Apple's eighth-generation iPad mini went on sale earlier this month with a larger OLED display, a thinner and lighter design, the A20 Pro chip, and water and dust resistance. If you still use the sixth-generation iPad mini from 2021, the upgrade also brings changes that debuted on the 2024 model , including Apple Intelligence , Apple Pencil Pro support, and twice the USB-C transfer speed. The new iPad mini starts at $699 for 128GB with Wi-Fi or $849 with cellular in the United States. The discontinued 2021 model started at $499 and $649, respectively, with 64GB of storage. Both support iPadOS 27.2, have Touch ID in the top button, and are rated for up to 10 hours of web browsing over Wi-Fi or watching video. Both displays also run at 60Hz . Display, Design, and Accessories iPad mini (sixth generation, 2021) iPad mini (eighth generation, 2026) 8.3-inch display 8.5-inch display Liquid Retina display with LED backlighting and IPS technology Super Retina XDR OLED display with 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio 2266-by-1488 resolution at 326 ppi 2316-by-1512 resolution at 326 ppi Wider display borders 24% thinner display borders 500 nits maximum brightness 600 nits maximum SDR and full-screen HDR brightness, with up to 1,200 nits peak HDR brightness and 1-nit minimum brightness Standard antireflective glass Standard antireflective glass or optional nano-texture glass on 256GB and 512GB models for $100, with a polishing cloth included IP67 water and dust resistance, rated for a maximum depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes Available in Space Gray, Starlight, Pink, and Purple Available in Midnight and Starlight Supports Apple Pencil (second generation) and Apple Pencil (USB-C) Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) Apple Pencil hover and Apple Pencil Pro features including squeeze, barrel roll, haptic feedback, and Find My Polyurethane Smart Folio, also compatible with the 2024 iPad mini Two-panel TechWoven Smart Folio with adjustable viewing angles, available separately in Navy Blue and Taupe for $79 94% fiber-based packaging 100% fiber-based packaging and 35% recycled content overall Dimensions and Weight iPad mini (2021) iPad mini (2026) Height 7.69 inches (195.4 mm) 7.69 inches (195.3 mm) Width 5.3 inches (134.8 mm) 5.22 inches (132.6 mm) Thickness 0.25 inch (6.3 mm) 0.21 inch (5.4 mm) Weight (Wi-Fi) 0.65 pound (293 grams) 0.56 pound (255 grams) Weight (Wi-Fi + Cellular) 0.66 pound (297 grams) 0.58 pound (263 grams) The 2026 model is about 14% thinner and 13% lighter in its Wi-Fi configuration. The cellular model is about 11% lighter. A15 Bionic vs. A20 Pro iPad mini (2021) iPad mini (2026) Chip A15 Bionic A20 Pro Manufacturing process 5-nanometer (TSMC N5P) 2-nanometer (TSMC N2) CPU 6 cores (2 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores) 128GB and 256GB : 5 cores (2 super cores and 3 efficiency cores) 512GB : 6 cores (2 super cores and 4 efficiency cores) GPU 5 cores 7 cores Graphics features Dynamic Caching, hardware-accelerated mesh shading, and hardware-accelerated ray tracing Neural Accelerators Dedicated Neural Accelerators in each GPU core Neural Engine 16 cores 128GB and 256GB : 16 cores 512GB : Dual 16-core Neural Engine (32 cores total) Memory 4GB 12GB Apple Intelligence Apple Intelligence and Siri AI, with support for Apple's larger on-device model for more expressive Siri voices and improved dictation Storage 64GB or 256GB 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB Apple claims up to 2.2 times the CPU performance and up to four times the GPU performance of the 2021 iPad mini in its tests. Against the 2024 A17 Pro model, Apple says it delivers more than twice the unified memory bandwidth and up to 4.5 times the speed in large language model token generation. Cameras and Audio iPad mini (2021) iPad mini (2026) Front camera on the portrait edge Front camera on the landscape edge 12MP front camera with Center Stage and an /2.4 aperture 12MP front camera with Center Stage and an /2.0 aperture Smart HDR 3 on the front and rear cameras Smart HDR 4 on the front and rear cameras Retina Flash for the front camera Retina Flash with True Tone for the front camera Quad-LED True Tone rear flash Adaptive True Tone rear flash Automatic document detection and scanning in the Camera app, with adaptive flash to reduce shadows Landscape stereo speakers with external speaker holes Acoustic Display stereo audio with display-coupled woofers and concealed tweeters, without external speaker holes Dual microphones Updated dual microphones for clearer calls and recordings HEVC, H.264, and ProRes playback, with Dolby Vision and HDR10 support Apple also lists AV1 playback and HDR10+ and HLG support Connectivity, Charging, and Price iPad mini (2021) iPad mini (2026) Third-party wireless networking chip Apple N1 wireless networking chip Wi-Fi 6 Wi-Fi 7 Bluetooth 5.0 Bluetooth 6 Thread Third-party 5G modem (cellular models) Apple C2 5G modem (cellular models) U.S. cellular model A2568 supports LTE band 46 U.S. cellular model A3596 adds 5G bands n14, n26, n70, and n75 and LTE band 106, and drops LTE band 46 UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA support UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+ support Nano-SIM or eSIM (cellular models) eSIM only (cellular models) USB-C with USB 3 speeds up to 5Gb/s USB-C with USB 3 speeds up to 10Gb/s External display output up to 4K at 30Hz External display output up to 4K at 60Hz Extended external display mode with iPadOS 27.2 19.3Wh battery 18.9Wh battery Fast charging up to 50% in around 30 minutes with a 35W or higher USB-C power adapter, sold separately Now discontinued Starts at $699 (Wi-Fi) or $849 (Wi-Fi + Cellular) Both the 2021 and 2026 models are rated for up to nine hours of web browsing over cellular. Apple claims up to 50% faster cellular data speeds with the C2 modem compared with the 2024 iPad mini. Should You Upgrade? If your 2021 model still feels responsive and lasts long enough for reading, browsing, and taking notes, keeping it makes sense