the soles onto the upper materials. History of Hing Ki Mandi Historically, Hing Ki Mandi was renowned for the asafoetida (hing) trade during the Mughal era of Akbar and Shah Jahan. Today, it has transformed into a hub for counterfeit sneaker production. Counterfeiting operations in Agra have existed for over a decade, with techniques passed down through generations. Mad rush for sneakers Sneaker releases have become much-anticipated events, often creating chaotic scenes in retail stores. Shoppers queue for hours to snag coveted pairs, as budget-conscious buyers celebrate scoring deals in retail stores while resale prices skyrocket online. Fake Adidas Samba shoes at the manufacturing unit The rise of online platforms has further fuelled the global sneaker trade, cementing sneakers as a cultural and fashion staple driven by passionate fans and savvy marketers. To understand the world of first-copy sneakers, a mid-day undercover reporter spent three days in Agra, purchasing samples directly from local manufacturers. The reporter found that bulk orders significantly reduced prices, making replicas even more affordable. Day 1: December 19, 2024Kaibo Shoes Manufacturer, Loha Mandi, Agra, UP mid-day contacted Kaibo Shoes Manufacturer via IndiaMART and visited their manufacturing unit in Loha Mandi. Reporter: I am looking for first-copy branded shoes. I’m a retailer in Mumbai, where there is a high demand for them. Can you share the price range and show me some samples?Manufacturer: We offer first copies of many brands, such as Adidas, Puma, Nike, Air Jordan, and others. Will they look the same as the original? What about the quality?Manufacturer: Yes, the quality will be identical to what you need. However, you must purchase a minimum of one carton, which includes 40 pairs in various colours and sizes. Shoaib, manufacturer in Agra Can I take some samples to show my partner in Mumbai?Manufacturer: We don’t provide individual samples from cartons, but we can give you sample pairs of first-copy brands.The reporter purchased six pairs of sample shoes (Puma, Adidas, Nike) for Rs 3,500. Day 2: December 20, 2024 (Morning)Sultanpura, Agra Manufacturer Shoaib: We can manufacture first copies of any brand you want. Just show us the brand’s photo, and we’ll make it for you. Reporter: Do you have any sample pairs?Shoaib: Yes, we have first copies of Nike shoes. We are currently manufacturing 300 pairs for a customer. Manufacturer at Agra Reporter: What is the cost?Shoaib: Rs 280 per pair. Reporter: That’s impressive—it looks just like the original!Shoaib: Yes, check the market rate. It’s very expensive. You can easily sell it for Rs 1,000-Rs 1,500 in the market. We supply these products to Mumbai, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and many parts of Maharashtra. The reporter verified online that the original Nike shoes were priced at R7,085 on the official Nike website. Shoaib: We have two colours in this Nike edition—red and green.Reporter: How do you manufacture these shoes?Shoaib: All materials are sourced—soles from Jalandhar and branded cloth from Delhi. At home, labourers assemble the materials, heat the soles twice, and paste them onto the upper materials.The reporter purchased one sample pair of Nike Sega first-copy shoes for R280. (Evening) Hing Ki Mandi After extensive searching, the reporters found the hub of shoe manufacturing units in Hing Ki Mandi, where almost every house produces first-copy branded shoes.Manufacturer: We have been running this manufacturing unit for many years. We make the first copies of all major brands. Reporter: Show the shoes.Manufacturer: We source materials from Delhi factories and produce brands like Adidas, Puma, Nike, Skechers, and Air Jordan. You can get these first copies for Rs 260-Rs 350. The manufacturer explained the process, which takes 8–10 days for bulk orders. However, the reporter did not purchase shoes from this manufacturer. Day 3: Dec 21, 2024Hing Ki Mandi The manufacturer took the reporter to his unit, which had three floors: Ground Floor: Storage for finished products.First Floor: Manufacturing of first-copy sports shoes.Second Floor: Manufacturing of leather shoes. Manufacturer: We produce 200–300 pairs