K.C. Venugopal urges Centre to expedite certification of BSL-3 lab at NIV Alappuzha

Once funds are disbursed, laboratory will facilitate testing and confirmation of high-risk pathogens such as Nipah virus, thereby eliminating dependence on NIV Pune, the MP says

Air India Express announces direct flights between Bengaluru and Bangkok

This service adds Bangkok to Air India Express existing Thai network, which already connects Lucknow, Pune, and Surat to the country. The introductory round-trip fares start at Rs 16,800, with one-way fares at Rs 9,000 (BengaluruBangkok) and Rs 8,850 (BangkokBengaluru)

Lonavala Trip Turns Tragic, 2 Symbiosis Students Die In Pune Highway Crash

A Lonavala trip turned tragic for four students of Pune's Symbiosis International University when two of them died and two others were injured in a road crash on the Mumbai-Bengaluru highway early this morning.

Maharashtra: Two students killed, two injured as car crashes into truck in Pune

The accident took place near Eidgah Maidan, close to Dehu Road along the highway, at around 5.45 am when the four students were returning from Lonavala hill station

Grandmother gave him Rs 10 lakh and created gift deed but income tax dept issued him notice; grandson partly wins case in ITAT Pune due to this reason

Vikram received a Rs 10 lakh cash gift from his grandmother in 2016, prompting an income tax notice for unexplained income. Despite a gift deed, the tax department questioned the source and genuineness of the gift. ITAT Pune partly allowed Vikram's appeal, adding only Rs 5 lakh to his income after considering his existing cash balance and other income sources.

GK Energy IPO GMP at 29%; bidding opens tomorrow. Check price band and key dates

Pune's GK Energy, an EPC provider for renewable projects, will launch its IPO tomorrow. The IPO includes a fresh issue of shares and an offer for sale. The company focuses on solar-powered agricultural water pump systems. Proceeds from the IPO will fund working capital and general corporate needs. The company operates in India's growing solar energy sector.

Mumbai: AI leads engineering intake, but core branches on the rise

Engineering admissions in Maharashtra show a strong preference for computer science and AI, with fill rates exceeding 90%. Pune and Mumbai lead in intake, accommodating nearly two-thirds of the state's students. Interestingly, core branches like mechanical and civil engineering are experiencing a resurgence. Female enrollment is also on the rise, reaching 37.3%.

Three hour baggage security check at Pune airport forces shooters to miss flight for tournament

Young rifle and pistol shooters from Pune missed their Akasa Air flight to Goa due to extensive security checks on their firearms and ammunition at Pune airport. This delay jeopardized their participation in the 12th West Zone Shooting Championship. Akasa Air acknowledged the issue and is arranging alternate travel for the affected athletes, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused.

Six Pune Shooters Miss Flight After Firearms Clearance Delay

The shooters, all below 18 years of age, were scheduled to fly on an Akasa Air flight on Tuesday to take part in the 12th West Zone Shooting Championship in Goa

Security check 'delay' at Pune airport causes 6 shooters to miss flight to Goa tournament

Six young shooters from Pune missed their flight to the West Zone Shooting Championship in Goa due to delays in firearm and ammunition clearance at Pune airport. Akasa Air stated extended security procedures for specialized shooting equipment caused the issue, offering assistance and alternative travel arrangements.

India-US study links hair loss with cholesterol, points to new therapy

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In what might pave the way for the development of cholesterol-targeted therapies for permanent hair loss, an India-US joint research involving the University of Kerala has found that abnormalities in cholesterol metabolism disrupt the normal functioning of hair follicles and cause irreversible loss of hair. The research paper titled Disrupted Cholesterol Biosynthesis and Hair Follicle Stem Cell Impairment In The Onset of Alopecia was recently published in the international journal PLOS One. The study was carried out by researchers from the University of Kerala, Dr DY Patil Medical College, Pune, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in the US. The study revealed that abnormalities in cholesterol biosynthesis disrupt the normal function of hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs), ultimately leading to primary cicatricial alopecia (PCA), a devastating scarring type of hair loss. The research team demonstrated that blocking cholesterol synthesis or allowing sterol precursors to accumulate resulted in impaired hair regrowth and death of HFSCs. The researchers used patient scalp biopsies, advanced cell-based assays, experiments on mice and 3D hair follicle organoid systems to validate their findings. Our work highlights the often-overlooked role of cholesterol in skin and hair follicle biology. It changes the scientific understanding of hair loss and helps us see it as a molecular stem cell dysfunction, said P Sreejith, head of the department of zoology, Kerala University, and corresponding author of the research paper. Notably, the study has also identified the role of cholesterol intermediates in governing hair follicle regeneration. According to Sreejith, the results of the study provide a new therapeutic option for managing alopecia which would give hope to patients facing irreversible hair loss. The insights may also be helpful in management of diseases where cholesterol metabolism intersects with stem cell regulation, he said. Since the correlation has been established, we are now planning to isolate the stem cells, carry out cholesterol targeted therapy and re-introduce them to monitor the growth. That will be the next stage of the research, Sreejith said. The Kerala University part of the research was carried out at the department of zoology and the universitys Advanced Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Stem cell in Cutaneous Research. Growing hope The joint research has found that abnormalities in cholesterol metabolism cause irreversible loss of hair Study has also identified the role of cholesterol intermediates in governing hair follicle regeneration Results provide a new therapeutic option for managing alopecia which would give hope to patients facing irreversible hair loss Study was carried out by researchers from the University of Kerala, Dr DY Patil Medical College, Pune, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in the US

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.

Maharashtra cabinet approves policy for animation, gaming, extended reality

MUMBAI: The Maharashtra cabinet on Tuesday approved the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) Policy 2025, which is expected to attract investments of more than Rs 50,000 crore and create two lakh jobs in the state. The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This is an important step towards making Mumbai the capital of the entertainment and tourism sector and the Media, Entertainment and Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) sector. This sector has also been given the status of an industry and infrastructure sector, Fadnavis said. He said the policy is designed to bring in investments of about Rs 50,000 crore over the next 20 years and generate two lakh jobs in high-technology fields. The plan has been drawn up until 2050 with an outlay of around Rs 3,268 crore. Oil to AI, the Great Game continues Calling the AVGC-XR sector a vital part of the countrys growing media and entertainment industry, Fadnavis said, This sector is growing rapidly in India. The Media and Entertainment market is estimated to expand from the current $27 billion to more than $100 billion by 2030. Therefore, it is expected that more than 30 lakh direct jobs and more than 51 lakh 50 thousand indirect jobs will be created in this sector in India. The policy also aligns with the Maharashtra Economic Advisory Committees vision of making the states economy worth $1 trillion. Recently, the Central government organised the Waves 2025 international conference in Mumbai, where MoUs worth Rs 8,000 crore were signed. Several states including Karnataka, Telangana, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh have already rolled out similar policies. Maharashtra, with more than 295 studios in this field, accounts for nearly 30 per cent of Indias AVGC-XR studios. Mumbai and Pune also have 20 institutions offering training in animation, visual effects, and gaming. The state had earlier recognised AVGC-XR as an emerging industry under its Information Technology and IT-enabled services Policy 2023. Officials said the technology is now widely used in healthcare, education, marketing, defence, gaming, agriculture, and real estate. Examples include AR-VR medical simulations for patient care and medical training, immersive branding in marketing, defence simulations, and 3-D modelling with virtual tours in real estate. There is a huge scope for innovation, entrepreneurship, and intellectual property creation in this sector. This can also increase the inflow of domestic and international investment into the state. Therefore, Maharashtra has a great opportunity to become a global destination in terms of this sector. For this, various institutional units will be encouraged under this policy. Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) will act as the lead institution in this sector, Fadnavis said. The state also plans to develop dedicated AVGC-XR parks equipped with modern infrastructure to support startups, MSMEs, and larger companies in the industry.

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.

