Centre and Maharashtra Govt Announce Aid for Jalgaon Train Accident Victims

Jalgaon Train Accident: The Central Government has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 1.5 lakh each for the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic Jalgaon train accident on Wednesday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also assured that the state government will cover the medical expenses of the injured victims. The accident claimed the lives of 12 people and left five others with serious injuries. Four additional individuals sustained minor injuries. The incident occurred when passengers aboard the 12533 Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express panicked due to a suspected fire and jumped onto the adjacent railway track. Tragically, the oncoming Karnataka Express, traveling from Bengaluru to Delhi, struck the passengers. The Railway Ministry has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 50,000 for those seriously injured. The injured victims include Hasan Ali, Vijay Kumar, Uttam Harjan, Dharma Sawant, and Abu Mohammad. This heartbreaking accident has once again highlighted the importance of railway safety measures. Both state and central authorities have extended their support to the affected families during this difficult time. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a financial aid of Rs 5 lakh for the families of those who tragically lost their lives in the Jalgaon train accident. The state government has also assured that all medical expenses for the injured will be fully covered. The tragic incident claimed the lives of at least 11 people and left six others injured after the Karnataka Express collided with passengers near Jalgaon. The victims were travelers from the Pushpak Express who had disembarked from their train due to a suspected fire. Unfortunately, while standing or moving near the adjacent track, the Karnataka Express passed through, resulting in the accident. Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of the Information & Publicity Department at the Railway Board, explained the sequence of events leading to the tragedy. He noted that a passenger on the Pushpak Express had pulled the alarm chain, prompting others to deboard the train. While standing on or attempting to cross the adjacent track, they were struck by the Karnataka Express. Some passengers boarded the Pushpak Express from Bhusawal. After one individual pulled the alarm chain, several others deboarded. Sadly, while they were on the tracks, the Karnataka Express approached and hit them, Kumar said during a press briefing. Nashik Divisional Commissioner Praveen Gedam reported that ambulances and officials were promptly dispatched to the site. He confirmed that the Additional Superintendent of Police, Superintendent of Police, and the District Collector were collaborating with railway authorities to manage the situation effectively. Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his grief over the incident and confirmed that he had spoken with Chief Minister Fadnavis. The train accident in Jalgaon is heartbreaking. I have discussed the matter with the Chief Minister, and the local administration is ensuring all necessary assistance for the injured. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the deceased, and I wish for the speedy recovery of those injured, Shah stated in a message on his X account.

Mahayuti Leaders Downplay Discord Over Guardian Ministership

Mumbai: Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday said that the issue of guardian ministers will be resolved once chief minister Devendra Fadnavis returns from Davos. Shindes remarks came three days after the cracks appeared in the BJP-led Mahayuti government over appointment of guardian ministers of Nashik and Raigad. The list issued by the CM was withdrawn the next day allegedly after the intervention by the BJPs central leadership. Meanwhile, Maharashtra BJP chief and Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule appealed that the protests regarding the guardian ministership should be stopped by each constituent of the Mahayuti. Fadnavis-led government on Saturday night announced the list of Guardian Ministers for all 36 districts of Maharashtra. A cabinet minister is made a guardian minister of a particular district, which means he or she holds de facto charge of a particular district. The guardian gets control over the government spendings in the district, because of which the position has become important for all parties in the district. The state government had appointed women and child development minister Aditi Tatkare as the guardian minister of Raigad district and water resources minister Girish Mahajan for Nashik district. The announcement invited sharp reactions from Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena as the party wanted the post in both districts. Horticulture minister Bharatseth Gogawale wanted to hold charge of the Raigad district, while School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse wanted to become the guardian minister of the Nashik district. The Shiv Sena workers torched tyres on Mumbai-Goa Highway after the announcement. Supporters of Gogawale had put up a show of strength outside the Shindes bungalow Muktagiri on Tuesday night. The announcement of the guardian ministers was already delayed by almost a month due to differences in the Mahayuti. The government stayed the decision on guardian ministers in Nashik and Raigad, which has brought embarrassment to the government. In a response to a query over the guardian minister, Mr. Shinde said, We have resolved all issues so far. This issue will also be settled after the CM returns from Davos. Mr. Bawankule said that the BJP workers wanted to protest in Nashik. But I spoke to the party leaders in Nashik and did not allow them to organise the protest. Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar will sit together and take a decision on it, he said.

Drunk Man Kills 20-Year-Old Son In Maharashtra

A man from Maharashtra's Nashik has been arrested for allegedly killing his 20-year-old son during a fight, an official said on Wednesday.

Maharashtra govt signs MoUs worth Rs 9.30 lakh crore at World Economic Forum in Davos

The Maharashtra government signed 32 memorandums of understanding (MoU) worth Rs 9.30 lakh crore with various firms at the World Economic Forum at Davos in Switzerland. According to the Maharashtra chief minister's office, on the first day of the World Economic Forum, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis signed investment agreements worth Rs 6,25,457 crore. Subsequently, the total investments have gone up to Rs 9.30 lakh crore. This is a new record for securing such a significant investment amount in a single day and several investment agreements are expected on the second day as well, Fadnavis said. Fadnavis met key executives of several companies and invited them to invest in Maharashtra. Tata Group Chairman N Chandrasekaran held discussions with Fadnavis, during which it was confirmed that it would invest Rs 30,000 crore in the state. Fadnavis also met Carlsberg Group CEO Jacob Aarup-Andersen, who expressed interest in investing in Maharashtra. The Chief Minister assured him of full cooperation for the groups plans. Additionally, M.A. Yusuff Ali, Managing Director of the Lulu Group, conveyed interest in investing in Nagpur and expanding operations in Maharashtra. Fadnavis held discussions with ReNew Power Chairman and CEO Sumant Sinha about a 15,000 MW pipeline and wind energy projects in Beed district. Kerala delegation in Davos for World Economic Forum meet for the first time Schneider Electric Indias Managing Director and CEO Deepak Sharma also met the Chief Minister. Discussions included the use of AI in the energy sector and strengthening ITIs in the state with assistance from the World Bank. Expansion plans in Ahilyanagar and Nashik were also hinted at. Mastercard APAC President Ling Hai held talks with Fadnavis, while Louis Dreyfus Company CEO Michael Gelchie discussed opportunities in agriculture, food processing, international shipping, and financial sectors. Emphasis was placed on enhancing collaboration in agriculture. Fadnavis also discussed potential investments and opportunities with Cognizant CEO Ravi Kumar S. The series of meetings highlighted Maharashtras focus on attracting substantial global investments and fostering economic development. Fadnavis also met former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. We had an insightful discussion on public transport, energy transition, with Maharashtra at the forefront, set to source over 50% of its energy from renewables soon. Mr. Blair expressed his eagerness to visit India soon, and we also discussed Indias progress, the Davos agenda, and Maharashtras role as a powerhouse. Moving from 48GW to 78GW, energy transition remains a key focus for our future, said Fadnavis. The Maharashtra government also signed an MoU with RIL worth Rs 3,05,000 crore, with over 3,00,000 employment opportunities across diverse sectors, including new energy, retail, hospitality and high-tech manufacturing. Anant Ambani in his video message lauded PM Narendra Modi for his transformative efforts in building a Viksit Bharat, with RIL committed to contributing to a New India. CM Devendra Fadnavis is leading the state with his leadership in positioning Maharashtra as the gateway to Indias $5 trillion economy and, soon to be first trillion-dollar economy, he added. Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole said signing MoUs is fine, but asked what are the actual investments that take place on the ground. He said many firms that signed MoUs are from India, asking why these firms signed the MoUs in Switzerland and not in Maharashtra. It shows that the state government just wants to inflate the MoUs and investment amount to misguide the people. However, the reality is completely different, Patole said.

Maharashtra: Quarrel over parking in housing society leads to murder in Nashik

The police official said society chairman and his two sons allegedly assaulted victim`s wife and beat up the victim when he came to her rescue

80-yr-old woman reunited with family in Ahmednagar after three decades

Thane: An 80-year-old woman, who went missing from her home in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district 30 years ago, has been reunited with her family, thanks to efforts made by staff at the Thane Mental Hospital, an official said on Wednesday. Three decades ago, the woman's 13-year-old son tragically died due to an electric shock after climbing a tamarind tree. Overcome with grief and unable to cope up with the loss, the woman left her home in a distressed state and went missing, Thane Mental Hospital's superintendent Dr Netaji Mulik said. The woman later reached Nashik, where she wandered in the Panchvati locality for years. Two years ago, the Nashik police found her in a deteriorated physical and mental condition. After realising that she had a memory loss, they shifted her to the Thane Mental Hospital for care and treatment, the official said. At the hospital, the medical team provided her a comprehensive treatment. Once she showed signs of improvement, the team began working to establish her identity and locate her family. The process was challenging as the woman's recollections of her past were vague and fragmented, Dr Mulik said. Despite not much success initially, the hospital staff gradually pieced together clues about her hometown, contacted the police in Ahmednagar, located about 250 km from here, and traced her relatives there, he said. After receiving information, the woman's family members, including her daughter-in-law, cousins and nephews, visited the hospital here on January 17 and met her for the first time in 30 years. We are deeply touched by the extraordinary care and dedication of the medical team, a family member said. The family has taken the woman back to Ahmednagar. Seeing the family together again is our greatest reward, Dr Mulik said.

Autorickshaw-truck collision in Nashik leaves three dead, two injured

A collision between an autorickshaw and a container truck on Sinnar-Ghoti Road in Nashik district claimed three lives, including a four-year-old girl, and left two others seriously injured, police said.

Eknath Shinde back in village amid reports of guardian mantri tiff

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde addressed rumors about his dissatisfaction over guardian minister appointments, reiterating his commitment to local development in his village and mentioning upcoming resolutions for Nashik and Raigad. He dismissed claims of being upset with BJP leadership and emphasized that the Chief Minister would decisively resolve the matter.

Tension brewing in Mahayuti over Guardian Minister post

Maharashtra government has paused the appointment of Guardian Ministers for Raigad and Nashik due to protests by Shiv Sena. The party is displeased that the posts were given to NCP and BJP ministers instead of their own. Chief Minister Fadnavis, currently in Davos, will address the issue upon his return.