daily, priced between R240–R300 per pair, and deliver them to Mumbai.The reporter purchased seven pairs of Air Jordan’s first copies for R300 each. These shoes were priced at R28,000 on the official website. Sneaker lovers speak Danish Alfaaz,Singer and rapper Singer and rapper Danish Alfaaz said, “OG is OG. If you’re wearing originals, it feels good because you’ve earned it. But most people can’t afford them, so they go for first copies. I’ve done the same in the past.” Alfaaz stressed the importance of personal style. “The brand stamp makes it unique, but creativity matters more. ‘Bhed Bakri ki chal duniya chalti hai – apne aapko khud design karo’ (Don’t follow the herd; create your own style). Handmade designs and your own brand hold more value than anything else.” Ayush Palande,A third-year mechanical engineering student at Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology ”I use branded shoes which give me comfort while walking and running. I feel bad seeing others wearing fake or first copies of branded shoes, but many college students can’t afford to purchase expensive ones. However, we can easily identify the first-copy shoes.” Anurag Kamat, Third-year hotel management student “First copies of shoes should be available in the market for people who can’t afford expensive ones. Shoes are daily necessities, but college students can’t spend Rs 10,000-30,000 on them. It’s true that original sneakers provide comfort but they’re expensive. However, first-copy manufacturing companies should not use the brand names as it damages their brands and affects their business.” Avantika Padalkar, Final-year architecture student ”I never use first-copy sneakers. I only use original brand sneakers which give me comfort. First-copy shoes are not comfortable and look cheap in style. Many college students save money from their pocket money to purchase branded shoes. I think the first-copy market should be shut down as it is damaging brands.” Raftaar Rapper “I’m a sneaker fanatic. I have no objections to replicas because, during my early career, I wore first copies,” rapper Raftaar told mid-day. “I used to buy them from Chor Bazaar for Rs 300 or Palika Bazaar.” Acknowledging the illegality of the replica business, he added, “Once I could afford expensive sneakers, I replaced all my fake with originals.” Raftaar compared replicas to ambition. “Not everyone can afford a luxury car, but they can modify theirs to look like one. People buy replicas out of ambition, and that’s why originals retain their value. Companies often don’t stop counterfeiting for this reason.” “Today, I can’t wear replicas—they’re easily identified in my circle. But I’m not upset seeing others wear them. For many, it’s the start of a dream,” he concluded. Police’s role Last December, Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar (MBVV) police carried out raids at three shops in the Naya Nagar area of Mira Road where shopkeepers had been selling counterfeit branded footwear. Police officers privy to the investigation told mid-day that fake products worth over R12 lakh were confiscated from these retail outlets and three to four people were arrested. The cops had also confiscated cartons bearing logos of branded footwear companies. Counterfeiting issues are dealt with under the Copyright Act, 1957, and Trademarks Act, 1999, said a senior police officer, adding, “In cases of copyright infringement, the aggrieved party approaches us against people selling counterfeit products.” “Based on the complaint of the aggrieved party, an FIR is registered and counterfeit products are seized,” said the police officer. Such cases are investigated by an officer, not below the rank of a sub-inspector. An officer privy to the investigation of an infringement case in Mira Road said, “Sample pieces of counterfeit products are sealed in the presence of panch witnesses and sent to experts to check their quality. The experts issue a certificate, which is crucial in such cases.” “The experts’ observations differentiate between original and fake products available in the market,” said the officer. Though the cops can also take suo moto action in such matters, they generally prefer the aggrieved party to file a complaint.
