Amul India gives Mirzapur: The Movie a MASKAPUR twist with Kaleen Bhaiya creative
The Mirzapur universe has now found an unexpected pop-culture crossover, with Amul India giving Excel Entertainment and Amazon MGM Studios Mirzapur: The Movie its own playful twist. The dairy brand recently joined the conversation around the film with a customised social media creative, dubbing the topical MASKAPUR and featuring Kaleen Bhaiya with a bun maska. The creative features Kaleen Bhaiya, played by Pankaj Tripathi, seated with a bun maska in his hand, bringing together a familiar image from the Mirzapur universe with Amuls signature topical advertising format. The brand captioned the post, Amul Topical: The Movie Mirzapur create waves! The reference to MASKAPUR adds a food-centric play on the title while acknowledging the films ongoing presence in popular culture. The Amul topical comes as Mirzapur: The Movie continues its theatrical run following its release on September 4, 2026. The film marks the theatrical expansion of the popular Mirzapur franchise, which has developed a strong following through its streaming series. The move to the big screen has also brought several familiar characters together for a new chapter in the story. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amul - The Taste of India (@amul_india) Directed by Gurmmeet Singh and written by Puneet Krishna, Mirzapur: The Movie stars Pankaj Tripathi, Divyenndu and Ali Fazal in key roles. The ensemble also includes Abhishek Banerjee, Rasika Dugal, Mohitt Maalik, Sheeba Chadha, Rajesh Tailang, Pramod Pathak, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Harshita Shekhar Gaur, Shweta Tripathi and Sonal S Chauhan. The film follows an untold chapter from the world of Mirzapur, bringing together several members of its ensemble for its theatrical outing. Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar have produced the film under the Excel Entertainment banner, with Kassim Jagmagia and Vishal Ramchandani serving as co-producers. Presented by Amazon MGM Studios and Excel Entertainment, Mirzapur: The Movie released in Hindi and Telugu on September 4. With Amuls MASKAPUR creative, the franchise has now also become the subject of a topical from one of Indias most recognisable dairy brands, adding another layer to the films ongoing pop-culture conversation. Also Read: Mirzapur: The Movie cast serves Bhaukaal in viral 80s AI trend; see pics
Pune Rolls Back 12-Day Liquor Ban For Ganeshotsav After High Court Rap
The ban was curtailed to two days by the Pune district administration just hours after the court said such orders could not be issued without a logical basis.
ISFBP in Pune offers French baking education with international standards, focusing on technical skills and professional discipline.
Pune airport terminal renovation completed, awaits BCAS approval
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HC deprecates Pune-only alcohol ban during Ganesh festival, says blanket curbs impermissible
The Bombay High Court criticized Pune's alcohol ban during the Ganesh festival. Authorities were questioned why only Pune faced such restrictions while other regions did not. The court warned of judicial intervention if the arbitrary prohibition order was not withdrawn. It noted that a blanket ban on licensed traders was not permissible.
Only Pune people behave badly? HC on 10-day liquor ban
The Bombay High Court strongly criticised the Pune administration's decision to ban alcohol sales for 10 days during the Ganesh festival, questioning why Pune was singled out for such restrictions while other regions were not. The court deemed the blanket ban arbitrary and stigmatising for Pune residents, urging the administration to withdraw the order or face judicial intervention.
The police investigation found the company had two directors, but only one of them was named as an accused; the Court submission stated that the son of the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra wields influence
Indias electronics exports to BRICS jump nearly 50 pc, momentum to surge after 18th Summit: Industry
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) Indias electronics exports to BRICS member nations rose 49.27 per cent in 202526, outpacing the countrys overall export growth of 26.53 per cent, an industry chamber said on Friday. The statement from Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) said the surge strengthens the case for turning BRICS' 18th Summit proposals on digital infrastructure and trade facilitation into concrete gains for exporters. ESC noted that the United Arab Emirates and China were the largest destinations within BRICS, together accounting for 88.50 per cent of Indias electronics exports to the grouping. Among the product categories, Telecom Equipment had the largest share of 74.60 per cent, the statement added. The industry chamber highlighted that BRICS accounted for around 19.61 per cent of Indias total electronic exports globally and urged that deeper cooperation could translate into more demand for network equipment, device certification and the software that runs on shared digital infrastructure. Gurmeet Singh, CEO & ED, ESC said several items on this year's agenda, under India's BRICS Chairship, could have a bearing on this trajectory, though the specific outcomes will depend on how these deliberations progress. Discussions around a BRICS Digital Public Infrastructure Repository, and a bilateral India-Brazil ICT memorandum covering 5G/6G, Open RAN and satellite connectivity signed in Pune last month, indicate the direction BRICS digital cooperation could take, Singh said. The Council also pointed to the proposed BRICS Global Value Chains Action Plan 2026-2030 and the proposed MSME Cooperation Portal as mechanisms that could, if taken forward, support Indian electronics exporters, particularly smaller manufacturers, in plugging into cross-border supply chains. ESC said the proposed BRICS invoice discounting mechanism, meant to address trade finance gaps for MSMEs, could be especially useful for exporters looking to grow in markets such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, Indonesia and South Africa. The BRICS Global Value Chains Action Plan 20262030 and the proposed MSME Cooperation Portal can open new avenues for Indian electronics exporters, particularly MSMEs, to participate in emerging cross-border value chains, said Rajesh Revankar, Chairman, ESC.
