Drought now threatens Maharashtra's jowar belt, Solapur sees 'unprecedented' decline
Maharashtra weather update: Mumbai records state's highest temperature
Solapur recorded the highest maximum temperature in Madhya Maharashtra at 36.3 degrees Celsius, while Mahabaleshwar and Yavatmal shared the states lowest minimum temperature at 17.4 degrees Celsius
FDA seizes food products worth Rs 9 crore in Maharashtra; Patanjali Ghee on the list
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) -- led by Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe -- has seized food products, including Patanjali Cow Ghee, valued at more than Rs 9 crore during a statewide enforcement drive ahead of Diwali to curb food adulteration, according to a report. According to a NDTV Profit report, the operation that was carried out across all seven administrative divisions of the state covered 114 food establishments and resulted in the suspension of licences or registrations of 19 food business operators for serious hygiene and regulatory lapses. Among the notable actions, the FDA seized 2,279 litres of Patanjali cow ghee valued at around Rs 20 lakh from a distributor in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, it added. The authorities said the stock was detained under provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, on suspicion of misbranding and adulteration. The largest seizure was reported from the Konkan division where more than 1.44 lakh kg of edible oil of various brands was confiscated from a facility in Bhiwandi, Thane district. Several other consignments, including edible oils, rice, pulses and jaggery were seized during inspections in Pune, Satara, Solapur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The drive also covered a broad range of food products such as spices, flour, dairy products, sweets, snacks, dry fruits and bakery items. The FDA said inspections in Mumbai revealed multiple hygiene and compliance deficiencies at food establishments, including poor sanitation, insect infestation, inadequate documentation and lapses in food storage practices, according to the report. In a parallel operation targeting banned food products conducted between October 28 and October 31, the department seized goods worth Rs 79.4 lakh from 17 establishments. In addition, authorities registered 13 FIRs, arrested 16 individuals, sealed seven establishments and seized six vehicles. However, the FDA has advised consumers to purchase food products only from licensed vendors, avoid unlabeled or loose items and carefully verify packaging details, batch numbers and expiry information before making purchases during the festive season.
Sharad Pawar's condition stable, likely to be discharged from hospital tomorrow
Digital Desk | Pune, Nov 3 (IANS) The Nationalist Congress Party (SP) president and former Union Minister Sharad Pawar's condition is stable and doing well. He is likely to be discharged tentatively on Wednesday, doctors treating him said on Tuesday. The team of doctors at Ruby Hall Clinic is attending to respected Mr Sharad Pawar, who reviewed his health condition. His condition is stable, and the pain has subsided. He is doing well, and his discharge is tentatively tomorrow, said Dr Purvez K. Grant, Chief Cardiologist, Chairman and Managing Trustee, Ruby Hall Clinic, in an official statement. Pawar was admitted to a private hospital in Pune on Monday after experiencing pleuritic chest pain following a persistent bout of cough. He was rushed to the Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune, where he is currently undergoing routine diagnostic medical tests and general observation. In an official statement released by the hospital, Dr Grant confirmed the admission and assured that the veteran politician's health is under control. Mr Sharad Pawar has been admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic for a general health check-up and medical observation following complaints of pleuritic pain. His condition is expected to settle down, and he will remain under observation as a precautionary measure, he stated. Addressing public concerns, Pawars daughter and Lok Sabha member, Supriya Sule, posted an update on social media stating that all of her father's vital parameters are normal and stable. Baba has been admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, following a bout of cough. He is undergoing medical tests, and all his health parameters are stable. Thank you all for your concern and good wishes, she said. Party representatives and medical officials have requested well-wishers and party workers to remain calm and refrain from paying attention to rumours, saying that Pawar is expected to recover after adequate rest and monitoring. Earlier, Pawar visited drought-hit regions of Solapur district on November 1 to inspect ground conditions, assess crop damage, and directly speak with affected farmers. During his visit to Tulshi village in Madha taluka -- a village severely hit by water scarcity -- he announced Rs 50 lakh in assistance. Pawar highlighted that drinking water, animal fodder, and employment support are the most urgent priorities. He noted that over 135 water tankers are currently supplying around 139 affected villages in Solapur, with Madha taluka alone requiring 110 tankers. Pawar announced that his family would forego traditional Diwali celebrations this year to focus entirely on drought mitigation efforts and supporting affected farming communities. He urged political parties to set aside political differences to cooperate on drought relief and appealed to both state and central governments for immediate financial support to farmers.