13 January,2025 07:14 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirish Vaktania | Diwakar SharmaMonday blues A duo lays out pairs of washed blue denim jeans to dry at Dhobi Ghat in Mahalaxmi The high life in Dombivli A moment from the Powai highlining act. Such feats are performed by professionals and are not to be replicated without expert guidance Up above the world so high, like a diamond in the sky, is how you might spot professional highliners (a discipline akin to tightrope walking) of the Slackistan collective this Thursday in Dombivli. After staging a 13-floor-high spectacle in Powai in 2022, the group is all set to walk the tightrope at the Holy Angels High School in Dombivli East. “We have been conducting extensive recces, and have acquired all permissions from the private property owners as well as local police authorities. While highlining outdoors is an entirely different challenge, urban highlining has its own charm. We have limited ourselves to a height of 60 ft this time to ensure a safe and sound walk,” revealed group member Akshay Dange. Between the lines Bengaluru-based Bhasha Centre is back with its fifth volume of Hear, Here — rehearsed readings of works by young directors. While the event, to be held at Harkat Studios in Andheri, is open to all, the readings will be a treat for theatre students and theatre makers looking to explore the artform beyond the stage. On four select days between today and February 17, directors will showcase readings of works, including Mahanirvan by Satish Alekar and Fat Pig by Neil LaBute. “We started the series two years ago to give theatre makers a chance to present their plays without worrying about logistics like lights, staging and ticketing,” shared Vivek Madan (inset), executive director, Bhasha Centre. From Marseille to Mumbai (From left) A section from L’Arrivée des pêcheurs au quai St. Jean by Andre Marius Guindon; Bhatia’s recreation featuring Koli fisherwomen. PICS COURTESY/KRIPA BHATIA It is true that one can never really take away Mumbai from a Mumbaikar. During a recent workshop trip to Marseille in France, city-based illustrator Kripa Bhatia (right) found the inspiration to reimagine a French painting into an artwork rooted in the culture of Mumbai. “When I saw the painting L’Arrivée des pêcheurs au quai St. Jean at the Musée d’Histoire deMarseille museum, I immediately thought of the Koli fisherwomen back home,” Bhatia shared with this diarist. Involved in documenting the lives of Mumbai’s indigenous inhabitants, Bhatia’s painting depicts a group of fisherwomen carrying baskets filled with bombil, instead of sardines, as depicted in the original painting by artist Andre Marius Guindon. Love is all around Khushi Ganatra (in brown) at a previous meeting with the community All is fair in love and war, except it’s not. “Dating is considerably more challenging as an individual with locomotor disabilities. I realised this when I dipped my toes in the dating pool recently,” Khushi Ganatra, PwD (People with Disabilities) rights activist, told this diarist. That’s about to change now with Ganatra’s new inclusive dating initiative, Lovable 2025. In collaboration with PwD welfare community We Can Club, an inclusive dating event will be organised on February 9, just in time for Valentine’s Day on February 14. “Everyone has the right to find love and care in their own ways in this world. The event is open to anyone who wants to join us, and not just members of the PwD community. Isn’t that what true inclusivity means?” Ganatra added. While the venue for the event is still being finalised, Ganatra confirmed that an accessible venue on the Andheri-Ghatkopar route will be chosen for convenience. Those keen to find love with an open mind can log on to @wecan_club_ to register. CSMVS’s birthday resolutions A rangoli marks the (right) Museum’s 103rd anniversary. FILE PIC It’s a 103 cheers for the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya where celebrations on January 10 marked 103 years since the heritage landmark opened its doors as a museum to the general public in Mumbai. In addition to a vibrant rangoli inspired by its facade, the Museum has already jotted down its checklist for the 104th year. Giving us a sneak peek into the plans, Joyoti Roy (inset), head of strategy and marketing, revealed, “The focus is on the structure and its upkeep this year. A new book that traces the history of this intricate architectural marvel is in the works.” Visitors can also keep an eye out for the second part of the Ancient Sculptures series which will put a spotlight on the Harappan Civilisation this time. “In addition to these major plans, we will aim to step up our educational programming and launch some satellite projects around the new Mumbai Gallery at the Museum,” Roy told this diarist.
13 January,2025 06:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayDo you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for January 13. Aries March 21 – April 20Be aware of surroundings and people if carrying a big amount of cash.Cosmic tip: Don’t succumb to sweet words and flattery which is used only for the other person’s gain. Taurus April 21 – May 20Make sure vehicle is in top condition before driving out of town. Completing work in advance saves unnecessary tension.Cosmic tip: Mentally argue out the relevant issue first before discussions. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Being creative, you know exactly how to transform intangible ideas into workable forms. Be aware of alternative therapy’s limitations.Cosmic tip: Think in a positive manner that attracts a positive karmic cycle. Cancer June 22 – July 23Work is completed exactly as anticipated and on time. Those in a relationship enter a karmic cycle of marriage. Cosmic tip: Leave gray areas of life behind, looking ahead with joy and a peaceful mind. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Recheck tickets, airport transport, hotel bookings, etc. once more. A late night is revealed.Cosmic tip: Understand the intention behind actions if wondering why life is suddenly slightly puzzling. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Leave work issues behind once home. Make ‘now time’ consciously for family. Long-term plans don’t include change of job.Cosmic tip: Work on a well-thought-out plan that helps deal with a sensitive issue. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Letting go of a situation not working for you is better. Seek other workable options. Cosmic tip: Be aware every decision and action taken has a true and balanced reaction. Think calmly and clearly. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22A turning point early evening is a surprise and something to celebrate. Negotiations bring results. Cosmic tip: Understand, what seems an imbalance in life is actually very finely balanced by the universe. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22An important project becomes reality soon. Work towards closure of a legal issue. Go slow, but sure of facts.Cosmic tip: Listen to intuition when someone you just don’t like or trust gets in touch. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Making correct karmas has earned this lucky karmic cycle to be extended. Retain focus. Cosmic tip: Make time for a hobby, even though there’s laser-like focus on work. The brain needs relaxation time too. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Focusing on what’s really important helps keep sights only on what’s working. Do get enough sleep. Cosmic tip: Be aware what you consider as a restrictive obstruction is actually a balancing coming into play. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Career goes on a high at a tremendous speed that catches you unawares. Eat nutritious food.Cosmic tip: Consciously believe life has its ebbs and flows according to planetary positions and karma.