BAVMC Pune Assistant Professor Recruitment 2026 - Walkin
Bharatratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical College Pune (BAVMC Pune) has announced Recruitment 2026 for 1 Assistant Professor (Community Medicine - UHTC) post. Eligible candidates can attend the walk-in interview scheduled for 17 September 2026. For details, visit the official website, bavmcpune.edu.in.
Jackie Shroff farmhouse tour: The actor's expansive Pune farmhouse showcases his deep love for nature. The property features hundreds of plants, farm animals, and a serene man-made lake. A special Kadamba tree honors his mother, adding a personal touch to the estate. An amphitheater and a unique viewing platform offer scenic countryside vistas. This rustic retreat emphasizes greenery and a peaceful rural lifestyle over opulence.
Pune, Maharashtra, India Business Wire India
Pune Airport's Renovated Old Terminal Nears Reopening, Awaits Final BCAS Clearance
MSHRC recommends FIR against Pune cops over torture, parading of minors
The Commission described the alleged incidents as serious violations of human rights and the rule of law. Its full bench, comprising Chairman Justice A M Badar and members Sanjay Kumar and Swapna Joshi, directed Maharashtra's Director General of Police (DGP) to treat the fact-finding inquiry report as an FIR
Rohit Pawar claims Rs 40-crore FDA exam leak racket, seeks MPSC chief's exit
Addressing a press conference in Pune, Rohit Pawar alleged that a Rs 40-crore racket was involved in the alleged Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recruitment examination paper leak
Rising fuel, food, and LPG costs drive up hotel room tariffs
Maratha community members get ready for Mumbai march
Commuters at risk on milled roads in Salunke Vihar, Wanowrie areas
Canal road shut for repairs, vehicles spill over into Sopanbaug roads & Solapur highway
Home collection of documents from senior citizens unable to attend hearings
Maharashtra agriculture, revenue departments to review farm losses caused by deficit rain
One held for stealing sandalwood tree from army establishment in Dehu Camp
Bank managers alertness helps elderly man mitigate digital arrest scam in Pune
Six armed men rob farmers house in Daund village
Scanty rain halts dam discharge into rivers as storage dips in Khadakwasla circle
Cops arrest 3, seize ganja worth Rs13 lakh in Wakad
Beyond pandal-hopping, a walk through the legacy of Punes Ganeshotsav
Goa hotelier, Kolkata businessmans son held in online share-trading fraud
Cops arrest SUV owner from Tathawade for using auto-hiding number plate, released on bail
MPSC aspirants may intensify stir next week, says Rohit Pawar in Pune after exam postponement
Civil services aspirant died by suicide in Pune amid online betting debt: Police
'Govt will address all your grievances', CM Fadnavis assures protesting MPSC aspirants
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 11 (IANS) In a major breakthrough following widespread student outrage over administrative lapses in the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC), Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday assured protesting candidates that the government will address all their grievances, re-evaluate key examination papers, and institute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into paper leak allegations. The assurances came during a high-level, nearly two-hour meeting between the Chief Minister and a delegation of MPSC candidates. Addressing the media following the discussion, Fadnavis validated the students' anger, attributing the unrest to long-festering systemic issues within the commission. The students' outburst is entirely justified. Problems have accumulated over time because necessary corrective steps were not taken when they should have been, CM Fadnavis stated. This crisis now presents us with an opportunity to overhaul the entire system. I assure you that action will be taken within the next eight days against anyone found guilty if evidence is provided, he added. CM said that a re-checking of answer sheets for the State Services Main Examination 2025 will be conducted. He further stated that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) will be constituted to probe the paper leak allegations and administrative malpractices. Interviews originally scheduled to begin on September 21 have been postponed to facilitate the review process. Upcoming examinations are being postponed temporarily to guarantee a foolproof, leak-proof system. Given the unprecedented scale of ongoing recruitment, exams will resume only after full systemic readiness, keeping transparency as the paramount standard, he added. A thorough investigation into the Drug Inspector exam paper leak is currently underway. The administration is focused on fixing structural defects within the system rather than concealing them. The investigation has not concluded and will be pursued to its logical end. Candidates will be provided access to their answer sheets under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, bypassing previous restrictions linked to MAT (Maharashtra Administrative Tribunal) proceedings, he assured. A high-level committee headed by senior bureaucrat V Radha will receive representations from candidates to suggest structural reforms, he noted. The panel consists of highly trusted senior officials who will travel across the state to consult directly with candidates, parents, educators, and relevant stakeholders. Aspirants are encouraged to submit their concerns and suggestions freely. The reform committee will formulate clear, standardised guidelines for interview panels. Examinations facing allegations or grievances will undergo re-inspection, and interviews for those specific posts will remain suspended until clarity is achieved to ensure long-term solutions without