for now, and if battery life is your only complaint, a battery service may be enough. However, for many 2021 iPad mini owners, the 2026 model is a worthwhile upgrade. If you've had yours since launch, its battery has had five years to wear down, and 64GB can feel cramped if you keep games or downloaded video on it. The new model gives you a fresh battery and twice the storage if you're coming from the 64GB version. Apple still rates both models for up to 10 hours when new, but the 2026 model can charge to 50% in around 30 minutes with a 35W or higher adapter. The OLED display and lighter design are the changes you're most likely to notice every day. The screen can get dimmer for reading in bed and brighter for HDR video, and the lower weight makes the iPad mini easier to hold one-handed for long stretches. Both displays run at 60Hz, with no ProMotion. The A20 Pro and extra memory matter more if you play demanding games, edit photos or video, or often find that apps reload when you switch back to them. Some of the smaller changes matter more depending on where you use your iPad mini. IP67 water and dust resistance is useful if you take it outdoors, read by the pool, or use it in the kitchen. The landscape front camera is better positioned for calls when the iPad is propped up horizontally, and extended display support lets you use a monitor as a separate workspace. Which Model Should You Buy? The discontinued 2024 iPad mini is a good middle ground if your 2021 model is showing its age and you're happy with its display. It gives you more base storage, Apple Intelligence, faster USB-C transfers, and Apple Pencil Pro support, and you can reuse your existing Smart Folio. Apple lists the 128GB Wi-Fi model for $509 through its Certified Refurbished store when available, with a new battery and a one-year warranty. Remaining new stock from third-party retailers is also worth considering at a low enough price. If prices are close at the same storage capacity, buy the 2026 model. At $699, it makes the most sense if you specifically want the OLED display, lighter body, or water resistance. If you use a Smart Folio, factor in $79 for the redesigned version. The USB-C Apple Pencil works with either newer model, while the second-generation Apple Pencil needs replacing. Both newer cellular models use eSIM, so check with your carrier if you currently use a physical SIM. A used 2021 iPad mini is still a reasonable buy at around $300 or lower if you want a second device for reading, notes, or streaming and 64GB is enough. Battery condition matters more than cosmetic wear; if the price of a 256GB unit or the cost of a battery service brings it close to a refurbished 2024 model, the newer device is still the better buy. If you're buying the 2026 model, 128GB at $699 is enough for most buyers. If you're already close to filling 128GB on your current iPad, the $799 256GB model gives you room to grow. Nano-texture glass brings that configuration to $899 and is worth considering if you regularly contend with glare. The $999 512GB model makes the most sense if you need the extra space for games, media, or projects. It also gets an additional CPU core and a second Neural Engine, which are worth weighing if you use apps that can take advantage of them. Related Roundup: iPad mini Buyer's Guide: iPad Mini (Buy Now) Related Forum: iPad This article, iPad Mini 2021 vs. 2026 Buyer's Guide: Is It Worth Upgrading? first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums
Thane Police register 33 cases for bursting firecrackers in public places
The action comes after the Thane district administration banned sky rockets and similar airborne firecrackers following multiple fire incidents linked to aerial fireworks on Sunday
Thane records more fire incidents; blazes reported in garbage piles and tree
Fire brigade personnel reached the spot and completely extinguished the fires. The Thane Municipal Corporation's Regional Disaster Management Cell said all incidents were brought under control and no one was injured
Three booked after firecracker dispute turns violent in Thane housing society
According to the police, the incident occurred around midnight on Sunday outside a residential complex in the Sonivali area of Badlapur. The complainant, Aditya Sharad Dhanawade (32), tried to intervene after an unidentified person began scolding children for bursting firecrackers nearby
Badlapur Firecracker Dispute: Three Accused Of Assault
A minor argument over children bursting firecrackers in Badlapur, Thane, escalated into violence when three individuals allegedly assaulted and verbally abused a 32-year-old man who tried to intervene. A non-cognisable offence has been registered against the accused.
US Lawmakers Reintroduce Diwali Day Act for Federal Holiday Status
US lawmakers, led by Congresswoman Grace Meng, have reintroduced the Diwali Day Act, seeking to establish Diwali as the 12th federally recognised holiday in the United States. Backed by 19 co-sponsorsincluding Indian-origin representatives Ami Bera, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Suhas Subramanyam, Shri Thanedar, and Ro Khannathe legislation aims to amend Title 5 of the US Code. First [] The post US Lawmakers Reintroduce Diwali Day Act for Federal Holiday Status appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
TDCC Bank donates Rs 34.23 lakh to CM relief fund for drought-hit people
The Thane District Central Co-operative Bank has donated Rs 34,23,730 to the Maharashtra Chief Minister's Relief Fund to support drought-affected people. The amount was raised through voluntary contributions from bank employees and members of its board of directors
Thane (Maharashtra) [India], November 10: Mittral Life Science, a pharmaceutical wholesale and trading firm based in Kopari, Thane (East), today announced the availability of its product range through its network of distributors, stockists and chemists across Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Kalyan and the Konkan belt. Trade enquiries are also open to partners from other parts of India.