13 January,2025 12:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseIn a challenging operation, a tiger that was injured in a territorial fight at Brahmapuri near Chandrapur district of Maharashtra was successfully tranquilised. The injured tiger had attacked one person recently. On January 4, a territorial fight took place between two male tigers in Mindala area that comes under the Brahamapuri forest division. In the fight, the T-100 tiger was found to have sustained severe injuries on its front left leg, while another unidentified tiger was found to be bleeding from its neck, back and legs. Subsequently, the forest department undertook the operation to capture both tigers for medical treatment. Meanwhile, on January 10, T-100 unexpectedly attacked Gurudev Purushottam Saraye, a resident of Pardi Village in the area. It is said that the tiger might have attacked the person as it was unable to hunt due to the wound on its front left leg. “On Sunday, Dr Ravikant Khobragade, veterinary officer, TATR, Chandrapur, along with his team darted T-100 at 7.31 am and the tiger was anesthetised and caged at approximately 8.15 am,” said a forest department official. The operation was undertaken under the guidance of Deputy Conservator of Forest Rakesh Sepat, by Range Forest Officer (Nagbhid) Arup Kannamwar and other field forest staff, Dr Khobragade, Police Constable Ajay Marathe (shooter) and his team, and biologist Rakesh Ahuja. Tiger T-100 is approximately 10 years old and will be shifted to the Transit Treatment Centre, Chandrapur, for further medical treatment. Forest department officials are yet to capture the other tiger that was injured in the territorial fight.
12 January,2025 11:19 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavAt least five people were injured after part of house collapsed in Jogeshwari east area of Mumbai, the civic officials said on Sunday. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the incident took place at around 4:57 pm when a part of a house collapsed in the Chunnilal Marwadi Chawl area near Gumpha Darshan Building in Majas Wadi, Jogeshwari East in Mumbai. The incident occurred when part of the upper floor of a ground-plus-one (G+1) structure came down, resulting in injuries to five people. The incident was reported by the BMC's Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) at 6:56 pm following which the civic officials rushed to the spot and launched a rescue and relief operation. The BMC said that emergency services rushed to the site, and the injured were shifted to a hospital for medical treatment. It said that according to information from the Assistant Medical Officer (AMO) at the hospital, one person was admitted with injuries, while the others were treated and their condition is said to be stable. Those injured in the incident were Lalina Vikram Bhati, 26, was admitted to the hospital, Vikram Bhati, 28, Nitin Mahamunkar, 42, Fancy Bhati, 35, Latika Bhati, 11, were treated and discharged from the hospital. Fire breaks out in kitchen of flat in Thane building, residents evacuated Meanwhile, in an another incident, A fire broke out in the kitchen of a flat in Thane building on Sunday evening, the civic officials said. The blaze completely destroyed the kitchen of the flat, they said, adding that no one was injured in the incident. The fire occurred in Saket Complex, located in the Rabodi area of Thane district in Maharashtra, Yasin Tadvi, Chief of the Disaster Management Cell, TMC said. He said that as a precautionary measure, around 15 residents from the sixth and seventh floors of the building were evacuated due to the smoke. Fire brigade teams and disaster management personnel responded quickly following the information after receiving the emergency call at around 6 pm regarding the fire. The fire was brought under control and the cause of the fire was being investigated by the officials.