lingering doubts, said the CM. The preliminary investigation report prepared by the Crime Branch will be made accessible to the public. An SIT investigation will review all examinations conducted during the tenures of officials Lendwe, Marathe, and Nakhate. The recommendations of the Rajurkar Committee will be evaluated, and appropriate measures will be implemented. Technical modifications, such as attaching RFID tracking chips to both legs or suitable alternatives, will be introduced during physical tests. A standardised scoring pattern will be established across all districts for police recruitment. All issues concerning state welfare coaching bodiesSARTHI, BARTI, and Mahajyotiwill be addressed and resolved, assured CM Fadnavis. A detailed inquiry will be conducted into the recruitment examinations held for the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), with strict action promised against those found guilty, he announced. An independent inquiry will be ordered if any evidence is provided against the MPSC Chairman or Secretary. Severe action will be taken against anyone found guilty, with zero tolerance for corruption. Implementation of these decisions will be initiated within the next 8 days, said CM Fadnavis. A dedicated Grievance Redressal Cell headed by a retired judge will be established within the MPSC to handle student concerns. Representatives of the student delegation expressed satisfaction with the meeting, confirming that the Chief Minister accepted all their primary demands, including 12 foundational points and 4 additional key demands. Our discussion with the Chief Minister was extremely positive, a student representative said. He gave us a patient hearing despite a tight schedule and accepted 100 percent of our demands. We express our gratitude for his decisive intervention. CM Fadnavis reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring complete transparency in future MPSC recruitment drives, promising that upcoming examinations would be 100% leak-proof and fair. Meanwhile, MP Shrikant Shinde addressed a letter to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, advocating deep-seated administrative reforms to restore faith in the MPSC. He requested the appointment of a senior IAS officer as the Secretary of the MPSC and urged the state government to establish an independent selection panelcomprising retired judges and senior bureaucratsto select the Commission's Chairman and members, ensuring candidates with impeccable integrity, free from political influence, are appointed.
Rohit Pawar alleges Rs 40-crore FDA exam leak racket, demands resignation of MPSC chief
Digital Desk | Pune, Sep 10 (IANS) Launching a scathing attack on the state government, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar on Thursday accused the administration of shielding Vivek Bhimanwar, who was recently appointed as the Chairman of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) despite facing serious corruption allegations. Addressing a press conference, Pawar alleged a massive Rs 40 crore transaction in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) paper leak case and released a presentation detailing various irregularities linked to Bhimanwar during his tenure as Transport Commissioner. These included scandals involving High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), transfers and promotions, Integrated Traffic Management Systems (ITMS), interceptor vehicles, and GPRS tracking kits. Pawar directly targeted Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over the appointment, alleging inaction despite the availability of crucial evidence. The Chief Minister has all the documents regarding Bhimanwar, and I am ready to provide them again if needed. However, if no action is taken, it clearly indicates that the Chief Minister is protecting him, Pawar stated, demanding Bhimanwar's immediate resignation on moral grounds. Referring to the FDA recruitment scandal, Pawar refuted the state secretarys July 27 statement that denied any leak. The paper was not confined to a single individual; it reached hundreds of candidates, pointing to a Rs 40 crore racket, he claimed, adding that even Minister Pratap Sarnaik had previously acknowledged the existence of an active racket within the Regional Transport Office (RTO) on the floor of the legislature. Pawar also raised eyebrows over Bhimanwars insistence on conducting MPSC examinations online, noting the irony that he had previously opposed online transfer systems for officers and employees. If someone pays Rs 40 lakh to become a Talathi, what happens to deserving, underprivileged students? Pawar questioned, advocating for the appointment of an upright officer like Tukaram Mundhe to head the commission and restore integrity to the system. He further pointed out that Bhimanwar joined government service in 1993, served as a Special Executive Officer to the Chief Minister in 2014, and was promoted to the IAS in 2018noting that CM Fadnavis had three Special Executive Officers elevated to the IAS. Pawar strongly criticised MPSCs sudden decision to postpone the Maharashtra Group-C Services Combined Preliminary Examinationoriginally scheduled for October 25by three months. Rejecting the official rationale of upcoming festivals, he alleged potential foul play or fear of another paper leak. He demanded that the preliminary examination be conducted offline between October and November to ensure that the main exams take place in December, final results are declared by January, and the recruitment process concludes without delay. Pawar's move to target Bhimanwar comes amid protests by MPSC aspirants over paper leaks and administrative lapses. Protestors are demanding the resignation of Bhimanwar and concerned MPSC officers while pressing for transparency in conducting various examinations.