Tatkare to unfurl flag in Raigadand Mahajan in Nashik on R-Day

Sanjay Raut says, govt`s handling of guardian ministers` appointment cites inter

The state government on Saturday announced guardian ministers for 36 districts of the state, but a day later, issued an order to stay the appointments for Nashik and Raigad districts

Maharashtra govt stays appointment of guardian ministers for Nashik, Raigad

The Maharastra government announced the appointment of guardian ministers for 36 districts on Saturday, with NCP`s Aditi Tatkare getting Raigad and BJP leader Girish Mahajan given the responsibility of Nashik

Aaditya criticises delay in guardian minister appointments for Nashik, Raigad

Thackeray criticised the decision, labelling it an insult to the ministers already declared and questioning the Maharashtra Chief Minister`s handling of the situation while he is abroad

Maharastra government stays appointment of guardian ministers for Nashik, Raigad

MUMBAI: Cracks have started showing in the Mahayuti government, as a day after announcing district guardian ministers, it issued an order staying the appointments for Nashik and Raigad districts. The general administration department issued an order to this effect on Sunday. The state government announced the appointment of guardian ministers for 36 districts on Saturday, with NCP's Aditi Tatkare getting Raigad and BJP leader Girish Mahajan given the responsibility of Nashik. The appointment of guardian ministers was awaited after the formation of the new BJP-NCP-Shiv Sena government last month. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is in Davos for the World Economic Forum to attract investments in the state, had to intervene, and the general administration department, which is under him, issued an order to stay the appointments for the two districts until further orders. District guardian ministers are responsible for distributing funds for various developmental works in their areas. According to political observers, such control over fund distribution is also used to corner the political opponents in districts. In Raigad, where the new international airport is coming up along with a large number of residential buildings, the district guardian ministership given to Tatkare has irked Shiv Sena leader and state Minister Bharat Gogawale, who is also from the coastal district. Gogawale had said in the past that he was keen to be the guardian minister of Raigad. Similarly, Shiv Sena leader and Minister Dada Bhuse from Nashik was keen on becoming the guardian minister of his home district. The post, however, went to Mahajan, a close confidant of CM Fadnavis.

19-year-old gets life term for sex assault on 2-year-old girl

A 19-year-old man from Dindori, Nashik, has been sentenced to life imprisonment and fined Rs 50,000 for sexually assaulting a girl less than three years old in June 2024. The offence occurred when the man saw the child playing in her house's veranda and took her to a farm to commit the crime. He faced charges under the Pocso Act.

Odisha CM flags off pilgrimage train for senior citizens

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Friday flagged off a pilgrimage train carrying 800 senior citizens to Shirdi and Nashik in Maharashtra. Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and MLA Babu Singh, Majhi gave the green signal to the Bhubaneswar-Shirdi-Nashik special train under the Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana (BNTYY). The state government []

9 Killed In Collision Between Tempo, Minivan, Bus On Pune-Nashik Highway

At least nine people were killed, including a five-year-old child, and eight others were injured after a tempo collided with their minivan, forcing it to ram into a stationary bus on the Pune-Nashik Highway on Friday, a police official said.

Nine killed as minivan rams into stationary bus on Pune-Nashik Highway

PUNE: At least nine people were killed after a tempo hit their minivan, causing it to ram into a stationary bus on the Pune-Nashik Highway on Friday morning, police said. The accident occurred near Narayangaon around 10 am. The minivan was heading towards Narayangaon when a tempo hit the vehicle from behind, causing it to ram into an empty bus parked on the side of the road, said Pankaj Deshmukh, superintendent of police, Pune Rural. All nine occupants of the minivan were killed, he said, adding that further details were awaited.

Maharashtra to set up innovation city

Mumbai :Maharashtra will set up an Innovation City similar to the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) to nurture the startup ecosystem in the state, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Thursday. Just as Gujarats GIFT City has been developed, we aim to build the Innovation City in Maharashtra. The new Innovation City will serve as a dedicated hub for technology and innovation, providing a fertile environment for start-ups, particularly those in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), Fadnavis said while speaking at the National Startup Day programme organised by the State Innovation Society under the Department of Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The Maharashtra CM highlighted Maharashtras achievements saying the state is home to over 25,000 start-ups and continues to lead in both investment and valuation within the countrys start-up ecosystem. He added that the state is planning to finalise a new startup policy in the next two months, which would be opened to the public for consultation and comments. The state government has circulated a draft start-up policy seeking suggestions from the entrepreneurs. We are implementing a campaign in which women will be in all positions in startups. Maharashtra is the first state in the country to have the highest number of women directors, the CM said. Citing a report of the Union government, he stated that Maharashtras cities Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar have been instrumental in sustaining the states dominant position. Mumbai and Pune have a conducive environment for starting industries. Mumbai is at the forefront of funding, while Pune is a hub of technology and innovation. Our Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities are contributing greatly to the development of Maharashtra. Cities like Nashik, Nagpur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Kolhapur are encouraging startups and creating an ecosystem, said Fadnavis. The CM also announced a series of initiatives to support start-ups across Maharashtra, including a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), to establish a Rs 100 crore fund. This fund, unlike before when it was used solely in Mumbai, will now see Rs 30 crore allocated to each revenue division, ensuring every divisional centre also benefits, Fadnavis said.

129-Year-Old Swami Sivananda Attends Kumbh Mela for a Century

Swami Sivananda, born in 1896, has witnessed every Kumbh Mela over the past century, marking an extraordinary milestone in his life. The revered spiritual leader, who has dedicated his life to yoga and spiritual service, is considered a living legend in the world of Indian spirituality. His participation in the Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years in India, has become a symbol of his unwavering devotion and spiritual journey. 1896 born Swami Sivananda has attended every Kumbh Mela in 100 years #KumbhMela2025 #MahaKumbhMela2025 pic.twitter.com/OXHI6OWx1H Deccan Chronicle (@DeccanChronicle) January 16, 2025 Swami Sivanandas first Kumbh Mela was in 1901, when he was just five years old. Since then, he has attended every subsequent gathering, including those held in Allahabad, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. His continuous presence at this sacred event, which is considered one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, has made him an iconic figure. The Kumbh Mela is a festival that holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus. Pilgrims from across the world gather to take a ritual dip in the holy rivers, believing it purifies the soul and washes away sins. For Swami Sivananda, the Kumbh Mela has not only been a spiritual pilgrimage but also an opportunity to teach, guide, and inspire countless devotees. In his later years, despite the challenges of age and health, Swami Sivananda has continued to attend the Mela, often seen leading spiritual discourses and conducting yoga sessions for his followers. His teachings focus on the importance of self-realization, meditation, and the pursuit of inner peace. Swami Sivanandas dedication to attending the Kumbh Mela for over a century highlights his commitment to the principles of yoga, spirituality, and community. His remarkable journey is a testament to his resilience, devotion, and the deep spiritual connection he shares with the sacred festival. Today, at the age of 129, Swami Sivananda continues to inspire generations of seekers with his teachings and unwavering faith.

How a tempo's tyre burst caused four deaths and a massive traffic jam on the Mumbai-Nashik highway

Four people, including a pregnant woman and her daughter, died in a bus accident on the Mumbai-Nashik highway. Fifteen others were injured, with four in critical condition. The accident occurred when a tempo lost control and hit three vehicles. The police are investigating the incident and have registered an offence against the tempo driver.

How AI helped nab Army deserters wanted for brutal murders of 2006

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It was a random check using an AI tool by the police technical intelligence wing that led to the recent arrest of two Army men, who had been on the run for nearly two decades after murdering a woman and her newborn twins. Heres a quick flashback. The crime occurred in 2006, at Areyam near Anchal in Kollam district. Although the investigation was handed over to the CBI in 2010, the Kerala Police unofficially continued its pursuit of the suspects Divil Kumar B of Anchal and Rajesh P of Sreekandapuram who were serving in the 45 Air Defence Regiment of the Army, posted in Pathankot at the time. On January 24, 2006, Renjini gave birth to twin daughters. The 24-year-old and her newborns were found murdered on February 10. It was a brutal murder. Their throats were slit, and there were severe stab injuries on their bodies, recalls an officer, who had worked at the Anchal police station in 2006. Renjinis mother, Santhamma, was not at home at the time as she had gone to the panchayat office to obtain birth certificates for her granddaughters. Santhamma mentioned that a man named Anil Kumar had visited the house just before she left. That is when we started tracking Anil. Investigators soon discovered that Renjini had been in a relationship with Divil, a fellow native of Anchal, who was stationed in Pathankot. Renjini and her mother had approached the Kerala State Womens Commission after Divil refused to acknowledge the children. The commission decided to conduct a DNA test to establish the childrens parentage. However, we confirmed that Divil was in Pathankot at the time of the murders, the officer notes. Our focus shifted to Anil, who had become acquainted with Renjini and her mother at a hospital in Thiruvananthapuram and regularly visited their home. A breakthrough came when police recovered a motorcycle registration certificate at the crime scene. The vehicles owner had sold it to a used-motorcycle shop in Thiruvananthapuram. We showed a photograph of Divil to the shop employee, who identified him. However, the identity of the second person remained a mystery. On one occasion, a shop employee mentioned that the second individual had taken him to an ATM to withdraw cash. That was a crucial lead, says the officer. Police scrutinised ATM transactions and found a withdrawal linked to a Pathankot bank account belonging to Rajesh, an Army colleague of Divil. Rajesh was on leave at the time of the murders. On our request, the Army faxed us a photograph of Rajesh. Santhamma and the shop employees confirmed that Anil was, in fact, Rajesh from Sreekandapuram in Kannur, the officer recalls. With Rajeshs involvement established, the police pieced together the plot. Disturbed by the Womens Commissions intervention, Divil sought Rajeshs help. Rajesh befriended Renjini and her mother, and committed the murders while on leave in Kerala. Meanwhile, Divil went into hiding on realising that he was a suspect. The police tracked their ATM withdrawals and discovered the duo had travelled to Delhi, Nashik, and Nagpur. State Special Branch SP Shanavas A, who initially investigated the case as circle inspector in Anchal, says, We worked tirelessly to nab the accused, travelling to various states. However, they always managed to evade us. They were eventually arrested after a recent tip-off from police to the CBI. In 2010, the High Court had directed the CBI to take over the probe. The Army, by then, declared both men deserters. Enter AI Of late, the Kerala Police intel wing has been on an unofficial mission to track those accused on the run in grave, long-pending cases. Though the Anchal murder case was under CBI investigation, police sleuths used an AI tool to recreate images of the fugitives as they might appear now. They then scanned social media platforms using these images. We identified a photograph of one accused on Facebook. Our probe revealed that he was living in Puducherry under the name Vishnu, says an officer who was part of the investigation. Rajesh, using the alias Praveen, was also in Puducherry. Both were running an interior design business, and had settled there with their families. This info was passed to the CBIs Chennai unit, which confirmed their identities. On January 3, the CBI arrested the duo and produced them before the Ernakulam Chief Judicial Magistrates Court, where they were remanded in judicial custody. We preserved the childrens DNA, knowing it could be crucial for future investigations. The CBI can now use these samples to confirm the parentage of the murdered babies, says the officer. Case diary This weekly column brings you exciting, intriguing police stories, straight from the crime files.

