Muslim women vote in large numbers in first phase of Bihar polls after SIR exercise
PATNA/SAHEBGANJ/HAJIPUR: The first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections witnessed a high turnout of Muslim women voters, a trend that observers said underscored the impact of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Many women, especially from the Muslim community, returned to Bihar from other states where they live with their families to ensure their names remained valid on the electoral rolls and to cast their votes. Their concerns stemmed from the fear that prolonged absence from the state could lead to their names being deleted or duplicated elsewhere. Several voters said they had either applied to transfer their names from rolls in other states or requested deletion there to remain registered in Bihar. Political analysts in Patna noted that the surge in turnout reflected growing voter awareness following the SIR exercise, which reportedly saw the deletion of thousands of names across communities. Sabina Khatoon, 45, accompanied by her mother-in-law, Rubia, 57, and daughter Baby, 20, travelled from Nashik in Maharashtra to vote in Patna. SIR made us realise the importance of ensuring our names remain valid. In our mohalla, Phulwarisharif, over two dozen Muslim women have returned from Gujarat, Kolkata and Mumbai just to vote, she said, stressing that no Indian should miss the opportunity to participate in elections. Muslim-majority areas recorded significantly higher female voter participation compared with the 2020 Assembly polls. According to social activist Md Naqib from Sahebganj in Muzaffarpur, the increase was even more visible in rural regions, where the SIR drive had encouraged women from minority and other communities to become more conscious not only about voting but also about obtaining essential documents like birth certificates for their children. In Hajipur, officials estimated that the turnout of Muslim women rose by over 30% from the previous election. Sofia, a homemaker from Patna, said she spent Rs 10,000 travelling from Kolkata with her family to vote. The first phase thus saw a strong display of electoral awareness among women, particularly in districts affected by high male migration.
Kerala to host own Kumbh Mela from January 18
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Taking a cue from the mega religious gathering in the north, Kerala, the land of Shankaracharya, is gearing up to host its own Kumbh Mela for the first time in history. Shankaracharya is believed to have founded the akhara system to oversee the propagation of Sanatana Dharma in North India, under which Kumbh Melas are held. On the lines of the four major Kumbh Melasin Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik and PrayagrajKerala will hold its Kumbh Mela from January 18 to February 3, 2026 on the banks of the Bharathapuzha in front of the Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Temple in Malappuram. A reception committee will be constituted on November 23 to coordinate the events. Juna Akhara, the countrys largest monastic order and one of the principal bodies responsible for organising the Kumbh Melas, will oversee the festival in Kerala, the akharas Mahamandaleshwar Swami Anandavanam Bharathi told TNIE. He is only the third Keralite to reach the coveted spiritual rank. Once an SFI leader in Thrissur, he parted ways from red ideology to embrace the saffron order. Swami Anandavanam said Kerala has a rich religious tradition similar to Kumbh Mela. In Thirunavaya, Maha Makham was held during the time of Cheraman Perumal. This was equivalent to the Kumbh Mela held in north India, he said. Juna Akhara to seek backing of devaswom boards Apart from Thirunavaya in Kerala, Maha Makham was also observed at Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. This festival is associated with the appearance of the Makam star, Swami Anandavanam said. On Wednesday, he visited the Thirunavaya temple. Maha Makham was traditionally held every twelve years, bringing together the seers, scholars, kings and warriors to deliberate the Sanatana Dharma. During the festival, yanjam and yagam were performed and a new king was selected. After the reign of the last Perumal, Sundara Moorthi, the leadership of the festival passed to Perumpadappu Swaroopam and later to Valluva Konathiri. Then it took a more martial form, he added. In 2016, the main priest of Thirunavaya temple started river worship rituals at the bank of Bharathapuzha beginning the revival of Maha Makham, which have continued except at the time of Covid- 19 pandemic. The Juna akhara has now decided to organise the grand festivalMaha Makham (Kumbh Mela)in 2028 marking the next 12 year cycle. The akhara will approach both the Malabar and Travancore devaswom boards and seek their cooperation for the 2026 Kumbh Mela. The seers from other akharas will also come. All the seers and ashrams in Kerala will be part of this, Swami Anandavanam said.
5 hidden caves in India every history lover should explore
India hides ancient cave wonders beyond the famous Ajanta and Ellora. Explore the Jain shelters of Udayagiri and Khandagiri in Odisha, the Chalukyan art of Badami in Karnataka, and the oldest rock-cut Barabar Caves in Bihar. Discover Chhattisgarh's Jogimara and Sitabenga for a glimpse into ancient performances, and Maharashtra's Pandavleni for Buddhist tranquility near Nashik.
After fatal leopard attack in Pune, Forest Dept orders feline's 'elimination'
People from leopard attack-prone regions like Junnar, Ambegaon, Shirur in the district organised a asta roko (road blockade) near Avsari on the Pune-Nashik Highway
Nashik-Mumbai lifeline, Panchavati Express, celebrates 50th anniversary
NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force's plans to induct the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A are shrouded in uncertainty at a time when its combat fighters are dwindling fast. On October 17, when the LCA Mk1A made its debut flight on October 17 at Nashik in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) CMD DK Sunil announced the new deadline of March 2026. Even after the extension of the deadline, the IAF is still uncertain about receiving the LCA Mk1A from HAL on time. In September, the HAL CMD had assured that the first two aircraft of 83 will be delivered to the IAF in October this year. HAL made us believe that the delay in delivery of the aircraft is happening due to the engine supply issue from the United States. But the fact is something different. The HAL has received four engines so far, with the first one received in April, said a source. Raising questions on the delivery claims, another source asked, HAL had said that we are waiting for the engines. Engines are here but where is the first fighter jet? Going by the checks and procedures involved, the timeline is likely to get delayed further. We have little confidence in the schedule as it would take at least six months to complete the process. HAL has made a fresh commitment on the delivery status but we are not sure that we would be able to get the aircraft and induct them before mid-2026, the source added. As per the contract, the initial plan was to start the delivery process by February 2024, but delays in supply of the GE F404 engine, software integration, and testing have repeatedly pushed back the timeline. Currently trials of the integrated weapon systems are underway and will require some time to complete. Once the trials are finished, certification must be granted, a process expected to take no less than six months. If any observations or issues are raised during this phase, additional time will be needed to address them. Regulatory body CEMILAC provides airworthiness certification for Indian airborne platforms including aircraft, helicopters, parachutes, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and aerostats. Every system, line replaceable unit (LRU), component, material, and software used in Indian military airborne platforms must be certified. The IAF has been highlighting the fast-depleting combat capabilities as the retirement of MiG-21 fighters pulled down the number of combat squadrons to 29 against the sanctioned strength of 42. The situation is fast changing as The New Indian Express recently brought out that the need to induct more combat systems is already being felt as the 42 combat squadrons sanctioned decades back will not be enough to handle the northern as well as western adversaries, in case of a two-front eventuality. The LCA Mk1A variant, an upgraded version of the Tejas Mk1, includes advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and improved maintainability. The aircraft is a key component of the IAFs modernization drive as the plans are to induct 180 units: with 83 ordered under a Rs 48,000 crore contract signed in 2021 and 97 more Mk1A fighters further ordered, at a cost of over Rs 62,370 crore, in September. The delivery of these aircraft would commence during 2027-28 and be completed over a period of six years, a defence official had said then. IAF chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has publicly expressed displeasure multiple times over the delays in the delivery of the LCA Mk1A. In May, during an event, he had said, So, once a timeline is given, not a single project that I can think of has been completed on time. So this is something we must look at. Why should we promise something which cannot be achieved? While signing the contract itself, sometimes we are sure that it is not going to come up, but we just sign the contract. HAL has maintained that production lines at its Bengaluru facility are now operating at full capacity. The company, despite the challenges, recently completed successful ground and flight testing of several Mk1A prototypes and is also expanding its supply base to meet the IAFs demands.
ED lens on 4 cops & bankers for role in Nashik fake call centres scam
Govt to develop Marathi language varsity at Riddhapur into global institution: Fadnavis
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Saturday that the government is working to develop the Marathi Bhasha Vidyapeeth at Riddhapur, Amravati, into a globally recognised institution. Speaking at the 38th All India Mahanubhav Parishad convention in Nashik, he highlighted the Riddhapur pilgrimage centres role in preserving the Marathi language and pledged to address issues faced by the Mahanubhav sect.