Ahmednagar becomes Ahilyanagar in a historic move by Indian Railways

The change was announced by the Central Railways Pune Division, following the Government of Maharashtras decision to rename the city of Ahmednagar itself to Ahilyanagar. The renaming is part of an effort to pay tribute to Ahilyabai Holkars contributions to public welfare and governance during her reign in the 18th century

Passenger gets trapped under train in Maharashtra`s Akola district; rescued

The incident took place at the Murtijapur railway station, approximately at 4.20 pm on Monday, an official stated. The injured was alighting from the Pune-Amravati train on platform no. 2 when he lost his footing, slipped and got trapped under the train

Passenger Trapped Under Train in Akola Rescued with Gas Cutter

50-year-old Mushtaq Khan injured after slipping while alighting Pune-Amravati train at Murtijapur station

Elgar Parishad case: SC grants interim bail to Mahesh Raut on medical grounds

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted interim bail to Elgar Parishad-Bhima Koregaon case accused Mahesh Raut on medical grounds. A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Satish Chandra Sharma was hearing Raut's petition challenging his incarceration despite being granted bail by the Bombay High Court. The top court noted the submission of senior advocate CU Singh, appearing for Raut, that the accused was suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. The applicant is seeking interim bail on medical grounds coupled with the fact that he was actually granted bail (by Bombay High Court), we are inclined to grant medical bail for a period of six weeks, the bench said. The high court allowed Raut's bail plea but stayed its own order for a week on the request of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The top court subsequently extended the stay on his release in the case. Raut's counsel had earlier said the activist was suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and required specialised medical care unavailable in prison or at JJ Hospital, where he has been examined. Raut is among several activists and cultural workers accused in the Elgar Parishad Bhima Koregaon case. The Elgar Parishad conclave was held in December 2017 at Shaniwarwada, an 18th-century palace-fort in the heart of Pune. Investigators alleged that provocative speeches delivered at the event instigated the violence at Koregaon-Bhima on January 1, 2018. Another accused, cultural activist Sagar Gorkhe alias Jagtap, was arrested in September 2020 on allegations of raising provocative slogans at the conclave along with other Kabir Kala Manch members, and has remained in jail since then. The bench is also likely to hear the bail plea of another activist Jyoti Jagtap who was arrested in 2020 in the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case.

Puja Khedkar Case Updates | Pune Road Rage Probe Intensifies As Her Parents Are On The Run

| Trouble mounts for 'fraud' IAS | road rage probe intensifies as her Parents are on the run n18oc_indiaNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube

Truck driver abduction: Ex-IAS probationer's mother unleashed dogs to scare cops, says official

The driver was rescued from Puja Khedkars house in Pune on September 14, within hours of the abduction, which took place on September 13 evening

Bengaluru taxi driver takes Pune resident for a ride, steals Rs 1.15 lakh from phone

BENGALURU: A Pune mans ride in the city cost him Rs 1.15 lakh. It's obviously not the cab fare, but the price he paid for carelessly revealing his phone password to the cab driver. The driver, who noticed the password, stole the phone when the customer stopped midway to relieve himself and transferred Rs 1.15 lakh into his account. Later, posing as a police officer, the driver threatened to share the customers private photos if more money was not paid. The victim, Vineet Priyadarshi (39), stated in his police complaint that he hired a cab around 7 pm on August 17 from Sathanur village to Marathahalli. The cab aggregator app mentioned the cab drivers name as John, but he was picked up by Sushanth SH. The driver stopped the vehicle midway without completing the journey and collected Rs 591 via online payment. After repeated requests, he took the victim towards Bagalur. When Vineet went to relieve himself, leaving his mobile phone charging in the cab, the driver fled from the spot. The driver, who had observed the phones unlock pattern and UPI PIN as Vineet was sitting next to him, transferred Rs 1.15 lakh through online transactions and IMPS from two bank accounts. Vineet did not file a complaint immediately as he was heading to Pune the same night. He raised the issue through cyberhelpline 1930 and filed an online complaint on KSP app. A week later, the accused,impersonating himself as a policeman, called Vineet and demanded Rs 10,000 through a QR code he had sent. He also threatened to release Vineets personal photos and data on social media. Vineet immediately blocked his phone through the CEIR portal and approached the Bagalur police to file the complaint on September 4. The police said that a case of theft and cheating under IT Act has been registered. The driver is said to have fled to another location, and efforts are on to trace him.

Mumbai: Over 17,000 attend Mount Mary Fair; thefts reported amid festivities

Police say accused belonged to gangs from Gujarat, Pune, and Mumbai

Truck driver abduction: Ex-IAS Puja Khedkar's mother unleashed dogs to scare cops, says official

Manorama Khedkar, mother of ex-IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, is accused of aiding her husband and his bodyguard's escape after they allegedly abducted a truck driver. She reportedly obstructed Navi Mumbai police by refusing entry, unleashing dogs, and ensuring the suspects' getaway from their Pune bungalow. A case has been registered against her, and authorities are currently searching for her.

Pune Rains: IndiGo Warns Of Delays Amid Alert, Urges Flyers To Monitor Flight Status

Pune Rains: IndiGo issued a travel advisory as IMD predicted more rain in the city. Around 70 people were evacuated from Theur village on Monday.

Maharashtra: Mumbai-Pune Expressway shut for 1 hour on Sept 16 for power work

According to a traffic notification issued by the Office of the Additional Director General of Police (Traffic), all vehicular movement (both light and heavy vehicles) will be prohibited between KM 9.500 and KM 10.000 near Kone Bridge from 2 PM to 3 PM on Tuesday

Three J&K Fencers qualify for Asian Games 2026 Core Group trials

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Sept 15: Out of 13 fencers from Jammu and Kashmir who participated in the Core Group Selection trials for the Asian Games 2026, only three have secured their place in the initial core group. The successful fencers are Shreya Gupta, Vishal Thapar and Ajay Kumar. The trials were held at SAI NCOE Patiala (Epee), Army Sports Institute Pune (Sabre) and SAI NCOE Aurangabad (Foil), featuring top athletes from across India. Shreya Gupta displayed remarkable resilience, securing [] The post Three J&K Fencers qualify for Asian Games 2026 Core Group trials appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Vande Bharat Trains To Pune, Nanded From Hyd Soon: Bandi

He also demanded that the state government clear pending fee reimbursement bills to private colleges and outstanding payments under Aarogyasri to private hospitals.

Mumbai-Pune e-way shut from 2pm to 3pm on Sept 16

Puja Khedkar's Father Kidnapped Truck Helper To Pay For Damage To Rs 2-Crore SUV: Cops

Dilip Khedkar, father of sacked IAS officer Puja Khedkar, and his bodyguard had kidnapped the truck driver rescued from their home in Pune because their luxury SUV had collided with the truck and they wanted him to compensate for the damage.

Mother requests Rs 50,000 from son: Pune techie's surprising response leaves internet in tears

A Pune-based software engineer, Akshad, went viral after sharing how he doubled his mothers request for Rs 50,000 by sending her Rs 99,000. Inspired by a family habit where his mother always serves double when he asks for something, Akshad turned her simple request into a heartfelt gesture. The post drew widespread reactions online, with many praising his thoughtfulness and others highlighting the importance of educating parents about online frauds.

Pune Police register case against sacked IAS officer Puja Khedkar's mother for..., know what happened

Pune Police has booked Puja Khedkar's mother, Manorama Khedekar, at Chaturshrungi Police Station under various sections. This came after the missing truck driver was found after the car crash incident. The Pune City Police have registered a case mother of the suspended IAS trainee officer Puja Khedkar under Sections 221, 238, and 263 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Pune School Holiday: Check latest news on Pune rains. Are schools and colleges closed on Tuesday?

Following heavy rainfall in Pune, many schools declared holidays independently due to safety concerns, despite no official order from the Pune Municipal Corporation. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had not issued a red alert, but schools communicated directly with parents regarding closures or delayed starts. While some areas experienced significant rainfall, dams supplying water to Pune recorded increased levels.

Swiggy Has A New Delivery App Called 'Toing' For Pune Here's Why

Toing will offer affordable meals, in the Rs 100-Rs 150 range, with no surge fees.

Maharashtra: Heavy rains in Pune; 70 persons shifted from flooded village

The Lohegaon observatory in Pune city recorded 129.2 mm rainfall in the 24-hour period ending at 8.30 am on Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) officials said

National Karting C'ship: Rivaan Dev Preetham Dominates In Mini Max; Sets Track Lap Record

