Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday welcomed the Mahayuti alliance’s decisive victory in the Maharashtra municipal corporation elections, describing it as a clear indication of the deepening bond between the people of the state and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The results, covering elections to 29 municipal corporations, have delivered a strong endorsement of the alliance’s governance model and development agenda.

Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi thanked the people of Maharashtra for backing what he termed the NDA’s “pro-people and good governance” agenda. He said the mandate reflected public trust in the alliance’s track record and its vision for the future.

“Thank you Maharashtra! The dynamic people of the state bless the NDA’s agenda of pro-people good governance. This is a vote to add momentum to progress and celebrate the glorious culture the state is associated with,” the prime minister wrote.

Praise for NDA workers and campaign strategy

In a separate post, PM Modi lauded the efforts of NDA karyakartas, crediting them for working tirelessly at the grassroots level and effectively communicating the alliance’s message to voters. He noted that party workers played a crucial role in highlighting development initiatives while countering what he described as misinformation spread by opposition parties.

“They talked about our alliance’s track record, highlighted our vision for the coming times and also effectively countered the lies of the Opposition. My best wishes to them,” he said.

Mahayuti’s dominant performance across civic bodies

The Mahayuti alliance registered a commanding performance in the civic polls, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerging as the single-largest party. The BJP won over 1,300 of the 2,869 seats contested across municipal corporations, reinforcing its organisational strength in urban Maharashtra.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena finished second within the alliance, securing 394 seats. The Congress surprised many observers by finishing third overall with victories in 315 seats, indicating pockets of resilience despite recent electoral setbacks.

Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) won 149 seats, while the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), which contested independently on several seats, secured 158 victories. Asaduddin Owaisi’s AIMIM also made notable gains with over 90 seats, while Sharad Pawar’s NCP (SP) won 36 seats. Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) managed to secure around 12 seats.

Political significance ahead of key elections

Although the final tally is yet to be officially declared by the Maharashtra State Election Commission, political analysts see the results as a significant morale booster for the Mahayuti government led by Devendra Fadnavis, with Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar as deputy chief ministers. The outcome is being viewed as an important indicator of voter sentiment ahead of future state and national-level contests.

The civic poll victory is also expected to strengthen the NDA’s narrative of political stability, development-focused governance, and organisational unity in Maharashtra’s complex political landscape.

Several Indian airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, on Thursday issued travel advisories after Iran abruptly closed its airspace, disrupting multiple international flight routes. The sudden shutdown has led to delays, rerouting, and cancellations, particularly for long-haul flights that typically pass over Iranian territory.

The development comes amid intensifying protests in Iran against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, raising serious aviation safety concerns in the region.

Air India warns of delays and cancellations

Air India was among the first carriers to alert passengers. In a post on X, the airline said flights that usually overfly Iran are now being rerouted to ensure passenger safety, which may result in longer flight times.

“Due to the emerging situation in Iran and the subsequent closure of its airspace, Air India flights are operating via alternative routes, which may lead to delays. Some flights where rerouting is not feasible are being cancelled,” the airline said.

Air India urged passengers to check flight status before heading to the airport, reiterating that the safety of passengers and crew remains its top priority.

IndiGo issues travel alert, offers rebooking and refunds

IndiGo also confirmed that several of its international services were impacted due to Iran’s “sudden airspace closure.”

“Our teams are working diligently to assess the situation and support affected customers by offering the best possible alternatives,” the airline said.

IndiGo added that impacted passengers would be provided options such as rebooking on alternate flights or refunds, depending on individual cases.

SpiceJet advises passengers to stay updated

SpiceJet released a similar advisory, informing travellers that some of its flights could be affected due to the closure.

“Passengers are advised to check their flight status on our website or contact our 24×7 reservation helpline for assistance,” the airline said in a statement on X.

Why Iran closed its airspace

Iran ordered the closure of its airspace to commercial aircraft early Thursday, according to a notice issued to pilots. While no official reason was provided, the restriction was initially expected to remain in effect until 7:30 am local time.

The move coincides with widespread domestic protests, heightened security measures, and growing fears of a possible US military response. Iran has previously shut its airspace during periods of conflict, including:

• The 12-day confrontation with Israel in June
• Exchanges of fire during the Israel–Hamas conflict

Airlines globally avoiding Iranian airspace

Aviation risk-monitoring platform SafeAirspace reported that most international airlines are now avoiding Iranian airspace altogether. Several carriers have already reduced or suspended services in the region.

Experts warn that airspace closures often signal potential military or security activity, including air defence operations or missile launches, which raise the risk of civilian aircraft being misidentified.

What passengers should do

• Check flight status directly with airlines before travel
• Expect longer travel times due to rerouting
• Be prepared for last-minute schedule changes or cancellations
• Opt for flexible rebooking or refunds if offered

As the situation in Iran remains volatile, airlines are expected to continue monitoring developments closely and adjust operations in line with safety advisories from international aviation authorities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised India’s Gen Z for their creativity, confidence, and commitment to the nation, stating that the country’s youth are playing a decisive role in shaping India’s future. Addressing the concluding session of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) in New Delhi, the Prime Minister said that the strength and capabilities of India’s youth will determine the country’s rise in the coming decades.

“The capability of India’s youth will become India’s capability. Your success will take the nation to new heights,” PM Modi said, urging young Indians to take bold decisions and not shy away from calculated risks.

Youth at the Core of Viksit Bharat 2047 Vision

The Prime Minister emphasised that the journey towards Viksit Bharat by 2047, when India marks 100 years of Independence, places a special responsibility on today’s young generation.

“You have taken the responsibility of achieving Viksit Bharat. The period leading up to 2047 is extremely important, and this is a golden opportunity for you,” he said.

Highlighting the government’s focus on youth empowerment, PM Modi said that the Centre has introduced a series of schemes with a clear and consistent focus on education, skill development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and employment. These initiatives, he noted, are aimed at creating opportunities and enabling young people to convert ideas into impact.

National Youth Day and Swami Vivekananda’s Legacy

The Prime Minister also recalled that January 12, observed as National Youth Day, marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, whose ideals continue to inspire generations of Indians.

“Swami Vivekananda’s life and ideas are a guide for every youth. His vision is deeply connected to nation-building, which is why January 12 holds special significance,” PM Modi said, explaining the timing of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue.

Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue: A Platform for Youth Voices

The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue is a national initiative designed to create a structured platform for dialogue between India’s youth and the country’s leadership. The 2026 edition of the programme was held from January 9 to January 12 and witnessed participation from nearly 50 lakh young people across the country.

PM Modi lauded the quality of discussions and ideas presented by the participants, particularly on key national themes such as:

• Women-led development
• Youth participation in democracy
• Innovation and governance
• Social inclusion and growth
  
  “The way you presented your thoughts on serious topics shows how committed our Amrit generation is towards building a developed India,” he said. “It reflects the mindset of Gen Z in Bharat—creative, confident, and deeply invested in the nation’s future.”

Gen Z as Drivers of Change

Concluding his address, the Prime Minister congratulated the participants for the success of the dialogue and reiterated his belief that India’s Gen Z will be a driving force behind the country’s transformation.

“India’s Gen Z is full of creativity and courage. Yuva Shakti is at the forefront of nation-building,” he said.