Game Changer: Tejas MK1A roars to life, production hits full throttle
HAL steers new era of Indias self-reliance in defence manufacturing Girish Linganna On October 17, something special happened at HALs facility in Nashik. The Tejas Mk1A fighter jet took to the skies for the first time, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was there to witness this proud moment for Indias aviation industry. It wasnt [] The post Game Changer: Tejas MK1A roars to life, production hits full throttle appeared first on Northlines .
What HAL Chief Test Pilot Told NDTV After Flying New LCA Tejas Mark 1A
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the first Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A on Friday at Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd's (HAL) facility in Maharashtra's Nashik.
India is boosting its defence manufacturing capabilities. The nation now produces 65% of its defence hardware domestically, with a goal to reach 100%. This significant shift is transforming the sector. New production lines for LCA Tejas Mk1A and HTT40 have been inaugurated. India is also targeting increased defence manufacturing and exports by 2029.
Nashik LCA production line inaugurated, can produce eight indigenous Tejas aircraft annually
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday inaugurated the third production line of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A at the Nashik facility of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), aimed at increasing the production of the indigenous fighter jet. This development holds particular significance as LCAs are intended to fill the gaps in combat squadrons created by the retirement of MiG fighter variants. The Ministry of Defence stated, The line operates fully and can produce eight aircraft per annum. With the inauguration of the line, HAL will achieve a total production capacity of 24 aircraft per year. The announcement comes amid concerns over the declining combat fighter strength, which has caused unease among Indian Air Force leadership. The last MiG-21 squadron (23 Squadron) was phased out in September, bringing the current number of fighter squadrons below 30. As reported earlier by The New Indian Express, the advanced LCA Mk1A integrates Uttam active electronically steered array (AESA) radar, Swayam Raksha Kavach, and control actuators, with over 64 percent indigenous content and 67 new indigenous components. On Friday, the Defence Minister also inaugurated the second production line of the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) and flagged off the first LCA Mk1A produced at the facility. In his address, the Defence Minister described the flight of the state-of-the-art aircraft as a shining symbol of India's growing Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence. Highlighting the transformation of the defence sector over the past decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he asserted that the country, which once imported 6570 percent of critical military hardware, is now manufacturing 65 percent of the equipment domestically. He voiced the Government's resolve to achieve 100 percent domestic manufacturing in the future. Rajnath Singh noted that India previously depended on other countries for critical equipment and cutting-edge systems, which increased costs and created strategic vulnerabilities. The Defence Minister stated that annual defence production, which was worth Rs 46,429 crore in 201415, has surged to a record figure of over Rs 1.50 lakh crore in 202425, with exports reaching an all-time high of Rs 25,000 crore from less than Rs 1,000 crore a decade ago. We have now set a target of increasing defence manufacturing to Rs 3 lakh crore and exports to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029, he added. The Tejas is a lightweight, single-engine, multirole platform designed to undertake air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and strike operations. The LCA Mk1A will feature updated avionics, an upgraded electronic warfare suite, and beyond visual range missile capability. The new variant will be capable of deploying a range of weapons from extended stand-off distances. The Indian Air Force had ordered 83 LCA Tejas Mk1A at a cost of Rs 46,000 crore in 2021. Once this order is completed over the stipulated 15-year period, the IAF will possess 40 LCA Mk1, over 180 LCA Mk1A, and at least 120 LCA Mk2 aircraft. Officially, the IAF is meant to maintain 42 combat squadrons to meet all potential operational challenges, with a squadron comprising 1618 aircraft. On the evolving nature of modern warfare, Rajnath Singh said, India must always stay ahead in this new race, and not lag behind, and urged HAL to expand into next-generation aircraft, unmanned systems, and civil aviation, rather than limit itself to the LCA Tejas or HTT-40. Highlighting HAL's contribution during Operation Sindoor, the Minister cited one of the rare instances in Indian military history when the entire defence system was tested simultaneously. Operation Sindoor was one such mission. Our forces not only demonstrated valor and commitment, but also displayed their confidence in indigenous platforms. HAL provided support at various operational sites 24 hours a day during the operation. It ensured the Indian Air Force's operational readiness by carrying out prompt maintenance on fighter jets and helicopters. The Nashik team performed the crucial task of installing the BrahMos missile on the Su-30, which destroyed terrorist hideouts during the operation. This proved that when it comes to national security, we can make our own equipment and protect ourselves with it, said Rajnath Singh. The Defence Minister further pointed out that the ongoing production of the LCA Tejas and HTT-40 aircraft is also the result of collaboration between various domestic industry partners. This collaboration is proof that if the government, industries, and academia work together, no challenge is too big, he said, acknowledging the trust placed by the Indian Air Force in aircraft such as Tejas and HTT-40.
Rajnath cites Operation Sindoor, BrahMos success as proof of defence self-reliance
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India's growing self-reliance in defence during Operation Sindoor, where indigenous platforms like the BrahMos-integrated Su-30Mki played a crucial role. He lauded HAL's Nashik unit for its contributions, emphasizing India's capability to design, build, and defend with its own systems.
Keeping onion markets shut for 11 days for Diwali causing hardship to farmers: Dighole
Farmers in Nashik are facing significant financial losses due to the closure of onion markets for eleven days during Diwali. Bharat Dighole, president of the Maharashtra State Onion Growers Association, stated that this practice is unfair and has been ongoing for years. He urged the government to take immediate action to compensate farmers and ensure transparent, farmer-friendly market operations.
India's First Tejas-Mk1A Completes Maiden Test Flight In Nashik, Gets Water Cannon Salute
Following the inauguration, the LCA Tejas Mk 1A also got a water cannon salute after its maiden test flight.
Rajnath Singh to inaugurate new production lines for Tejas Mk1A and HAL HTT-40 aircraft
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the maiden flight of the LCA Mk1A aircraft at HAL's Nashik division. He also inaugurated the third production line for LCA Mk1A and the second for HTT-40 aircraft. This new facility aims to expedite the delivery of 180 LCA Mk1A jets to the Indian Air Force by 2032-33.
LCA Tejas Mk1A manufactured in Nashik plant of HAL completes maiden flight
The Defence Minister inaugurated the third production line of the LCA Mk1A, and the second production line of the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40), which is an indigenous Basic Trainer Aircraft designed and developed by HAL for the IAF
Rajnath Singh inaugurates 3rd LCA Tejas production line in Nashik, boosting Indias air power
Blood Plasma Loot Gang Busted, 6 Arrested In Bhopal
Police investigation suggested that the gang has so far stolen 1,150 units of FFP from the blood bank of AIIMS, Bhopal, and sold them to two labs in Nashik and Aurangabad in Maharashtra at the rate of Rs 5,800 per unit.
Nashik's combat aircraft complex, once dedicated to assembling Soviet designs, is embracing a new era by producing homegrown fighter jets. The facility has been revitalized to reflect India's commitment to self-reliance in military operations. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will commemorate this transition with the first public demonstration of the LCA Mk1A.
HALs third LCA Tejas production line in Nashik boosts Indias indigenous aerospace capabilities
HALs 13 lakh sq.ft. facility in Nashik will have the capacity to manufacture eight Tejas Mk1A aircraft per year, allowing for expedited deliveries to the IAF
Defence minister Rajnath Singh will unveil the first Tejas LCA MK1A fighter jet from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd's (HAL) new Nashik production line on October 17. During the event, Singh will also inaugurate a second production line for the HTT-40 trainer aircraft at the same facility.
Does This Video Shows UP Police Parading a Group of Men on Streets? No!
We found that the video was actually from Nashik and had no relation to Uttar Pradesh.
Nashik man kills 80-year-old mother out of boredom
In a shocking incident, a 58-year-old man in Maharashtras Nashik district allegedly strangled his 80-year-old mother to death because he was getting bored. Arvind Murli Dhar Patil from Shivajinagar strangled his mother, Yashodabai Murli Dhar Patil, at their residence on Tuesday. The case came to light when he surrendered before the police saying, I was 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 .
I Was Bored: Mentally Ill Man Strangles Mother to Death in Nashik
In a shocking incident in Nashik, Maharashtra, a mentally ill man strangled his 80-year-old mother to death, citing boredom. Police have arrested him and are investigating.
Devendra Fadnavis instructs officials to expedite infrastructure works in Nashik for Kumbh Mela 2027
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed prompt infrastructure work for the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027. He instructed timely completion of the Nashik Ring Road and fast land acquisition for Sadhu Gram. The CM emphasized clean Godavari river water and ready facilities at airports and railway stations. A centralized CCTV system and AI-based solutions will be implemented.