Sharad Pawar hospitalised after chest pain complaint; health parameters stable
Digital Desk | Pune, Nov 2 (IANS) The Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) chief Sharad Pawar was admitted to a private hospital in Pune on Monday after experiencing pleuritic chest pain following a persistent bout of cough. He was rushed to the Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune, where he is currently undergoing routine diagnostic medical tests and general observation. In an official statement released by the hospital, Dr Purvez K Grant, Chief Cardiologist, Chairman, and Managing Trustee of Ruby Hall Clinic, confirmed the admission and assured that the veteran politician's health is under control. Sharad Pawar has been admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic for a general health check-up and medical observation following complaints of pleuritic pain. His condition is expected to settle down, and he will remain under observation as a precautionary measure, Dr Grant stated. Addressing public concerns, Pawars daughter and Lok Sabha MP, Supriya Sule, posted an update on social media stating that all of her father's vital parameters are normal and stable. Baba has been admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, following a bout of cough. He is undergoing medical tests, and all his health parameters are stable. Thank you all for your concern and good wishes, she said. Party representatives and medical officials have requested well-wishers and party workers to remain calm and refrain from paying attention to rumours, confirming that Pawar is expected to recover after adequate rest and monitoring. Earlier, Pawar visited drought-hit regions of Solapur district on November 1 to inspect ground conditions, assess crop damage, and directly speak with affected farmers. During his visit to Tulshi village in Madha talukaa village severely hit by water scarcityhe announced Rs 50 lakh in assistance. Pawar highlighted that drinking water, animal fodder, and employment support are the most urgent priorities. He noted that over 135 water tankers are currently supplying around 139 affected villages in Solapur, with Madha taluka alone requiring 110 tankers. Pawar announced that his family would forego traditional Diwali celebrations this year to focus entirely on drought mitigation efforts and supporting affected farming communities. He urged political parties to set aside political differences to cooperate on drought relief and appealed to both state and central governments for immediate financial support to farmers.
Cyberabad CP invokes PD Act against serial drug offender
Hyderabad: Cyberabad Police Commissioner Dr M Ramesh has invoked the Preventive Detention (PD) Act against a habitual drug peddler, Sachin Gangaram Maruti Chavan. Chavan, a native of Solapur, Maharashtra, has been involved in drug peddling with an intention to earn easy money, police said on Monday, November 2. He reportedly procures huge quantities of ganja 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 .
Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express flagged off by Railway Minister
The overnight service will connect Bengaluru with Mumbai via Anantapur, Raichur, Kalaburagi, Solapur and Pune, improving connectivity across three States
Vaishnaw Flags Off Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express
The service' scheduled stoppages are Anantapur, Guntakal, Raichur, Yadgir, Kalaburagi, Solapur, Pune and Kalyan
High Court Order Leads To FIR Against Politician's Son
A case has been registered against Sushil Karad, son of controversial politician Walmik Karad, and two others for allegedly molesting a woman, assaulting her family, and seizing their property in Beed. The FIR was filed by Solapur police following a High Court order, after local police initially failed to register the complaint.
Maharashtra Deputy CM Orders Investigation After Fatal Accident on Pune-Solapur Highway
Maharashtras Deputy CM expressed condolences and ordered an investigation into a fatal accident on the Pune-Solapur Highway. Maharashtra Deputy CM Orders Investigation After Fatal Accident on Pune-Solapur Highway
Worker killed, another injured after soil heap collapses at Pune-Solapur Highway
Three workers were present at the site when the heap suddenly gave way. One worker managed to escape, while the other two were trapped under the debris, officials said
Solapur: Bachelor's Protest Highlights Rural Maharashtra's Marriage Crisis
Protester youth demands government matrimonial portal and financial support amid rising farmer unemployment
Electric Shivai Bus Catches Fire in Pune, 20 Passengers Escape Unhurt
Fire breaks out near dashboard in bus arriving from Solapur; blaze brought under control within six minutes.