Nylon manja claims 3 lives in Maharashtra, leaves cop critical on Makar Sankranti; 2 die chasing kites

Three people died, and a policeman is critically injured due to banned nylon manja during Makar Sankranti celebrations in Maharashtra. Incidents occurred in Nashik, Akola, and Nandurbar, where victims' throats were slit while riding bikes. Two individuals also died chasing kites, and several others were injured. Police registered 19 offences for using illegal nylon manja, seizing materials worth Rs 35,350.

7-year-old among 3 die of manja injury, cop critical; kite chase leaves 2 dead

Three people died, and a policeman is critically injured due to banned nylon manja during Makar Sankranti celebrations in Maharashtra. Incidents occurred in Nashik, Akola, and Nandurbar, where victims' throats were slit while riding bikes. Two individuals also died chasing kites, and several others were injured. Police registered 19 offences for using illegal nylon manja, seizing materials worth Rs 35,350.

Maharashtra: Two men die of kite string injuries on Makar Sankaranti

Two people died in Maharashtra on Tuesday after nylon kite strings slit their throats in separate incidents in Nashik and Akola. Sonu Dhotre and Kiran Sonone were riding two-wheelers when the accidents occurred. Police seized banned nylon strings in a special drive, arresting 19 individuals. The crackdown recovered materials worth Rs 35,350.

Two die of kite string injuries in Maharashtra on Makar Sankranti

One of the persons was riding a motorcycle when a nylon manja entangled his neck on the Pathardi Phata-Deolali Camp road in Nashik. A police team rushed him to the civil hospital, where he later died from excessive bleeding

Man Dies After Nylon Kite String Slits His Throat While Riding Motorcycle In Maharashtra

A 23-year-old man died after a nylon manja slit his throat while he was riding a motorcycle in Maharashtra's Nashik city on Tuesday, police said.

Motorcyclist dies in Nashik after nylon manja slits his throat

A 23-year-old motorcyclist in Nashik tragically lost his life when a nylon manja slit his throat, causing a fatal injury. Authorities are investigating the incident

Motorcyclist dies after nylon manja slits his throat in Nashik

Nashik: A 23-year-old man died after a nylon manja slit his throat while he was riding a motorcycle in Maharashtra's Nashik city on Tuesday, police said. The incident occurred in the Pathardi village circle area around 12.30 pm, an official said. The victim, Sonu Kisan Dhotre, was riding towards Pathardi Phata from Deolali Camp when a nylon manja slit his throat. He suffered a deep wound around his neck, the official said.He said a team from Indiranagar police station rushed the man to the district hospital, where he died due to excessive bleeding. Sonu was employed as a contract worker in Gujarat, the official said, adding that a case of accidental death has been registered. PTI COR ARU 01141712 NNNN

Jeweller and son die by suicide in Nashik due to suspected financial distress

A jeweller and his son in Nashik tragically died by suicide after allegedly consuming poison. Financial distress due to debts is suspected to have driven the incident.

Maha Kumbh Begins in Prayagraj: A Grand Celebration of Faith and Devotion

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: The Maha Kumbh, renowned as the worlds largest spiritual gathering, commenced on Monday with the sacred 'Shahi Snan' (royal bath) on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt greetings to devotees, marking the beginning of this grand event that holds deep significance in Indias cultural and spiritual heritage. A Rare Celestial Event After 144 Years Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh is believed to be particularly special this year due to a rare celestial alignment occurring after 144 years. This rarity adds an extra layer of sanctity, drawing millions to the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers. Massive Attendance and Arrangements Over 45 crore devotees are expected to visit Prayagraj during the 45-day festival, which will conclude on February 26. During Mauni Amavasya, a peak day of the event, an estimated 45 crore pilgrims are anticipated to take a holy dip. Safety and Traffic Management To ensure the safety of pilgrims, NDRF teams and Uttar Pradesh Polices water police units have been deployed at key locations. Elaborate traffic plans have also been implemented, with designated entry and exit routes and specific parking areas to manage the large influx of vehicles. Spiritual Significance of Maha Kumbh According to legend, the god Vishnu wrested a golden pitcher containing the nectar of immortality from demons. During a celestial battle, four drops of the nectar fell to Earth, blessing the cities of Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. These cities now host the Kumbh Mela by rotation, with the Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, being the most auspicious. A Unique Spiritual Experience Saffron-robed monks and ash-smeared ascetics have filled the grounds of Prayagraj, offering blessings to devotees, many of whom walked for weeks to reach the holy site. The ritual of taking a dip in the sacred waters is believed to absolve sins and grant salvation, making this event a deeply transformative experience for attendees. Focus on Cleanliness and Devotee Comfort The last Kumbh Mela was praised for its emphasis on sanitation, and this years event builds on that success. Authorities have arranged clean water, hygienic facilities, and smooth logistics to cater to the massive crowd. This reflects the governments commitment to ensuring the comfort and spiritual fulfillment of every visitor. Massive Devotee Turnout Over 50 lakh devotees took a holy dip on Sunday ahead of Paush Purnima, while Saturday saw a participation of 33 lakh pilgrims. Over 45 crore devotees are expected to visit during this spiritual event, which continues until February 26. The gathering includes saints, sages, families, and individuals of all ages, celebrating the unity and diversity of Sanatan Dharma. City Transformation for Maha Kumbh Prayagraj has undergone significant upgrades under the leadership of CM Yogi Adityanath. The citys infrastructure now boasts over 200 newly constructed and renovated roads, ensuring smooth connectivity for pilgrims. The governments commitment to providing a seamless experience has drawn praise from attendees.This years Maha Kumbh is particularly special due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs only once in 144 years. Devotees are eagerly awaiting the first Amrit Snan, scheduled for Makar Sankranti on January 14, where all Akharas will participate in traditional bathing sequences. To ensure safety, teams from the NDRF and Uttar Pradesh Water Police have been deployed at strategic locations. The Traffic Police have implemented a detailed plan for smooth vehicular movement, designating specific entry and exit routes, including Jawaharlal Nehru Marg for entry and Triveni Marg for exit. Parking facilities have been arranged for vehicles arriving from various locations, with dedicated lots such as Chini Mill Parking and Purva Surdas Parking for those coming from Jaunpur. However, during major bathing festivals, access to Akshayavat Darshan will remain restricted. The Maha Kumbh 2025, celebrated once every 12 years, continues to be a symbol of spiritual pride and cultural unity. With over 45 crore devotees expected to participate, Prayagraj remains at the heart of this grand confluence of faith. The festival will conclude on February 26, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual map of India.

Six dead, 5 injured in tempo-truck collision on Nashik-Mumbai Highway

Nashik Police said two of the five injured people are in critical condition and have been receiving treatment in the district hospital

Kumbh Mela 2025: Best Wishes, Quotes And Messages To Share During Maha Kumbh

Kumbh Mela 2025: Considered the most auspicious in the world, Maha Kumbh Mela takes place every 12 years at holy pilgrimage sites, including Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik.

8 dead, several injured as tempo collides with truck in Nashik

Eight people died and several others were injured when a tempo collided with a truck near Dwarka Circle in Nashik, Maharashtra. The accident occurred around 7:30 PM, with the tempo carrying 16 passengers returning from a religious event. Immediate rescue operations were conducted, and the injured are being treated at hospitals. The death toll may rise due to critical injuries.

Eight dead as tempo rams into truck carrying iron rods in Nashik

The incident took place near an Ayyappa temple in Nashik district at around 7:30 pm on Sunday

8 Killed In Nashik After Tempo Rams Into Truck, Several Critically Injured

The tempo carrying 16 passengers was returning from a religious event when the driver lost control of the vehicle and rammed into a truck.

8 Killed After Tempo Rams Truck Carrying Iron Rods In Maharashtra: Cops

Eight persons were killed and several others injured after a tempo and truck collided on Sunday at Dwarka Circle in Maharashtra's Nashik district, a police official said.

B'deshi infiltrators on 'vote jihad part 2': Fadnavis

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has accused Bangladeshi migrants of seeking birth certificates illegally in the state to obtain voting rights, labeling it as vote jihad part 2. He claimed that nearly 100 such cases have been reported in Amravati and Malegaon tehsil in Nashik. Fadnavis reiterated his government's commitment to combating anarchist forces and urged people to remain vigilant. He also lauded the BJP's performance in the recent assembly polls, attributing the victory to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Minister: Giant Metrewave Radio won`t be moved for Pune-Nashik railway project

The GMRT is situated in Khodad village near Narayangaon, approximately 60 km from Pune, off the Pune-Nashik Highway, NCP (SP) MP Amol Kolhe recently suggested relocating the GMRT to facilitate the railway project

PC Mohan urges BBMP to halt Rs 8,000 crore Tunnel Road project over errors in DPR

BENGALURU: Days after Rodic Consultancy Private Limited, tasked to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of Bengaluru Tunnel Road Project, mentioned Nashik and Malegaon in its executive summary instead of Bengaluru, Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan wrote to BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath to stall such projects. BBMP has acknowledged significant errors in the DPR, including a cut-and-paste error, referencing unrelated projects like Mumbais Coastal Road. These irrelevant references undermine the projects credibility, the MP wrote. The MP highlighting the expenditure of over Rs 8,000 crore for Phase-1 Project, pitched for public transport like expansion of Metro and BMTC fleet. I have written to the BBMP Commissioner to urge reconsideration of the proposed 18-km Tunnel Road project from Hebbal to Silk Board Junction, estimated at Rs 8,043 crore. This initiative will only worsen Bengalurus mobility and environmental issues, rather than improving it, Mohan wrote. He also stated that the error in the Detailed Project Report (DPR), reflects lack of technical rigor in planning the project. A comprehensive DPR usually takes 12-18 months and include thorough geotechnical investigations, but this took only three months to complete, which is unrealistic. For tunnelling at a depth of 30 metres, 20 soil samples per kilometre are required, equating to at least 400 samples for the 18-km stretch. Insufficient geotechnical studies can lead to problems like incorrect Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) selection, unforeseen ground conditions, and even tunnel collapses, as seen in the Bangalore Metro Phase 1, which faced a two-year-delays due to a wrong TBM selection, Mohan said and added, Tunnel Road project conflicts with the citys Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) and ongoing initiatives like Metro Phase 3A. Accelerate the completion of Metro Phase 3A and suburban rail to provide sustainable solutions. Expand BMTCs bus fleet and ensure better first-mile and last-mile connectivity. All projects must strictly adhere to the BMLTA Act, CMP guidelines, and environmental norms, the MP recommended.