Maharashtra: Deadline to fill class 12 exam forms extended till Oct 20
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has extended the Class 12 exam form submission deadline to October 20 due to heavy rainfall and floods in Marathwada, Nashik, Solapur, and Ahilyanagar.
IMD Issues Red Alert For Mumbai, Showers Likely Across Maharashtra | Check Weather Updates
The downpour has already claimed five lives in the past 24 hours, with fatalities reported from Ahilyanagar, Nashik, Jalna and Yavatmal.
Torrential rains lashed Maharashtra for the second consecutive day on Sunday, causing five deaths and affecting several regions, including Mumbai, Konkan, and Marathwada. More than 11,000 people were shifted to safer locations, with 7,200 from flood-hit Marathwada. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD has predicted increased rainfall, issuing a red alert for Palghar and parts of Nashik and an orange alert for Thane, Pune, and Raigad for Monday.
Heavy rains in Nashik; Godavari river near danger mark in city
Heavy rains lashed Nashik, Maharashtra, causing the Godavari river to near its danger mark and submerging temples in Ramkund. A 'red alert' was issued for heavy to very heavy rain, prompting water discharge from dams and alerts for riverbank residents. Officials urged caution, advising people to avoid flooded areas and follow safety instructions amidst Navratri celebrations.
Extremely heavy rainfall likely in Mumbai, adjoining districts on Sunday; IMD issues 'red alert'
The India Meteorological Department issued a 'red alert' for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and Palghar, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall on Sunday. Coastal districts and Nashik ghats also anticipate heavy showers, while other state regions expect low-intensity rain. This follows an 'orange alert' for Mumbai on Saturday, which saw light to moderate rainfall and some train delays.
Library Movement Boosts Education in Nashik's Tribal Villages
In Nashik's remote tribal belts, where books and study spaces were once a rarity, a grassroot movement is transforming how rural children access education.
IAF to bid farewell to MiG-21 after over six decades of service
After 62 years, the Soviet-origin iconic Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21, IAF's first supersonic air combat interceptor, will take its last flight on September 26. These Soviet-origin jets, inducted in 1963, were Indias first supersonic fighters. The initial batch of 10 joined the 28 Squadron (Chandigarh), nicknamed First Supersonics. Over the years, more than 870 MiG-21s of different variants were inducted, many built domestically by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which began license production in 1966 at its Nashik plant. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and a woman fighter pilot, Squadron Leader Priya Sharma, will be among the six pilots to fly the lost sortie.
How one social activists social media movement brought water revolution in tribal Maharashtra
Pramod Gopalrao Gaikwad, a social worker from Nashik, initiated the Social Networking Forum (SNF) in 2010 after witnessing the struggles of tribal communities facing severe water scarcity. Leveraging social media, SNF mobilized volunteers and resources to implement low-cost water projects, providing clean water to 35 villages and impacting over 60,000 people.
CHANDIGARH: After 62 years, the Soviet-origin iconic Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21, IAF's first supersonic air combat interceptor, will fly into the sky for different formations at the decommissioning ceremony at the Chandigarh Air Force base on September 26. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and a woman fighter pilot, Squadron Leader Priya Sharma, will be among the six pilots to fly the lost sortie. A full dress rehearsal of the September 26 ceremony was held today. At present, the air force currently has two MiG-21 squadrons, the No 23 Squadron, known as Panthers, and the No 3 Squadron, called as Cobras. There will be a three-aircraft Badal formation and a five-aircraft Panther formation. Six MiG-21s belonging to the 23 Squadron will participate in the final fly past ceremony and will be given a ceremonial water cannon salute as they land. The Jaguars and the locally produced Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1) will also take part in the ceremony. Notably, the elite Surya Kiran aerobatic team will enthral the people with skilful aerobatic feats. Para jumpers of the Akash Ganga skydiving team of the IAF will perform, too. As per the programme, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, all three service chiefs -- army, air force and navy -- six former air chiefs and all the commanders-in-Chief of IAF commands will attend the event. These Soviet-origin fighter jets, inducted in 1963, were the first batch of 10 aircraft that arrived in April that year. These were the first supersonic fighters of the country, with its maiden squadron, the 28 Squadron (Chandigarh), earning the nickname First Supersonics. A deal with the Soviet Union was signed in 1962 and the first batch of eight pilots was trained at Lugvoya Airbase in Kazakhstan. Over the years, more than 800 MiG-21s of different variants were inducted, many built domestically by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which began license production in 1966 at its Nashik plant. A total of 1,200 aircraft of different variants were procured till 2010, with later variants undergoing significant upgrades. After the dress rehearsal, Wing Commander Jaideep Singh, spokesman of the IAF, said, The ingenuity the air force has shown that we have used this aircraft for all roles, be it photo reconnaissance, strike, air defence, or as an interceptor. This aircraft holds a lot of meaning and value to all the pilots who have flown it. It was also a fighter trainer for generations of fighter pilots who have stepped in after basic training. A limited number of MiG-21s were operated in the 1965 operations; however, the major success was in 1971 -- the famous strike over the governors residence in Dhaka, then East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, which accelerated the process of ending the war. They were used in Kargil for reconnaissance and bombing as high as 18,000 feet. It was also used in the 2019 Balakot air strikes. It was in a MiG-21 that Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman (then Wing Commander) shot down a Pakistani F-16 in 2019 before being captured across the border, he said. Singh added, The IAF has inducted close to 874 MiG-21s of various types, first, type 74, then type 76, then type 77 and then 96 and Bison. We had upgraded these jets with contemporary missiles, EW and avionics. The indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is meant as the MiG-21 replacement; we are looking for the LCA to come into the IAF in huge numbers, he said. Significantly, more than 400 MiG-21s had been involved in accidents which claimed the lives of around 200 pilots, unfortunately being known as Flying Coffin.
2 Maharashtra Teens Die In Accident, Protesters Garland Potholes In Nashik
Hemant Patil and Mahendra Fating, both 19, died in road accidents after their bike skidded due to potholes.
Maharashtra Government Approves Policy to Boost Digital Content Sector
To support this growth, the government has planned to establish AVGC-XR parks in Navi Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Satara, and Kolhapur, creating regional hubs for talent and innovation.
Crops over 42.84 lakh acres damaged by heavy rain in Maharashtra
MUMBAI: Over 42.84 lakh acres ready-to-harvest crops got badly damaged in the torrential rain in Maharashtra . According to the Maharashtra agriculture minister Duttaray Bharne, the 17, 85,714 hectares (42.84 lakh acres) of standing and ready to harvest crops got damaged. Nanded is one of the worst-affected districts, where 7.28 lakh hectares of crops got badly impacted, following 2.03 lakh hectares of crops damaged in Wasim district. In Yavatmal district, 3.18 lakh hectares, while 1.57 lakh hectares in Dharashiv, 1.77 lakh hectares in Akola, 47,266 hectares in Solapur, and 89,782 hectares of crops in Buldhana district were ruined in the heavy rain. In the torrential rain, impacted affected districts are Hingoli, Parbhani, Amravati, Jalgaon, Wardha, Sangli, Ahilyanagar, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jalna, Beed, Latur, Dhule, Jalgaon, Ratnagiri, Chandrapur, Satara, Nashik, Kolhapur, Sindhudurg, Gadchiroli, Raigad, Nagpur, and Pune. The most suffered crops include soybean, maize, cotton, urad, tur, moong while other places, vegetables, fruit crops, millet, sugarcane, onion, jowar and turmeric crops have also been affected. 35 lakh acres of crops damaged in torrential rain in Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Bharen said that Maharashtra has been witnessing heavy rains and floods over the last two months, which havecaused huge losses to farmers. The heavy rains in August and September of this year have caused huge losses in a total of 195 talukas across 30 districts of Maharashtra. The rains during this period have caused huge losses to Kharif crops in 654 revenue circles, the agriculture minister said. He further added that the Panchnamas in some districts have been completed, and compensation has also been extended to the affected farmers. The Panchnamas in the remaining areas are going on a war footing. The state is taking all possible measures to provide financial assistance to the affected farmers. State government is standing firmly with the farmers in times of this crisis, Bharne said. Sharad Pawar , in his Nasik farmers outcry rally, criticized the state government for ignoring the farmers. He said that in the last two months, more than two thousand farmers committed suicide, but no serious attention has been given.