The accused allegedly brought ganja from Solapur in Maharashtra
Shake down middlemen, not common citizens, to finance drought aid: Shiv Sena(UBT) in 'Saamana'
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 29 (IANS) In a sharp critique of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnaviss recent appeal urging citizens to cut back on personal celebrations and donate their savings towards drought relief, the Shiv Sena(UBT) on Tuesday questioned the state administrations intent and priorities. Terming the governments approach picking pennies from empty pockets, the Thackeray camp in an editorial in the party's mouthpiece, 'Samaana', asserted that asking a financially strained public to fund disaster management is both insensitive and inadequate. The editorial drew attention to the escalating agrarian crisis across Maharashtra, noting that four farmers had died by suicide within a span of just two days across Parbhani, Yavatmal, Solapur, and Hingoli districts due to severe drought-induced debt and hardship. It warned that without immediate, direct state assistance, drought-affected areas risk turning into graveyards, placing the entire responsibility for sustaining these communities squarely on the shoulders of the Chief Minister and his administration. Directly challenging CM Fadnavis, the Thackeray camp stated that instead of asking common citizens -- who are already grappling with inflation and economic stress -- to cut down on small family functions like weddings and naming ceremonies, the government should crack down on internal corruption, kickbacks, and contractor commissions. The editorial pointed to alleged financial irregularities in various state infrastructure initiatives, citing the controversial coastal land sales in the Konkan region and heavy fund flows around the Shaktipeeth Expressway. It further claimed that public funds are routinely diverted to favour contractors, urging the Chief Minister to curb these leakages to generate drought relief capital rather than asking the public to scrimp. The state government has become a government of commission-agents and contractors. There is looting everywhere. Inventing unnecessary projects to divert the treasury to contractors and warm one's own pockets -- even if the Chief Minister stops this loot, it will benefit the drought-affected, remarked the Thackeray camp. Taking aim at political rivalries and horse-trading allegations, the editorial called on the ruling alliance to redirect political expenditures towards rural distress. It suggested that funds allegedly set aside for political defection and electioneering be diverted immediately to help affected farmers. Furthermore, the editorial proposed several key measures for the government to generate substantial drought funds. It called upon the government to ensure pending instalments meant for political allies are transferred directly into drought relief funds and mandate substantial contributions from major Mumbai builders, Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) developers, and senior bureaucrats whose revenues remain high. The editorial urged the state government to request an allocation of Rs 2,000 crore to Rs 4,000 crore from the unutilised balance in the PM CARES Fund to support Maharashtras agricultural sector. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, in conclusion, emphasised that symbolic donations from ministers, such as giving up a single months official salary, amount to empty gestures given the vast resources controlled by ruling politicians. It urged the leadership to demonstrate true courage by shaking down the thriving nexus of corrupt officials, contractors, and political middlemen to secure genuine relief for the states 11 crore citizens.
SIR row: Congress holds protest across Maharashtra seeking Gyanesh Kumars removal
According to the Maharashtra Congress, demonstrations were held outside district collectorates across the State, including in Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, Kolhapur, Solapur, Thane, Amravati and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
Maha Congress stages agitation against Gyanesh Kumar
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) on Monday launched massive demonstrations across all district collectorates, demanding the dismissal and arrest of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The party accused him of undermining democratic institutions and manipulating voter rolls to benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Congress leaders described Gyanesh Kumar as a stain on democracy and submitted memorandums outlining grievances to district collectors. The protests featured creative forms of dissent: in Amravati, protesters paraded an effigy of the CEC on a donkey before destroying it; in Thane, demonstrators forced an effigy to do sit-ups (uthak-baithak) as punishment. Large rallies were also held in Pune, Kolhapur, Solapur, Nashik, Nagpur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Chandrapur, Nanded, Latur, Beed, and across the Konkan and North Maharashtra regions. Senior Congress leaders led protests in several districts: Satej Patil in Kolhapur, Praniti Shinde in Solapur, Yashomati Thakur and Balwant Wankhede in Amravati, Kalyan Kale in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Pratibha Dhanorkar in Chandrapur, Ravindra Chavan in Nanded, Shivaji Kalge in Latur, and Kumar Ketkar in Thane. Addressing gatherings, the Congress reiterated allegations earlier raised by Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, about vote theft. The party claimed that over 13 crore voters nationwide, including more than 3 crore in Maharashtra, were arbitrarily removed from electoral rolls under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. It further alleged that 47 lakh untraceable voters were added to Maharashtras rolls ahead of the 2024 assembly polls. Congress spokespersons highlighted reported written dissent from two Election Commissioners over procedural deviations by the CEC, saying it validated their charges of bias. Leaders warned that the agitation would escalate into a national movement unless action were taken against Gyanesh Kumar.