US Lawmakers Reintroduce Bill to Make Diwali a Federal Holiday
The Diwali Day Act has secured the backing of 19 lawmakers, including Indian-origin representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi, Suhas Subramanyam, Shri Thanedar, Ro Khanna and Ami Bera
Thane fire: Residents trapped in lifts as smoke engulfs Carlyle building
Residents of 17-storey tower in Thane, where major blaze broke out recount miraculous rescue; building suffers massive internal destruction
Methane-eating microbes grown on electrodes build electrically conductive nanowires
Certain microorganisms (anaerobic methanotrophic archaea, or ANME) consume methane and convert it into electricity, as research conducted four years ago by microbiologist Cornelia Welte of Radboud University revealed. New research by Welte and her colleagues published in Nature Communications now shows that these methane-consuming organisms do this by producing nanowires through which they can transmit the electricity they generate. The researchers have also succeeded in cultivating these specific microorganisms in almost pure form in the lab.
Maharashtra: Tree branch falls on parked car in Thane; no injuries reported
According to the information received by the authorities, a call regarding the incident was received at 8.20 am on Monday. The branch fell on a Toyota Fortuner bearing registration number MH 04 KG 5001. The vehicle owner's identity was not known
Thane AQI touches 150 during Diwali; noise levels exceed permissible limits: TMC
The TMC's Pollution Control Department monitored air quality at Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAQMS) in Kasarvadavali and Upvan, as well as at a manual monitoring station in Kopri, before and during the festival
Witnesses Turn Hostile, Two Acquitted In Thane Murder Bid
A Thane court has acquitted two men, Shankar Rajaram Pawne and Aniket Vijay Karande, in a 2015 attempt to murder and rioting case. The court cited key witnesses turning hostile and failing to support core allegations, as well as inconsistencies in their statements, as reasons for the acquittal. The incident involved an assault on three men returning from extinguishing a fire.
Thane Collector bans aerial rockets, similar firecrackers across district till January 8
The order came a day after a major fire at a 17-storey residential building in Thane city, where 50 residents were rescued
Digital Media Operator Extorted Bar Owners
A digital media operator in Dombivli, Thane, has been booked for allegedly extorting money from bar owners. He threatened to publish fake defamatory news on social media unless paid hush money. One bar manager reported paying Rs 25,000 after being threatened with a defamatory WhatsApp link. Police investigation revealed multiple similar incidents, but no arrest has been made yet.
A Rat Has Grounded This Rs 1-Crore Car In Thane For Nearly 3 Months
The owner couple are still paying EMIs of Rs 2.5 lakh a month for a car they cannot use, and they have not been given a courtesy vehicle.
Two fires break out in Thane West; blaze at shop roof, scrap materials
Fire brigade personnel responded to both emergencies and brought the fires under control. Both incidents were reported during the early morning hours, with firefighting operations completed within a short period
Thane: Fire breaks out inside 26th-floor flat in Kalwa building
The fire was reported at around 8.05 pm in Room No. 2603 of B Wing, a 40-storey residential building located behind Sahyadri School. According to the fire brigade, the blaze involved interior furniture inside the flat, which was locked at the time
Thane fire: Shinde confirms zero casualties after 50 people rescued overnight
Eknath Shinde said the fire broke out at around 8 pm and fire brigade personnel and the Tactical Disaster Response (TDR) team rescued 50 people by risking their lives
Thane bans rockets and aerial firecrackers across district until January 2027
The order, issued on November 9, will remain in force until January 8, 2027. The restriction applies to both public and private spaces, including buildings, terraces, balconies, courtyards and residential premises
Mumbai's air quality better than last year on Diwali, but firecrackers trigger sharp pollution spike
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 9 (IANS) Mumbai's air quality deteriorated sharply following Diwali celebrations, with firecracker emissions contributing to a significant rise in particulate pollution and a layer of smog covering several parts of the city. Although Mumbai recorded comparatively better air quality this Diwali than in 2025, the improvement proved temporary as pollution levels surged during the evening celebrations. The city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 132 on Sunday, nearly 30 per cent lower than the 188 recorded during the corresponding period last year. However, the relatively cleaner air during the daytime gave way to a sharp deterioration as people began bursting firecrackers in the evening. In Andheri, PM2.5 levels jumped from 42 at 8 p.m. to 597 within two hours. Malad recorded an even higher PM2.5 concentration of 606, while Chembur reported PM10 levels of 480 at 10 p.m. The overnight spike highlighted the continuing impact of firecracker emissions on the city's air quality despite growing environmental awareness. By Monday morning, pollution levels remained elevated in several locations. The AQI around Bandra Reclamation and Kala Nagar stood at 231, falling in the 'Poor' category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Meanwhile, Mumbai and neighbouring Thane witnessed a substantial deterioration in air quality on Diwali night, with pollution levels entering the severe category amid widespread firecracker use. According to live readings on AQI.in, Mumbai's AQI stood at 278 at 9.34 p.m. on Sunday. The PM2.5 concentration was recorded at 192 micrograms per cubic metre, while PM10 levels reached 232 micrograms per cubic