Bengaluru: CBI raids 12 locations in builder-financial institution nexus cases
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 10 (IANS) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday conducted searches at 12 locations in Bengaluru, Mumbai and Pune in connection with five new criminal cases registered against builders and officials of financial institutions for allegedly cheating and defrauding homebuyers, the official statement said on Thursday. The CBI said the five cases were registered on the orders of the Supreme Court. Four cases relate to the Ozone Group and its related entities concerning projects in Bengaluru and Mumbai, while one case involves M/s Vivansaa Baalsam in connection with its Bengaluru project. The cases also name unknown officials of various financial institutions for alleged offences including criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust and criminal misconduct. According to the CBI, the cases relate to an alleged nexus between builders and officials of financial institutions, which resulted in the cheating and defrauding of innocent homebuyers. A large number of homebuyers had approached the Supreme Court seeking relief over alleged fraudulent activities by builders that had affected their lives for several years. The searches were aimed at gathering crucial evidence to uncover the alleged conspiracy, including diversion of funds, financial irregularities and fraudulent practices in the housing real estate sector. During the searches, the agency seized incriminating documents, digital devices and other materials, which are being examined as part of the investigation. The agency said it had earlier registered 50 cases against various builders across India in compliance with directions issued by the Supreme Court. With the five fresh cases, the agency has now registered a total of 55 cases on the orders of the apex court. The CBI reiterated its commitment to conducting an expeditious and impartial investigation into economic offences and ensuring accountability in cases involving the alleged defrauding of homebuyers through violations of laws and guidelines.
Stay lifelong learners in AI era, governor tells SPPU graduates
CBI searches 12 locations in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Pune over builder-financial institution nexus
Case Against Female Job Seeker Also
From Pune to Kashmir: Three 'Manache' Ganpati idols head to Valley amid threats
Public Ganeshotsav celebrations at Lal Chowk in Srinagar were revived in 2022 after a gap of 34 years. Over the past three years, the festival has been celebrated at several locations across the Valley. This year, organisers are planning to expand the celebrations across four to five districts
Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal seeks drought declaration
Maharashtra Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal has demanded an immediate drought declaration and Rs 50,000 per hectare assistance for farmers, citing erratic rainfall and crop losses. He also targeted the government over MPSC issues and demanded action against Parth Pawar in the Pune land case
Kolte-Patil Developers sells 600 flats for over Rs 600 cr in new Pune project
Kolte-Patil Developers reported remarkable success with its latest Pune project, Vyana at The Reserve, where they sold over 600 apartments worth more than Rs 600 crore in just 60 hours post-launch. This rapid turnover not only highlights the project's allure but also reflects the immense trust customers have in the developer's vision and quality.
Pune shocker: MPSC aspirant thrashed, bundled into SUV for talking to girl; 2 arrested
IISER Pune Counsellor Recruitment 2026 - Walkin
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune (IISER Pune) has announced 4 Counsellor vacancies under Recruitment 2026. Eligible candidates with a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with 55% marks can attend the walk-in interview on 16 September 2026. The detailed notification is available on the official website.
31 Cases Filed for Noise Pollution During Dahi-Handi, Ganesh Festival Preparations Intensify
Pune police have filed 31 cases against Ganesh mandals and DJs for noise pollution during Dahi-Handi, with strict measures set for the Ganesh festival. 31 Cases Filed for Noise Pollution During Dahi-Handi, Ganesh Festival Preparations Intensify
Pune Police File 31 Cases for Noise Pollution During Dahi Handi Celebrations
Pune police have registered 31 cases against noise pollution violations during Dahi Handi, with strict actions continuing for Ganesh Festival. Pune Police File 31 Cases for Noise Pollution During Dahi Handi Celebrations
Flyers allege fleecing by Bharat Taxi cabbies at Pune airport
Student issues, bhajan clubbing bring fresh twist to Ganeshotsav decorations
Pune: Man abducted over talking to woman, police rescue him; two held
According to DCP Zone 1 Krushikesh Rawale, police received a call on the emergency number 112 at around 12:30 am reporting that Prasad Suryavanshi had allegedly been abducted in a black SUV from the jurisdiction of the Perugate police post
Kolte Patil Developers advances on strong demand for Pune residential project
Kolte Patil Developers rose 2.78% to Rs 455.10 after the real estate developer announced that its latest residential project in Pune generated sales of over Rs 600 crore within 60 hours of launch.