Farmers, agricultural labourers and workers at centre of drought relief efforts: CM Fadnavis
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 26 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said that farmers, agricultural labourers, and workers in the state are at the centre of the state's drought relief efforts. He asserted that every possible effort will be made to provide them relief. We stand firmly behind our farmer brothers. Let us all make united efforts to overcome this challenge, the Chief Minister expressed with strong determination. Drought has been declared in 265 talukas across the state. The government has decided to implement 12 measures and concessions to provide relief to farmers, students, agricultural labourers, citizens, and livestock in these talukas, he added. Following the announcement of the Government Resolution (GR) on the declaration of drought in 265 of the total 358 talukas, CM Fadnavis immediately instructed the concerned District Collectors to initiate spot inspections (panchnamas) in these talukas without delay. Due to a lack of rainfall, farmers are facing significant hardships. Immediate surveys will have to be conducted in the talukas where drought conditions have been declared. For this, the Revenue Department, Agriculture Department, and all related agencies must work with sensitivity and coordination. They should maintain continuous communication and contact at the field level. Giving priority to this work is necessary to provide relief to farmers, CM Fadnavis instructed. During the survey, crop condition reports will be submitted using photographs depicting crop conditions alongside GPS coordinates, he said. CM Fadnavis recently undertook a tour to review the drought situation across the state. During this visit, he personally visited the fields, interacted warmly with the farmers, and understood their grievances and difficulties. He assured them that prompt decisions regarding the drought situation would be taken. In accordance with that, a Government Resolution evaluating the state's drought conditions as per the Drought Management Code 2016 was issued on Saturday. The State Agriculture Commissioner reviewed the Kharif 2026 season and submitted a report indicating drought-like conditions in 265 talukas of the state. Consequently, panchnamas will now be conducted in these affected talukas based on Trigger-1 (First Trigger) for drought, considering rainfall deficits and other contributing factors from June to the present date. A crop condition report will be prepared by compiling photographs and GPS coordinates reflecting the status of crops in the surveyed areas, said a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office. CM Fadnavis listed measures and concessions to be implemented in drought-affected areas. These include exemption from land revenue, restructuring of crop loans, stay on the recovery of agriculture-related loans, concessions on current electricity bills for agricultural pumps (electricity bills for pumps up to 7.5 HP capacity have already been waived; this concession will apply to pumps above that capacity), waiver in exam fee for school and college students, relaxation of norms under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) to initiate maximum work and deployment of water tankers where necessary for drinking water supply. He further stated that there will be no disconnection of electricity supply to agricultural pumps of farmers in villages declared scarcity-hit, ensuring adequate supply and arrangements for food grains so that no shortages affect farmers and agricultural labourers dependent on agriculture, making necessary arrangements to ensure sufficient fodder for livestock, initiating water conservation works and planning drinking water and livestock water needs. The 265 talukas where 'Trigger-1' has been applied cover various revenue divisions in the state. This includes 12 talukas in the Thane revenue division, 49 in the Nashik division, 35 in the Pune division, 74 in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar division, 56 in the Amravati division and 39 in the Nagpur division. In the Thane revenue division, the first trigger has been activated for Shrivardhan in Raigad district; Ratnagiri, Sangameshwar and Rajapur in Ratnagiri district; and Sawantwadi, Dodamarg, Kankavli, Kudal, Vaibhavwadi, Malvan, Devgad, and Vengurla in Sindhudurg district. No talukas from Thane and Palghar districts are included in this list. A total of 49 talukas across Nashik, Dhule, Jalgaon, Nandurbar, and Ahilyanagar districts are included, alongside 35 talukas from Pune, Solapur, Sangli, Satara, and Kolhapur districts. In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jalna, Beed, Latur, Dharashiv, Nanded, Parbhani and Hingoli districts, 74 talukas have seen Trigger-1 activated. Amravati division includes 56 talukas from Buldhana, Amravati, Akola, Washim, and Yavatmal districts, while Nagpur division accounts for 39 talukas across Wardha, Nagpur, Bhandara, Gondia, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli districts. CM Fadnavis said that financial relief regarding crop loss for drought-affected farmers will be announced through a separate Government Resolution once all prescribed procedural requirements are fulfilled. Therefore, the government has given special emphasis to the process of conducting accurate surveys and panchnamas of crop conditions, he noted. Against the backdrop of the drought, the government has initiated measures at various levels to mitigate its impact by providing necessary concessions, relief, and facilities in a timely manner to farmers, students, labourers, and the general public, he reiterated.