Gujarat police bust Tamil Nadu gang that plotted heist during Ambani pre-wedding, 12 arrested

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat police have dismantled a gang of thieves from Tamil Nadu that targeted the Anant Ambani pre-wedding event in Jamnagar. The modus operandi of the gang of 12 habitual criminals was to smash car windows and steal valuables from parked vehicles. Police have seized stolen goods worth over 10 lakh and cracked 25 cases linked to the gangs spree, marking a significant breakthrough in tackling high-profile thefts. The gang's mastermind, Jagan Bala Subramanian, confessed they arrived in Jamnagar by train, during the Ambani pre-wedding event in March last year. High security foiled their plans there, forcing them to shift tactics. Undeterred, they made their move at another location, smashing a car's windows. This gang targeted parked cars in cities across the country, from Pune, Nashik and Shirdi to Delhi and Ahmedabad, using iron rods loaded with bullets to shatter windows, said a Crime Branch official. Acting on a tip-off about 12 suspicious youths from South India staying under a bridge near the Ajwarod Highway intersection, a police team raided the location. We recovered stolen items, including laptops, tablets, expensive phones, gold and silver jewellery and cash, along with 180 metal rods and three bullets, the official revealed. During questioning, the suspects confessed to being members of the Trichy gang, notorious for breaking car windows and fleeing with valuables. All 12 have been arrested and further action is underway, added the officer, highlighting the gangs extensive cross-state operations. The gang members, highly educated according to police, employed clever tricks to distract car owners. They would tell the driver or owner that money had fallen or oil was leaking, then flee with valuables from the car, an official revealed. The mastermind, Jagan, meticulously chose high-traffic spots like bus stands, railway stations, markets and malls, ensuring ample parked cars to target. Investigations uncovered the gangs unique technique: they widened large hairpins, wrapped them in rubber, and inserted iron or metal pellets to shatter car windows with precision. The sophisticated approach and calculated execution underscore the gangs efficiency in pulling off thefts across multiple cities. They confessed to breaking car windows and stealing valuables in areas under Raopura, Gorwa, Akota, and Sayaji Ganj police jurisdictions, as well as in Ahmedabad, Ahmednagar, Goa, Nashik, Pune and Shirdi. The confessions highlight the gangs extensive reach and their role in numerous unsolved theft cases.

BBMP fines Rodic Consultants for major error in Tunnel Road project report

BENGALURU: The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the state government have been left red-faced following the error in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for its ambitious Tunnel Road project. Table 15 of the Executive Summary on page 29 of the DPR has details of cities like Nashik and Malegaon in Maharashtra instead of Bengaluru. Taking serious note of the same, BBMP imposed a penalty of Rs 5 lakh against New Delhi-based Rodic Consultants Limited. Chief engineer, BS Prahlad took to X and informed that the agency has apologised for the error, which he attributed to a compilation mistake. Rodic Consultants Limited has tendered its apologies for the mistake. A penalty of Rs 5 lakh has been imposed. BBMP looks forward to more constructive public participation, he wrote. The mistake drew sharp criticism from activists and the opposition BJP, who labelled it as copy paste work for a project worth Rs 9.5 crore.

Maharashtra Man Marries Would-Be Daughter-In-Law, Son Opts To Become Monk

In Maharashtra's Nashik, a man chose to become a monk after his father married the woman he was set to wed just days before their wedding.

Watch: Cops' Dramatic Chase To Catch Ganja Smuggler In Maharashtra

Nashik Police chased a car travelling to Navi Mumbai from Dhule on suspicion of illegal weapons, narcotics, explosives or similar contraband.

Amitabh Bachchan couldn't sleep for two days after Aishwarya Rai was injured, arranged Anil Ambani's private plane to...

After Aishwarya Rai suffered an injury on the sets of Khakee in Nashik, Amitabh Bachchan arranged Anil Ambani's private plane to take her back to Mumbai.

Maharashtra couple found dead days before son's wedding

NASHIK: A couple in their 50s was found dead in the Tilakwadi area of the city, police said on Tuesday. Jayesh Rasiklal Shah (58) and Raksha Jayesh Shah (55) died early Monday morning, a few days before their younger son's wedding, said an official. The couple lived their two sons and the elder son's wife. After a dinner with relatives on Sunday evening, Jayesh and Raksha allegedly consumed some poisonous substance. While the elder son and his wife were out of town, the younger son, when he returned, found them in unconscious state, the official said. The couple were rushed to hospital where they were declared dead around 2 am on Monday. No suicide note has been found and Sarkarwada Police are conducting further probe, the official said.

MBA Graduate Steals Baby From Nashik Hospital, Police Shocked By Her Motive

The Nashik city police had launched a comprehensive search for the perpetrator. During their investigation, they got to know that the accused had brought the baby to a private hospital in Panchavati. The child was traced within 12 hours and returned to the mother

Woman Dies By Suicide On Govt Hospital Premises In Nashik

A woman allegedly committed suicide on the premises of the civil hospital in Maharashtra's Nashik on Sunday.

Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway Set to Cut Travel Time in Half, to Open in February

Maharashtra : The much-awaited 701 km long Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway, named the Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samriddhi Mahamarg, is set to open in February. This new expressway is expected to drastically reduce the travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur, cutting it from 16 hours to just 8 hours. Previously, the expressway was operational from Nagpur to Ighatpuri near Nashik, and now, with the final phase complete, the entire corridor will be extended to Mumbai. This ambitious project, regarded as a dream initiative by Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, will be inaugurated next month. The expressway is expected to be a game-changer for the region, aimed at boosting socio-economic development, especially in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also supported this transformative project, which will greatly improve connectivity and drive economic growth. Key Contributions to the Project's Success Dr. Anilkumar Gaikwad, a well-known civil engineer, has played a crucial role in the project's successful completion. His leadership and experience in managing large-scale infrastructure projects have been key to delivering this expressway on schedule. Having served as the Chief Engineer at Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), Dr. Gaikwad was promoted to Vice Chairman and Managing Director due to his exceptional work on the project. Environmental and Future Planning Considerations The expressway has already made significant progress with the completion of several phases. In December 2022 and March 2023, parts of the highway were partially opened. The final segment is now ready, with full inauguration expected soon. Environmental sustainability has been a key focus, with more than 80 structures built to ensure the safety of wildlife. Additionally, 18 smart towns are planned along the highway, designed to foster industry based on local needs and characteristics. This forward-thinking planning aims to create a positive impact on the local economy and environment. Economic Impact of the Project The expressway, built at a cost of Rs 67,000 crore, will directly connect 10 districts and provide indirect connectivity to 14 more. This is expected to significantly improve transportation, reduce fuel consumption, and lower industrial freight costs. In its first two years of operation, the highway has already seen 1.52 crore vehicles, resulting in toll collections of Rs 1,100 crore. The expressway is poised to be a major contributor to Maharashtras economic growth and connectivity.

Maharashtra Govt. To Provide UID to Public Projects to Prevent Duplication of Work

Mumbai: In a bid to stop the duplicity of government works, the Maharashtra government on Thursday announced that it will provide Unique ID numbers to Public infrastructure projects similar to the Aadhaar number given to citizens. Maharashtra will be the first state to come up with such a Unique ID for public infrastructure projects. The state government has constituted a four-member committee to study how mapping of the projects will be done. The development comes after the Rural Development Department (RDD), Forest Department, Public Works Department (PWD) and Tourism Department constructed toilet blocks adjacent to each other at pilgrimage places at Ratanwadi village of Akole tehsil in Ahmednagar district. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also instructed the state administration to start an e-cabinet-like e-office. A senior official said that all proposals of the cabinet will be shared through iPad or tablet. Mr. Fadnavis on Thursday chaired a cabinet meeting. As per the statement issued by the Chief Ministers Office (CMO), there are multiple departments which carried out similar kinds of the projects at the same places, resulting in loss of crores of rupees. The unique IDs will prevent duplication of development works, carried out by the multiple departments, the official said. A senior official, who was present in the cabinet meeting, said that the chief minister has given an example of the RDD, PWD, forest and tourism departments, which had built toilet blocks adjacent to each other in the Ahmednagar district. Nashik Divisional Commissioner Praveen Gedam noticed this around a month ago and he informed the state government about it. Following this, it has been decided to give Unique IDs to projects. This will help in prevention of the duplication of works will be stopped, the senior official said. Apart from giving Unique ID, geo tagging will also be done on the public infrastructure project. The CMO said that they have constituted a committee as per the instruction of the CM. Rajgopal Devra, additional chief secretary, planning department, Saurabh Vijay, principal secretary of finance department (expenditure), Eknath Dawle, principal secretary of RDD, and Pravin Gedam will be members of the committee. The committee will submit its report to the cabinet, it said. After the cabinet meeting, the CM said, Apart from giving unique IDs, the work will be properly monitored. All project information will be gradually made available on a single dashboard, Integration with PM Gati Shakti Portal. The CM further said that on the lines of e-office, they have envisaged the idea of 'e-Cabinet'. The cabinet file will be moved electronically. Speaking with this newspaper, Parrag Jaiin Nainutia, Principal Secretary of the Information Technology Department, said, The IT department is going to provide all necessary infrastructure in the state data center for the e-cabinet. I am hopeful that it will be rolled out within a month.

Father-Son Duo Kill Neighbour In Nashik, Take Victim's Severed Head To Cops To Surrender

The incident took place on Wednesday morning in Nanashi village of Dindori taluka, following which the police have arrested the accused man and detained his son

Father, Son Kill Neighbour In Nashik, Take Severed Head To Police Station

A man and his son allegedly hacked their neighbour to death in Maharashtra's Nashik district and later went to local police with the victim's severed head to surrender, an official said on Thursday.

Father-son kill neighbour, surrender with severed head

A man and his son allegedly hacked their neighbour to death in Maharashtra's Nashik district and later went to the local police with the victim's severed head to surrender, an official said on Thursday.