metre. These readings came just hours after the city experienced its cleanest Diwali afternoon air in four years. According to an earlier report by a leading English daily, Mumbai recorded an AQI of 131 around 1 p.m. on Sunday, as per the CPCB dashboard. The figure was considerably lower than the corresponding Diwali afternoon readings of 194 in 2025, 181 in 2024 and 149 in 2023. Favourable weather conditions, particularly strong sea breezes that helped disperse pollutants, were considered a major factor behind the improved daytime air quality. The city's air quality had already begun showing signs of deterioration during the first week of October. On Diwali afternoon, 20 of Mumbai's 26 monitoring stations recorded AQI levels above 100. Among the worst-affected locations, Bandra East (Kherwadi) recorded an AQI of 195, followed by Shivaji Nagar in Mankhurd at 183, Bandra Kurla Complex at 173, Ghatkopar at 170, Chembur at 168 and Mazgaon at 133. Following Diwali celebrations, the National Capital Region of Delhi also witnessed a significant deterioration in air quality, with dense smoke and haze spreading across the region. Reduced visibility has been reported in several areas, further intensifying concerns about rising pollution levels. Air Quality Index (AQI) readings and the government's efforts to tackle the pollution crisis have remained key topics of discussion in the national Capital over the past few days. Ahead of the Diwali festivities, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. According to the commission's order, the decision was taken as a precautionary step in anticipation of a possible decline in air quality during the festive period. Data available on the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Sameer application showed that Delhi's overall AQI reached 373 at 11:05 PM on November 8, 2026, placing it in the 'very poor' category. During the same period, Noida recorded an average AQI of 319. The corresponding readings for Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad stood at 360, 280 and 297, respectively, all falling within the 'very poor' category. The situation was particularly concerning in several parts of Delhi, where pollution levels crossed the 400 mark, entering the 'severe' category. Areas reporting such high AQI readings included Alipur, Bawana, Burari, Chandni Chowk, Mundka, Punjabi Bagh, Rohini and Vivek Vihar, among others.
The fire was reported around 8.30 p.m. on Sunday in the 17-storey Carlyle building in the Raheja Garden complex in Wagle Estate, Thane.
50 rescued after fire at Raheja Garden, Thane; no casualties
The News Mill
A person was killed in a fire that broke out at a highrise residential building in Lokhandwala in Andheri West on Saturday night.
Mumbai: Thane court acquits 21 in 2008 Dahi Handi rioting and assault case
Assault took place during Dahi Handi event where police vehicles were also damaged
Fire breaks out in Thane residential complex and Navi Mumbai mall
The News Mill
Fire breaks out at 17-storey residential building in Thane's Wagle Estate
Firefighters and emergency response teams rushed to the spot to bring the blaze under control and rescue people reportedly trapped inside the building
Mumbai, Thane Choke On Diwali Pollution As Firecrackers Push AQI To Severe Levels
Mumbai and Thane recorded severe air quality readings on Diwali night, with AQI at 278 and 298, respectively, as firecracker emissions added to the city's pollution burden.
Revealed: how a UK firm is spearheading growth in trade of US fracked ethane
Nine rescued after ceiling slab collapses in Thane building
On Sunday morning in Thane, a ceiling slab of a flat collapsed, trapping residents inside. Rescue operations involving the fire brigade and local police quickly followed, ensuring safety for all trapped individuals. Nine residents, including an elderly couple, were successfully brought out unharmed after the incident. The collapse occurred in a four-storey building known as Ganraj Society located in Vartak Nagar.
21 Acquitted In 2008 Thane Rioting Case
A Thane court has acquitted 21 individuals involved in a 2008 rioting and assault case that occurred during Dahi Handi festivities. The incident saw clashes between two Govinda groups, leading to injuries to police personnel and damage to their vehicles. The court cited the prosecution's failure to prove the accused's role or the formation of an unlawful assembly, along with issues in witness testimony, as reasons for the acquittal.
Nine, including senior citizens, rescued after building slab collapse in Thane
Fire brigade personnel, Thane Municipal Corporation's disaster management staff, the Thane Disaster Response Force and Vartak Nagar police jointly carried out the rescue operation
Thane court sentences man to 20 years rigorous imprisonment for raping minor on promise of marriage
Four prosecution witnesses, including the survivor, her mother and neighbour, were examined to prove the charges against the accused
Thane court sentences man to 20 years rigorous imprisonment for raping minor on promise of marriage
Four prosecution witnesses, including the survivor, her mother and neighbour, were examined to prove the charges against the accused
Thane: Three arrested as police crack 12 burglary cases in Bhiwandi
According to police, the accused allegedly worked in collusion with a key accomplice who travelled from Uttar Pradesh to Maharashtra to carry out burglaries across Bhiwandi city. A search is underway to trace the main accused, a police official said
Man Gets 20 Years For Minor Rape In Thane
A special court in Thane, Maharashtra, has sentenced a 35-year-old man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for repeatedly raping a minor girl after promising to marry her. The court, while noting the absence of violence as a mitigating factor, upheld the minimum 20-year term mandated by the POCSO Act, as the victim was under 18 during the abuse, rendering her consent legally invalid.