Sunetra Pawar assures direct support to drought-hit farmers; vows no one will be left behind
Digital Desk | Nanded, Sep 26 (IANS) In a direct interaction with drought-affected farmers during an on-site visit in Sonkhed village from Nanded district, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President, Sunetra Pawar, on Saturday assured affected families that the state government is taking strict note of crop damage and will not leave anyone stranded. Speaking to a gathering of local farmers while inspecting dry and damaged crops hit due to scanty rainfall, Dy CM Pawar highlighted that government officials are actively conducting ground inspections to assess the situation directly rather than relying solely on official data or statistics. She told the farmers that on-ground surveys (Panchnamas) are ongoing to evaluate actual ground conditions and crop losses. Reports will be finalised quickly to expedite government relief. Addressing concerns over agricultural credit, Dy CM Pawar confirmed that loan waiver processes are underway, with funds being processed directly through banking channels based on individual loan categories. Funds will be directly credited into farmers' bank accounts based on the specific type/category of loan they hold, she said. State intervention will extend beyond crop damage. Special focus is being given to livestock careincluding fodder and water supplyas well as managing education-related difficulties faced by farmers' children due to financial stress, she assured. Emphasising her connection to the region as a daughter of Marathwada, Dy CM Pawar stated that she deeply understands the agrarian plight and assured farmers that the administration is treating their hardship with utmost gravity. I am a daughter of Marathwada. I intimately understand the pain and hardship of our farming community, she reassured the growers. We will not abandon a single farmer to uncertainty. Ensuring quality education for your children, securing fodder for livestock, and supporting family livelihoods remain top-tier priorities for this administration, she said. Local farmers also brought forward urgent demands regarding local water infrastructure, requesting that nearby lakes and water storage facilities be filled to tackle the severe drought. Pawar reassured the crowd that the government stands firmly with them and that comprehensive relief announcements will follow as soon as field reports are submitted. She urged farmers not to worry, reassuring them that the government will not leave anyone in the lurch. Dy CM Pawar confirmed that following her firsthand inspection, comprehensive follow-ups will be initiated at the state Cabinet level to roll out necessary relief packages and structural measures. She added that district administrative officials will be instructed immediately to execute thorough situational audits and deliver swift executive action. Reaffirming the state government's commitment amid volatile rainfall patterns, severe crop yield declines, and compounding financial pressure, she assured rural communities that the administration stands firmly behind Maharashtras agrarian sector. Meanwhile, former Union Agriculture Minister and NCP SP President, Sharad Pawar, will lead a march in Solapur district to draw the state government's attention for declaring drought and providing immediate relief to the farmers hit due to the agrarian crisis. Further, Aaditya Thackeray is on a tour of Dharashiv, Solapur, and Nanded today, where he will interact with drought-affected farmers.
Railways to run 102 festival special trips via Solapur division
Balaji Amines commences Acetonitrile production at Solapur plant
Balaji Amines said that it has commenced commercial production at its Acetonitrile (ACN) Plant, set up with advanced technology under the expansion and modernisation programme, at Unit-III, Solapur.
CM Fadnavis assures drought relief, loan waiver amid agrarian distress
Digital Desk | Washim (Maharashtra), Sep 24 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday announced that the state government will soon issue a Government Resolution (GR) declaring a severe drought in affected regions and extend crop loan waiver benefits to all eligible farmers who were left out of earlier schemes, as the state grapples with a worsening agrarian crisis. The announcement comes during his visit to drought-affected Washim districts in the Vidarbha region on Thursday to inspect crop damage and assess water shortages. After visiting villages in the Marathwada region and Solapur district on Wednesday, the Chief Minister arrived at Masal village in the Washim district on Thursday. Large crowds of local farmers assembled to meet him, hand over memorandums outlining their grievances, and share reports of dwindling livestock fodder and water supplies. Addressing the farmers directly in Masal village, the Chief Minister reassured the public that state machinery would prioritize rural relief. Do not worry; the government stands firmly behind you. We will be issuing the Government Resolution (GR) for the drought, and those farmers who missed out on the loan waiver scheme will also be covered, he said. Beyond financial relief, the state administration is deploying emergency measures to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply, distribute fodder for cattle, and expedite crop damage assessments (panchanamas), said the CM. Earlier, CM Fadnavis on Wednesday said that crop damage assessments (panchnamas) are being conducted solely because they are legally mandated. The government has no intention of getting farmers entangled in administrative delays. The financial aid will be extended universally, he assured, adding that the state stands firmly behind farmers by considering damage to both Kharif and Rabi seasons. Describing the condition of crops in Latur district as critical, CM Fadnavis noted that the current rainfall has dropped to 50 per cent, compared to 63 per cent during previous drought years. Urging citizens to remain resilient, he assured that the state government would fully manage drinking water supplies and livestock fodder. We will need to support one another over the next three to four months, and the state government is fully standing by you, the Chief Minister stated. He further assured that the state government would clear pending bills for water supply schemes to ensure every village receives drinking water. Acknowledging that the present conditions are even more severe than the historic 1972 drought, CM Fadnavis reaffirmed that the official drought declaration order would be released within two days, adding that funds won't be a problem.