Nashik School Receives Bomb Threat Via Email, Turns Out To Be A Hoax
Indiranagar Police Station received a threat email that claimed a bomb was placed in the bathroom of a private school in Nashik.
Sharad Pawar warns BJP over farm crisis, cites Nepal upheaval as lesson
MUMBAI: Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) chief Sharad Pawar on Monday launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led state and central governments during his rally in Nashik, accusing them of neglecting farmers issues , including rising suicides and crashing crop prices. Pawar claimed that in Maharashtra alone, more than 2,000 farmers had ended their lives in the past two months due to the farm crisis. He said torrential rains had damaged over 30 lakh acres of standing crops, leaving farmers devastated. The incumbent government needed to be serious about the farmers and its people issues; otherwise, we have seen in Nepal where an incumbent government has been thrown out while a new one has come in. Without any delay, the drought has to be declared by the Maharashtra government if they are really wise and serious, he said. Drawing parallels with recent political developments in Nepal, Pawar warned the ruling dispensation in Maharashtra to take lessons from events in the neighbouring country. I request, Devabhau, please check what is happening in our neighboring country Nepal. For the last eight days, it has been in the news over people's outcry. One government has gone and another has come in Nepal. I do not want to go in deep what exactly happened there, but if the incumbent government is wise enough in Maharashtra, they should learn a lesson from this and do something for the farmers whose backbone has been damaged in torrential rain with damage to standing crops, he said. 'System is killing them': Rahul slams Modi govt over rising farmer suicides in Maharashtra Taking a swipe at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnaviss extensive publicity campaign, Pawar said, Deabhau, giving an advertisement with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's photograph is one thing, but following the traits of Shivaji Maharaj is equally important. Shivaji Maharaj never left the farmers in trouble; the same should happen if we are true followers of Shivaji Maharaj. He also pointed out the crisis faced by onion and cotton farmers. The central government imposed a ban on the export of onions, so the onion prices crashed. Where will the farmers go now? If you continue to neglect the farmers, then we cannot remain as mute spectators. We cannot leave our farmers in a lurch. It is the duty of the central and state governments to find solutions and help the farmers. When we were in power, in a month's period, we waived off Rs 70,000 crore farmers' loan, Pawar said.
The #CBI has busted two illegal call centres in Nashik that allegedly duped UK nationals by posing as insurance agents and government officers.
CBI dismantles 2 fake call centres cheating UK nationals with non-existent insurance policies
New Delhi, Sep 14: The CBI has dismantled two illegal call centres in Nashik which were allegedly cheating UK nationals taking payments for non-existent insurance policies by posing as agents and government officers, officials said Sunday. The central agency has arrested Ganesh and Shyam Kamankar for their alleged involvement in the operations of the illegal call centre, Swagan Business Solutions Pvt. Ltd, they said. A case was registered against four private persons, unknown public servants, and others, on allegations that [] The post CBI dismantles 2 fake call centres cheating UK nationals with non-existent insurance policies appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sena (UBT), MNS protest; two brothers have come together, Maharashtra will follow, says Sanjay Raut
Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS jointly organized a 'Jan Aakrosh' protest in Nashik, targeting the Fadnavis government over various issues, including the deteriorating law and order situation and farmers' concerns. Sanjay Raut emphasized the unified front of the two parties, signaling a potential shift in Maharashtra's political landscape.
Three dead after MSRTC bus collides with two-wheeler in Nashik, know what happened
An accident occurred in Maharashtra's Nashik after a collision between Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus and two-wheeler, leaving three people dead.
3 Men Dead As Bike Hits Bus In Maharashtra's Nashik: Police
Three men died on Monday in Nashik district in a collision between a Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus and two-wheeler, a police official said.
Ganesh idol immersions: 4 persons drown, at least 13 missing in Maharashtra
Tragedy struck Maharashtra during Ganesh idol immersions as at least four people drowned and 13 went missing across various districts. Incidents occurred in Pune, Nanded, Nashik, Jalgaon, Thane, and Amravati, with swollen rivers and water bodies due to continuous rainfall complicating rescue efforts. State and National Disaster Response Forces have been deployed to aid in the search and rescue operations.
India, US to soon ink contract for 113 GE F414 engines for LCA Mk1A fighters
NEW DELHI: India plans to soon ink a contract with the American giant General Electric for the procurement of 113 F414 engines to be fitted in the much-awaited light combat aircraft (LCA) Mk1A for which the order was placed a few months ago. An official at the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) said, The negotiation with GE for aero engines has been completed and the contract will be signed at the end of this month. In August, the CCS gave the go-ahead for 97 LCA Mk1A jets to be manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited at a project cost of around Rs 67,000 crore. The new engines to be procured will be used for these combat jets. Another source at HAL said that the first two LCA Mk1A aircraft would be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in October this year. Ten aircraft are now built and being tested. The first delivery will take place in October, with one aircraft from Nashik already ready for handover, he said. Two additional engines are expected to be received this month, he said. Besides the F404 engines, en F414 engines have already been delivered to us, he added. In the meantime, the Mk-1A has completed weapons integration trials, including the firing of Astra and ASRAM missiles. Giving the timeline of the deliveries, the sources said the advanced LCA Mk2 is scheduled to be rolled out in 2027, while 83 Mk1A fighters are now expected by 2029, after a reported delay of four quarters. The Tejas Mk1A is the newer and improved version of India's single-engine, 4.5 generation delta wing multirole combat aircraft designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency. It will play an important role in mitigating the decrease in the quantity of combat jets and the overall fall in combat squadrons. As earlier brought out by The New Indian Express , the IAF had ordered 83 LCA Tejas Mk 1A at Rs 46,000 crore in 2021. Once this new order is completed in the stipulated 15 years, the IAF will have 40 LCA, over 180 LCA Mark-1A and at least 120 LCA Mark-2 planes. The fast dwindling combat fighter strength has resulted in anxiety in the IAF leadership. In September, the MiG 21 Squadrons (23 Squadron) will be number plated, bringing the current number of fighter squadrons below 30. While the MiG fighter jets are being retired, concerns have grown over the delayed Tejas induction, shrinking combat strength. Officially, the IAF is supposed to have 42 squadrons of combat squadrons. A squadron in the IAF comprises 16-18 aircraft. Tejas is a single-engine, lightweight multi-role fighter, originally meant to replace the MiG-21. The first indigenous LCA was inducted in July 2016. The first IAF Squadron to induct the Tejas was the No 45 Squadron, the 'Flying Daggers'. 40 LCA Tejas Mk 1 were ordered initially, of which 35 have been inducted till now.
Nashik Man Kills Stray Dog, Then Drags It Behind Bike; Case Filed After Video Surfaces
Police said a case has been registered against the accused at Satpur police station, and further investigation is underway
IRCTC announces Jyotirling with Shirdi Yatra train from Tirunelveli
The train will cover Nashik, Shirdi, Shanisingnapur, Pandharpur, and Mantralayam; it will leave Tirunelveli on November 9
Soldier injured as parachute crashes on house in Maharashtra
One soldier was injured when his parachute crashed on a house during a military demonstration in Maharashtra's Nashik district on Thursday.
NEW DELHI: In a big relief to former CSDS director and renowned political analyst Sanjay Kumar, the Supreme Court on Monday, stayed theFIRs registered against him in connection with histweets claiming significant voter number discrepancies in the 2024 Maharashtra elections. A two-judge bench of the apex court headed by CJI BR Gavai and Justice NV Anjaria, stayed the FIRs after hearing the plea of Kumar. The accused Kumar, moved the apex court seeking to quash the FIRs, claiming that the allegations are baseless. He contended before the SC that the FIRS are an abuse of the State power. Kumar clarified that the tweets were later deleted by him citing data errors. A tweet giving wrong information cannot form the basis of an FIR for offences such as Forgery. The allegations made therein are baseless, and the criminal sections invoked are demonstrably inapplicable to the facts and circumstances of the case, he argued. 'Vote theft in Maharashtra polls': Rahul demands machine-readable digital voter rolls; Fadnavis rebuts charges Claiming innocence in the case, Kumar submitted that there was no criminal intent, as the post was a bona fide and inadvertent error, for which he issued a public apology clarification. The court taking Kumars submissions into record that he had already apologised in the case, the SC stayed the FIRs and issued notice on his appeal. Kumar's lawyer argued before the top court that hehas an impeccable integrity of 30 years of conscientious service to the nation and to the world. He is highly respected. It was a mistake. He apologized, he said and sought staying of the FIRs. The laywer even surprisingly submitted that I deleted, I apologized publicly, after that, an FIR. According to the prosecution, on August 17, Kumar posted on his X handle about the increase and decrease in the number of voters in specific constituencies. However, after realising that the post was based on an erroneous analysis, he posted on August 19 expressing apology for his post and clarifying that his earlier post was a mistake. Following that, the officers reporting to the Election Commission of India registered two FIRs, one at Nashik and another at Nagpur, under various sections of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023.