Mumbai, Thane report four fire incidents in hours amid Diwali festivities
Fortunately, no deaths were reported in any of the incidents in Mumbai and Thane
Thane residents launch creative tree conservation initiatives
Thane records 818 tree falls in 2026, surpasses 10 years annual toll
As COP31 comes to Turkiye, satellites reveal a landfill methane problem
Methane is the biggest cause of climate change after carbon dioxide (CO2) and is over 80 times more potent than CO2 in its first 20 years in the air. Sharp cuts could therefore slow warming relatively quickly
Mumbai crime: Thane baby-selling racket busted, Home Guard among 10 arrested
Thane police have arrested 10 people, including a Home Guard personnel, for allegedly attempting to sell a 20-day-old baby boy for Rs 2.5 lakh. The infant was rescued unharmed from Ratnagiri within 24 hours of a complaint and brought back to Thane
Istanbul landfill generates power but leaks 7.4 tonnes of methane hourly, satellite data finds
Maoist with 10 Lakh Bounty Arrested in Thane
Acting on intelligence provided by Jharkhand Police to senior officials of the Maharashtra ATS, the local unit verified the inputs and conducted the operation
Watchman gets life imprisonment for repeatedly sexually assaulting minor girl
A special court in Thane sentenced a 65-year-old former residential society watchman to life imprisonment until natural death for repeatedly sexually assaulting a minor girl over three years. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 and recommended compensation for the survivor
Thane: Police vehicle catches fire near Nitin Company Junction in Wagle Estate
A parked Mahindra Scorpio police vehicle caught fire near Nitin Company Junction in Thane's Wagle Estate around 12:04 am on Saturday. Firefighters extinguished the blaze by 12:19 am. No injuries were reported. Two autorickshaws also caught fire in a separate incident later that morning
Two autorickshaws catch fire near Life Line Hospital in Thane
Two autorickshaws caught fire near Life Line Hospital in Khopat, Thane West, at around 1:53 am on Saturday. Firefighters extinguished the blaze by 2:07 am. No injuries or casualties were reported
Life Imprisonment For Man Who Assaulted Minor
A special court in Thane has sentenced a 65-year-old watchman to life imprisonment for repeatedly sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl over three years, leading to her pregnancy. The court noted the crime was committed with a cool mind and ordered financial compensation for the survivor.
Arms Syndicate Busted In Thane, Five Arrested
Thane Police have successfully dismantled an inter-state arms syndicate, leading to the arrest of five individuals from Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. The operation resulted in the seizure of firearms and ammunition valued at Rs 9.19 lakh, with the suspects allegedly planning an armed robbery.
Thane municipal commissioner rolls back plan to cut water supply to new buildings
Mitti Labs receives over 97,000 rice methane certificates for its South India projects
Rice farming alone emits around 1 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent every year, as much as the global aviation industry
Fire breaks out near railway tracks in Thane
The fire had spread through a large quantity of garbage accumulated in the drain alongside the railway tracks. No one was injured in the incident, officials said
Thousands Stranded on Pune-Bengaluru Highway as Sugarcane Farmers Protest Enters Third Day
Thousands of commuters and over 1,500 commercial trucks remain stranded on the Pune-Bengaluru National Highway (NH-48) as a major sugarcane farmers protest led by Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana chief Raju Shetti entered its third consecutive day on Friday, November 6, 2026. The agitation has crippled a 120-kilometer stretch of the highway between Nagthane in Satara district [] The post Thousands Stranded on Pune-Bengaluru Highway as Sugarcane Farmers Protest Enters Third Day appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Gujarati-origin Amish Shah makes US Congress history
Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 6 (IANS) Amish Shah, the Chicago-born son of Gujarati immigrants, has defeated a former American football player in Arizona to become the first Indian-American elected to the US Congress from the state, marking another milestone for the community in American politics. The 48-year-old emergency-room physician defeated Republican Jay Feely, a former National Football League (NFL) kicker backed by US President Donald Trump, in Arizona's First Congressional District. Shah was leading by around 53 per cent to 46 per cent when the race was called by major media outlets. His victory flips a Republican-held seat to the Democrats and takes the number of Indian-Americans in the incoming House of Representatives to six. I'm honoured and humbled that the people of Arizona's First Congressional District have chosen me to represent them in Congress, Shah said in a victory statement. To every voter in this district I pledge to be a Representative for all of you, whether or not you voted for me, he added, promising to work across party lines. Shah's journey to Capitol Hill has an unusual connection to his defeated opponent. Both worked with the New York Jets in 2008, when Feely was a kicker and Shah provided emergency medical care to players on the sidelines. Nearly two decades later, they faced each other in one of America's closely watched Congressional contests. Born and raised in Chicago, Shah is the son of engineering students who migrated from India in 1969. His father is Jain and his mother Hindu. He speaks fluent Gujarati and has maintained close ties with his family's Indian roots. In a 2023 interview, Shah recalled how his parents regularly took him to India. He also traced his inspiration for public service to Mahatma Gandhi's Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat. Shah studied at Northwestern University, earned his medical degree there and completed a Master's degree in public health at the University of California, Berkeley. Before entering national politics, he served in the Arizona House of Representatives, winning three successive elections in 2018, 2020 and 2022. His first Congressional attempt in 2024 ended in a narrow defeat to Republican David Schweikert. He returned to the electoral battlefield after Schweikert vacated the seat to seek the Governorship. During the campaign, Shah focused on reducing living costs, healthcare reform, protecting Medicare and Medicaid, and opposing Trump's tariffs. His position on skilled immigration could attract particular attention among Indian professionals. Shah's victory also maintains the strength of the informal Samosa Caucus, comprising Indian-American lawmakers in the US Congress. The incoming group includes incumbent Democrats Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal and Suhas Subramanyam, alongside newcomers Shah and Florida's Pia Dandiya. The two newcomers replace Raja Krishnamoorthi and Shri Thanedar, who failed to secure their parties' nominations for the 2026 elections. The new Congress convenes on January 3, 2027, with Democrats taking control of the House of Representatives following the November 3 midterm elections. All 435 voting seats in the US House are contested every two years. Members represent Congressional districts within individual states and serve two-year terms.