Father-son duo kills neighbor in Nashik, surrenders with victim's severed head

Nashik: A man and his son allegedly hacked their neighbour to death in Maharashtra's Nashik district and later went to local police with the victim's severed head to surrender, an official said on Thursday. The incident took place on Wednesday morning in Nanashi village of Dindori taluka, following which the police have arrested the accused man and detained his son, whose age is yet to be confirmed. Suresh Boke (40) and his son killed their neighbour, Gulab Ramchandra Waghmare (35), with an axe and a sickle. After the incident, they reached Nanashi Outpost police chowki carrying the victim's head and the weapons used for killing him, an official said. After local people came to know about the incident, they damaged the house of the accused father-son duo and torched their car, he said. The incident triggered tension in the village. Along with the local police, personnel of the nearby police stations as well as the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) were deployed in the village for security reasons. Prima facie, the killers and the victim were neighbours and there was a long-standing dispute between the two families. They had lodged police complaints against each other on December 31. The next day, Boke and his son killed Waghmare on the suspicion of helping his (Boke's) daughter to elope, he said. Based on a complaint lodged by the victim's wife, Minabai (34), a case was registered under sections 103 (1) (murder), 352 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace), 351 (2) (3) (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the Peth police station on Wednesday night. While Boke was arrested, his son was detained. Both of them were handed over to the Dindori police for safety reasons. They will be produced in a court on Thursday. Security has been stepped up in the area and the situation is under control, the official said.

Maharashtra ATS arrests 9 Bangladeshis for illegal stay; 43 held in one month

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested nine Bangladeshi nationals for entering India illegally and staying without proper documents. This arrest is part of a special drive where 43 Bangladeshi nationals have been detained in 19 cases last month, with local police assisting the operations in Mumbai, Nashik, Nanded, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

Bhujbal Meets Fadnavis Amidst Suspense Over Future Move

Mumbai: Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal, who was vocal in his disappointment over being denied a ministerial berth in the Mahayuti Governments Cabinet, on Monday met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. While the meeting sent tongues in political circles wagging, Bhujbal claimed that he met the CM to discuss the issues of Other Backward Class (OBC) communities and the current political and social situation in the state. Bhujbal, accompanied by his nephew Sameer Bhujbal, had a 30-minute meeting with Fadnavis at the CMs residence, Sagar bungalow. The meeting came on the backdrop of the OBC leader planning to join the BJP after being dropped from the cabinet. Speaking after the meeting, Bhujbal said, I have told Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis everything that has been happening after December 15. He has assured me that he will address the dissatisfaction within 8 to 10 days. Fadnavis told me that the Other Backward Classes have played an important role in the landslide victory of the Mahayuti in the (recent) Vidhan Sabha elections and promised that OBC communitys interests are not harmed, Bhujbal said. After his election exclusion from the cabinet, Bhujbal had signalled his discontent with his remarks Jaha Nahi Chaina, Vahan Nahi Rehna (There is no point in staying where there is no comfort). However, Bhujbal refused to comment on whether he would leave the NCP and is planning to join the BJP. I have said everything I wanted to say to the Chief Minister. I will not say anything more on this, he stated. When asked about the meeting in Pune, Ajit Pawar said it was his partys internal issue and they will resolve it in their way. A prominent OBC leader and MLA from Yevla in Nashik district, Bhujbal was notably absent from the Maharashtra State Legislatures winter session, which concluded in Nagpur on Saturday. He left for Nashik on the first day of the session, a day after 39 Mahayuti MLAs were sworn in as ministers. His absence has sparked intense speculation about his future in the party and the alliance. The Maharashtra CM said Ajit Pawar wanted Bhujbal to play a role for his party at the national level. Ajit dada told me that NCP was a national party and wanted to get back the status. Therefore he thought a tall leader like Bhujbal was needed in national politics. But Bhujbal has other ideas which has led to the current situation. But Bhujbal is important for us and we will resolve the issue, he said.

Sulking senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal meets CM Fadnavis, discusses political and social issues

MUMBAI: Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal, who is sulking over not being included in the new Mahayuti government in Maharashtra, met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis here on Monday. Talking to reporters after the meeting, Bhujbal said he had an elaborate discussion with the CM on the prevailing political and social atmosphere in the state. The former state minister was accompanied by his nephew Sameer Bhujbal during the nearly 30-minute meeting with Fadnavis at the latter's 'Sagar' bungalow in Mumbai. Fadnavis told me that the Other Backward Classes have played an important role in the landslide victory of the Mahayuti in the assembly elections (held on November 20) and he will take care that the OBC community's interest is not harmed, Chhagan Bhujbal said. He also said Fadnavis has sought some time to think over the issues pertaining to OBCs. He (Fadnavis) said he would arrive at some decision in 10 to 12 days, the NCP leader added. Rejected RS seat offer week before Maharashtra cabinet expansion: NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal OBC leaders are opposed to activist Manoj Jarange's demand for reservation for the Maratha community in the Other Backward Class (Kunbi) category. Bhujbal has also been vocal about his opposition to the demand. Asked if he was planning to switch over to the BJP, Chhagan Bhujbal refused to elaborate and said he has already spoken his mind on the issue of him being ignored in the ministry expansion. On Sunday, representatives of OBC organisations from different parts of Maharashtra met him in the city. The NCP leader, who represents the Yevla constituency in Nashik district, did not attend the winter session of the state legislature that concluded in Nagpur on Saturday. He left for Nashik on the first day of the session, a day after 39 Mahayuti MLAs took oath as ministers. The Mahayuti, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar's NCP, won 230 of the 288 seats in the state assembly polls held last month.

After Portfolios Declared, Mahayuti Ministers Compete for District Guardian Ministership

Mumbai: After the cabinet portfolio distributions, tug of war has begun among the Maharashtra ministers over the post of guardian minister of the districts. Shiv Sena cabinet Bharat Gogawale has staked claim over Raigad district, while Sanjay Shirshat wants to become the guardian minister of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. Ajit Pawar-led NCP has control over Raigad district, while the BJP does not want to leave its claim on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. There are at least 11 districts, where two or three of Mahayuti constituents have staked their claim. In Maharashtra, a cabinet minister is made guardia minister of a particular district, which means that he or she is responsible for the overall development and implementation of government schemes in the district. He/she is also the ex-officio chairperson of the District Planning Committee (DPC), which is responsible for addressing issues of common interest between panchayats (local government bodies) and municipalities, such as infrastructure development, resource sharing and environmental protection. This gives control over the government spendings in the district, because of which the position has become important for all parties. A week ago, 39 MLAs had been administered an oath of ministerial berth and secrecy. Following this, the portfolio were allocated to them on only Saturday after a lot of deliberation among the three parties BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has kept the home department with himself, deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde has got three departments including key departments like urban development and housing, while another DCM Ajit Pawar has retained the finance portfolio. After the portfolios were announced, Shiv Sena cabinet ministers started openly demanding guardian ministership of their favorite districts. Mr. Gogawale, who has been made a minister of horticulture and salt pan land development, said that he should be made the guardian minister of Raigad district. However, it is not easy for Gogawale to get the responsibility as the Ajit Pawar-led NCPs Adity Tatkare, daughter of Sunil Tatkare, is also a strong contender here. After taking darshan at Shri Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai, Mr. Gogawales said he has sought blessings from lord Ganesha. I have prayed for Raigad district guardian ministership. I am hopeful that I will get it, he said. It is pertinent to note that Aditi Tatkare was the guardian minister for Raigad during the Uddhav Thackeray-led MVA government. After the collapse of the MVA government, Uday Samant was made the guardian minister of Raigad district and Sindhudurg district in the Eknath Shinde led Mahayuti government. NCP leader and Maharashtra agriculture minister Manikrao Kokate also said that the NCP has a natural claim over the guardian ministership of Nashik as his party has the largest number of MLAs from there. I will demand to keep Nashiks guardian ministership with us as we have seven legislators from here, Mr. Kokate said. There is also a report of a tug-of-war over Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Kolhpaur and Pune districts. While deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar will not leave his claim over Pune, senior BJP cabinet minister Chandrakant Patil is also eyeing for it. An insider in the BJP said that the guardian minister of cities like Pune is important as the corporation elections are likely to be held in the first half of 2025. Therefore, Mr. Patil has been pushing for Pune districts guardian ministership. Shiv Sena cabinet minister Sanjay Shirsat said that his party would keep the guardian ministership of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar and he would be the next guardian minister. Interestingly, BJP minister Atul Save is also vying for the post. Shiv Sena also wants to continue its dominance in the Thane district, while the BJP wants the guardian ministers post for its minister Ganesh Naik. Shiv Sena leader Shambhuraj Desai wants to remain the guardian minister of Satara, where the leaders from other two parties have also joined the race. BJP cabinet minister Shivendra Raje Bhosale, descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is hoping to get the post in Satara, the NCP is also vying for it. However, Mr. Desai denied there was any competition for the Satara guardian ministership. There is no tussle in Mahayuti, he said.

Jewellery store salesman shot dead by two bike-borne men in Thane

Thane: A 25-year-old jewellery store salesman was killed after two unidentified persons fired at him and his employer in Shahapur in Maharashtra's Thane district, a police official said on Sunday. The incident took place at 10:30pm on Saturday when deceased Dineshkumar Manaram Chaudhary, his employer and one more person had called it a day and were waiting outside Mahalaxmi Jewellers in Gotheghar area, the official said. Two motorycle-borne persons fired some rounds, which hit Chaudhary, who succumbed to his wounds some time later at a hospital in Thane. He passed away in the early hours of Sunday. They stole a bag Chaudhary was carrying, the Shahapur police station official said. Chaudhary was a salesman with Mahalaxmi Jewellers, Senior Inspector Jitendra Thakur said, adding the motive of the incident remains unclear. A probe has begun under the supervision of Deputy Superintendent of Police Milind Shinde. Road blocks have been set up in several places in the district to nab the assailants. CCTV footage from the area as well as stretches of Mumbai-Nashik highway are being checked to ascertain their route of escape, the official informed. The firing incident has caused widespread discontent among the business community in the area, with the Shahapur Trade Association asking police to nab the culprits as quickly as possible.

From reel to real: Drug smuggler caught from theatre during Pushpa 2 show

Nagpur: Moviegoers watching a late-night show of Pushpa 2 at a multiplex in Maharashtra's Nagpur witnessed a real-life action scene as police stormed the cinema hall and arrested a man wanted in murder and drug cases. The dramatic arrest of Vishal Meshram shortly after midnight on Thursday left the packed audience stunned, but police assured them that they could continue enjoying the movie as they nabbed the accused and took him away. Meshram was on the run for 10 months and was eventually tracked down after police learnt about his interest in the recently-released film, an official from Pachpaoli police station said on Sunday. The gangster had 27 cases against him, including two of murder and drug trafficking, and was known for his violent tendencies, even attacking police in the past, he said. Authorities had been pursuing him relentlessly, using cyber surveillance and tracking his movements in a new sports utility vehicle (SUV), the official said. After tracking him on Thursday, police deflated the vehicle's tyres outside the cinema hall, located in central part of the city, to prevent his escape, he said. When police personnel entered the hall during the movie's climax, Meshram was engrossed in the film. The police surrounded him and made the arrest swiftly, giving him no chance to resist, the official said. Meshram is currently lodged in the Nagpur Central Jail and will soon be transferred to a prison in Nashik, the police said. Pushpa 2: The Rule, the blockbuster movie starring Allu Arjun, is a sequel to 2021's Telugu film Pushpa: The Rise. It was released on December 5 with dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Bengali and Malayalam.