MNS Workers Assault Man After Argument Over Accident In Nashik: 'Should Learn Marathi'
The victim was learning how to drive when his car allegedly brushed past his neighbour's vehicle, leading to a violent confrontation where an MNS worker asked him to speak Marathi.
Video: Stray Dog's Brutal Beatdown Of Leopard, Drags It 300 Metres
A stray dog and a leopard faced off in Maharashtra's Nashik. The 'fight' ended in the dog 'defeating' the leopard and dragging it for 300 metres. The episode unfolded in Nashik's Niphad and a video of the fight has gone viral on social media.
FIRs Against Psephologist Sanjay Kumar For Spreading Fake Info Over Maharashtra Polls
Professor Sanjay Kumar of Lokniti-CSDS faces FIRs in Nagpur and Nashik for allegedly spreading false info about Maharashtra elections.
Centre approves 62,000-crore order for 97 LCA Mk1A fighters, giving IAF a major boost
The government has approved an order for 97 more LCA Mk1A aircraft. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) will manufacture these jets. This 62,000 crore deal increases the Air Force's LCA Mk1A fighter count to 180. Production will occur at Bengaluru and Nashik, aiming for 24 jets annually.
Maharashtra rain fury: Seven dead, crops damaged; Mumbai, Thane, other districts on red alert
MUMBAI: Heavy rain across Maharashtra has left seven people dead, damaged nearly two lakh hectares of standing crops, and caused widespread disruption to property and daily life. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday reviewed the situation with divisional commissioners via video conference. He directed revenue and administrative officers to conduct damage assessments of affected crops and properties and ensure timely compensation. So far, seven people have died due to heavy rain, and several rivers have also crossed the danger level. The alert message has been sent to the concerned people, Fadnavis said In Sambhaji Nagar district alone, 800 villages were affected. The two lakh hectares of land with standing crops got damaged. The panchanama will be carried out and compensations will also be given, he added. The chief minister also instructed officials to provide shelter, food and other necessities to people stranded by floods and heavy rain. Authorities have declared holidays for schools and colleges on Tuesday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for August 18-19 in Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and Palghar districts and a yellow and orange alerts for other parts of the state. Mumbai reels under 177 mm rain in 8 hours; flights hit, schools shut as red alert issued The state government has asked local administrations to close schools and colleges in districts under heavy rain warnings. In Marathwada, five people drowned in flooding, while two others died in house and wall collapse incidents. In Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) declared a holiday for all schools. Afternoon classes were also cancelled, its PRO said. Waterlogging caused severe traffic congestion across the city. Airlines issued advisories to passengers after the city remained lashed by heavy showers for a fourth consecutive day. IndiGo and Akasa Air urged travellers to check flight status and plan their journeys in advance due to flooding and traffic disruptions. Both carriers posted updates on their official X handles. Thane, Mumbai and Navi Mumbai face the wrath Incessant heavy rains on Monday triggered a landslide in a hilly area in Kalyan in Thane district, damaging four houses, officials said. The landslide occurred on Monday afternoon at Netivali Hill in the Jai Bhavani Nagar area of Kalyan. Nobody was injured. Roads in several areas across Thane, Palghar, and Navi Mumbai regions were waterlogged, and traffic crawled as copious downpours lashed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Some residents have been shifted to a municipal school in Netivali for safety, and arrangements for food and accommodation have been made, said Deputy Commissioner Sanjay Jadhav of the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC). Thane city recorded more than 100 mm of rainfall at 4.30 pm, said Yasin Tadvi, chief of the disaster management cell of the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC). Elsewhere in Thane district, rescue teams used boats to transport schoolchildren in Kalwa, where heavy flooding disrupted movement. Meanwhile, Navi Mumbai recorded 115.17 mm of rainfall from 8.30 am on August 17 to 8.30 am on August 18, with another 83.68 mm between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm. The city had earlier logged 134.68 mm and 105.70 mm of rainfall over the preceding two days. Despite the heavy downpour, officials said proactive measures kept the situation under control. Our teams are removing blockages in drains, deploying additional pumps, and monitoring tide levels. Citizens should remain indoors except for essential work and contact the civic helpline for emergencies, said Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Commissioner Kailash Shinde. In the wake of heavy rains in Mumbai over the last few days, Vihar lake, one of the key sources of potable water for the metropolis, started overflowing on Monday afternoon, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. The lake, which has a storage capacity of 2,769.8 crore litres, is the sixth of the seven reservoirs, that supply potable water to Mumbai, to overflow, bringing relief to local residents. The lake, located in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, overflowed at 2.45 pm , the BMC said. Last year, the lake started overflowing almost a month early, on July 25. A day before, another lake in Mumbai, Tulsi, overflowed following heavy rains in the city and suburbs. Mumbai receives 3,800 MLD (millions of litres per day) water from seven reservoirs -- Bhatsa, Upper Vaitarna, Middle Vaitarna, Tansa, Modak Sagar, Vihar and Tulsi -- located in Mumbai, Thane and Nashik districts. The scenic Powai lake in Mumbai also started overflowing earlier this year, but its water is not used for drinking purpose, BMC officials said.
EC should first give affidavit that voter list is clean, then we'll also follow: Congress
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Monday hit back at Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, saying that first the poll body should submit an affidavit in the Supreme Court that its voter list is clean and then it will also give an affidavit that there are irregularities in the existing list. The opposition party also alleged that Gyanesh Kumar sounded like a BJP spokesperson during his press conference in New Delhi. The Congress made the remarks a day after the CEC served a seven-day ultimatum on party leader Rahul Gandhi to submit a signed affidavit to back his claims, else his allegations will be considered baseless and invalid. Addressing a press conference along with party leader Kanhaiya Kumar during the Voter Adhikar Yatra here, Congress' media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said, As this yatra began, Gyanesh Kumar had to do a press conference. We got to know that there is a Chief Election Commissioner. Earlier, we used to think that there would be an Anurag Thakur, a Sambit Patra or a person named source making comments but we finally saw the CEC, Khera said in Daboor where the yatra took a lunch break. He (Gyanesh Kumar) threatened to give an affidavit. He would get scared of threats but we don't. They don't believe their own data, he said. Kanhaiya Kumar alleged that the BJP wants to do vote chori and steal the Constitution. Before the Lok Sabha polls, the BJP raised the slogan of 'Ab ki baar 400 paar' and some of their outspoken leaders removed the lid on the conspiracy to change the Constitution, he claimed. In Haryana and Maharashtra, opinion polls suggested that a Congress government would be formed but the opposite happened, Kanhaiya Kumar said. We asked for a machine-readable format but they refused. The EC kept saying that there is no problem but now they are saying that 'we are doing SIR to correct the issues in the voter list', he said. The EC itself is saying there is something wrong in the voter list, which means that it was lying before, Kumar said. When Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi gave proof of the irregularities in the vote' list, the EC asked him to file an affidavit, he said. It seemed a BJP spokesperson is speaking. And there was no reply given in the press conference, Kanhaiya Kumar said. We have found several irregularities. All BLOs (booth-level officers) are not getting forms filled door-to-door. The EC wants to give only data they are not bothered whether it is right or wrong. Dead people found mention in lists and living people are removed from it, he said. If the EC gives affidavit, we are also prepared to give an affidavit. They must show their papers first, Kumar said. Asked what sort of affidavit they should give, Kumar said the EC's paper is a voter list and it should give it in a machine-readable format. Give an affidavit in the Supreme Court that your voters list is clean and then we will also give an affidavit that there are irregularities in the existing voter list, he said. Talking about the problems being faced by the people in Bihar during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Kanhaiya Kumar said when people find that their names are not there on the draft list, they go to the BLO, but that officer is not accepting the Aadhaar card as proof of identity. Kanhaiya Kumar said genuine voters were being harassed and cited his example that the spelling of his father's name differs in different documents due to which hurdles were being created. People are being harassed for small errors, he claimed. We want to ask that 65 lakh people were removed but they should also give data how many names have been added, Kanhaiya Kumar said. The intentions of the EC are not clear. It is busy highlighting the face of the supreme leader, the Congress leader said and demanded a clean voters list. If a government is formed through chori (theft) then such a government will not work honestly, the Congress leader said. SIR is a straightforward way of vote chori, he said, and urged people to come forward and fight against vote chori to save democracy. Kanhaiya Kumar said the BJP is rattled as we are getting people's support. In a post on X earlier, Khera said, The Election Commission of India wants us to believe that IN JUST SIX MONTHS between the 2024 Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections in Maharashtra: -- Close to 40% of the electorate died/ permanently migrated in Ramtek and Devlali assembly constituencies. Around 45% of the electorate suddenly became eligible to vote in Nashik West and Hingna assembly constituencies. Next they will announce that 2+2 = 420, he said, taking a swipe at the EC. In his first press conference after Gandhi levelled allegations of vote chori in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and several opposition leaders flagged issues about the revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, Gyanesh Kumar asked the Congress leader to either apologise or back his claims within a week with a signed affidavit as required under electoral rules. Give an affidavit or apologise to the nation. There is no third option. If an affidavit is not given within seven days, this means that all allegations are baseless, said Gyanesh Kumar, flanked by Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi. The remarks by the CEC came on a day when Gandhi-led opposition launched the 'Vote Adhikar Yatra' in Bihar and stepped up attack against the SIR of electoral rolls in the poll-bound state. The Congress and other opposition parties have been pressing the EC to provide a machine-readable digital copy of the Maharashtra voter lists, alleging irregularities in the 2024 state polls.