FMSCI National Karting Championship Rotax: Mumbais Krish Gupta led a double podium for Rayo Racing as he topped the Finals in the Senior category in the fourth round of the MECO-FMSCI National Karting Championship Rotax Max Classes with SIDVIN Energy Engineering as the Presenting Sponsor and MRF Tyres as the partner sponsor, which concluded at the Meco Kartopia circuit here on Sunday. One of the highlights of the weekend was the performance of Chennai schoolboy Rivaan Dev Preetham (MSPORT) who yet again wrote his own script while dominating the Mini Max category where he swept to P1 in all the sessions that included two Heats, the Pre-Final and the Finals to consolidate his top position on the leaderboard. He leads Faridabads Yatharth Gaur (Leapfrog Racing) by 32 points after four rounds. To top it all, Rivaan set a track lap record of 57.991 seconds around the 1.2 Kms circuit in the Pre-Finals session. Krish Gupta upstaged the Senior Max field that included favourite and championship leader Bengalurus Ishaan Madesh (Peregrine Racing) who finished fourth. Krish, who started the race from fifth on the grid, made places for a win and thus, picked up crucial points. In P2 was Arjun Vijay Chheda (Crest Motorsports) from Pune. Aahil Mecklai, also from Mumbai and Rayo Racing, completed the podium in a thrilling race. Until the Final, it was Ishaan Madesh who had dominated by topping both the Heats and the Pre-Finals, but the Bengalurean, having started the Finals from pole position, got involved in an incident that saw him lose track position and finish fourth. The result notwithstanding, Ishaan continues to head the points table, albeit only two points ahead of Arjun Vijay Chheda. Another Pune youngster, Arafath Sheikh (Crest Motorsports) won both the Finals and the Pre-Final to underline his supremacy in the Junior class as did Shiv Tummala (Peregrine Racing) from Bengaluru in the Micro Max category. The Round-4 performance helped Arafath to move within 30 points of leader Eshanth Vengatesan (MSPORT) from Chennai who finished fourth in Pre-Finals and fifth in the Finals. In second position on the points table is Kozhikodes Shonal Kunimal (Birel Art India). The Championship leaders, Rivaan Dev Preetham (Mini Max), Eshanth Vengatesan (Junior Max) and Ishaan Madesh (Senior Max) have been nominated for the RMC Grand Finals to be held at the Shakir circuit in Bahrain from November 29 to December 6. Results: Senior Max (Finals 18 laps): 1. Krish Gupta (Mumbai, Rayo Racing) (16mins, 57.541secs); 2. Ajun Vijay Chheda (Pune, Crest Motorsports) (16:58.849); 3. Aahil Mecklai (Mumbai, Rayo Racing) (17:00.784). Pre-Final (16 laps): 1. Ishaan Madesh (Bengaluru, Peregrine Racing) (13:17.191); 2. Arjun Vijay Chheda (Pune, Crest Motorsports) (13:19.777); 3. Aahil Mecklai (Mumbai, Rayo Racing) (13:20.993) Junior Max (Finals 16 laps): 1. Arafat Sheikh (Pune, Crest Motorsports) (15:18.506); 2. Kiaan Shah (Mumbai, Rayo Racing) (15:20.876); 3. Kairav Roberson (Chennai, MSPORT) (15:29.883). Pre-Final (14 laps): 1. Arafat Sheikh (Pune, Crest Motorsports) (13:17.485); 2. Kiaan Shah (Mumbai, Rayo Racing) (13:23.874); 3. Rishik Rohit Reddy (Bengaluru, MSPORT) (13:24.370). Senior Max (Finals 18 laps): 1. Krish Gupta (Mumbai, Rayo Racing) (16mins, 57.541secs); 2. Ajun Vijay Chheda (Pune, Crest Motorsports) (16:58.849); 3. Aahil Mecklai (Mumbai, Rayo Racing) (17:00.784). Pre-Final (16 laps): 1. Ishaan Madesh (Bengaluru, Peregrine Racing) (13:17.191); 2. Arjun Vijay Chheda (Pune, Crest Motorsports) (13:19.777); 3. Aahil Mecklai (Mumbai, Rayo Racing) (13:20.993) Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Micro Max (Finals): 1. Shiv Tummala (Bengaluru, Peregrine Racing) (12:21.437); 2. Shiv Neel (Coimbatore, MSPORT) (12:22.231); 3. Rudra Pratap Singh (Gurugram, Leapfrog Racing) (12:24.640). Pre-Final: 1. Shiv Tummala (Bengaluru, Peregrine Racing) (12:13.427); 2. Shiv Neel (Coimbatore, MSPORT) (12:16.613); 3. Arshi Gupta (Faridabad, Leapfrog Racing) (12:16.703). Article Source: IANS

Truck driver abducted after road rage rescued from sacked IAS officer Puja Khedkars Pune bungalow

MUMBAI: A truck driver, allegedly abducted by two persons in an SUV after a road rage incident in Navi Mumbai, has been rescued from the house of former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar in Pune, police said on Monday. The Pune police have registered a case against Puja Khedkar's mother Manorama Khedkar for allegedly obstructing police when they tried to enter the house to look for the driver on Sunday, they said. Besides, the Navi Mumbai police have registered a case of kidnapping against the SUV occupants. Puja Khedkar has been accused of cheating and wrongly availing OBC and disability quota benefits in the civil services examination. The alleged abduction took place on Mulund-Airoli road in Navi Mumbai township adjoining Mumbai on Saturday evening when Prahlad Kumar (22) was driving his concrete mixer truck, the police said. The truck brushed against a sports utility vehicle, following which an argument took place between Kumar and two persons onboard the SUV, a Rabale police official said. The SUV occupants then forcibly took Kumar in their vehicle under the pretext of taking him to a police station and fled the spot, the official said. Based on a complaint lodged by the truck owner, Rabale Police in Navi Mumbai registered a case under section 137(2) (kidnapping) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against two unidentified persons on Sunday. The police later tracked the SUV to Pune. Based on technical evidence, the Navi Mumbai police found that Kumar was taken to Pune, following which a team went there on Sunday, the official said. We traced the vehicle and the victim to a bungalow belonging to Puja Khedkar, the official said. Initially, Khedkars mother allegedly prevented the police from entering the house and got into a quarrel with them, the official said. However, the police team later managed to enter the house. They rescued Kumar from there and brought him back to Navi Mumbai, he said. A team from Rabale police station had come in connection with the case of kidnapping of a truck driver, who was traced to Manorama Khedkar's bungalow in Pune. When the police team reached her bungalow for the investigation, she did not cooperate with them and allegedly obstructed them from discharging their duties, Pune's Chatushrungi police station's senior inspector Uttam Bhajanawale said. He said after the road rage incident, the two car occupants, instead of taking the truck driver to a police station, took him forcibly in their vehicle to Manorama's bungalow. The team had come to probe the matter, however, Manorama Khedkar allegedly obstructed them from discharging their duties and did not cooperate with them, said Bhajanawale. Following a complaint by a Rabale police officer, a case has been registered by the Chatushrungi police in Pune against her under BNS section 221 (obstructing any public servant in the discharge of his public functions), he said. The Navi Mumbai police have also issued a notice to Manorama Khedkar to appear before them for questioning. Further investigation is underway to identify the kidnappers and their motive, the police added. Puja Khedkar is accused of misrepresenting facts in her application for the 2022 UPSC civil services examination to avail herself of reservation benefits. She has refuted all the allegations against her. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has initiated a series of actions against Khedkar, including lodging of a criminal case, for availing attempts in the civil services exam by faking her identity, while the Delhi Police had lodged an FIR against her for various offences. After the controversy erupted over Puja Khedkar's appointment as a probationary IAS officer, a video surfaced last year in which her mother was seen threatening a farmer. Manorama Khedkar was subsequently arrested and later released on bail.

Weather Update: Heavy rain lashes parts of Mumbai, Maharashtra, Pune, IMD issues red alert for...

According to IMD, Mumbai is likely to receive consistent showers over the next 48 hours. Similarly, weather in Pune is expected to remain rainy. Read here to know IMD predictions

Truck driver abducted, rescued for ex-IAS probationer Puja Khedkars house

Mumbai, Sep 15 (PTI) A truck driver, allegedly abducted after a road rage incident in Navi Mumbai, has been rescued from the house of former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar in Pune, police said on Monday. Khedkar has been accused of cheating and wrongly availing OBC and disability quota benefits in the civil services examination. The alleged abduction took place on Mulund-Airoli road in Navi Mumbai township on Saturday evening when Prahlad Kumar (22) was driving his concrete mixer truck, the police said. The truck brushed against a sports utility vehicle, following which an argument took place between Kumar and two

Truck driver abducted, rescued for ex-IAS probationer Puja Khedkar's house

A truck driver was allegedly abducted after a road rage incident in Navi Mumbai. Police rescued him from Puja Khedkar's Pune house. Khedkar faces accusations of cheating in the civil services exam. The abduction occurred after a minor collision. The SUV occupants forcibly took the driver. Police tracked the SUV to Pune and rescued the driver.

Pune rains: Orange, yellow alerts issued in multiple districts as showers to persist across Maharashtra

India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Ratnagiri and Raigad. Intense rainfall is expected in the next 24 hours. A yellow alert is in place for ghat regions of Pune district. Konkan, Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, and Vidarbha also have alerts till Thursday. Parts of Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad experienced heavy showers.

Dhol-tasha troupe in Pune launches signature campaign for DJ-free festivals

Famous Marathi Actor and Kalaawant Trust Chairman Saurabh Gokhale said nearly 3,000 signatures have already been collected online and offline, and the memorandum will be submitted to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Puja Khedkar's Family In Trouble After Missing Truck Driver Rescued From Their Pune House

Pralhad Kumar, a truck driver from Mumbai, was rescued from ex-IAS Puja Khedkar's Pune residence. Puja's mother allegedly obstructed police work and created a scene.

BIG trouble for sacked IAS officer Puja Khedkar as missing truck driver found at her Pune-based home, here's what happened

In September last year, the centre had dismissed Puja Khedkar from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) after she was accused of wrongly availing the benefits of the Other Backward Classes (OBC) and disability quotas.

Missing Truck Driver Rescued From Sacked IAS Officer Puja Khedkar's Pune Home

A truck driver, missing after an accident with a car, has been traced to the Pune residence of sacked IAS officer Puja Khedkar, bringing fresh trouble for the former officer.