Bengal: RPF arrests Maha man at Howrah with Rs 67 lakh cash
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 21 (IANS) A passenger was caught with bundles of notes at Howrah station in West Bengal, police said on Monday. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) arrested Sujit Kale, a resident of Maharashtra, and recovered around Rs 67 lakh in cash from him. Kale failed to provide a satisfactory explanation about the source of the money and was taken into custody. On Sunday night, RPF personnel were patrolling the New Complex of Howrah station when they noticed Kale. His movements appeared suspicious, prompting questioning. As his answers were unsatisfactory, the RPF searched his bag and found bundles of notes amounting to Rs 67 lakh. According to RPF officials, Kale is a resident of Solapur in Maharashtra. During interrogation, he claimed to own a shop in the Gaya Township area and said he had travelled to Howrah by Mumbai Mail on Sunday night. He told officials he had brought the money to buy gold and silver from Burrabazar in Kolkata. However, his explanation did not convince the RPF. Officials said Kale could not explain the source of the bundled notes or produce any documents for the cash. He was arrested, and the Income Tax Department was informed. Sources said the recovered money and the arrested person will be handed over to the Income Tax Department. Authorities noted that surveillance in railway and metro stations has been heightened ahead of the Durga Puja festive season. Special checks are also being conducted on the movement of large amounts of cash in view of the Assembly byelections in Nandigram and Rejinagar constituencies on October 6. Naka checking is being carried out on highways to prevent transfer of cash in pollbound constituencies.
Dilip Buildcon bags project for establishment of 400 KV Gis Solapur/ Paranda Switching Station
Dilip Buildcon has been selected as the successful bidder by REC Power Development and Consultancy (RECPDCL) for securing Development and Operation of Intra State Transmission System for Transmission of Electricity Through Tariff Based Competitive Bidding for Establishment of 400 KV Gis Solapur/ Paranda Switching Station (Dist. Dharashiv), Maharashtra for a period of 35 years from Commercial Operation Date (COD) after Construction Period of 24 months.
Six held for drug peddling on ORR, 425 kg of ganja seized
Hyderabad: A gang of six drug peddlers were arrested on the Outer Ring Road on Friday, September 18, and 425 kg ganja was seized from them. According to the Dundigal police, the ganja was being transported from Odisha to Solapur, Maharashtra, in a DCM. The police seized the contraband and the vehicle used for transportation 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 .
Delhi-NCR likely to stay mostly dry; air quality remains in satisfactory category
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 19 (IANS) Delhi and most parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) are likely to experience predominantly dry weather on Saturday, with no major spell of heavy rain forecast for New Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad and several other areas, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather agency has forecast partly cloudy skies over Delhi, with the maximum temperature expected to remain between 34 degrees celsius and 36 degrees celsius. The minimum temperature is likely to settle in the range of 22 degrees celsius to 24 degrees celsius. The forecast comes at a time when the Southwest Monsoon is showing signs of retreat from northwest India. According to the IMD, atmospheric conditions are becoming favourable for the withdrawal of the monsoon from some parts of West Rajasthan on Saturday. However, Delhi is expected to continue witnessing largely dry conditions in the immediate forecast period. For New Delhi, the IMD has predicted partly cloudy skies and has issued no weather warning. The wider Delhi region is also expected to remain free of significant rainfall, with temperatures staying within the forecast range. Some parts of the NCR could, however, see isolated changes in weather. Gurugram is likely to remain partly cloudy, with the possibility of one or two spells of rain or thundershowers during the day. No warning has been issued for the city. Meanwhile, several districts of Maharashtra, including Pune, Nashik, Ahmednagar, Solapur, Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Dhule, Jalgaon and Nandurbar, are expected to receive rainfall on Saturday. Rain is also likely in areas including Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nanded, Latur, Parbhani, Beed, Hingoli, Jalna and Osmanabad. The IMD has forecast scattered monsoon showers and thunderstorms over Haryana, Chandigarh, Punjab and West Rajasthan on Saturday. East Uttar Pradesh may also experience similar conditions on Saturday and Sunday. Himachal Pradesh is likely to receive isolated rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms through September 24. Central India is also expected to remain active weather-wise. West Madhya Pradesh and East Madhya Pradesh may witness fairly widespread to widespread rainfall along with thunderstorms on Saturday. Chhattisgarh could also receive fairly widespread rainfall, with thunderstorms and lightning in several areas. In southern and coastal regions, Kerala, Mahe and Lakshadweep are likely to experience fairly widespread rainfall through September 24. Parts of Karnataka may also see similar conditions during the period. North Interior Karnataka, South Interior Karnataka and Telangana are likely to receive rainfall on Saturday . Coastal Andhra Pradesh may witness isolated to scattered rainfall between Saturday and Sunday. Meanwhile, the air quality of Delhi remained in the satisfactory category. CRRI Mathura Road (131), Burari Crossing (99), North Campus DU (125), IGI Airport (T3) (102), Pusa (89), Aya Nagar (75), Shadipur (79), ITO (88), DTU (94), R K Puram (128), Ashok Vihar (91), Dwarka-Sector 8 (116), Narela (120), Rohini (107), Chandni Chowk (98), and IIT Delhi (131).