12 January,2025 10:56 PM IST | Mumbai | Sameer SurveThe Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) on Thursday announced extra bus services in parts of north Mumbai in view of the Erangal Fair 2025. In an official statement, BEST said, in view of the large number of passengers expected to attend the 'Erangal Fair' on January 12, 2025, has announced additional bus services to ensure smooth travel. The BEST said that to manage the crowd during the fair several additional services will be running to and from Malad, Marve, Madh, Malvani and Borivli. Extra buses will run from the following routes: Malad West (Station) to Erangal Bus Route No. 271: 8 buses in the morning and 20 buses in the evening.Marve Beach to Madh Jetty Bus Route No. 271: 6 buses in the morning and 6 buses in the evening.Erangal to Marve Beach Bus Route No. 271: 3 buses in the morning.Borivli West (Station) to Madh Jetty Bus Route No. A-269: 6 buses in the morning and 8 buses in the evening. The BEST said that in total, 20 buses will operate in the morning and 37 buses in the evening, starting from 6 am. Depending on the passenger demand, more buses will be added if necessary. The statement further said that to assist passengers, traffic officers, bus inspectors, and security personnel will be stationed at key locations, including Malad West Station, Marve Beach, Madh Jetty, Erangal, Bhati Village, and Malvani Depot. "BEST has urged all passengers to make the most of these additional bus services to avoid any inconvenience," the BEST said. The nine-day novena at the historic St. Bonaventure Church in Erangal Beach, Madh, began on January 3. Built nearly five centuries ago during the Portuguese era, the church is a significant pilgrimage site. The novena prayers are part of the spiritual preparations leading up to the feast of St. Bonaventure, which will be celebrated on January 12. The church, constructed with stone and lime mortar, features a marble plaque that outlines its rich history. Visitors from Mumbai can reach the church by taking a ferry from Versova to Madh. The annual Erangal Feast is held on the second Sunday of January.
12 January,2025 10:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSenior advocate Iqbal Chagla, one of India's leading lawyers, passed away on Sunday, family sources said. He was 85. Iqbal Chagla, son of former Bombay High Court Chief Justice M C Chagla, was unwell for a few days. He was the father of the sitting judge of the Bombay HC Justice R I Chagla. As per the sources, his last rites will be performed on Monday at the Worli crematorium. Born in 1939, Chagla had obtained an MA in History and Law from Cambridge University. He was then called to the Bombay Bar and was conferred with the Senior Advocate's gown in the 1970s. From 1990 to 1999, Chagla held the office of the President of the Bombay Bar Association for three terms. Chagla was offered the judgeship of the Supreme Court directly from the Bar, but he refused. He mainly appeared in civil litigation and company matters. The Bombay Bar Association in a release mourned the death of Chagla and said his contributions to the legal field are immeasurable and his legacy will forever be remembered. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
12 January,2025 09:14 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIThe Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) in Maharashtra has issued a warning to citizens not to use Chinese string or manja made from plastic or synthetic materials for kite flying, as it is harmful to both humans and birds, ahead of the Makar Sankranti 2025. The municipal corporation in Thane has banned the use of such dangerous materials in its jurisdiction. According to an official statement, the TMC said that as part of the enforcement efforts, the corporation has conducted checks at 450 establishments across various wards. No Chinese manja was found during these inspections, but approximately 290 kilograms of single-use plastic were seized, and fines amounting to Rs 13 lakh were imposed. The civic body permits the use of only cotton strings for kite flying, and the use of sharp materials such as metal, glass, or sticky substances in the strings is prohibited, it said. Chinese manja, which is made from sharp glass powder, metal, or other sharp materials, is dangerous for both animals and humans. The production, sale, storage, and use of Chinese manja have been banned by the National Green Tribunal. These strings do not decompose naturally, causing environmental issues such as blockages in sewage systems and harming animals that ingest them. Additionally, since the string is electrically conductive, it poses a risk of power outages by affecting electrical infrastructure, the TMC said. It said that following instructions from Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao, the corporation has set up vigilance teams at the ward level to regularly monitor and enforce the ban on the production, sale, storage, and use of synthetic and nylon kite strings. These teams include tax inspectors, sanitation inspectors, health officers, pollution control staff, and local police. So far, inspections have been conducted at 450 establishments, with no Chinese manja found. However, the teams seized 290 kilograms of plastic and imposed fines of Rs 13 lakh during the inspections, the civic body said. The Thane Municipal Corporation has set up a toll-free number (8657887101) and an email ([email protected]) for citizens to report any instances of the sale, production, or use of banned synthetic or nylon kite strings. "The TMC urges the public to follow the guidelines for safe kite flying and to report any violations," the official statement said on Sunday.