Flamingos arrive early at Thane creek, greens flag missing protection for DPS lake
Thane doctors rush to Mauritius with 300kg equipment, save woman shot in police firing
2021 Antilia bomb-scare: Bombay HC cancels Mumbai ex-cop Sachin Vaze's bail
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 5 (IANS) In a setback to controversial Mumbai ex-cop Sachin Vaze, the Bombay High Court on Thursday cancelled bail granted to him by a lower court in the 2021 Antilia bomb-scare and Mansukh Hiran murder cases. A bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale passed the order while accepting an appeal filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), against the September 29 order of a special court granting bail to Vaze. The impugned order of the special court is quashed and set aside. The appeal by the NIA is allowed, the High Court order said. Vaze is an accused in the Antilia bomb scare case, wherein an SUV laden with explosives was recovered near industrialist Mukesh Ambani's Mumbai residence in February 2021. Hiren was one of a possible witness in the case who was later found murdered. The High Court had earlier imposed an interim stay on the bail granted to the former Assistant Police Inspector Vaze by the Special NIA Court, resulting in Vaze remaining in judicial custody in Thane Central Prison where he has been lodged for the past five years. The NIA had opposed the controversial dismissed cop's bail, claiming that Vaze could tamper with witnesses and destroy evidence. He (Vaze) was earlier charged in a fake encounter case. He was a police officer who had the duty of protecting the public. But he himself indulged in criminal activities where he not just tried to instill fear and terror but he murdered a person, the NIA's lawyer said. Earlier while hearing the NIA's appeal in October, the High Court expressed surprise over Vaze's lifestyle, including the use of high-end cars. The bench also flagged Vaze's extended stay of about 100 days in a room booked at the Oberoi hotel, asking how an officer of the rank of Assistant Police Inspector could afford to drive high-end vehicles. The High Court said that these aspects of Vaze's financial situation, conduct, and professional record were relevant to assessing the charges against him. Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh, representing the NIA, shared with the High Court witness statements that mentioned that Vaze used expensive and luxury vehicles while he was an Assistant Police Inspector. During the hearing, Anil Singh read out a witness statement, which said that Vaze travelled in a black Mercedes and asked those accompanying him to turn off their mobile phones. The court then asked whether the Mercedes belonged to Vaze and whether there was any evidence that the vehicle was registered in his name. After the NIA responded in the affirmative, the court asked whether it was normal for an Assistant Police Inspector to own such an expensive car. The court remarked, Since we have not yet seen an Assistant Police Inspector driving a Mercedes... The court also sought information from the NIA regarding Vaze's other vehicles and reviewed a list of five vehicles he used while serving as Assistant Police Inspector. This list included a white BMW, a black Volvo, a white Mercedes, a white Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, and another black Mercedes. Seeing the number of vehicles, the court said, He (Sachin Vaze) owns five vehicles... The court noted that, according to statements submitted by the NIA, Vaze travelled in a high-end Mercedes to the Mumbai Police Commissioner's office and the Maharashtra Chief Minister's residence, 'Varsha'. NIA's lawyer Anil Singh also told the court that Vaze had stayed at a seven-star hotel in South Mumbai for around 100 days. The court asked how a police officer, earning a monthly salary of around Rs 90,000 at the time, could afford such an expensive lifestyle. The NIA said that these vehicles owned and used by Vaze are being linked to alleged extortion in the case.
Thane water crisis: TMC repairs 90 wells, targets leakages, illegal connections
Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao has directed officials to ensure strict management of available water stocks, increase the use of water from public wells and borewells, prevent leakages, take action against unauthorised water connections and maximise the use of treated wastewater
Thane Police seize cobra venom worth Rs 5.2 crore, arrest five
The police recovered two glass vials containing approximately 250 mg and 260 mg of cobra venom from Mohammed Danish Fayim Khan (23) and Abdul Karim Rashid Ahmed Shaikh (51), respectively, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Mira Road Division) Ganpat Pingle told
Cobra venom in two glass vials seized in Thane, five held
Thane Police seized over 500 mg of cobra venom during raid in Kashigaon; investigation leds to two alleged suppliers in Mumbai's Trombay area, officials said
Cobra Venom Racket Busted In Thane, Five Held
Police in Thane, Maharashtra, have busted a wildlife smuggling syndicate, seizing over 500 mg of cobra venom worth Rs 5.2 crore and arresting five individuals. The arrests followed a tip-off and a trap laid by the Crime Detection Unit, leading to the apprehension of suspects and key suppliers from Mumbai.