India monsoon LIVE: IMD issues red alert in Mumbai as heavy downpour causes waterlogging
IMD Mumbai issued a warning of intense rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds (3040 kmph) in parts of north and central Maharashtra, including Nashik, Dhule, Jalgaon, Aurangabad region, Beed, and Nanded.
Maharashtra empowers districts to attract private capital in $1 trillion economy push
Maharashtra is implementing a 'District Strategic' plan to achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2028, tasking District Collectors with attracting private investment in emerging sectors. Each district has specific growth targets, like Nashik focusing on tourism and Jalgaon on agro-processing.
Raut Says No Power In Country Can Defeat United Thackerays
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut announced on Friday that Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray are considering contesting the upcoming municipal elections in Mumbai, Thane, Nashik, and other cities together.
Uddhav and Raj Thackeray will contest civic elections together, says Sanjay Raut
Sanjay Raut announced that Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS will contest upcoming civic elections together in Mumbai, Thane, Nashik, and Kalyan-Dombivali, aiming to unite Marathi-speakers. Raut stated discussions are ongoing with MNS for an alliance. BJP leaders dismissed the announcement, questioning whether the Thackeray cousins had even spoken and accusing Sena (UBT) of only remembering Marathi voters near elections.
CBI Busts Fake Amazon Tech Support Centre Operating In Maharashtra, 5 Arrested
The CBI has dismantled a clandestine syndicate of cyber criminals masquerading as Amazon technical support centre operational at a resort in Maharashtra's Nashik, arresting five Mumbai-based fraudsters, officials said.
CBI Busts Fake Amazon Technical Support Centre Operating From Resort In Nashik; 5 Arrested
New Delhi, Aug 10: The CBI has dismantled a clandestine syndicate of cyber criminals masquerading as Amazon technical support centre operational at a resort in Maharashtras Nashik, arresting five Mumbai-based fraudsters who were allegedly targeting US and Canadian citizens, officials said Sunday. The illegal enterprise comprising a coterie of six Mumbai-based fraudsters, named as accused in the FIR, operated in conspiracy with other unidentified bank officials and private individuals. They allegedly committed financial frauds by impersonation, making phishing calls from [] The post CBI Busts Fake Amazon Technical Support Centre Operating From Resort In Nashik; 5 Arrested appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Three-Year-Old Boy Mauled To Death By Leopard, Sister Ties Rakhi Before Last Rites
In Nashik, Maharashtra, a three-year-old boy was mauled to death by a leopard while playing near his home. The tragic incident occurred just before Rakshabandhan.
One Student Killed, 11 Injured After Tomato-Laden Tempo Mows Them Down In Nashik
According to police, the tempo, heading towards Pimpalgaon, veered out of control and hit a group of students crossing the highway.
Shiv Sena (UBT), MNS to 'surely' contest Maharashtra local bodies polls together
Sanjay Raut stated that Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS will likely contest local body polls together, hinting at a reunion of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray after their July protest. Raut expressed confidence that an alliance between the cousins' parties would secure a majority in key municipal corporations, including Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik. Discussions between the two leaders are expected soon.
Nashik: Class X student faints after minor argument outside coaching centre, dies
A minor argument reportedly led to the death of a Class 10 student outside a private coaching centre in Ashok Nagar area of Satpur in Nashik late on Saturday, creating tension in the area, police said on Sunday.
Lt Col Purohit gets warm welcome as he returns home in Pune after acquittal in Malegaon blast case
Pune, Aug 3: Lieutenant Colonel Prasad Purohit, one of the seven accused acquitted by a court in the 2008 Malegaon bomb blast case, was accorded a grand welcome by his family members and supporters on his return home in Pune on Sunday. A special court in Mumbai on Thursday acquitted Purohit, former BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur and five others, nearly 17 years after a blast in Malegaon town in Nashik district of north Maharashtra claimed six lives. While acquitting [] The post Lt Col Purohit gets warm welcome as he returns home in Pune after acquittal in Malegaon blast case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Political row erupts over Malegaon blast verdict
NEW DELHI/BHOPAL/MUMBAI/LUCKNOW : Following the acquittal of all accused in the Malegaon blast case, the BJP on Thursday accused the Congress of having concocted the theory of Hindu terror during its tenure in power, to allegedly thwart the political rise of Narendra Modi, who was then the Chief Minister of Gujarat. The BJP claimed the Congress devised this narrative as part of a strategy to appease Muslim voters. The Congress can go to any extent in its vote bank politics, stated former Law Minister and senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad at a media briefing. He demanded an apology to the nation from former Congress presidents Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. Prasad demanded that those discharged from the case, including former BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Colonel Prasad Purohit, be compensated adequately. Thakur supporters celebrate In Bhopal, supporters of Pragya Thakur danced and distributed sweets after hearing the verdict. They want a grant celebration after Thakur returns from Mumbai to her B-29, 74 Bungalows residence in a couple of days. Five kilometres away, supporters burst crackers outside the residence of former CM Uma Bharti at 6, Shyamala Hills. She turned emotional, recounting her meeting with Thakur while the latter was incarcerated. Bharti recalled, I met Pragya at the Nashik Jail, when no one went there to meet her. A Maharashtra police officer had told me that she was tortured unimaginably. I was in tears while meeting her and still remember her confirming that she had been tortured beyond imagination. She called Thakur Durga, who preferred torture in custody to succumbing under pressure. Bharti pointed out, No ordinary woman could have tolerated such extreme torture. At Nashik Jail, she told me, tell all people, that Ill prefer dying and never allow Hindus and the colour saffron to get kalankit (tarnished). Bharti said thanks to the verdict, even I stand acquitted in the court of my soul. He stated, All those who coined the term saffron terrorism should now either apologise to the Hindus or jump into the Ganga or Narmada. Maha slugfest Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis posted on X, Atankwad bhagwa na kabhi kha, na hai, na kabhi rahega (Terrorism was never saffron, is not, and will never be). Deputy CM Eknath Shinde said the verdict was delayed justice, adding that bomb blasts were frequent when the Congress was in power for which innocents were framed. He said, Shiv Sena never had any doubt that the accused were falsely framed and would get justice. Colonel Purohit, Sadhvi Pragya and seven others have had to endure immense mental and physical torture due to this allegation. The Hindu people will never forget this injustice. A Hindu can never commit anti-national acts, because patriotism is a religious act for Hindus. On Fadnaviss reaction, Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant said, His tweet reveals his political mindset. This is precisely why questions have been raised about the attitude of the investigative agencies. These people view terrorism through a political lens as well. People associated with the BJP and RSS, for their political interests, had even called a brave officer like martyr Hemant Karkare a traitor. Sawant reacted to Fadvanis, saying, Was it due to this political mindset that Rohini Salian ji was asked to adopt a soft stance towards the accused and to slow down the pace of the investigation? Witnesses were offered inducements. A witness like Randhir Singh was even given a ministerial position in Jharkhand. However, this verdict is not surprising, as the NIA had already given a clean chit. Former CM Prithviraj Chavan of the Congress asked, The question remains, then why no one is guilty and convicted for this crime? Then, who killed these five people who died in the bomb blast? In contrast, Congress ally Shiv Sena of Uddhav Thackeray welcomed the verdict. While Thackeray did not react, his party party MLC and leader of Opposition said, Satya Mev Jayate truth has prevailed. Both factions of the Sena appeared to be on the same side on the verdict. Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said, The NIA courts verdict has erased the stigma on Hindus today. There is no doubt that the slogan Garv se kaho hum Hindu hai will now be echoed a hundred times louder. Yogi takes shot at Cong Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the Malegaon verdict was a reflection of the Congress partys anti-India, anti-justice and anti-Sanatan character. The exoneration is a living testament to the phrase Satyamev Jayate. The verdict again exposes the Congress which coined the false term, saffron terror, and defamed crores of Sanatan believers, saints, and patriots, he said. The case Trail Sept 27, 2008: An explosive device strapped to a motorcycle detonated near a mosque at Bikku chowk in Malegaon town Sept 29, 2008: An FIR was lodged at Azad Nagar police station at Malegaon Oct21 , 2008: Maharashtra Terrorist Squad (ATS) took over this case Nov 27, 2008: ATS chief Hemant Karkare was killed in a terrorist attack in Mumbai Oct 23, 2008: ATS made the first arrest in this case, namely Sadvi Pragya Singh as well as three other accused Oct 23, 2008: ATS arrested Lt Col Prasad Purohit for involvement and conspiracy Jan 20, 2009: ATS filed chargesheet and charged them under MCOCA & UAPA July 2009: The special court said that the MCOCA was not applicable in the case Aug 2009: Maha govt moved against the special court in Bombay High Court July 2010: Bombay High Court overturned the special court order and upheld the charges under MCOCA Aug 2010: Accused Pragya and Lt Colonel Purohit moved SC against the HC order Apr 13, 2011: NIA took over case and held Lokesh Sharma & Dhan Singh; total arrested 14 Apr 2015: The SC sent back the case to special court to reconsider the applicability of MCOCA Feb 2016: NIA told court that theyd sought AGs view and MCOCA was applicable May 2016: NIA filed another chargesheet in special court and asked to drop MCOCA against the accused and give a clean chit to all seven Apr 25, 2017: The Bombay High Court granted bail to Sadvi Pragya Singh but no relief to Lt Colonel Purohit Sept 21, 2017: Lt Colonel Purohit finally got the bail via the Supreme Court. Later all accused arrested in this case were granted bail Dec 27, 2017: The special court of NIA dropped the charge that the accused was a member of the terrorist organisation and raising funds for it Dec 3, 2018: The trail began with examinations of first witnesses Sept 14, 2023: Court examined 323 prosecution witnesses; 37 turned hostile July 23, 2023: The examination of defence witnesses were completed Aug 12, 2023: The special court recorded the final statement of accused Apr 19, 2025: The special court closed the trail for the judgment July 31, 2025: Special court judge LK Lahoti acquitted all seven accused
2008 Malegaon blast: Mere suspicion can't replace real proof; no evidence for conviction, says court
MUMBAI: A special court while acquitting seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon bomb blast case on Thursday observed mere suspicion cannot replace real proof and that there was no cogent or reliable evidence to warrant conviction. No religion teaches violence, the court said. Terrorism has no religion, but the court cannot convict on mere perception, it observed. There is also no evidence to prove that explosive substances were transported or stored by Lt Colonel Prasad Purohit in his house or that he had assembled the bomb, the court said. The judge also held that provisions of the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) were not applicable to the case as there was no proper application of mind before grant of sanction for the same. An explosive device strapped to a motorcycle went off near a mosque in the town, located about 200 km from Mumbai, on September 29, 2008 killing six persons and injuring 101 others. The court on Thursday acquitted the seven accused - former BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur, Lt Col Purohit, Major Ramesh Upadhyay (retired), Ajay Rahirkar, Sudhakar Dwivedi, Sudhakar Chaturvedi and Sameer Kulkarni. Special judge A K Lahoti, presiding over National Investigation Agency (NIA) cases, while reading out the judgment said there was no eliable and cogent evidence against the accused that proved the case beyond reasonable doubt. The prosecution's case was that the blast was carried out by right wing extremists with an intention to terrorise the Muslim community in the communally sensitive Malegaon town in Nashik district. The court in its judgment flagged several loopholes in the prosecution's case and the investigation carried out, and said the accused persons deserved the benefit of doubt. Mere suspicion cannot take the place of real proof, the court said, adding that in the absence of any evidence, the accused persons deserve the benefit of doubt. The overall evidence does not inspire confidence in the court to convict the accused. There is no reliable and cogent evidence to warrant conviction, the judge said while reading out the judgment. The court further said it was not established that the motorbike used in the blast was registered in the name of Thakur, as claimed by the prosecution. The prosecution has proved that the blast took place but could not prove that the explosive was fitted in the motor bike, it observed. On the prosecution's case that the accused persons had attended several meetings in Bhopal and Nashik where the conspiracy for the blast was hatched, the court said no witness has supported this theory and hence, neither the meeting nor the conspiracy hatched could be proved. While there is evidence to show that money was distributed by right wing group 'Abhinav Bharat', there is no evidence to prove that the same was used to fund terrorist activities, the court observed. The money seems to have been used by Purohit for the construction of his house, it added. There is also no evidence to prove that explosive substances were transported or stored by Purohit in his house or that he had assembled the bomb, the court said.
On September 29, 2008, a bomb exploded in Malegaon, Nashik district, killing 10 and injuring over 100 people
NIA Court Acquits All Accused in Malegaon Blast Case
On September 29, 2008, six people were killed and several others injured when an explosive device strapped to a motorcycle detonated near a mosque in Malegaon City, Nashik.
Private hospital ordered to pay Rs 34 lakh compensation for delaying ICU treatment over consent
Wockhardt Hospitals in Nashik must pay 34 lakh to the father of a deceased patient. The consumer commission found the hospital negligent for delaying ICU admission. Ravindra Naidu died in 2010 after a nosebleed. His father alleged delayed ICU care. The hospital claimed the family refused ICU admission. The commission emphasized that emergency care is a right.
ED raids former Vasai Virar Municipal Commissioner's premises in PMLA case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided premises linked to former VVCMC Commissioner Anil Pawar, investigating money laundering related to illegal construction since 2009. Searches in Virar, Mumbai, and Nashik targeted Pawar, family, and associates, uncovering digital devices revealing VVCMC officials' involvement. This follows the demolition of 41 illegal buildings after a Bombay High Court order and a dismissed Supreme Court petition.
Software developer booked for GST evasion, house raided in Nashik
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) department raided the Nashik residence of software developer Shrikant Prasad Parhe, accused of tax evasion and generating fraudulent invoices. Authorities confiscated computers, documents, and an unlicensed firearm with ammunition.
IMD issues heavy rains alert for Konkan, hilly areas of Pune, Nashik, Satara
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Palghar district, anticipating heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy downpours in isolated areas on July 26.