Pune police rescue man abducted over woman talk, two held
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Digital Desk | Pune, Sep 10 (IANS) A group of people have approached the Pune Police seeking action against social media users who allegedly posted derogatory and objectionable comments targeting a woman who had lodged a complaint against social media influencer Santosh Pandit, police said on Thursday. Pandit has been accused of making allegedly derogatory remarks against Maharashtra Minister Chandrakant Patil and Pune Municipal Corporation corporator Mitali Kuldeep Salvekar. Following a complaint filed by Sarika Kamble, who works with the Pune Municipal Corporation, a case was registered against Pandit at the Kothrud police station. The issue took a further turn after members of the Bhau Foundation approached the Kothrud police station on Monday, seeking action against social media users who allegedly targeted Kamble after she filed the complaint against the influencer. The organisation alleged that Kamble became the target of derogatory remarks and abusive comments on social media simply because she approached the police over remarks that she considered offensive and objectionable. Tanisha Patil of Bhau Foundation condemned the derogatory and objectionable comments made against Kamble through social media and sought strict action against the trolls. We condemn the manner in which derogatory comments have been made through social media. Police should take strict action against such trolls. We will also lodge a complaint with Meta in this regard, Patil said. The organisation said that individuals should not be subjected to online abuse or personal attacks for approaching law enforcement authorities and raising concerns over remarks they find offensive. It urged the police to take appropriate action against the social media users involved in the alleged online harassment of Kamble. The Bhau Foundation said it would also pursue the matter with Meta, the parent company of social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram, seeking action over the allegedly objectionable content targeting Kamble. Santosh Pandit was arrested from his residence in Pune on September 3 in connection with a case of posting obscene and sexually suggestive content targeting Minister Patil and corporator Mitali Kuldeep Salvekar. According to the complaint, Pandit allegedly uploaded objectionable posts and videos on his YouTube account, '@SantoshPandit6278', targeting Chandrakant Patil and Mitali Salvekar. Officials said that legal proceedings are underway, and further details are awaited.
Pune fetal sex determination case: Prime accuseds wife arrested by SIT
SIT chief PI Santosh Tasgaonkar said the arrest followed evidence gathered during the investigation. The case is being investigated by the SIT after orders from the Pune Rural Superintendent of Police
IRB Infrastructure shares rally 8% as August toll revenue surges 25% YoY to Rs 807 crore
Shares of IRB Infrastructure Developers surged up to 8% after the company reported a 25% YoY rise in toll revenue to Rs 807 crore in August 2026, supported by strong traffic growth and tariff revisions. Key projects, including the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Ahmedabad-Vadodara Expressway, also recorded healthy revenue growth, offering a positive operational trigger for the stock.
COEP Technological University Pune has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 2 Research Associate / Junior Research Fellow posts. Eligible candidates can apply offline through the official website, coeptech.ac.in, by 20 September 2026.
Rs 2.5 lakh in debt, years of attempts: MPSC aspirant found dead in Pune flat, note found
Pune: Group seeks action against trolls targeting woman after Pandit complaint
On Monday, a group of members of the Bhau Foundation went to Kothrud police station and sought action against social media users who allegedly targeted Kamble after she filed the complaint against Pandit
MPSC aspirant in Pune dies by suicide amid exam controversy, leaders demand action
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Why Do We Bring Ganesha Home During Ganesh Chaturthi? The Meaning Behind The Tradition
On the morning of 14 September 2026, in flats in Pune and bungalows in Chennai and one-room homes in Nagpur, families will carry home a small clay figure with an elephant's head and set it on a decorated platform, often with
Kolte Patil sells 600 apartments in 60 hours for its 'Vyana at The Reserve' project
Kolte Patil Developers announced a landmark launch performance for its project 'Vyana at The Reserve' in Vadgaon (Pune), with over 600 apartments booked, translating to sales of over Rs. 600 crore in 60 hours. This is the strongest launch performance ever in the Company's history. The velocity of sales reflects overwhelming customer confidence, reinforcing KPDL's leadership position in the Pune market.