Shiv Sena (UBT) likely to go solo in BMC election

Mumbai: After a crushing defeat in the recent Maharashtra Vidhan sabha elections, cracks are appearing in the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance as Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Saturday hinted that his party may contest the upcoming Mumbai local body polls independently. The Sena (UBT)s hold in Mumbai is undisputed. It is necessary for Mumbai that Sena (UBT) wins in the city otherwise Mumbai would be separated from Maharashtra by the ruling alliance, said Raut. If we had more seats to contest in Mumbai (during the assembly polls), we would have won them, he added. The Shiv Sena, before its split, had controlled the BMC, Indias richest municipal corporation, for 25 consecutive years from 1997 to 2022. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party contested the April-May Lok Sabha elections in alliance with Congress and Sharad Pawars NCP under the banner of the MVA and won three out of the six seats in Mumbai. However, it could not repeat its impressive performance in the Vidhan Sabha polls, as it won only 10 of the 24 it contested out of the total 36 seats in the city. Party workers demand that Shiv Sena (UBT) should contest the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections on its own. Uddhav Thackeray will take a decision after meeting the workers, said Raut. However, the Sena (UBT) leader clarified that the MVA still exists in the state. Even before this, when we were in alliance with the BJP, we had contested elections separately. The MVA will continue in the Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and Nashik civic bodies, he said. Rauts remark comes after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that the ruling Mahayuti alliance, consisting of the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, would contest the BMC elections as a united front. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, however, said it appeared that Rauts statements stemmed from frustration. They are an independent party and if the Sena wishes to go independent, its their choice. We are willing to contest in an alliance, but since Raut has presented Sena (UBT)s stance of going solo, we must seek clarity, he said. The BMC elections are expected to be held very soon as the term of the previously elected representatives in the BMC ended in March 2022. Since then, the BMC has been operating without elected representatives for nearly three years, including the COVID-19 period.

Shiv Sena (UBT) might go solo for BMC polls, says Sanjay Raut

MUMBAI: leader Sanjay Raut on Saturday hinted that his party might go solo in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election without exiting the Maha Vikas Aghadi. Talking to reporters, Raut said party workers were insisting the organisation go solo in the local body polls, as there were more aspirants than for the Lok Sabha or state assembly polls. Talks are on between Uddhav Thackeray and other party leaders (about whether to go solo) for the BMC polls. Workers want the party to contest the polls solo, he said. The undivided Shiv Sena controlled the cash-rich BMC for 25 consecutive years from 1997 to 2022. The term of the previous elected representatives of the BMC ended in early March 2022, and fresh polls are due for nearly three years now. Raut said the party's power in Mumbai is undisputed. If had we got more seats to contest in Mumbai (during the assembly polls), it would have won them, he said, claiming that it was necessary to win Mumbai or else the city would be separated from Maharashtra. The Shiv Sena contested 24 seats in Mumbai and won 10, while the Congress fielded candidates for 10 seats and bagged four, and the NCP (SP) contested two seats unsuccessfully. Even when the (undivided) Shiv Sena was (in an alliance) with the BJP, we contested the BMC and other civic body polls independently. We are trying to find ways to do it. The MVA will exist in the Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and Nashik civic bodies, he said. Last week, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had said the Shiv Sena will contest the BMC polls, likely to be held next year, as part of the ruling Mahayuti. The BMC polls will be contested as Mahayuti (alliance) in all 227 civic wards, said Shinde, who heads the Shiv Sena. The BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP are part of the Mahayuti alliance.

Onion Crisis In Maharashtra: Ajit Pawar Urges Centre To Withdraw 20% Export Duty

In his letter, Pawar elaborated on the dire situation faced by onion farmers in Maharashtra, particularly in Nashik district, where onion cultivation is a primary source of livelihood.

ATS Probing Terror Funds' Use In Maharashtra Polls, Says Fadnavis; Claims 'Foreign Interference' Evidence

Fadnavis referred to a case being probed in Malegaon in the state's Nashik district as well as a meeting held in Nepal which deliberated on removal of EVMs and the need for ballot papers in polls

Ajit Pawar urges Centre to scrap 20% onion export duty, citing farmers plight

Pawar details the challenges confronting onion growers in Nashik, a key production centre, where falling prices are compounding their woes

Remove 20 per cent export duty on onions: Ajit Pawar to Centre

Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, has written to the Union Commerce Minister. Pawar seeks removal of the 20% export duty on onions. Nashik onion farmers face distress due to low prices. The current rate is around Rs 2,400 per quintal. Unseasonal rains and climate change have impacted earnings. The export duty makes Maharashtra onions less competitive globally.

Three Of Nashik Family, Including Baby, Die In Mumbai Ferry Accident

A couple and their child died in the Mumbai ferry accident on Wednesday that has claimed 13 lives so far and injured around 100 others.

MSRTC Gears Up For New Year With 1,300 New Buses Amid Rising Demand

Of these, approximately 450 buses will be deployed in key regions such as Mumbai-Pune, Nashik-Sambhajinagar, and Nagpur-Amravati, among others.

Am I a Toy?: NCP's Bhujbal Asks Party

Mumbai : After being denied cabinet berth in the Devendra Fadnavis-led government, disgruntled senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal on Tuesday slammed senior party leader Praful Patel and Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar asking whether he was a toy in their hands. Mr. Bhujbal also claimed that chief minister Devendra Fadnavis wanted him to be part of his cabinet. He said that he was upset not because of the ministerial berth but the way he has been humiliated. Mr. Bhujbal is deliberating about his next move with his followers and supporters in Nashik. The senior NCP leader will also continue a deliberation on Wednesday with the supporters across the state. Two days after the expansion of the Maharashtra cabinet, there is unease in all three parties. NCP and Shiv Sena leaders, who could not secure a cabinet berth, are openly expressing their unhappiness. Mr. Bhujbal, one of the prominent OBC leaders of Maharashtra, has skipped the ongoing Winter Session of the Assembly and reached Nashik. The OBC leader met his supporters and announced that he would find out who denied him the ministerial berth even though the CM was in favour of his induction. The senior NCP leader told his supporters that he would soon take a decision on the future course of action. In Nashik, he told the reporters that the party has asked him to resign and go to Rajya Sabha. I have rejected this offer as the election just concluded. I have sought time of a year to two. They (the party leadership) have asked me to hold a discussion over it. But they never held a meeting on this.I am not a toy in your hand and play as per your wish.I am not the kind of person who can bend as per your instruction, Mr. Bhujbal said. Speaking with the reporters, Mr. Bhujbal said, I am informing my supporters what has happened (with me) in the last six to eight months. They have assured me that they will stand behind me whatever decision I take. Mr. Bhujbal further said that Fadnavis wanted him to become a part of the government. BJP state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule told me that Fadnavis was insisting over your name till the last moment that I should be inducted, he claimed.

I'm A Toy In Your Hands? Chhagan Bhujbal To Ajit Pawar Over Cabinet Expansion

Bhujbal, who is sulking over not getting a ministerial berth decided to skip the ongoing Winter Session of the House and reached Nashik on Tuesday.

Rs 20K cr okayed to make Su-30, K-9 howitzers in India

The 12 SU-30MKI jets for the Indian Air Force would be licensed manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited at its Nashik facility and cost around Rs 13,000 crore.

Sharad Pawars Birthday: Currency Note Press Nashik Presents Unique Gift

NCP chief Sharad Pawar is celebrating his 85th birthday today and the Currency Note Press in Nashik has presented him with a unique gift. A decorative piece featuring the number 85 adorned with coins has been specially crafted and gifted to him. The NCP supremo graciously accepted the thoughtful gesture, reflecting the strong bond he shares with the institution. VIDEO | Country's first currency note was made in Nasik in 1924. Nasik holds unique importance as far as Indian currency is concerned. Today, it is Sharad Pawar's birthday. We have come to Delhi on this occasion because he has supported us to run these factories. We have always pic.twitter.com/xrcOwRDMku Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 12, 2024 Nashik holds a significant place in country's currency history as India's first currency note was printed in 1924 in Nashik. Officials of the Currency Note Press highlighted Pawar's support for their operations, which inspired them to offer such unique tokens of appreciation on his birthday, Other leaders including Ajit Pawar, Sunetra Pawar, and Chhagan Bhujbal visited Sharad Pawars residence in Delhi to convey their birthday wishes.

Maharashtra: Nashik man arrested for duping Tamil Nadu scientist of Rs 5 cr with fake governor post promise

The city police have arrested a fraudster who allegedly duped a scientist from Tamil Nadu of Rs five crore by luring him to get the governor's post.

Nashik: Mizan, Sharik, 3 others brutally assault Hindus for commemorating Shaurya Divas on Instagram

The accused persons have been booked by the police under sections 109, 118(1), 115(2), 352, 351(3), 126(2), 189(2), 191(2), 191(3) and 190 of the Bharatiya Nyay Samhita, 2024 and section 3(2)(va) of the SC/ST Act. No arrests in the case have yet been made.