12 January,2025 08:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnion Minister Nitin Gadkari praised Mahayuti's massive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly Elections on Sunday, emphasising the need to work ten times better than past governments, with a focus on good governance, social harmony, and 'Shivshahi', ANI reported. He stated that every youth should get jobs, that there should be no need to leave villages for work, and that 'smart villages' should replace 'smart cities'. As per ANI, speaking at the BJP's Maharashtra Convention in Shirdi, Gadkari said, "We should not be satisfied just by defeating Congress. We have to bring change in the lives of the people, otherwise, the public will ask us what we did (for the welfare of the people in the state). They will say 'You did what they did'. We have to do 10 times better work than the previous governments. Every youth in Maharashtra should get employment. There should be smart villages and not just smart cities. People come to the city out of compulsion." "Our government has done the work of providing work to the hands of 10,000 youths in the same Gadchiroli. This district will be the highest revenue-generating district in the coming times...It was the situation during the Congress era that children from rural areas came to Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur without any hesitation. But this situation will change in our time," he added. Using Bhimrao Ambedkar as an example, the Union Minister stated that no one becomes big or small by winning or losing an election. He also delivered a veiled attack on the Opposition, claiming that some people in the state are attempting to "spread hatred" through "caste politics", ANI cited. "The people of Maharashtra have given unprecedented success. They have given it for Shivshahi (government for the welfare of the people like Shivaji Maharaj). The responsibility of fulfilling the expectations of the people is now on us. We have to bring social harmony. After the victory in Maharashtra, we have to bring good governance to the state. We have to bring social transformation through power," Gadkari said. He added, "No one becomes big or small by winning or losing an election, we are recognized by our work. Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar contested the elections from Vidarbha and was defeated, no one knows those who won the election, but Dr Ambedkar is recognized all over the world. Work is being done to spread hatred by doing caste politics in Maharashtra, but a person is great not by his caste but by his work." Speaking on his upcoming trip to Kashmir for the inauguration of Sonmarg's Z-Morh tunnel on Monday, the Union Minister said that J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had also commended the road and infrastructural projects. "I am going to Kashmir after the program. Tomorrow there is the inauguration of a tunnel with PM Modi. I met the CM of Kashmir, and he told me that you have built such good roads, tourists have increased three times. People have increased. Today there are so many big tourist places in Maharashtra. Reducing imports and increasing exports is the biggest patriotism," he added. BJP-led Mahayuti alliance witnessed a landslide victory in the Maharashtra Elections held in November last year, by winning 230 seats. The results marked a significant milestone for the BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party with 132 seats. The Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party also made notable gains, with 57 and 41 seats, respectively. The Maha Vikas Aghadi suffered a major setback with Congress securing just 16 seats. While Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) won 20 and 10 seats respectively. Earlier in the day, Nitin Gadkari along with BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, inaugurated the seventh edition of the Khasdar Krida Mahotsav, which began with a marathon featuring over a thousand participants, in Maharashtra's Nagpur on Sunday. The 20-day sporting event, which started on Sunday featured competitions across the city, with total prize money of Rs 1.5 crore. Approximately 80,000 athletes, aged between 4 and 85 years, are expected to participate. The event will include the distribution of 762 trophies and 12,317 medals to the winners, PTI reported. Speaking at the event, Gadkari said, "I am very happy that we are starting the Krida Mahotsav in its seventh year today. Thousands of athletes participated in the marathon earlier this morning, marking the beginning of this event on January 12. Over the next few days, we will all have the opportunity to enjoy various sports competitions in this arena. I am also delighted that this year, the program will run for 20 days." "This year, 80,000 athletes will participate. From children as young as four years old to senior citizens aged 85, everyone will take part in these games. There are 762 trophies, 12,317 medals, and prize money totalling Rs 1.50 crore," he added. (With PTI inputs)