8 boys 'illegally' held, rights body seeks FIR on Pune CP, 14 cops
MBBS student from Hyderabad dies after fall from Pune hostel terrace; police suspect suicide
28-year-old civil services aspirant found dead in Pune flat; police suspect suicide
Punes Katraj-Kondhwa Road has seen 50+ accidents, over 20 deaths in 5 years
OBC activists demand legal action against Jarange
For elderly owners, redevelopment stirs up hope & doubts
Soaring lime prices take zest off pickles, sherbet & salads
Nalasopara tops unmapped voters in state, Hadapsar third
UCI team inspects Punes cycling infrastructure ahead of 2032 Road World Championships bid
ACB arrests assistant police inspector for demanding & accepting bribe
Residents renew call for noise curbs during Ganeshotsav, urge continuous monitoring
Metro to extend services till 2am during Ganeshotsav
15 chain-snatching cases detected; two held, gold jewellery worth Rs35.33 lakh recovered
Law student electrocuted while decorating Ganesh pandal in Wadgaon Maval
Four men assault eatery owner over sisters love marriage with him
Two rob man of his bike & cellphones
Bombay HC questions Maha DGP over not naming Parth Pawar in Pune govt land scam
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 9 (IANS) The Bombay High Court on Wednesday raised sharp questions over the non-inclusion of Parth Pawar, son of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister late Ajit Pawar, as an accused in a high-profile government land deal case in Pune, despite his alleged connection to the purchasing firm. During a hearing, Justice Madhav Jamdar noted that M/s. Almeida Enterprises LLP acquired 40 acres of government land in Pune's Mundhwa area at a price significantly below its market value. Investigation records revealed that the firm had two directors: Parth Pawar and Digvijay Patil. However, the state police chose to charge only Digvijay Patil, omitting Parth Pawar from the list of accused. In an order released this September, Justice Jamdar highlighted allegations that Parth Pawar was spared from prosecution due to his high influence as the son of the Deputy Chief Minister. Querying the state police on why Parth Pawar was not named alongside his aide, the Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra Director General of Police (DGP) Sadanand Vasant Date to personally file an affidavit addressing the disparity in the investigation. The matter came to light while the court was hearing an anticipatory bail plea filed by Suryakant Yewale, a Pune Tehsildar, accused of misusing his official position to facilitate the fraudulent transaction. Yewale has denied all charges, alleging he was falsely implicated and played no role in the deal. The Bombay High Court has directed both the Maharashtra DGP and the Investigating Officer to submit their responses before the next scheduled hearing on September 28. The Mundhwa land scam revolves around the alleged fraudulent sale and illegal transfer of a prime 43.3-acre (nearly 17.5-hectare) parcel of government-owned land in Pune's Mundhwa estimated to be worth nearly Rs 1,800 crore. Pune businesswoman/builder Sheetal Tejwani, who held the Power of Attorney (PoA) on behalf of the original Watandars for nearly two decades, allegedly executed a sale deed transferring the land to Amadea Enterprises LLP for a nominal consideration of Rs 300 crore. A seven-member high-level government committee led by Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue) Vikas Kharge submitted a 4,392-page inquiry report. The committee termed the land deal illegal and criminal. It indicted partner Digvijay Patil, PoA holder Sheetal Tejwani, and administrative officials. The committee did not directly blame Parth Pawar in its immediate scope, but recommended a full police investigation into Amadea Enterprises' financial records and transaction mechanics.
Maharashtra unveils Land Bank to accelerate infra projects and advance compensatory afforestation
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 9 (IANS) In a major initiative aimed at balancing rapid industrial development with environmental conservation, the Maharashtra Forest Department has established a comprehensive district-wise Land Bank to streamline land allocation for compensatory afforestation. Conceptualised by Forest Minister Ganesh Naik under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modis Viksit Bharat vision. The decision addresses long-standing bureaucratic delays in obtaining forest clearances under the Forest (Conservation and Development) Act, 1980. Currently, the state requires compensatory afforestation on an average of 2,000 to 3,000 hectares of degraded forest land and 1,000 to 2,000 hectares of non-forest land annually. Identifying suitable, encumbrance-free parcels and executing inter-departmental transfers has historically been a time-consuming barrier to major infrastructure works, including national highways, railways, bullet train corridors, transmission lines, and port developments. Through joint field assessments conducted by revenue and forest officials, the state has identified and compiled extensive land records across all districts. About 33,056 hectares of Degraded Forest Land are identified for projects eligible for double-degraded forest afforestation, such as central government ventures and power transmission lines: Nashik Region: 9,002 hectares, Nagpur Region: 8,109 hectares, Amravati Region: 5,724 hectares, Pune Region: 5,330 hectares, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Region: 4,179 hectares and Konkan Region: 712 hectares. Further, 7,546 Hectares of non-forest land have been provided by district collectors across revenue divisions comprising Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: 2,689 hectares, Nashik: 2,525 hectares, Amravati: 1,153 hectares, Pune: 640 hectares, Konkan: 408 hectares and Nagpur: 131 hectares, said a government statement. To ensure seamless execution, the Land Bank details are digitised and published on public web portals, including mahaforest.gov.in/DFLLandBank for degraded forest land and landdashboard.mahabhumi.gov.in for non-forest land. Before inclusion, each land parcel undergoes rigorous verification to confirm it is encroachment-free, clear of legal encumbrances, and ecologically suitable for afforestation. Non-forest land transferred by project agencies will be formally declared as Reserved Forest under Section 4 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, permanently expanding Maharashtra's overall forest cover. By creating a transparent, central inventory, state authorities aim to eliminate project bottlenecks, ensure robust compensatory plantations, and achieve a sustainable equilibrium between infrastructure growth and ecological protection, said the release.