Father-son duo running Madrasas in UP held for enabling cyber-fraudsters to park 'digital arrest' money

BHOPAL: A father-son duo, found to be running Madrasas in Kannauj district of Uttar Pradesh, have been arrested by the Madhya Pradesh police, for enabling an inter-state racket of cyber fraudsters in parking the proceeds of money extorted through the menace of digital arrest. The duo identified as Ali Ahmad Khan (69) and his 36-year-old son Asad Ahmad Khan has been arrested by the Indore polices crime branch from the Kannauj district of UP. Following investigations into extortion of Rs 46 lakh from a 69-year-old woman in Indore in September via digital arrest. The unidentified cyber fraudsters had extorted Rs 46 lakh from an elderly woman from Indore in September this year, after keeping her in digital arrest for five days, posing as officials of TRAI, CBI and other enforcement agencies. The Indore police crime branchs probe revealed that one of the two bank accounts in which the aged woman was made to transfer Rs 40 lakh and Rs 6 lakh were opened just nine days before the alleged extortion and fraud happened. The probe took the Indore cops to the Kannauj district of UP, where it was found that Rs 40 lakh was parked initially in an account held in the name of Falah Daren Madrasa Samiti. The Samiti run by the father-son duo was found to be running 2-3 Madrasas in UP, including Kannauj districts Satoura area. According to cops privy to the ongoing probe, the primary grilling of the father-son duo has revealed that the current account opened by them in September to run the Madrasas was used to park Rs 40 lakh, after talking to a caller who rang them from a Mauritius number (which may be a masked VoIP call). The caller promised to render them a 50% commission out of the parked money, after which the fraud money was parked in their account. Weve gathered details of nine accounts held by the duo and their kin, including in the name of the committee formed to run the Madrasas. While the father-son duo are being grilled to know much about their involvement in the cyber extortion-fraud, transactions in the other eight accounts held by them and those related to them will also be probed in detail, once weve details of those transactions, one of the cops forming part of the probe said. The sum of Rs 40 lakh and Rs 6 lakh which was deposited by the elderly woman in two accounts initially under threat from the cyber fraudsters in September, was subsequently diverted to 18 other bank accounts operating in multiple states of the country. These 18 bank accounts in multiple states were not just used to divert the money extorted from Indore, but a much bigger sum totalling Rs 1.5 crore, including money derived from similar extortion fraud from victims in Chennai and Nashik. According to additional DCP (crime-Indore) Rajesh Dandotiya, Our teams are working in the case in multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh, from where the father-son duo has been held for allowing the cyber fraudsters to park the illegal money.

Suryakiran aerobatic team to dazzle once again at Hussainsagar on Sunday

Hyderabad: The Suryakiran aerobatic team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will dazzle once again with a mesmerising aerobatic display over the picturesque Hussainsagar on Sunday from 3 pm to 5 pm. The team leader is a Su-30 MKI pilot Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi. He and his team the Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy here on Saturday. The airshow will surely be an event to remember for the spectators as these air devils will perform breath-taking aerobatic manoeuvres such as loops, rolls, crosses and inverted flying. The event is being conducted as part of the Indian Air Force Outreach Programme. For more information and all the latest updates, follow the team on social media on Instagram (@suryakiran_iaf), X(@Suryakiran_IAF) and Facebook (@SuryakiranAerobaticTeam) and Youtube (@Suryakiran_IndianAirForce). Suryakiran aerobatic team also called SKAT was established in 1996. This team holds the coveted title of being the only nine-aircraft aerobatic team in Asia, and is one of the elite few teams in the world. This exceptional team has performed over 700 displays across India, while also representing the professionalism of the IAF at international air shows in countries such as China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, and the UAE. The Suryakiran team consists of 9 Hawk Mk 132 aircraft flying in extremely close proximity at a distance of merely 5 metres. There are 12 pilots in the team. The team leader is a Su-30 MKI pilot Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi. The Deputy Leader is Group Captain Sidhesh Kartik. Other pilots include Squadron Leader Jasdeep Singh, Squadron Leader Himkhush Chandel, Squadron Leader Ankit Vashisth, Squadron Leader Vishnu, Squadron Leader Diwakar Sharma, Squadron Leader Gaurav Patel, Wing Commander Rajesh Kajla, Wing Commander Arjun Patel, Wing Commander Kuldeep Hooda and Wing Commander Allen George. Their technical team is led by Wing Commander Abhimanyu Tyagi, Squadron Leader Sandeep Dhayal and Flight Lieutenant Manil Sharma. The teams commentator and administrator is Flight Lieutenant Kanwal Sandhu and the teams doctor is Squadron Leader Sudharshan. All members live by the teams motto Sadaiva Sarvottam meaning Always the Best! SKAT embodies the spirit of excellence. The pilots undergo intensive training to master complex aerobatic manoeuvres, with their expertise and flawless coordination forming the foundation of the close formation flying. The aircraft flown by the Suryakiran Team is the Hawk Mk 132 advanced jet trainer. This aircraft is used to impart fighter flying training to the newly commissioned pilots of the Indian Air Force. This aircraft is proudly made in India today by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) showcasing the nations aviation technology. Recently, the Suryakiran Teams Hawk Mk 132 aircraft have undergone a significant indigenous modification i.e the integration of smoke pods capable of producing colored smoke. This advancement was developed within India at Indian Air Forces Base Repair Depot, Nashik and allows the team to display the colors of the national flagsaffron, white, and greenacross the sky during their aerial performances. This enhancement not only adds visual impact to the displays but also serves as a powerful symbol of national pride, celebrating Indias achievements in aerospace engineering and innovation.

Vote scam: ED seizes Rs 13.5 cr after multiple raids in Mumbai, Ahmedabad

Mumbai: In another major swoop, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) carried out raids at seven locations in Mumbai and Ahmedabad and seized proceeds of alleged crimes worth Rs 13.50 crore, an official said here on Saturday. The seizure pertains to a case lodged on November 7 against the Nashik Merchant Cooperative (NAMCO) Bank, in Malegaon Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Malegaon laundering case: ED searches seven places in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, seizes 13.5 crore

The accused had allegedly opened accounts using identity documents of local residents with the Nashik Merchant Co-operative Bank to withdraw 196 crore over five months

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Dates, Place, Key Rituals, Attractions And More

The sacred festival of Kumbh Mela happens four times over the course of 12 years, across the cities of Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik and Prayagraj in rotation.

Sitharaman blames `Congress-led MVA govt' for delaying bullet train, Metro car shed projects

Mumbai: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday accused the past Congress-led government of stalling key infrastructure projects in Maharashtra including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train and Mumbai Metro car shed in Aarey Colony. The previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government of the Congress, undivided Nationalist Congress Party, and undivided Shiv Sena also created hurdles when the Union government tried to resolve the issues plaguing Mumbai's suburban railway network, she claimed. Sitharaman was speaking at a meeting of the state BJP legislature party where Devendra Fadnavis was elected as its leader ahead of the swearing-in of the new BJP-led government. Sitharaman, along with Vijay Rupani, was present as a central observer. Had the Congress-led government not been in power in Maharashtra during the MVA period, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train would have already commenced, she said. Sitharaman also questioned the delay in the Aarey car shed construction, part of the Mumbai Metro project. The MVA government had shifted its location after environmental groups opposed its construction in the leafy Aarey Colony area. She called the results of the November 20 Maharashtra assembly polls unprecedented and unexpected, attributing the BJP's success to voter dissatisfaction with the earlier Congress-led MVA government. The people were tired and concerned about the functioning of the Congress-led coalition. That is why they have given this clear mandate. We will remind people of the losses incurred during Congress rule, she said. A double-engine government (a BJP-led regime in a state working in tandem with the party-led Union government) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership would fulfill the promises made during the campaign and take Maharashtra towards speedy development, Sitharaman said. She referred to key central government initiatives for the state, such as the Rs 76,000 crore Vadhavan port project and the recognition of Marathi as a classical language. Mumbai is the financial capital of the country and plays a pivotal role in economic progress, including the fintech sector. With our efforts, Maharashtra's leadership in this field will remain intact, she said. The finance minister also outlined plans to boost agricultural infrastructure in north Maharashtra's Nashik region, with investments in new godowns and scientific packaging units for crops such as onion, garlic, and grapes. Projects like the Warkari corridor between Pune and the pilgrimage town of Pandharpur reflect how much Maharashtra and its culture mean to the prime minister, she said. Let's make Maharashtra a powerful state. Hum ek hai to safe hai (united we are safe), she said to the newly-elected party MLAs.

When is Maha Kumbh Mela: Know Dates, Location, Historical and Spiritual Significance...

The Maha Kumbh Mela , one of the largest and most revered religious gatherings in the world, is set to take place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from January 13 to February 26, 2025 . This grand Hindu festival attracts millions of devotees and visitors, who come together to take a ritual dip at the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Spiritual Significance of Kumbh Mela The Maha Kumbh Mela is a celebration of faith, devotion, and renewal. For many participants, it represents an opportunity for spiritual awakening and cleansing. Bathing in the holy rivers during this festival is believed to wash away sins and purify the soul, providing a fresh spiritual start. Historical Roots of Kumbh Mela The origins of the Kumbh Mela lie in ancient Hindu mythology. According to the scriptures, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), a divine pitcher (Kumbh) containing the nectar of immortality was created. A fierce battle ensued between the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) for possession of this nectar. Legend has it that drops of the nectar fell at four sacred locations on EarthPrayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashikduring the tussle. These sites are now the rotating venues of the Kumbh Mela, with the Maha Kumbh Mela being held every 12 years in Prayagraj. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and serves as a time of spiritual reflection and community bonding. Here are the importat dates to save for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: January 13, 2025: Paush Purnima, January 14, Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan), January 29: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan), February 3, Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan), February 4, Achla Saptami, February 12, Maghi Purnima, February 26, 2025: Maha Shivratri (Final Snan) How is the Kumbh Mela Celebrated? The core ritual of the Kumbh Mela involves pilgrims taking a holy dip in the sacred rivers at designated locations. Devotees believe that immersing themselves in these waters during the auspicious period cleanses their sins and brings spiritual merit. Apart from bathing, the festival features prayers, religious discourses, and cultural events. Sadhus (holy men) from different sects gather in large numbers, displaying unique traditions and spiritual practices. It is also a time for devotees to connect with their faith, seek blessings, and experience unity among diverse communities. Known as one of the largest peaceful congregations on Earth, the Maha Kumbh Mela attracts millions of people, including international visitors, spiritual seekers, and photographers eager to capture the vibrant atmosphere. The event is not just a religious festival but also a global cultural phenomenon that highlights the richness of India's heritage and spirituality. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Where To Stay? Tips for Finding Accommodation and More....