Thane Rural Police arrest alleged D gang leader, three associates in crackdown
Acting on a tip-off received on Wednesday, a Crime Branch team learnt that Pisal, the alleged leader of the infamous 'D gang', was present in the Sai Valivali area of Ambernath, the official said
Thane engineer gets 10-year jail term for dowry death of pregnant wife
Additional Sessions Judge G T Pawar, in a judgment delivered on Wednesday, said injuries found on the womans body and the accuseds failure to explain them corroborated witness accounts of assault
Court Jails Engineer For Dowry Death Of Pregnant Wife
A Thane court has sentenced a mechanical engineer to 10 years rigorous imprisonment for the dowry death of his pregnant wife in 2021. The court found that the wife was subjected to violence and harassment for money and a car, with injuries on her body corroborating witness accounts of assault. The accused was also found to have attempted to conceal the truth after the incident.
Thane to Navi Mumbai Airport: CIDCO floats tender for 25-kilometre elevated corridor project
Thane businessman allegedly duped of Rs 95.25L by fabric firm directors, broker
The accused allegedly gained the trust of the businessman, a resident of Bhiwandi, under the pretext of business dealings. They allegedly purchased large quantities of raw fabric material from his establishment over the past four years but failed to pay the outstanding amount
Rs 95 Lakh Fraud: Case Against Company Directors
Police in Thane have registered a case against company directors and a broker for allegedly cheating a 32-year-old textile businessman of Rs 95.25 lakh. The accused reportedly gained the businessman's trust over four years, purchasing raw fabric but failing to clear outstanding dues.
Thane: Five arrested for robbing man of Rs 30,000 on Samruddhi Expressway
The incident took place on November 2 on the Nagpur-to-Mumbai lane of the expressway in Kalyan taluka. Additional Superintendent of Police, Thane Rural, Anmol Mittal, shared details of the case at a press conference on Wednesday evening
Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 5 (IANS) Indian Americans are on course to keep six seats in the US House of Representatives, matching their record, after five Democrats from the community won on Tuesday and Arizona physician Amish Shah held a lead in a race that had still not been called on Wednesday night (local time). That would reverse a forecast of a shrinking caucus. Two veterans, Raja Krishnamoorthi and Shri Thanedar, will not return, but two newcomers, Pia Dandiya in Florida and Shah, if he holds on, are set to replace them. Every Indian American who won a House seat is a Democrat, so the entire group will sit in the majority from January. Shah, a Democrat and former Arizona state lawmaker, led Republican Jay Feely by about 53 per cent to 45 per cent in Arizona's 1st Congressional District, with about 85 per cent of the expected vote counted on Wednesday night. The District, which takes in Scottsdale and parts of the Phoenix area and is now held by a Republican, swung about 10 points toward Democrats compared with the 2024 presidential result, according to NBC's vote-shift figure. Maricopa County was still counting ballots on Wednesday. A release from the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), emailed on Wednesday, already lists Shah among the winners. No news organisation's decision desk had projected the race as of Wednesday evening (local time). The five confirmed winners were: Ro Khanna in California's 17th District, Ami Bera in California's 3rd, Pramila Jayapal in Washington's 7th, Suhas Subramanyam in Virginia's 10th, and Dandiya in Florida's 22nd. The current 119th Congress has six Indian American House members: Bera, Khanna, Jayapal, Krishnamoorthi, Thanedar and Subramanyam, who became the sixth when he was sworn in in January 2025. Krishnamoorthi gave up his Illinois House seat to run for the Senate and lost the March 17 Democratic primary, and Thanedar lost his Michigan primary on August 4. The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) thanked both departing members for their years-long service. That leaves the group at five confirmed members for the 120th Congress, and six if Shah wins: the same as the current record, not a new high. Dandiya, a Democrat, won the redrawn 22nd District in Florida over Republican Casey Askar by about 52 per cent to 48 per cent, with about 99 per cent of the vote counted. CBS Miami described her as the first South Asian American to represent Florida in Congress. The CAPAC called her he first Indian American woman elected to represent Florida's 22nd Congressional District. In a post on X, Dandiya wrote: Thank you #FL22!! I am humbled and honoured to represent my home state... Now, the real work begins! Dandiya is the second Indian American woman and the third South Asian American woman elected to Congress. Jayapal, on X, called her he third South Asian American woman (along with me and @aishabbwahab) headed to the House. CAPAC said that if Shah wins, he would be he first Indian American elected to represent Arizona's 1st Congressional District and would bring CAPAC's Asian American and Pacific Islander membership to 23. The release says at least 22 AAPI Members are poised to join CAPAC next year, the most ever. Among the newcomers it named, Dandiya is the only Indian American confirmed so far. Among the incumbents, Bera, the longest-serving Indian American now in the House, won another term in a redrawn seat. He led Republican Robb Tucker by about 60 per cent to 40 per cent with about 139,000 votes counted, according to county counts. Khanna, co-chair of the House India Caucus, beat fellow Indian American Republican Ritesh Tandon by about 72 per cent to 28 per cent. It was Tandon's fourth loss to Khanna. Khanna went into the final quarter of the campaign with about $17 million cash on hand on September 30, the largest war chest