NEW DELHI: The Uttar Pradesh government has told the Supreme Court that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is deliberately spreading hatred through pre-planned actions, referring to his alleged remarks against freedom fighter Veer Savarkar during the Bharat Jodo Yatra in 2022. The government made this claim in an affidavit filed in response to Gandhi's Special Leave Petition (SLP), which seeks to quash a summons issued by a Lucknow lower court based on a criminal complaint by lawyer Nripendra Pandey. A two-judge bench of the top court, comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Manmohan, is scheduled to hear the matter. In its previous hearing on 25 April, the Supreme Court had stayed the Allahabad High Court's order refusing to quash the summons and had directed the UP government to file a response. The Yogi Adityanath-led government, in its affidavit, defended the summons and urged the court to dismiss Gandhi's appeal, stating, All the allegations are supported by the investigation, which indicates deliberate spreading of hatred through pre-planned actions. The affidavit claimed that the magistrate had thoroughly reviewed the case file, statements, and investigation report before issuing the summoning order under Sections 153A (promoting enmity between groups) and 505 (statements conducive to public mischief) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Nashik court grants bail to Rahul Gandhi in defamation case over remarks about Savarkar The affidavit described the Allahabad High Court's decision as legally sound and maintained that the apex court should not interfere. During a previous hearing, the Supreme Court had criticised Gandhis remarks on Savarkar, calling them irresponsible and cautioning him against making such statements in the future. Let us not mock our freedom fighters, the bench had warned, adding that further comments of this nature could attract suo motu action. The court also drew attention to historical correspondence, asking Gandhi whether he was aware that even Mahatma Gandhi had once signed off as your faithful servant in letters to the British, and questioned whether similar logic would then brand the Father of the Nation as a servant of the British. Defamation case for Savarkar remark: SC to hear Rahul Gandhi's plea on Friday The controversy stems from Gandhi's alleged remark during a rally in Maharashtras Akola district on 17 November 2022, where he referred to Savarkar as a British servant who received a pension. This led Advocate Pandey to file a criminal complaint in Lucknow, alleging that Gandhi had insulted Savarkar and incited social disharmony. The lower court, while issuing the summons, stated that the remarks had spread hatred and ill-will in society. Gandhis challenge to this order was dismissed by Justice Subhash Vidyarthi of the Allahabad High Court on 4 April this year, who noted that Gandhi could instead pursue a revision petition under Section 397 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. With no relief from the High Court, Gandhi has now sought intervention from the Supreme Court.
Nashik court grants bail to Rahul Gandhi in defamation case over remarks about Savarkar
MUMBAI: A court in Maharashtra's Nashik city on Thursday granted bail to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case filed against him for remarks about Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar during the Bharat Jodo Yatra in 2022. Appearing through video link before additional chief judicial magistrate R C Narwadia, Gandhi, the leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha, pleaded `not guilty'. Nashik-resident Devendra Bhutada, through his lawyer Manoj Pingle, has filed the criminal defamation case under sections 500 (defamation) and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) of the Indian Penal Code. After Gandhi pleaded not guilty, his lawyers sought bail. The court allowed the plea on a bond of Rs 15,000, said advocate Pingle. The complainant, director of an NGO, alleged that Gandhi, at a press conference in Hingoli and in a speech during his yatra in November 2022, made statements that harmed Savarkar's reputation. The speech of the accused along with press statements try to ruin the reputation of the complainant's idol Swatantryaveer Savarkar and his contribution to the society along with his noble work in the pre-independence period, the complaint said. Gandhi said that Savarkar prayed for release with folded hands and later on promised to work for the British government, it alleged. Gandhi is also facing a defamation case in Pune, filed by Savarkar's grandnephew, over his statements about the late Hindutva ideologue.
Nashik court grants bail to Rahul Gandhi in Savarkar defamation case
A Nashik court granted bail to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case filed by Satyaki Savarkar, V.D. Savarkar's grandnephew, over remarks made in the UK in 2023. Gandhi pleaded not guilty to the charges under Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code. The court has scheduled July 29 as the date to begin recording evidence in the case.
'Don't know how to play rummy,' says Maharashtra minister; rejects resignation demand
NASHIK: Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate claimed on Tuesday that he never played rummy on his mobile phone as alleged by opposition parties and rejected demands to step down, stressing that a trivial issue was blown out of proportion. The Nationalist Congress Party leader warned of legal action against politicians who defamed him by sharing his video. A political storm erupted on Sunday after NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar posted a video clip of Kokate purportedly playing rummy on his mobile phone during the monsoon session of the state legislature. On Monday, Pawar's colleague Jitendra Awhad posted two videos, claiming Kokate was playing 'Junglee rummy' on his mobile phone during the monsoon session. Amid the growing clamour for Kokate's resignation, NCP state president Sunil Tatkare on Monday said the party head and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar will take a serious note of the video and talk to the minister accordingly. I don't know how to play online rummy. One needs an OTP, and a bank account needs to be linked to play the game. One can check if my mobile phone is linked to any such game. I was trying to skip a game which popped up on my screen for 10 to 15 seconds, Kokate told a press conference here. Asked about demands for his resignation, the minister retorted, Tell me what has happened for which the resignation has been demanded. Have I molested someone? Have I stolen something or decided against farmers? Do I have a criminal background? Kokate said he will sue the opposition leaders who tried to defame him by circulating only a part of the video. They haven't shown the full video. It would have cleared the facts. This is a small issue and it has been stretched too far, he added. The NCP leader said he would write to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, his deputy Ajit Pawar, and the legislative assembly speaker to conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter. Fadnavis slams Agriculture Minister for playing rummy during Assembly; Opposition releases two new videos If the video is proved right, I will tender my resignation. The CM or Deputy CM can give a statement during the winter session of the state legislature, and I will tender my resignation to the Governor without even meeting the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, Kokate added. Fadnavis on Monday expressed his disapproval over Kokate's video clip. Responding to the chief minister's remarks, Kokate said, The CM's reaction is based on media reports. It's true I didn't brief him. Kokate asserted that he has been following the rules and regulations of the state legislature for the last 25 years. Kokate, who represents the Sinnar constituency in Nashik district, is not a stranger to controversies. His remarks had embarrassed the NCP in the past. A huge row erupted in April when Kokate stated that farmers do not spend money received from agriculture schemes on intended purposes, but instead use it for engagement ceremonies and weddings. As his remarks drew condemnation, he expressed remorse and tendered an apology. Earlier this year, Kokate had allegedly compared farmers to beggars, inviting severe criticism. Even a beggar does not take Re 1 in alms, but here we are giving crop insurance for Re 1. Even then, some people try to misuse it, he had said. Kokate is also facing legal trouble. A magistrate court in Nashik district had convicted Kokate and his brother, Sunil Kokate, on the charge of submitting fake documents to secure flats under a government quota, and sentenced them to two years of imprisonment. Their conviction was stayed by the district court on March 5.
Maha to probe honeytrap allegations after Cong demand
The Maharashtra government has promised to investigate allegations of a honeytrap racket targeting state officials in Thane, Nashik, and Mumbai, following demands from a Congress MLA for a formal statement in the assembly.
Visakhapatnam, Ranchi, Vijayawada, Nashik and Raipur emerge as career hubs in LinkedIn study
A list put out by LinkedIn highlights tier-2 and tier-3 growth pockets for professionals looking to relocate, tap into new industries or grow their careers locally
Maharashtra Assembly was in uproar after Congress leader Nana Patole alleged a honeytrap scandal involving government officials and politicians. Patole claimed to possess evidence on a pen drive, raising concerns about sensitive information falling into the wrong hands. The opposition staged a walkout, demanding a thorough investigation, while the government assured to look into the matter.
7 Die As Their Car Collides With Motorcycle In Nashik, Bikers Injured
Seven people, including three women, three men, and a two-year-old child, were killed in a road accident in Maharashtra's Nashik on Wednesday when their car collided with a motorcycle. The two individuals on the motorcycle sustained serious injuries.
7 Killed, 2 Injured In Car-Bike Collision In Nashik
Seven persons were killed and two others seriously injured after a car collided with a motorcycle in Maharashtra's Nashik district, police said on Thursday.
7 People, Including Women And Child, Killed In Car-Bike Collision In Nashik
Seven people were killed in the road accident between a car and a bike in Nashik, officials said.
Seven killed in car-motorbike collision in Maharashtra's Nashik
NASHIK : Seven persons were killed and two others seriously injured after a car collided with a motorcycle in Maharashtra's Nashik district, police said on Thursday. The accident took place late Wednesday night near Dindori town in the district, they said. The police received an alert at 11.57 pm about the incident which took place near a nursery on Vani-Dindori road, an official said. When the police reached the spot, the two vehicles were found fallen in a small canal alongside the road, the official said. Seven persons were killed and two others suffered serious injuries, the police said. After being alerted, police and other agencies reached the spot and launched a rescue operation.
Job Market Momentum Growing In Non-Metro Tier-2 And Tier-3 Cities: Report
The Cities on the Rise report, by professional network platform LinkedIn, identifies Visakhapatnam, Ranchi, Vijayawada, Nashik, and Raipur as the fastest-growing non-metro hubs where professional opportunities are accelerating.
Sula Vineyards Q1 Update: Revenue Declines 8%, Wine Tourism Continues To Rise
The Nashik-based company's wine tourism segment garnered a revenue of Rs 13.7 crore, up 21.8% as against Rs 11.3 crore in the year-ago period.