Maha faces severe dry spell as 83 talukas in 19 districts received no rain for over 20 days
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 16 (IANS) With the monsoon taking a prolonged break, Kharif crops across Maharashtra are facing a severe crisis, pushing several districts to the brink of drought. During Tuesday's Cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and several ministers expressed deep concern over the situation. Although no immediate relief package was announced, CM Fadnavis instructed state administrative machinery to stay on high alert. Following Cabinet discussion, the government clarified that a formal drought declaration cannot be made immediately. Under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) guidelines and Central Drought Management norms, official crop-damage surveys (Panchnamas) and ground verification must be conducted after October 5 to qualify for financial relief. Premature surveys would risk disqualifying farmers from central aid packages. Conducting assessments before that date would disqualify the affected farmers from official relief aid and result in an inaccurate estimation of damage. The government is currently preparing a comprehensive list of relief measures for farmers, and officials have been urged to coordinate effectively. This was stated by the agriculture department in its presentation, government sources have said. The Cabinet reviewed regional reports indicating severe dry spells (ranging from 20 to over 40 days) across 18-19 districts, with Marathwada, Vidarbha, and Western Maharashtra being the hardest hit. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule and the CM instructed all District Collectors and field administration to remain on high alert and prepare preliminary relief proposals. The local administration across affected districts (especially in Marathwada) has been ordered to prioritise and reserve existing dam storage strictly for drinking water purposes to prevent potential urban and rural water crises. While waiting for the official October 5 survey window, the government is drafting emergency relief lists, evaluating fodder supply availability for livestock, and instructing agricultural departments to guide farmers on protective irrigation for the surviving Kharif crops. According to the compilation made by the state agriculture department on region-wise crop status, in Beed, 37.21 per cent of the sown area has been damaged; in Jalna, 27.83 per cent; and 7.06 per cent in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. In Latur, Dharashiv, and Parbhani, soybean, green gram (moong), black gram (udid), and cotton crops on light soils are drying up. A widespread outbreak of the Yellow Mosaic virus on soybean crops has also been detected. Long dry spells across rain-fed tracts of Solapur, Satara, Sangli, and Ahilyanagar from Western Maharashtra have put severe stress on moong, udid, soybean, maize, and bajra crops. Yields in these regions are expected to drop by 20 to 25 per cent. In the Vidarbha region, Soybean and cotton crops face significant risk. Several talukas in Amravati, Akola, Buldhana, and Washim have reported a 2 to 3-week spell without rain. Soybeans on light soil have withered; farmers with irrigation facilities are using protective watering to save crops. Paddy transplantation has been delayed in parts of Nagpur, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli due to deficient rainfall. In North Maharashtra, Nandurbar and select talukas of Nashik, the lack of rain has stunted the growth of maize, cotton, and other crops. However, recent rains in parts of Dhule and Jalgaon have brought partial relief to Kharif crops. Nandurbar has received only 46.6 per cent of its normal rainfall. Severe rainfall deficits are reported in Solapur, Kolhapur, Beed, Latur, Dharashiv, Parbhani, Hingoli, Akola, Washim, Amravati, Wardha, Nagpur, and Chandrapur. Meanwhile, opposition leaders -- including Vijay Wadettiwar and Solapur MP Praniti Shinde from the Congress, and the Shiv Sena(UBT) leaders -- have demanded the immediate declaration of drought in the affected districts. They highlighted that 19 districts and over 83 tehsils face severe rainfall deficits and looming fodder and water shortages. The opposition has urged the state government to issue an immediate emergency relief package, waive crop loans, and set up fodder camps and tanker water supply without waiting for formal post-monsoon timelines. Mahayuti coalition leaders, including NCP MLA Dhananjay Munde, have also written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis requesting a drought declaration for the hard-hit Marathwada region.