12 January,2025 08:08 PM IST | Shirdi | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said Bangladeshi migrants seeking birth certificates illegally in the state to obtain voting rights was "vote jihad part 2", reported the PTI. Devendra Fadnavis, during the November assembly poll campaign, had cited instances of a community voting en masse against the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections held earlier in 2024, and had termed this as "vote jihad". Speaking at the state BJP's convention in Shirdi in Ahilyanagar, Fadnavis said, "Bangladeshi infiltrators are seeking birth certificates in Maharashtra as part of vote jihad part 2. Nearly 100 such cases have been reported in Amravati and Malegaon tehsil in Nashik. These people, many aged around 50 years, are obtaining documents illegally," according to the PTI. Not a single infiltrator will be allowed to stay in Maharashtra, Fadnavis asserted. He said his government is committed to combating anarchist forces attempting to create caste-based and communal divisions and urged people to stay vigilant and ensure this resolve is strengthened. Reflecting on the BJP's stellar performance in the November assembly polls, he hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for guiding and instilling confidence among party workers after the setbacks faced in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. "In the last 30 years in Maharashtra, the BJP is the only party which crossed the 100-seat mark in three consecutive polls (2014, 2019 and 2024). PM Modi's leadership gave us confidence and BJP got 132 seats with strike rate of 89 per cent," he said, as per the PTI. Narrating an anecdote from the Mahabharata about who ensured the victory of the Pandavas over the Kauravas, Devendra Fadnavis said the party workers were "Keshav" and Modi was "Madhav", both names of Lord Krishna, in the stupendous victory of the BJP in the Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024. Cautioning against complacency after the assembly poll results, Fadnavis said workers must continue to put in concerted efforts for public welfare. Pointing towards the local body polls expected to take place across the state in the next few months, he said, "We must remain ready and united. The PM's mantra of 'ek hain to safe hain' (unity ensures safety) must guide us," he told the gathering. Polls to several civic bodies, including in Mumbai, Thane and Nagpur, are pending since early 2022. Fadnavis said that his government has lined up several schemes for the welfare of all segments of society, including ensuring 52 per cent of Maharashtra's electricity is generated from renewable sources by 2030, the news agency reported. (with PTI inputs)
12 January,2025 06:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnion Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that veteran politician Sharad Pawar played politics of betrayal and treachery in Maharashtra from 1978, which was ended by the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) massive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024 with its resolve to establish a stable government, reported the PTI. Addressing a state BJP convention in Shirdi, Amit Shah said the people of Maharashtra showed Pawar, who heads NCP (SP), and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray their place by rejecting the politics of dynasty and betrayal in last year's elections. Citing differences between Congress and allies in Delhi, West Bengal, Bihar, and Maharashtra, Shah said the decline of the opposition INDI block has begun. "Sharad Pawar started politics of 'daga-phatka' (betrayal and treachery) in Maharashtra in 1978, which was rejected by people in 2024 (elections). Similarly, the politics of the dynasty and the betrayal of Uddhav Thackeray was also rejected. People showed Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray their place in 2024 polls," Amit Shah said, according to the PTI. Noting that the BJP's victory in Maharashtra will have long-term consequences, Amit Shah said the historic win shattered the INDI alliance's confidence. Amit Shah also said the BJP will win the Delhi Assembly Elections 2025 scheduled for next month. Sharad Pawar praised RSS for countering opposition's fake narrative in 2024 polls: Fadnavis Meanwhile, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said that Sharad Pawar praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) after observing how the organisation successfully countered the opposition’s fake narrative during the Lok Sabha elections 2024. The opposition had earlier alleged that the BJP aimed to secure 400 seats to amend the Constitution and eliminate reservations, a claim that saffron party leaders acknowledged had negatively impacted their campaign. Commenting on Sharad Pawar’s recent remarks appreciating the RSS, Fadnavis said on Friday that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance managed to construct a misleading narrative during the general elections. However, he credited the RSS for its role in exposing the truth. “When the Assembly elections drew closer, individuals from various walks of life, inspired by the RSS, played a critical role in dismantling this fake narrative. Sharad Pawar Saheb is an astute leader; he must have studied the RSS’s efforts and realised that it is not merely a political entity but a nationalist force. In any competition, it is wise to recognise others’ strengths,” Fadnavis remarked during an interaction with senior editor Vivek Ghalsasi at the Late Vilasji Fadnis Jivhala programme in Nagpur. The CM further revealed that when Eknath Shinde was appointed Chief Minister in June 2022, he had requested to be assigned organisational work. However, senior party leaders insisted that he join the government. (with PTI inputs)
12 January,2025 06:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