Missing Truck Driver Rescued From Sacked IAS Officer Puja Khedkar's Home

A truck driver, missing after an accident with a car, has been traced to the Pune residence of sacked IAS officer Puja Khedkar, bringing fresh trouble for the former officer.

Operation Sindoor bravehearts on path to recovery at Artificial Limb Centre in Pune

Following Operation Sindoor, Corporal Varun Kumar, who lost his hand, is recovering at the Artificial Limb Centre (ALC) in Pune. He, along with other injured personnel, are making remarkable progress with the help of prosthetics and dedicated training. The ALC focuses on enabling self-reliance through rehabilitation, providing customized solutions and support for amputees to regain independence.

Pahalgam attack victims kin calls for boycott of India-Pak Asia Cup match

Pune: Asavari Jagdale, whose father Santosh Jagdale was one of the 26 people who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terror attack, called for the boycott of the India-Pakistan Asia Cup cricket match scheduled to be held in Dubai on Sunday. India and Pakistan will face off on Sunday evening in what will be the 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 .

Pune Cab Driver Asks Friends To Beat IT Worker, They Attack Another Techie Waiting For Fiancee

Balaji Munde and Siddhartha Daliya ambushed a man in Viman Nagar, Pune, mistaking him for their cab driver friend's rival. The victim filed an FIR at Yerwada police station.

Sugar industry has survived due to use of ethanol: Nitin Gadkari

Union minister Nitin Gadkari said on Sunday that Indias sugar industry has sustained itself due to ethanol production and stressed the need for new farming technologies. At a Pune event, he linked farmer suicides in Vidarbha and Marathwada to water scarcity, praised Naam Foundations water conservation work, and defended ethanol policy amid political criticism over E20 fuel rollout.

Sugar industry has survived due to use of ethanol: Gadkari

PUNE, Sept 14:Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday said the sugar industry has survived due to the advent of ethanol, and asserted there is a need for new technologies in farming. Speaking at an event of Naam Foundation in Pune, Gadkari attributed cultivator suicides in Maharashtras Vidarbha and Marathawada regions to the scarcity of water for farming. The senior BJP leader hailed the work of Naam Foundation, led by actors Nana Patekar and Makarand Anaspure, in the field [] The post Sugar industry has survived due to use of ethanol: Gadkari appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Punes famous cake artist Prachi Dhabal Deb graced the Indian Cake Awards as head judge

Prachi Dhabal Deb, a globally recognized cake artist with three World Book of Records, London, titles, presided as head judge at the Indian Cake Awards (ICA). Known for promoting Maharashtra's culture through edible art, she guided emerging artists at ICA 2025.

Siege Courageous claims the Supreme Pune City Gold Cup

Evening news wrap: PM Modi visits Manipur, meets violence victims; 19 students killed in Myanmar airstrike & more

Prime Minister Modi visited Manipur for the first time since the 2023 ethnic violence, inaugurating development projects worth 7,300 crore. In Pune, an IT professional was attacked with a billhook, leading to the arrest of two suspects. Airstrikes on Myanmar schools resulted in 19 student deaths.

'Leader of opposing Bharat': Anurag Thakur slams Rahul Gandhi while taking on Congress, RJD over AI video on PM Modis mother

Anurag Thakur, a BJP leader, criticized Congress and RJD. He alleged they used an AI video to target PM Modi's deceased mother. Thakur spoke in Pune during a cycle rally. He also questioned Rahul Gandhi's absence from key events. Thakur addressed India-Pakistan cricket relations. He clarified India's stance on bilateral series.

PM Modi lands in Manipur, on his way to Churachandpur by road amid heavy rain

In his first visit to Manipur since ethnic violence erupted in the state in 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Imphal on Saturday. Upon his arrival, the Prime Minister was received at the Imphal airport by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel. Modi is headed for Churachandpur, a stronghold of Kuki community, and was one of the worst-affected areas in the violence that claimed at least 260 lives and left thousands displaced. Owing to heavy rainfall, the Prime Minister, instead of flying to Churachandpur from Mizoram in a helicopter, instead landed in Imphal and chose to travel by road from there to Churachandpur. Both state and central forces' personnel were deployed in large numbers in and around the nearly 237-acre Kangla Fort in Imphal and the Peace Ground in Churachandpur, the venues of the PM's rallies, PTI quoted the officials as saying. Heavy rain has lashed the state since Friday night, resulting in ankle-deep water in parts of the Kangla Fort. Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for development projects worth Rs 8,500 crore in the state during the visit. Violence had erupted in Manipur after a high court order suggested granting scheduled tribe status to Meiteis. Kharge calls it 'hush-hush pit stop' Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his visit to Manipur, calling it a pit stop that amounts to tokenism and a grave insult to those affected by the states continuing ethnic violence. In a post on X, Kharge accused the Prime Minister of failing to visit Manipur for over two years despite 864 days of violence that, he said, claimed nearly 300 lives, displaced 67,000 people and left over 1,500 injured. Calling the visit a hush-hush pit stop, Kharge said it was not an act of repentance but a grand welcome ceremony for yourself and a cruel prick to the wounds of those still suffering. This hush-hush pit stop isnt repentance. Its not even guilt, he added. Your so-called roadshow in Imphal and Churachandpur today is nothing but a cowardly escape from hearing the cries of people in relief camps, he wrote. Kharge also alleged that Modi had made 46 foreign trips during this period but not a single visit to share two words of sympathy with your own citizens.

Modi Visits Manipur for First Time Since 2023 Ethnic Violence

Modi was received at the Imphal airport by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel

PM Modi to visit Manipur on Saturday, his first visit since ethnic violence broke out in 2023

NEW DELHI: Putting speculations to rest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Manipur on Saturday, September 13, and will interact with internally displaced people in Churachandpur and Imphal, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel said on Friday, in the first official confirmation of the PM's trip to the strife-torn state. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has also confirmed about Modi's Manipur visit. This will be Modi's first visit to Manipur since ethnic violence broke out in the state two years ago. The violence had erupted between the Meitei people, a majority that lives in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribal community from the surrounding hills. The visit comes amid ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the state. The choice of Churachandpur is significant because the district was among the worst hit by the violence, which claimed at least 260 lives and left thousands displaced. While Churachandpur is Kuki-dominated, Meiteis are in a majority in Imphal, thus balancing the signals sent out in the politically significant visit, a report noted. In line with his commitment to the inclusive, sustainable, and holistic development of the state, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for several development projects worth over Rs 7,300 crore in Churachandpur. These include the Manipur Urban Roads, Drainage and Asset Management Improvement Project worth over Rs 3,600 crore; five National Highway projects valued at more than Rs 2,500 crore; the Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) Project; Working Women Hostels at nine locations, among others. The projects to be inaugurated in Imphal include the Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri; the IT SEZ Building and New Police Headquarters at Mantripukhri; Manipur Bhawans in Delhi and Kolkata; and the Ima Markets unique all-women markets in four districts. Days before PM Modi's visit to state, BJP members resign en masse in Manipur's Phungyar constituency As part of his programme, Prime Minister Modi will also address a gathering in Manipur on the occasion. Thereafter, he will inaugurate various projects worth over Rs 1,200 crore in Imphal and address a public function. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to visit Manipur. He stated that the turmoil in the state has been going for a long time. The issue in Manipur has been ongoing for a long time. It is good that he is going there now, Gandhi said, according to ANI . Modi will also visit Mizoram, Assam, West Bengal and Bihar. In Assam, Modi will participate in the centenary celebrations of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika in Guwahati where he will also address a gathering. On September 14, Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of major infrastructure and industrial development projects worth over Rs 18,530 crore in Assam. He will also address a public function in Darrang. On September 15, the Prime Minister will visit West Bengal to inaugurate the 16th Combined Commanders Conference2025 in Kolkata. Thereafter, he will visit Bihar same day and inaugurate the new terminal building of Purnea Airport. He will also lay the foundation stone and inaugurate multiple development projects worth around Rs 36,000 crore in Purnea and address a public gathering on the occasion. RSS tries its hand at solving Manipur stalemate, weighs in on BJP chiefs appointment Additionally, he will launch the National Makhana Board in Bihar. In Mizoram, the Prime Minister will also flag off three new express trains: the Sairang (Aizawl)Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal) Rajdhani Express, the SairangGuwahati Express, and the SairangKolkata Express. It will be the first time Aizawl is directly connected with Delhi via a Rajdhani Express, while the SairangGuwahati Express will improve connectivity between Mizoram and Assam. Notably, the SairangKolkata Express will establish direct connectivity between Mizoram and Kolkata. (With inputs from Online Desk.) Days before PM Modi's visit to state, BJP members resign en masse in Manipur's Phungyar constituency

PM Modi set to visit Manipur tomorrow, first trip since 2023 ethnic violence in state: Know what's on agenda

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the northeastern state of Manipur tomorrow, i.e., September 13, marking his first visit to the state since the ethnic violence that broke out two years back, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel stated.