Sharad Pawar to form legal team to examine EVM tamperingconcerns

NCP-SP only won 10 seats in Assembly election; losing candidates say vote tallies in their strongholds do not reflect voters sentiments; claim suspiciously similar vote counts for winning candidates in Nashik

Radisson Hotel Group debuts Park Inn & Suites by Radisson brand in Odisha, Maharashtra

MUMBAI, Nov 25: Radisson Hotel Group on Monday announced the signing of 62-key and 55-key Park Inn & Suites by Radisson in Odishas Puri and Maharashtras Nashik, respectively. With this, the group will have its second hotel in Odisha and 12th in Maharashtra. It also marks the global hospitality groups debut of the Park Inn & Suites by Radisson brand in both locations, it said in a statement. Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Nashik is scheduled to [] The post Radisson Hotel Group debuts Park Inn & Suites by Radisson brand in Odisha, Maharashtra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Raut demands re-election, alleges irregularities in EVMs during Maharashtra polls

Mumbai: Shiv Sena(UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Monday demanded a re-election in Maharashtra using ballot papers, claiming there were irregularities with the electronic voting machines (EVMs). Talking to reporters, Raut alleged several complaints about EVMs malfunctioning and questioned the integrity of the recently held elections. The BJP-led Mahayuti won 230 out of 288 seats in the assembly elections, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi managed 46 seats, with Shiv Sena (UBT) winning just 20 out of 95 seats it contested. We have received nearly 450 complaints regarding EVMs. Despite raising objections repeatedly, no action has been taken on these issues. How can we say these elections were conducted fairly? Hence, I demand that the results be set aside and elections be held again using ballot papers, Raut said. Citing some instances, he said a candidate in Nashik reportedly received only four votes despite having 65 votes from his family, while in Dombivli, discrepancies were found in EVM tallies, and election officials refused to acknowledge the objections. The Sena (UBT) leader also questioned the credibility of the landslide victories of some candidates, saying, What revolutionary work have they done to receive more than 1.5 lakh votes? Even leaders who recently switched parties have become MLAs. This raises suspicions. For the first time, a senior leader like Sharad Pawar has expressed doubts about EVMs, which cannot be ignored. Asked about the MVA's poor performance in the elections, Raut rejected the idea of blaming a single individual. We fought as a united MVA. Even a leader like Sharad Pawar, who commands immense respect in Maharashtra, faced defeat. This shows that we need to analyse the reasons behind the failure. One of the reasons is EVM irregularities and the misuse of the system, unconstitutional practices, and even judicial decisions left unresolved by Justice Chandrachud, he said. Raut stressed that though internal differences might have existed within the MVA, the failure was collective. He also accused the Mahayuti of conducting the elections in an unfair manner. I cannot call the elections fair given the numerous reports of discrepancies in EVMs, mismatched numbers, and vote irregularities across the state, Raut said.

More women vote, but fewer elected in battle for Maharashtra

MUMBAI: The Mahayuti governments Ladki Bahin scheme may have helped increase women voters turnout in the Maharashtra assembly polls, but only 21 women got elected this time against 24 in the previous election. According to the Election Commission data, of the 4126 candidates in the fray, 250 were women including independents. Out of the 250 women candidates, only 21 got elected to the assembly. The BJP has the largest elected women MLAs 10 out of 14 candidates. Two women candidates of Shiv Sena (Shinde) got elected, four from Ajit Pawar-led NCP and one from the Congress. The elected BJP women MLAs include Shweta Mahale from Chikhali, Meghna Bordikar from Jintur, Devyani Farande from Nashik Central, Seema Hire from Nashik West, Manda Mhatre from Belapur, Manisha Chaudhary from Dahisar, Vidya Thakur from Goregaon, Madhuri Misal from Parvati, Monika Rajale from Shevgaon and Namita Mundada from Kaij, Sreejaya Chavan from Bhokar, Sulabha Gaikwad from Kalyan East, Sneha Pandit from Vasai, and Anuradha Chavan from Phulambri. Shiv Senas women MLAs include Manjula Gavit from Sakri and Sanjana Jadhav from Kannada. NCPs elected women candidates include Sulabha Khodke (Amravati), Saroj Ahire (Deolali), Sana Malik (Anushakti Nagar) and Aditi Tatkare (Shrivardh). In the 2019 assembly elections, the BJP, Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP had fielded 45 women, of whom 24 women were elected to the 288-member assembly. The women representation percentage was 8% against 7% this time. Though the state and Central governments launched schemes for women empowerment, representation of women is sliding, said a political analyst. Political parties are always reluctant to field women candidates arguing that they face difficulty to get elected.

Maharashtra Assembly polls: Independents finish second in 19 constituencies

MUMBAI: While the contest was between the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, which together constitute six major parties, in the Maharashtra assembly polls, independent candidates showed their mettle by standing second in 19 constituencies. The Mahayuti swept the polls to the 288-member assembly, with BJP bagging 132 seats while Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena got 57 and 41 went into the kitty of the NCP. The opposition Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP) of Sharad Pawar managed to win just 16, 20 and 10 seats, respectively. Maharashtra polls: At 85%, BJPs strike rate highest in state In Aheri constituency in Gadchiroli district, independent candidate Raje Ambrish Rao Raje Satyavanrao Atram, who had previously won in 2014 as a BJP candidate and was also a minister in the Devendra Fadnavis government, lost to Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) Atram Dharamraobaba Bhagwantrao by just 16,814 votes. In Airoli constituency in Navi Mumbai, BJP's Ganesh Naik defeated independent challenger Vijay Chougule by 91,880 votes. However, Chougule managed to race ahead of the contestant from Shiv Sena (UBT). In Amalner (Jalgaon district), independent candidate Shirish Hiralal Chaudhari finished second to NCP's Anil Bhaidas Patil. He lost the poll by 33,435 votes. Similarly, in Beed's Ashti constituency, BJP's Dhas Suresh Ramchandra won by 77,975 votes, while independent candidate Bhimrao Anandrao Dhonde finished second. The Badnera constituency in Amaravati district saw independent candidate Priti Sanjay Band finish runner-up to Ravi Rana of the Rashtriya Yuva Swabhiman Party. Rana was backed by the BJP in Badnera. In Kalyan East, Mahesh Dashrath Gaikwad, an independent candidate, lost narrowly to BJP's Sulbha Ganpat Gaikwad by 26,408 votes. Sulbha is the wife of BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad, who is in jail after firing at Mahesh Gaikwad inside a police station. In Kannad constituency (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district), independent candidate Jadhav Harshwardhan Raibhan was defeated by his estranged wife Ranjanatai (Sanjana) Harshvardhan Jadhav of Shiv Sena by 18,201 votes. In Raigad's Karjat constituency, independent candidate Sudhakar Parshuram Ghare finished second to Shiv Sena's Thorve Mahendra Sadashiv by a margin of 5,694 votes. In Solapur district's Karmala constituency, NCP's Narayan (Aba) Govindrao Patil won by 16,085 votes against independent candidate Shinde Sanjaymama Vithalrao, while the in Kolhapur North Shiv Sena's Rajesh Vinayak Kshirsagar defeated Congress-backed independent candidate Rajesh Bharat Latkar by 29,563 votes. In Solapur's Madha constituency, independent candidate Ranjit Babanrao Shinde lost to NCP's Abhijeet Dhananjay Patil by 30,621 votes. Malegaon Outer (Nashik) saw a massive 106,606 vote victory for Shiv Sena's Dadaji Dagdu Bhuse over independent candidate Pramod Bandukaka Purushottam Bachhav. In Maval constituency (Pune district), NCP's Sunil Shankarrao Shelke defeated independent candidate Anna Alias Bapu Jaywantrao Bhegade by a margin of 108,565 votes. In Nashik's Nandgaon constituency, independent candidate Bhujbal Sameer, who rebelled against the NCP, lost by 89,874 votes to Shiv Sena's Suhas Kande. In Nandurbar constituency, independent candidate Sharad Krishnarao Gavit lost to Congress' Shirishkumar Surupsing Naik by 1,121 votes. Maharashtra poll drubbing a wake-up call for Congress Independent candidate Satyajit Vikramsingh Patankar was defeated by Shiv Sena's Desai Shambhuraj Shivajirao by 34,824 votes in Satara's Patan constituency. Similarly, in Nagpur's Ramtek constituency, Congress-backed independent Rajendra Bhurao Mulak lost by 26,555 votes to Shiv Sena's Ashish Nandkishore Jaiswal. In Washim district's Risod constituency, independent candidate Anantrao Vitthalrao Deshmukh finished second to Congress's Ameet Subhashrao Zanak, who won by 6,136 votes. In Dhule's Shirpur constituency, independent candidate Dr. Jitendra Yuvraj Thakur was defeated by BJP's Kashiram Vechan Pawara by a massive margin of 1,45,944 votes. This was the highest margin of victory recorded in these elections. In Shrigonda (Ahilyanagar constituency), independent candidate Rahul Jagtap lost to BJP's Babanrao Pachpute by 37,156 votes. The poll in Warora (Chandrapur district) was also closely contested, with BJP's Karan Sanjay Deotale emerging victorious over independent candidate Mukesh Manoj Jiwtode by 15,450 votes. Two independent candidates won in the Maharashtra assembly polls, results of which were declared on Saturday. Sharaddada Sonawane emerged victorious from Junnar seat in Pune district, while Shivaji Shattupa Patil won from Changad in Kolhapur. Incidentally, the outgoing assembly had 13 independent MLAs. A total of 4,136 candidates were in the fray for the November 20 Maharashtra assembly elections, of which 2,086 were independents.

21 women among 288 winning candidates in Maharashtra; only 1 from oppn side

Mumbai: As many as 21 women candidates have emerged winner in the elections to the 288-seat Maharashtra assembly, with only one of them from the opposition, according to the poll results. The BJP accounted for the highest number of 14 women candidates emerging victorious, including 10 who were re-elected: Shweta Mahale (Chikli constituency), Meghana Bordikar (Jintur), Devyani Farande (Nashik Central), Seema Hiray (Nashik West), Manda Mhatre (Belapur), Manisha Chaudhari (Dahisar), Vidya Thakur (Goregaon), Madhuri Misal (Parvati), Monica Rajale (Shevgaon) and Namita Mundada (Kaij). The four new women winners of the BJP are Shreejaya Chavan (Bhokar), Sulabha Gaikwad (Kalyan East), Sneha Pandit (Vasai) and Anuradha Chavan (Fulambari), as per the poll results announced by the Election Commission on Saturday. Manjula Gavit (Sakri) and Sanjana Jadhav (Kannad) were elected on the ruling Shiv Sena tickets. Sulbha Khodke (Amravati), Saroj Ahire (Deolali), Sana Malik (Anushaktinagar) and Aditi Tatkare (Shrivardhan) won on the ruling NCP tickets. Congress' Jyoti Gaikwad (Dhavari) will be the lone woman MLA from the opposition's side.

BJP retains stronghold in Nashik city, wins all 3 seats

Nashik assembly elections 2024: Who is winning in Dindori, Igatpuri and other 13 constituencies of Nashik

The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is poised to retain power in Maharashtra, leading in a majority of assembly seats as vote counting continues. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi trails behind, with early trends indicating a significant victory for the incumbent alliance.

HC fines Nashik jailor for rejecting parole to inmate

The Bombay High Court has imposed a Rs 25,000 fine on a Nashik prison jailor for illegally rejecting a prisoner's parole application. The court stated that the jailor's decision contravened the law and was based on a government circular that is inconsistent with existing prison rules. The court has ordered the jailor to reconsider the parole application and forward it to the appropriate authority for a decision.