Pune MPSC aspirant found dead in rented flat, suicide note mentions Rs 2.5 lakh debt
MPSC aspirant, medical student die in separate incidents in Pune, probe launched
Investigations into both deaths are underway. The available evidence was being examined to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents, officials said
Pankaj Tripathi and Divyenndu, who reprise their popular characters Kaleen Bhaiya and Munna Bhaiya in Mirzapur: The Movie, have expressed their gratitude to audiences for the response to the film. The movie, backed by Excel Entertainment and Amazon MGM Studios, marks the theatrical expansion of the popular Mirzapur franchise. Starring Pankaj Tripathi, Divyenndu and Ali Fazal, Mirzapur: The Movie had been among the anticipated theatrical releases since its announcement. The film brings the world of the cult series to the big screen, with Ritesh Sidhwani among those behind its theatrical adaptation. Following its release, the film has been receiving a strong response from audiences. Pankaj Tripathi and Divyenndu recently took to social media to thank viewers for their support. In the picture shared by the actors, the duo can be seen sitting on chairs in their respective characters signature style. Alongside the post, they wrote, Family hain aap log hamari.. aur aapne saabit kar diya!! Mirzapur family ki taraf se Dhanyawaad. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Divyenndu (@divyenndu) The film features a large ensemble cast, including Ali Fazal, Abhishek Banerjee, Rasika Dugal, Mohitt Maalik, Sheeba Chadha, Rajesh Tailang, Pramod Pathak, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Harshita Shekhar Gaur, Shweta Tripathi and Sonal S Chauhan. The cast comes together for an untold chapter set in the world of Mirzapur. Mirzapur: The Movie is presented by Amazon MGM Studios and Excel Entertainment. Directed by Gurmmeet Singh, the film is written by Puneet Krishna and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under Excel Entertainment. Kassim Jagmagia and Vishal Ramchandani serve as co-producers. The film was released in cinemas on September 4, 2026, in Hindi and Telugu. Also Read : Trade predicts Mirzapur The Movie can EASILY enter Rs. 200 crore club: Rs. 10 cr+ Monday after a HUGE holiday weekend is a remarkable achievement
CEPI funds Punes Immunoscript for freezer-free RNA vaccine
Immunoscript founder, former Gennova Biopharma executive, behind the country's first mRNA vaccine
Ganeshotsav 2026: Pune Metro announces guidelines for passengers, check details
Pune Metro services will be increased between September 14 and 26, with trains running every five minutes during peak hours. Additional crowd management measures will also be introduced at stations, officials said
MPSC aspirant's death by suicide in Pune amid paper leak row sparks outrage
Digital Desk | Pune, Sept 9 (IANS) A youth preparing for Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) examination allegedly died by suicide in Pune, allegedly due to recurring incidents of paper leak and financial distress. The deceased has been identified as Prathamesh Deshmukh. Police suspect that severe financial difficulties, including an unpaid debt of Rs 2.5 lakh, led him to take this extreme step. The tragic incident has sparked outrage among exam aspirants in the state. Pune, widely regarded as the educational hub of Maharashtra, has recently come under intense scrutiny over repeated paper leak scandals, including connections to NEET, CET, and the latest drug inspector examination leaks. In the wake of the incident, Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Harshvardhan Sapkal and Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijit Dipke launched a scathing attack on the state government. Demanding the immediate resignation of the MPSC Chairman and Secretary, Sapkal accused the state government of evading responsibility. The government is acting deaf and blind. A student from Dharashiv ended his lifethis is a victim of government apathy, Sapkal said. If the Chairman does not resign, it implies that he is a close ally of the Chief Minister and was appointed specifically to facilitate paper leaks, he added. Expressing grief over Prathamesh's demise, CJP chief Abhijit Dipke appealed to competitive exam aspirants across the state to refrain from taking extreme measures. Highlighting the plight of rural students who migrate to Pune for exam preparation, Dipke stated that while the government may not value their lives, their families depend on them. Deshmukh's suicide comes after the MPSC aspirants held protests in Pune on Monday and in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Tuesday demanding the resignation of MPSC Chairman and concerned officials for paper leaks. Highlighting recent revelations surrounding the MPSC Excise (Departmental) Examination, the protestors alleged direct institutional complicity in administrative malpractices, pointing to reports implicating a high-ranking joint secretary-level officer in leaking exam marking patterns. They demanded an immediate removal and replacement of the current MPSC Chairman and Secretary and press for their replacement with officers of unblemished integrity, comprehensive criminal investigations and strict legal proceedings against all officials and middlemen implicated in scam allegations and pattern leaks and complete structural reform and cleansing of the MPSC examination and recruitment frameworks. NCP SP MLA Rohit Pawar, who has been actively supporting the MPSC aspirants' demand said, It is deeply shocking that while students dedicate 20 hours a day to rigorous preparation, officials within the commission are allegedly selling exam materials. This injustice against hardworking candidates will not be tolerated. This march is not political; it is a fight for the future of our youth. Dismissing allegations that opposition parties are politicising the issue, Rohit Pawar emphasised that the protest represents genuine public outrage. Are the demands of students seeking fair opportunities political? These candidates have assembled on their own accord to protect their rights. People paying 50 to 60 lakh rupees to secure posts through corruption will not be accepted by these students or by the state of Maharashtra, he asked.