My Husband Impotent, Retired ACP Father-In-Law Sexually Harassing Me To Bear Grandchild: Pune Woman

A Pune woman accused her retired ACP father-in-law, husband, and mother-in-law of harassment and exploitation. The woman claims her husband and mother-in-law pressured her to have a child with her father-in-law in order to give the family a ...

No PUC, No Fuel: Maharashtra's New Plan To Fight Air Pollution Before Winter

The Maharashtra government is set to implement a new policy to combat violations of air pollution control norms by motorists. Petrol pumps will now have to deny fuel to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Wednesday announced the 'No PUC, No Fuel' policy to curb pollution and prevent the circulation of fake PUC certificates. The minister met state transport department officials and directed them to implement the policy effectively. The date of implementation is yet to be announced. At every petrol pump, vehicles refueling will be scanned through CCTV cameras to determine the validity of their PUC certificate. If a vehicles PUC certificate is invalid, fuel will not be provided. To provide a pollution-free environment to future generations, it is essential for the current generation to impose certain environmentally friendly restrictions on itself. For this purpose, the Pollution Under Control certificate issued to every vehicle must be valid, Sarnaik said. The chain of producing illegal certificates must be completely stopped. To achieve this, the 'No PUC, No Fuel' policy will be strictly enforced at every petrol pump in the future, he added. The 'No PUC, No Fuel' policy was initially announced by the Maharashtra government in November 2019, with plans for implementation from January 2020, but faced challenges and delays, as per reports. Pratap Sarnaikmet state transport department officials on Wednesday. (Photo: X profile) EV Drive Just Changing Pollution Goalpost? Nithin Kamath Raises Concerns Invalid PUC According to Sarnaik, arrangements will be made at petrol pumps to issue PUC certificates immediately, ensuring no inconvenience to motorists. The PUC certificate will have a Unique Identity (UID), allowing its validity to be checked periodically. Furthermore, the Transport Department has issued instructions to launch a vigorous campaign to expose gangs that are currently issuing PUC certificates illegally. The 'No PUC, No Fuel' push comes weeks before winter sets in. Big cities like Mumbai, Thane, and Pune regularly get shrouded in thick smog. Air pollution increases in winter due to temperature inversion, which traps cold, dense air and pollutants close to the ground, preventing their dispersal by warm, rising air that is more common in summer. Vehicle pollution is a major environmental and public health issue in India, with the transport sector contributing significantly to urban air pollution, especially through particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Maharashtra has been actively promoting electric vehicles through various incentives and policies as a long-term strategy to reduce vehicular pollution. Delhi Spent Just One-Third Of Funds Received Under NCAP To Fight Air Pollution: Government Data . Read more on National by NDTV Profit.

Civil Lines rape case: Delhi court grants bail to actor Ashish Kapoor; 'lapses' in probe flagged

Delhi's Tis Hazari Court granted bail to TV actor Ashish Kapoor, arrested in connection with an alleged rape case in Pune. The court considered CCTV footage, Kapoor's cooperation, and his permanent residency in Delhi while granting bail. Advocates argued the complainant was intoxicated and had a history of filing complaints, while co-accused individuals had already received bail.

Manipur Naga organisation suspends trade embargo after government's request

GUWAHATI: Manipurs apex Naga organisation, United Naga Council (UNC) on Thursday suspended its trade embargo in Naga areas following a request from the state government. The trade embargo has remained enforced since Monday midnight. The UNC had resorted to this action in protest against the India-Myanmar border fencing and the scrapping of the free movement regime (FMR). The UNC in a statement said it convened an 'emergency presidential council meeting' following the receipt of a letter from the state government for the resumption of a tripartite meeting among UNC, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the state government on the issue of abrogation of FMR and border fencing along the imaginary Indo-Myanmar border in Naga areas. The assurance of the government that there will be prior consultation with the UNC and other stakeholders before the stated works are taken up was well received (at the meeting), the statement said. Earlier, in a letter addressed UNC president Ng Lorho, Manipur Chief Secretary, Dr Puneet Kumar Goel stated that the MHA had been engaging with the UNC on the issue of fencing of the international border between India and Myanmar in Naga-inhabited areas, and the state government also received the UNCs memoranda and representations on the subject. In this connection, it is to inform that the Central Government noted the concerns raised by UNC and other stakeholders. Accordingly, the Central Government has been holding and will continue to hold dialogue with the UNC and other stakeholders for prior consultation before fencing works are taken up. The next tripartite meeting with UNC will be held on a mutually convenient date and venue, the letter to Lorho read. Manipurs Naga organisations are demanding the reinstatement of FMR and an immediate halt to the border fencing work. They said their traditional boundary extends up to the river Chindwin in Myanmar. Nagas have a sizeable population in that country. On August 26, talks between an 11-member delegation of three Naga organisations, including UNC, and central government officials held in New Delhi on the twin issues had failed. In a memorandum submitted to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the UNC had stated that Nagas living across the border shared all ties with the Nagas on this side of the border in terms of socio-economic, cultural, religious, land matters, etc. These bonds predate the colonial demarcation of boundaries and are integral to our identity, traditions, and way of life. As such, abrupt abrogation of FMR and construction of physical border fencinghave adversely impacted and disrupted the natural flow of community and familial interdependent relationship the memorandum said. The FMR was signed between India and Myanmar in 2018 as part of the Centres Act East policy, promoting cross-border movement up to 16 km without travel documents. The objectives were to encourage people-to-people contact and boost the Northeasts economy. The FMR was scrapped during the ethnic violence in Manipur.

Ahead of PMs visit, Manipur government urges Naga organisation to withdraw trade embargo

GUWAHATI: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis September 13 visit to Manipur, the state government urged the Naga organisation, United Naga Council (UNC), to withdraw its trade embargo enforced in all Naga areas since Monday midnight. The UNC, Manipurs apex Naga organisation, resorted to this action in protest against the fencing of the India-Myanmar border and the scrapping of the free movement regime (FMR). In a letter addressed to UNC president Ng Lorho, Chief Secretary Dr Puneet Kumar Goel said the Ministry of Home Affairs had been engaging with the UNC on the issue of fencing of the international border between India and Myanmar in Naga-inhabited areas, and the state government also received the UNCs memoranda and representations on the subject. In this connection, it is to inform that the Central Government noted the concerns raised by UNC and other stakeholders. Accordingly, the Central Government has been holding and will continue to hold dialogue with the UNC and other stakeholders for prior consultation before fencing works are taken up. The next tripartite meeting with UNC will be held on a mutually convenient date and venue, the letter to Lorho read. Goel requested the UNC to withdraw any form of agitation in this regard in the larger public interest. Manipurs Naga organisations are demanding the reinstatement of FMR and an immediate halt to the border fencing work. They said their traditional boundary extends up to the river Chindwin in Myanmar. Nagas have a sizeable population in that country. On August 26, talks between an 11-member delegation of three Naga organisations, including UNC, and central government officials held in New Delhi on the twin issues had failed. In a memorandum submitted to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the UNC had stated that Nagas living across the border shared all ties with the Nagas on this side of the border in terms of socio-economic, cultural, religious, land matters etc. These bonds predate the colonial demarcation of boundaries and are integral to our identity, traditions, and way of life. As such, abrupt abrogation of FMR and construction of physical border fencinghave adversely impacted and disrupted the natural flow of community and familial interdependent relationship the memorandum said. The FMR was signed between India and Myanmar in 2018 as part of the Centres Act East policy, promoting cross-border movement up to 16 km without travel documents. The objectives were to encourage people-to-people contact and boost the Northeasts economy. The FMR was scrapped during the ethnic violence in Manipur.

Good Captains Like Telugu Titans' Vijay Malik are Ones Who Can Win Matches: Rishank Devadiga

Speaking on KBD Live, JioStar expert Rishank Devadiga praised Puneri Paltans dominance over UP Yoddhas, highlighting their raiding brilliance:

Eight institutions form 'Thiruvananthapuram cluster' to drive interdisciplinary innovation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, eight of the countrys leading research institutions based in Thiruvananthapuram have come together to form the Thiruvananthapuram Cluster, a collaborative effort aimed at advancing interdisciplinary research in science and technology. The partnership, formalised on Wednesday, is expected to accelerate innovation by combining expertise across a wide range of specialisations. The agreement was signed at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) in Poojappura, with directors from the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS), Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI), CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), and SCTIMST itself in attendance. Together, these institutions represent nearly 700 scientists working across diverse disciplines such as biotechnology, space science, earth studies, medical technology and computational research. The collaboration will facilitate joint research efforts, shared access to facilities, and coordinated funding applications, thereby quickening the pace of innovation. Dr C Anandharamakrishnan, Director of CSIR-NIIST, highlighted the unique nature of the collaboration. No other city has such a concentrated cluster of expertise. We hope to push for a formal recognition of the Thiruvananthapuram Cluster by the government, akin to the Pune Hub. This will enhance the regions visibility, attract funding, and enable large-scale multidisciplinary research, he said. Dr Sanjay Behari, Director of SCTIMST, outlined the framework for the collaboration. Under this framework, specific focus areas will be identified and each institution will be assigned nodal responsibilities to drive progress in those domains. He emphasised that joint funding applications would lead to focused and time-bound delivery of research and technology transfer. Dr Chandrabhas Narayana, Director of RGCB, pointed out that the interdisciplinary nature of the cluster could significantly benefit the upcoming Rs 250-crore bio-cluster project. He added that such collaboration would be instrumental in addressing major health challenges facing the country. Dr J N Moorthy, Director of IISER, stressed that the initiative would help translate high-quality scientific research into practical applications. Dr Dipankar Banerjee, Director of IIST, noted that the knowledge cluster would enhance productivity and gain relevance as India prepares for human spaceflight missions and increased private sector participation in space technologies. Some institutions have already begun leveraging shared facilities to initiate translational research projects. E Magesh, Director General of C-DAC, emphasised the importance of breaking down disciplinary boundaries to enable technology adoption that benefits the general public.

