Friday, March 13
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Mumbai to commission three naval vessels—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—enhancing India's maritime security and defence manufacturing. He also inaugurates the Sri Sri Radha Madanmohanji Temple, an ISKCON initiative in Navi Mumbai, promoting peace and Vedic teachings. The events highlight advances in indigenous defence capabilities and spiritual development.
The executive council of the Prime Ministers Museum and Library has been reconstituted, with Nripendra Mishra continuing as chairperson. New members include former minister Smriti Irani, ex-Army General Syed Ata Hasnain, and filmmaker Shekhar Kapur. The council expanded to 34 members, including multiple Union ministers and other prominent figures.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sonamarg tunnel, initiating significant infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir to boost tourism and reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh. Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari outlined plans for highways, tunnels, and ropeways, focusing on major connectivity improvements. Key projects include ropeways for prominent temples and the 14-km Zojila tunnel, enhancing all-season connectivity and regional development.
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi emphasized the Indian Army's readiness along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, LoC in Pakistan, and Manipur. He highlighted operational preparedness, reconciliation efforts, and enhanced surveillance. Transformation into a self-reliant force by 2047 aligns with national development goals.
Shiv Sena UBT leader Sanjay Raut urged Congress to take the lead in maintaining the INDIA-bloc alliance, emphasizing their elder brother role. He highlighted the alliance's success in the 2024 elections but pointed out the lack of post-election meetings and communication issues.
Union minister Nitin Gadkari announced that nearly 5,000 youths have left Naxalism in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district, joined the mainstream, and many have found employment. He predicted the district will become the highest revenue generator in five years, emphasizing the need for addressing unemployment, malnutrition, and education for societal transformation.