Opportunity to transform financial sector through Agentic AI and Quantum technology: CM Fadnavis
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 9 (IANS) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that Maharashtra is committed to delivering the benefits of emerging digital financial technologies to common citizens, farmers, women entrepreneurs, startups, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). He stated that Agentic AI and Quantum Technology will provide a new direction to financial inclusion. Speaking at the 'Global Fintech Fest 2026 ' here, the Chief Minister highlighted the immense potential of Agentic AI, tokenisation, and quantum technology to revolutionise the financial sector. CM Fadnavis recalled that during last year's Global Fintech Fest, the state expressed its resolve to make Maharashtra the country's first 'Tokenised State.' Moving decisively in that direction, the state government has initiated work on drafting the 'Maharashtra Digitisation and Exchange of Land Token Asset Act (DELTA Act).' This legislation will establish the necessary legal framework for blockchain-based tokenisation of land and real estate assets. Experts from SEBI, BSE, NSE, industry, technology, law, and academia are actively participating in this process. Tokenisation, he noted, converts capital locked in real estate into productive economic opportunities, boosting transparency, liquidity, and economic growth by unlocking illiquid assets. The Chief Minister asserted that the future of global finance is taking shape in India, particularly in Mumbai. As the nation's financial capital, Mumbai is rapidly advancing toward becoming an emerging global fintech capital. Referring to this year's theme, 'Potential of Impact,' he stressed that converting technological capabilities into real-world impact is the need of the hour. Having established a global benchmark through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), India must now focus on democratising access to credit, investments, ownership rights, and financial information. CM Fadnavis noted that modern technology holds the power to provide high-quality financial insights to an industry in Kolhapur, a farmer in Vidarbha, or a woman entrepreneur in Pune, on par with major financial institutions. Elaborating on Agentic AI, the Chief Minister envisioned a future where an entrepreneurs AI assistant could assess financial needs and recommend optimal solutions, while farmers receive financial advice in their mother tongue. However, he emphasised that while AI works for citizens, ultimate control must remain in human hands. Highlighting Maharashtras financial, technical, and infrastructural strengths, CM Fadnavis pointed out that Mumbai hosts the countrys largest financial ecosystem, Pune serves as a hub for technical talent, and Navi Mumbai is emerging as a centre for data infrastructure and global connectivity. The state is building a robust ecosystem around artificial intelligence, data centres, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), startups, and universities. He urged industry leaders to view Maharashtra not merely as a market, but as a laboratory for innovation. The CM invited solutions in agriculture, MSMEs, urban development, healthcare, mobility, financial inclusion, fraud prevention, and public finance management, assuring full state support for large-scale testing. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has set a global standard for digital financial infrastructure, and the world is eagerly watching India's next financial revolution. Reaffirming the state's commitment, CM Fadnavis assured that Maharashtra will act as a pioneer, serving as the largest 'real-world testbed' for next-generation fintech solutions and striving to realise PM Modi's vision of turning Mumbai into the fintech capital of the world. During the event, in the presence of the Chief Minister, agreement documents were exchanged between Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), SEBI, the National Stock Exchange (NSE), and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding their expansion in BKC.
TCS launches fully automated facility in Pune to advance AI-led manufacturing
The facility simulates how self-optimising factories can automate workflows by combining digital twins, robotics, industrial AI, factory control systems and real-time operational intelligence