Savarkars grandnephew seeks Rahul Gandhis presence in court over withdrawn threat plea

Savarkars grandnephew moves Pune court, seeking affidavit and personal countersignature on every filing in the defamation case

Bombay HC pulls up Savitribai Phule Pune University for circular allowing failed students direct promotion

The Bombay High Court has sought an explanation from Savitribai Phule Pune University over a shocking circular that allows failed students to be promoted to higher years.

Bengalureans weigh in as Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra courts controversy

Bengaluru, once celebrated in cinema for its gardens, heritage and position as a crossroads of cultures, is finding itself cast in a markedly different light. The city, long associated with technology and opportunity, is increasingly being represented as a drug capital. The latest Malayalam film Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra , that has reportedly crossed 202 crore at the box office (as of Wednesday), drawing large audiences, extends this trend, joining titles such as Bheema , Officer on Duty and Aavesham in foregrounding narratives of crime, narcotics and moral decline. Controversy also surrounded specific dialogues in the film which used derogatory language towards Bengaluru women and a scene where a police officer shamed a female character who was being followed by goons while outside at night. The shift in cinematic portrayal recently prompted a response from National Award-winning Kannada filmmaker Mansore, who remarked on X: According to movies like Kannada Bhima , Malayalam films Officer on Duty , Aavesham , and now Lokah , Bengaluru is being portrayed as the capital of drugs and crime. Once upon a time, it was represented in movies as a beautiful town. It has come to such a state due to uncontrolled migration (sic) His observation has sparked a discussion about whether filmmakers are engaging with researched realities or resorting to convenient stereotypes for dramatic effect. While Bengalureans argue that cinema reflects uncomfortable truths about urban life, others caution that repeated depictions risk reducing complex identities to reductive images, amplifying stigma and overshadowing the citys diversity. Acknowledging the fallout Sandy Master portrays Nachiyappa Gowda, a police officer The makers of Lokah tendered an apology after facing backlash. Kannada activist Rupesh Rajanna was a vocal critic, demanding not only a public apology but also edits to the film. The issue even drew the attention of Bengaluru police commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh, who stated that the Central Crime Branchs social media monitoring cell would review the matter and take necessary action if violations were found. Dulquer Salmans Wayfarer Films, which produced the movie, released a statement expressing regret and assuring audiences that the dialogue would be removed or edited. Be careful with broad statements Anand Mahadevan, developer The misogyny of the character is made clear in a lot of dialogues including when he asks another character: Arent you ashamed of getting beaten up by a girl? There are people like him in society, and art is often a reflection of real life. Portraying it as closely as possible may be the only way to revolt, for the artiste. But yes, people clearly get influenced by movies, even if some dialogues are not glorified, they can be interpreted differently. All it needs is a reel with a mass BGM. Narratives can flip, influence can spread in unimaginable ways. It was a noble thing to apologise, because often impact is more important than the intent. We could logically argue that its a movie and we shouldnt take it personally, but that logic might not work in this day and age when we are bombarded by content everywhere and might not have the breathing space to sit and think. While I personally dont think of it as an issue, makers have to be more careful when making umbrella statements through movie dialogues, or at least quickly counter it Not glorifying misogyny Anjali R Pillai, film content creator @thefourthwall.in on Instagram Films are allowed to show us flawed people as well because, lets face it, they exist in our society. The cop characters dialogue gives us a glimpse into his filthy mindset and makes his ugliness clear. At no point does the film glorify or endorse the demeaning line about women. This line doesnt invite applause but disgust. Its not a celebration of prejudice but a sharp reminder of how judgmental attitudes sound when exposed on screen. When it comes to representation of the city, I think most Malayalam films set in Bengaluru capture a side of the city that young people can relate to. Be it with Lokah or other films like Dear Friend and Romancham its all about living independently with friends, figuring out careers, and relationships, not a judgmental caricature. Its about cinematic liberty Samarth Shivapur, sales head There are stereotypes about Pune and Delhi, too, but that doesnt mean filmmakers shouldnt use that context in cinema. Its just one scene where a police officer (played by Sandy Master) talks like that, with the character being shown as misogynistic. As for the parties, they happen all over the country. So if someones making a big deal about Bengaluru being shown in a bad light, they really just need to relax and let it go. Reductive representation R Sivasudar, UG student People from all professions, artists, students, and entrepreneurs contribute to the citys authenticity. Movies that only represent locals as criminals and sensationalise violence disregard this reality. What is more concerning is the demeaning portrayal of women, which strengthens stereotypes and harms the lives of many women who are shaping Bengalurus future. Cinema holds immense power to shape perceptions, especially for audiences unfamiliar with the city. I hope directors start showing the real Bengaluru, not just the dramatic parts. We deserve to be seen in full. City of youthful energy Sreejith Palliyil, travel designer For me, Bengaluru is the city of youth, diversity, and opportunities. People from different cultures and ideas come together here, and Bengaluru has always welcomed them with open arms. Young people often find more freedom here than they had under traditional norms back home. The city gives them the space to explore their individuality and aspirations. Thats why it feels unfair when films reduce the citys identity to stereotypes like drugs or paint its women in a demeaning way. I wish filmmakers would also highlight Bengalurus spirit of inclusivity and youthful energy. Wrong portrayal of Bengaluru cops RJ Anoopa, actor Firstly, the cop characters name is Nachiyappa Gowda. Gowdas are a community in Karnataka, but the role is played by Sandy Master, who is a Tamilian. They could have considered a local Kannada actor so that it would have done justice. The dialogue delivered by the cop shaming women in Bengaluru was uncalled for. It is a negative narrative about Bengaluru cops as well. The portrayal of the city is one-sided because yes, there are many pubs but that is just one part of the city; Bengaluru has its own rich culture. This portrayal will affect Bengalureans who are living here and the perception of non-Bengalureans who come to visit our city. Not everyone is mature enough to see it in a cinematic manner.

Pilot collapses in cockpit from suspected food allergy, delays IndiGos MumbaiDelhi flight

NEW DELHI: A Delhi-bound IndiGo flight from Mumbai was delayed after one of its pilots reportedly fell unconscious inside the cockpit just before take-off, with a suspected food allergy cited as the cause. The incident occurred last Saturday (September 6) on flight 6E 6827, scheduled to depart from Terminal 2 of Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at 11.15 a.m. Sources said the pilot began profusely sweating and collapsed moments before departure. He was rushed to a hospital, where multiple tests, including an electrocardiogram, confirmed his heart condition was normal. The airline arranged for an alternate pilot, and the Airbus A320 Neo eventually took off after a delay of one hour and 13 minutes. The flight landed in Delhi at 2.23 p.m., instead of its scheduled arrival time of 1.37 p.m., according to a flight-tracking website. An IndiGo spokesperson did not issue an official statement but confirmed the incident, saying, We arranged an alternative pilot to operate the flight. The flight was delayed by nearly an hour. This marks the third such case of a pilot falling ill mid-duty in just over two months. On July 4, an IndiGo pilot operating a DelhiPune service collapsed inside the cockpit, causing a four-hour delay, while the same day an Air India pilot on a BengaluruDelhi flight also reported a similar health scare.