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 10 (IANS) In a massive exercise to clean up Maharashtras voter database, the Election Commissions ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive has uncovered data discrepancies and technical anomalies in the enumeration forms of over 1.22 crore voters currently listed in the states draft electoral roll. Electoral authorities have initiated the issuance of formal notices to all affected individuals, requiring them to submit valid documentary proof to confirm their voter status. Concurrently, to prevent partisan misuse and safeguard against targeted mass deletions, State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S. Chockalingam has issued strict administrative directives barring any objections filed by individuals residing outside the targeted Assembly Constituency. Authorities have issued formal notices to all affected individuals, requiring them to submit supporting documentary proof to validate their status. Prior to the launch of the SIR drive, Maharashtras registered voter base stood at 9,78,54,049. Following field verification of enumeration forms, the Election Commission published the draft electoral roll on August 31, retaining 7,71,65,562 voters -- representing 78.86 per cent of the original total. Demographic breakdown of the retained electorate includes male voters: 3,95,89,905; female voters: 3,75,72,570; transgender voters: 3,087; and total retained: 7,71,65,562. Nearly 2,06,88,487 voters (21.14 per cent of the previous roll) were excluded from the draft list. Major factors behind the deletions include the removal of approximately 34 lakh deceased voters and 17 lakh duplicate entries spread across multiple constituencies. Of the 7.71 crore voters retained in the draft list, technical discrepancies were flagged in the enumeration records of 1,22,24,000 individuals, comprising inconsistent relative information for 62,48,281 voters and unmapped relatives for 59,75,626 voters. More than 1,00,000 data discrepancies were flagged per constituency in key areas including Malad, Dharavi, Panvel, Ovala-Majiwada, Kalyan Rural, Khadakwasla, Chinchwad, Hadapsar, Solapur South, Nagpur East, Nagpur West, Nagpur North, Hingna, and Badnera. Sources within the Election Commission confirmed that notices have been served to these individuals, and their voter status will only be confirmed upon the verification of additional evidence. Taking serious note of concerns raised by political parties regarding targeted mass objections aimed at deleting voters belonging to specific communities, the election machinery has introduced strict procedural safeguards. Following reports from Jharkhand where systematic mass applications were submitted by party representatives to drop specific names, the State CEO has directed the Mumbai Municipal Commissioner and all District Collectors to exercise extreme caution while processing claims and objections. Voters currently on the draft list have already undergone basic residential verification and are deemed eligible. While Form-7 remains available to challenge or request removal of an entry, objections will be accepted only from registered voters residing within the same Assembly constituency. Any individual raising an objection must submit valid proof of the challenged voter's ineligibility along with the application. The challenged voter must be granted a formal opportunity to appear at a hearing and present supporting evidence before any final decision is made, the sources said.
Organic Recycling Systems rises as BPCL CBG orders reach rs 259.71 crore
Organic Recycling Systems surged 5.03% to Rs 189 after its wholly owned subsidiary, Solapur Bioenergy Systems, secured a Rs 92.41-crore contract from Bharat Petroleum Corporation.
Bhandup police arrest murder accused absconding for 29 years
The accused, identified as Ravindra alias Pamplet Eknath Vichare, was arrested from Ashutosh Lodge in Karmala in Solapur district after investigators received information
India sugar tender rates drop by 500 a quintal, but retail rates soar to a new high
Solapur-based Loknete Baburao Patil Agro Industries Ltd in Maharashtra sells S-30 grade sugar at 5,850 a quintal; Food Secretary says price rise not driven by fundamentals
Illegal Abortion Kits Racket Busted In Maharashtra, Case Against 8
The FDA, in a statement here, said its Nagpur and Solapur offices acted on August 12 against illegal sale of Clear Kit and Prega End, medicines used for abortion.
New Delhi [India], August 14: Organic Recycling Systems Limited (BSE: 543997), an integrated CleanTech and decarbonisation platform, is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, Solapur Bioenergy Systems Private Limited (SBESPL), has secured the renewal of its Operations and Maintenance (O & M) contract from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) for the Gorakhpur Compressed Biogas plant in Uttar Pradesh. This marks the second consecutive term for which SBESPL has been entrusted with full O & M responsibility for the facility, underscoring the sustained operational confidence IOCL has placed in ORSL's subsidiary.
Maharashtra: Director of Police Training Institute Arrested in TET Paper Leak Case
Bhivandi, August 11: In a significant development in the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) paper leak case, the director of a police training institute in Solapur has been arrested. The police are expected to present him in Bhivandi court on Tuesday. DCP Pawan Bansod from Bhivandi Zone-2 confirmed the arrest. The arrested individual, Prakash Pawar, operates ... Read more Maharashtra: Director of Police Training Institute Arrested in TET Paper Leak Case
Yadagirigutta to Solapur: After three years, woman recovers memory, finds her way home
Hutatma Express completes 25 years of service
Iconic SolapurPune train enters 26th year after serving lakhs of commuters since 2001