Puneeth Kerehalli arrested under preventive action

Bombay HC grants bail to 2012 Pune blasts accused, cites 12 years incarceration and trial delay

Court notes that only 27 of 170 witnesses had been examined in over 12 years, highlights the right to speedy trial as a fundamental right under Article 21

Patna to host two-day National Conference on holistic development of districts

NEW DELHI: A two-day National Conference on the theme Holistic Development of Districts is set to commence on Thursday in Patna, Bihar, with the participation of hundreds of delegates from across the country. Organised by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) in collaboration with the Government of Bihar, the conference will be inaugurated jointly by Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, and Nitish Kumar, Chief Minister of Bihar. They will also deliver the inaugural address. According to an official statement issued in Delhi by the hosting department, the conference will showcase governance models that have received recognition under the Prime Ministers Awards for Excellence in Public Administration. Senior IAS officer and Secretary of DARPG, V. Srinivas, and Bihar Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit who has himself been a recipient of the PM Award for Excellence in Public Administration will also address the inaugural session, setting the tone for an engaging exchange of ideas and practices. Notably, both these officials V. Srinivas at the Centre and Pratyaya Amrit within Bihars administrative framework are known as tough taskmasters, recognised for their creativity and innovation in administration based on their respective performances. According to an official source, the two-day event will include presentations of PM Awarded and Shortlisted Initiatives 2023 & 2024 (Holistic Development of Districts), Prime Ministers Awarded Initiatives 2023 & 2024 (Innovations in Governance), and Innovations in Bihar Government, spanning multiple categories such as Holistic Development, Digital Governance, Health, Education, Rural Transformation, and Public Service Delivery. A film on the PM Awarded Initiatives 2024 will also be screened. Session I of the National Conference will focus on Prime Ministers Awarded and Shortlisted Initiatives 2023 & 2024 (Innovation in Governance) and will be chaired by Shri Puneet Yadav, Additional Secretary, DARPG, featuring district-level innovations. The National Conference will include four additional sessions, chaired by senior officials such as Narmdeshwar Lal, Principal Secretary, Minor Water Resources Department, Bihar, Dr S. N. Tripathi, Director General, IIPA, New Delhi, and Sarita Chauhan, Joint Secretary, DARPG, with presentations highlighting district-level innovations from across various states, as well as a dedicated session on innovations within the Government of Bihar. An official added that the conference is expected to be attended by over 300 delegates from across India, including senior administrators, domain experts, and practitioners in the field of public administration. The National Conference aims to showcase and disseminate innovative governance practices adopted by districts across the country that have significantly improved service delivery, citizen welfare, and local development outcomes. It also seeks to provide a platform for District Collectors, senior officials, policymakers, and experts to share experiences, exchange ideas, and deliberate on strategies for achieving saturation of flagship schemes, integrated development across sectors, and effective grievance redressal mechanisms. By fostering collaboration and cross-learning, the conference strives to institutionalise successful models, scale up impactful initiatives, and accelerate Indias journey towards inclusive and citizen-centric governance at the grassroots level.

Urban Footprint Of India's Eight Major Cities Doubles In 30 Years: Report

The analysis covers urban areas of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi NCR (Delhi, Gurugram, Noida & Greater Noida, Faridabad, Ghaziabad), Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai MMR, and Pune

Bombay high court grants bail to Farooq Shaukat Bagwan in 2012 Pune Jangli Maharaj Road blasts case

The Bombay High Court granted bail to Farooq Shaukat Bagwan, arrested in connection with the 2012 Pune blasts, after over a decade of pre-trial detention. The decision, based on parity with a previously released co-accused, considers Bagwan's role in procuring SIM cards and providing a location for meetings.

Techie assaulted in theatre for asking man not to spoil suspense of horror film

PUNE : A 29-year-old software professional was allegedly assaulted inside a film theatre in Pimpri Chinchwad here after he objected to a man narrating the storyline of the horror film 'The Conjuring- Last Rites' to his wife, the police have said. The incident took place last week at a multiplex in the Chinchwad area when the complainant had gone to watch the movie with his wife. The accused and his wife were seated in the back row, and the accused kept narrating the story aloud to her, an official said, citing the complaint. When the complainant asked him to stop and not to spoil the suspense and disturb others, the accused allegedly abused and attacked him. The accused and his wife even assaulted the complainant's wife when she intervened, the official said. The techie, who sustained minor injuries, later approached the police. Based on his complaint, a case was registered at Chinchwad police station under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 117 (abetting offence in public), 115 (abetment), 352 (assault) and relevant provisions, officials said, adding that no arrest has been made in the case.

Pune Techie Assaulted In Theatre For Asking Man Not To Spoil Film's Suspense

A 29-year-old software professional was allegedly assaulted inside a film theatre in Pimpri Chinchwad here after he objected to a man narrating the storyline of the horror film The Conjuring- Last Rites' to his wife, the police have said.

Rs 46 cr I-T notice sent to dhaba cook in Gwalior

BHOPAL: A male cook at a roadside dhaba in Gwalior district of Madhya Pradesh has received a notice from the Income Tax Department about Rs 46.18 crore business transactions having taken place in an account held under his name at a nationalized bank branch in national capital Delhi. The cook Ravindra Singh Chauhan, who hails from MPs Bhind district, but is working at a roadside dhaba-cum-family restaurant in Gwalior district now, worked with a premier automobile company in Pune till July. But he left the job following multiple notices from the IT Department and returned to Gwalior in MP, where he has started working at the roadside dhaba, which fetches him Rs 10,000 monthly salary. I earn Rs 10,000 monthly, so how can I indulge in transactions worth Rs 46 crore-plus, he said. The latest IT Department notice sent to Chauhan mentions, Information in possession with the department suggests that income chargeable to tax has escaped assessment to the extent of Rs 46,18,32,916 for the financial year 2020-21 relevant to the assessment year 2021-22. Chauhan worked as a mess helper at a toll plaza in Gwalior district between 2019 and 2023. In November 2019, the supervisor at the plaza Shashi Bhushan Rai (who hailed from Bihars Buxar district) took me to Delhi and got a bank account opened in my name for helping me get the provident fund money. On return, I informed about the development to other colleagues and some friends, who said that I shouldnt have opened that bank account, as it could be misused in future. I requested the supervisor to get the account closed, who later informed me that the account had been closed. Much to my surprise six years later, I have landed in trouble due to the same bank account in Delhi, which shockingly remains active, Chauhan said. Ive been running from one police office to another in Gwalior district with a complaint against Shashi Bhushan Rai, but Im being told as the alleged crime with me happened in Delhi, so I should go to Delhi Police in the matter, Chauhan said. According to a Gwalior-based advocate Pradyumna Singh Bhadauria, who is helping Chauhans cause, We first went to the Income Tax office in the matter, where we were told by officials that Rs 46.18 crore transaction had taken place through the bank account held in Chauhans name. We subsequently went to the Punjab National Bank local branch in Gwalior, where the bank manager told us that the concerned transaction had not taken place in the account in MP, but through an account in Uttam Nagar branch in Delhi, which was also held in Chauhans name. The account was opened by Shashi Bhushan Rai in Chauhans name for crediting his provident fund money. It has been found that Rs 12.50 lakh is still there in the concerned bank account. As the IT Department has asked us to get a case registered in the matter with police, weve been taking up the matter with Gwalior police, but it remains unaddressed. The bank account which was opened by Shashi Bhushan Rai in Chauhans name in 2019 is being used now by an apparel company and transactions of Rs 46.18 crore have taken place through that account and Rs 12.50 lakh are still in that account, the advocate said.

Pune Techie, Wife Assaulted At INOX Chinchwad After Dispute Over 'Movie Spoilers'

The suspense of the film was spoiled for the 29-year-old techie and his wife and sister when a man sitting behind them began recounting scenes to his wife

43-year-old Nepal national held for supplying Indian SIM cards to Pakistan ISI operatives

NEW DELHI: Delhi Police Special Cell has busted an espionage module and arrested a 43-year-old Nepal national for allegedly supplying Indian SIM cards to Pakistani ISI operatives, officials said on Tuesday. These SIMs were being used from across the border for espionage and other anti-India activities through social media platforms like WhatsApp. The investigation has revealed that the accused came into contact with ISI handlers in 2024 through a Nepali intermediary. He was lured with promises of a US visa and opportunities in journalism abroad. In return, he was tasked with supplying Indian SIM cards and collecting information related to DRDO and Army establishments. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Amit Kaushik said that on August 28, a tip-off was received that a person, associated with ISI handlers, was present in Vijay Block, Laxmi Nagar. A trap was laid and the accused was apprehended, who was later identified as Prabhat Kumar Chaurasiya, a resident of Birganj in Nepal. During questioning, the accused revealed that he had procured 16 SIM cards using his Aadhaar credentials and sent them to Nepal, of which 11 SIMs were being operated on WhatsApp from Lahore, Bahawalpur, and other parts of Pakistan by ISI operatives, the DPC said. Digital devices containing incriminating material and multiple SIM cards envelopes were recovered from the accused. Using his Aadhaar card registered at Latur, Maharashtra, he procured SIM cards from telecom stores in Bihar and Maharashtra. These SIMs, after activation, were smuggled to Kathmandu, Nepal, through conduits and were subsequently handed over to ISI handlers. WhatsApp accounts registered on these SIMs were operated from Pakistan to establish contact with Indian Army personnel and to pursue other sensitive espionage objectives, Kaushik stated. Chaurasiya completed his Class XII in Nepal, pursued intermediate studies in Bihar, and later obtained a B.Sc. degree in Information Technology along with a diploma in computer hardware and networking. Professionally, he worked in the pharmaceutical sector across Pune, Latur, Solapur, and Delhi as a medical representative and area sales manager. In 2017, he set up Neo Terminal and Logistics Company Pvt. Ltd., Kathmandu, Nepal which collapsed due to heavy financial losses. In Kathmandu, he came into contact with ISI operatives. Out of desperation to go abroad, he not only agreed to supply Indian SIM cards, but also agreed to collect sensitive Indian defence-related information for ISI operatives, police said.

Thiruvananthapuram to host EMC-Keralas two-day international conference from today

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The capital will host a two-day international workshop organised by the Energy Management Centre (EMC)-Kerala under the states department of power on the topic Energy Efficiency, Conservation and Transition for Achieving Net Zero and Sustainable Development Goals from Tuesday (September 9). Electricity Minister K Krishnankutty will inaugurate the workshop at 10 am on Tuesday at EMC. While Puneet Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary (Power Department) will welcome the gathering, Amitava Bandopadhyay, Director General, Centre for Science and Technology of the Non-aligned and Other Developing Countries (NAM S&T Centre) will deliver the opening remarks. K Ravi Raman, Member, State Planning Board, will deliver a special address at the inaugural event, to be presided over by Kazhakkoottam MLA and former Minister Kadakampally Surendran. As many as 10 lectures will be delivered by various stakeholders in the power sector, spread across three technical sessions on the first day. The international speakers on Day One of the workshop are: Kimari Main Patrick of the Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Kenya; Ahmed Hamza, Secretary of the Electricity and Energy Research Council, Egypt. Muhammad Mokhzaini Azizan, Deputy Director, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia and Proud Mundenda, Senior Manager, Information Technology, Innovation, Research and Development, Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority, Zimbabwe. Thiri. Shwe Yi Win, Deputy Director, Department of Research and Innovation, Myanmar; Henry Chemba, Graduate Trainee - Research Assistant, National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Zambia are also among the international speakers on the first day. Mohammad Khalil Elahee, Chair of Professor in Energy Management, The University of Mauritius, will deliver a lecture on sustainable energy management on the second day. A panel discussion on the topic Energy Efficiency, Conservation and Transition for Achieving Net Zero and Sustainable Development Goals will also be held on the second day of the workshop. The discussion will be chaired by R Harikumar, Director, EMC-Kerala. Senior officials from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of Power, Government of India, EMC-Kerala, Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and Global Buildings Performance Network (GBPN) will also deliver lectures.

On Cam: Pune Man Attacks Bouncer Outside Restaurant After Entry Denied; Case Filed

The incident took place outside Elephant & Co. Restaurant and Bar around 10:30 pm and quickly escalated into a street brawl

Pune: Case filed against musical members for harassing women reporters

Pune: Police on Monday said they have registered a case against two unidentified members of a dhol tasha troupe for allegedly harassing two women reporters of a Pune-based digital news platform, including a woman, during Lord Ganesh idol immersion procession in the city. The offence was registered at the Faraskhana police station against the two 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 .

Elgar Parishad case: SC to hear Mahesh Raut's bail plea on medical grounds on Sep 15

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday decided to hear on September 15 the bail plea of Elgar Parishad-Bhima Koregaon case accused Mahesh Raut on medical grounds. A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Satish Chandra Sharma was hearing Raut's petition challenging his incarceration despite being granted bail by the Bombay High Court. The high court allowed Raut's bail plea but stayed its own order for a week on the request of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The top court subsequently extended the stay on his release in the case. On Monday, Raut's counsel said the activist was suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and required specialised medical care unavailable in prison or at JJ Hospital, where he has been examined. If the prison hospital can file a status report, and we can take him for a medical examination... JJ hospital doesn't have the facilities for this, the lawyer said. The bench said if the authorities wish to file an affidavit, they may do so. If the ailment is so serious that it warrants continuous treatment, then there is no difficulty. Because all of us know that government doctors play it safe. If a serious treatment is required, they will not touch it because if anything happens then they will be responsible. So let's just find out, no problem, the bench said. When the counsel referred to the fact that Raut had already spent nearly seven years in custody, Justice Sundresh noted, No issue at all, we will consider it. Keep next Tuesday. Raut is among several activists and cultural workers accused in the Elgar Parishad Bhima Koregaon case. The Elgar Parishad conclave was held in December 2017 at Shaniwarwada, an 18th-century palace-fort in the heart of Pune. Investigators alleged that provocative speeches delivered at the event instigated the violence at Koregaon-Bhima on January 1, 2018. Another accused, cultural activist Sagar Gorkhe alias Jagtap, was arrested in September 2020 on allegations of raising provocative slogans at the conclave along with other Kabir Kala Manch members, and has remained in jail since then. The bench is also likely to hear the bail plea of another activist Jyoti Jagtap who was arrested in 2020 in the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case.

9 drown, 12 missing in separate incidents during Ganesh idol immersions in Maharashtra

MUMBAI: Ganpati festivities culminated on Sunday with lakhs of devotees bidding farewell to the adorable elephant-headed god they consecrated and worshipped for ten days, while at least nine persons drowned and 12 were missing in various incidents related to immersion of idols in Maharashtra. These incidents were reported from Thane, Pune, Nanded, Nashik, Jalgaon, Washim, Palghar and Amravati districts, officials said on Sunday. In Pune district, five persons were swept away in different water bodies in three separate incidents, an official said. Two men were swept away in Bhama river at Waki Khurd and one at Shell Pimpalgaon. Another person slipped into a well at Birwadi in the rural part of the district. A 45-year-old man was swept away at Khed, the Pune official said. Bodies of three persons were recovered, he added. Three persons were swept away in a river in Gandegaon in Nanded district, one of whom was rescued some time later, a local official said. Search was on for the other two, Nanded police said. Similar incidents took place in Sinnar and Kalwan areas of Nashik district. Five persons were swept away in Nashik. The bodies of two persons have been recovered, while efforts are on to trace the others, the official said. Three persons were swept away in Jalgaon in separate incidents, the official said. Three persons from Mundewadi in Thane's Shahapur taluka were swept away in the strong currents of the Bhargavi river near a dam. They were returning after immersing a Ganpati idol, Shahapur Tehsildar Parmeshwar Kasule said. He identified the persons as Datta Lote, Pratip Munde and Kuldeep Jakare. The bodies of Lote and Munde have been retrieved. The search for Jakare is underway, the tehsildar said. In Palghar district, three men who were swept away in a creek during Ganpati idol immersion were saved with the help of a Ro-Ro boat after a quick alert from maritime authorities, officials said on Sunday. The incident took place at around 3 pm on Saturday at Narangi jetty in Virar (West), they said. Two persons drowned in Washim district, a local official said, adding the body of one of them has been recovered. One man drowned in Amravati, as per police. His body was retrieved by the disaster management team. In Mumbai city, where immersion processions extend several hours, a man died of electrocution and five other individuals sustained injuries, civic officials said. The incident occurred on Khairani Road in the Sakinaka area on Sunday morning when a Ganesh idol came into contact with a hanging electric wire. Amid continuous rainfall in Maharashtra, state disaster response teams and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel have been deployed, officials said. In neighbouring Madhya Pradesh, two teenage boys drowned after falling into a stream during the immersion of an idol of Lord Ganesh in Raisen district. The boys drowned after falling into a stream in Gatkheda village on Saturday night, police said.

Manipur Governor Holds Meeting With BJP Leaders, Ahead of PMs Likely Visit

The state chief secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, security advisor Kuldiep Singh and Director General of Police Rajiv Singh were also present in the meeting. Informing that altogether 23 BJP MLAs, led by Biren Singh, attended the meeting, security sources said that the closed-door meeting which lasted about 40 minutes also discussed the ground situation

Four Drown, 13 Feared Missing After Ganpati Immersions Across Maharashtra

In Pune districts Chakan area, four individuals were swept away in separate incidents, said officials aware of the development.

'Destroyed false male egos': Pune student's dance on three-song remix cecomes internet sensation, WATCH viral video

In the clip, a young man named Ritesh takes centre stage with a remix of songs - Dupatta Mera, Jigar Da Tukda, and Shaky.

Ganesh idol immersions: 4 persons drown, 13 missing in Maharashtra

Mumbai: At least four persons drowned and 13 were missing after the immersion of idols following the culmination of the Ganesh festival in various districts of Maharashtra, police said on Sunday. In Pune districts Chakan area, four persons were swept away in different water bodies in three separate incidents, an official said. Two men were 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 .

Ganesh immersions: 4 drown, 13 missing in Maharashtra; NDRF teams deployed

Tragedy struck Maharashtra during Ganesh idol immersions as at least four people drowned and 13 others went missing across various districts. Incidents occurred in Pune, Nanded, Nashik, Jalgaon, Thane, and Amravati, exacerbated by swollen rivers and water bodies due to continuous rainfall. Rescue operations are underway with State Disaster Response teams and the NDRF deployed.

Ganesh Idol Immersions: Four Drown, 13 Missing In Maharashtra

In Pune district's Chakan area, four persons were swept away in different water bodies in three separate incidents, an official said.