of any Indian American in Congress, according to his Federal Election Commission (FEC) filing. Jayapal took about 88 per cent of the vote against Indian American Republican Nirav Sheth. Subramanyam won a second term by about 63 per cent to 35 per cent over Republican Dave Beckwith. In an email to supporters on Wednesday, which he also posted on X, he said: The campaign is over, but the work is just beginning. I look forward to working with our community to deliver change in Washington. All four incumbents won easily, with an average vote share of about 71 per cent. Every Republican and independent Indian American on the federal ballot lost. Republicans Tandon in California's 17th District, Sheth in Washington's 7th and Max Ganorkar in North Carolina's 4th all lost to Democrats. Ganorkar took about 16 per cent against Democrat Valerie Foushee's 83 per cent. Independents Sandeep Dixit in Ohio's 13th District and Anil Kumar in Michigan's 11th, who had endorsed the Democrat, each drew about 1 per cent. In Massachusetts, Shiva Ayyadurai, running as an independent for the Senate, received about 2 per cent, or about 58,000 votes, as Democrat Ed Markey won re-election with about 63 per cent. Democrat Mark Nair lost Texas' 13th District to Republican Ronny Jackson by about 62 per cent to 39 per cent. A write-in candidate, Dev Gupta, in Arizona's 1st District had no reported result. Of the 14 Indian Americans on the federal ballot, five won, one leads, seven lost, and one write-in has no reported result. Indian American Democrats won all five of their called races; the only Democratic loss was Nair. Republicans and independents each went none for three. Two of the five confirmed winners, Jayapal and Dandiya, are women. Both newcomers, Dandiya and Shah, ran in seats that were held by the other party or reshaped by redistricting, which is where the Democratic wave paid off for the community. In the two races that pitted Indian Americans against each other, Khanna against Tandon and Jayapal against Sheth, the Democrat won by a wide margin. The races drew heavy outside money. In the last FEC reports before the election, covering October 1-14, Shah raised about $623,000 and had about $206,000 in cash. Dandiya raised about $689,000 and had about $735,000 in cash, while Askar reported about $1.9 million in cash after lending his campaign about $2.3 million of his own money. Super PACs that attacked Shah and Dandiya were funded by MAGA Inc., FEC filings show. Post-election reports are due December 3. The community's results tracked the national swing. NBC projects that Democrats have won the House, with 231 seats called for Democrats and 144 for Republicans as of Wednesday morning, a net Democratic gain of 29. NBC estimates Democrats will finish with about 258 seats. It also projects that Democrats retake the Senate, 54 to 44, with Mississippi and Alaska not yet called. That means the Indian American lawmakers will serve in the House majority for the first time since Democrats lost the chamber in the 2022 midterms. In Michigan, Democrat Abdul El-Sayed won the open Senate seat over Republican Mike Rogers by about 52 per cent to 46 per cent. He is not Indian American; his wife, psychiatrist Sarah Jukaku, was born in Michigan to Indian immigrant parents. Indian American representation in Congress dates to 1957, when Dalip Singh Saund became the first Indian-born member. The community elected a record six House members in 2024, up from five in the previous Congress.
Music Dispute Leads To Firing, Five Arrested In Thane
Five individuals have been arrested in Thane district, Maharashtra, following a violent clash at a hotel that involved a firearm. The incident, which occurred during the intervening night of November 1 and 2, stemmed from an argument over playing music. One group allegedly fired at a member of a rival group. Police swiftly apprehended the accused and recovered the weapon.
Thane Police Arrest Duo In Rs 1.3 Crore Online Trading Scam
Thane Police's cyber cell arrested two individuals for allegedly defrauding a 70-year-old man of nearly Rs 1.30 crore through a fake online share trading scheme. The fraudsters lured the victim via WhatsApp, promising high returns, and persuaded him to invest in a specific trading application.
Mumbai railway updates: CR restricts platform ticket sales at five stations
The restriction will apply at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Dadar, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), Thane and Kalyan stations
'Don't Like You': After 16-Year Marriage, Thane Man Throws Out Wife, 4 Children
Left with no support, the woman is now living on the streets with her four children, forced to beg to feed the family.
Indian-American Swing Midterms: Pia Dandiya, Suhas Subramanyam, Ro Khanna Win. Vivek Ramaswamy Loses
The Samosa Caucus was widely expected to shrink dramatically. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Shri Thanedar lost their party primaries. Then election night happened. Democrat Pia Dandiya clinched Floridas 22nd District, reportedly becoming the 10th Indian-American lawmaker ever elected to Congress and the first South Asian American to represent Florida. Suhas Subramanyam, Pramila Jayapal and Aruna Miller persevered, Ro Khanna is in the winners circle, and Ami Bera and Amish Shah lead in still-open counts. But Vivek Ramaswamy, the most recognisable Indian-American on any ballot, lost Ohios governor race to Democrat Amy Acton despite 101 million dollars in ads. Every single major Indian-American winner was a Democrat, and the new faces are a school principal and an emergency room doctor, not professional politicians. Jayapal won with about 87 per cent, Subramanyam with about 63 per cent. Watch exactly who won, who they are and what this transformation means for American governance.
Dissatisfaction with Trump behind Republican rout in US Midterms, says Congressman Shri Thanedar
By Ayushi Agarwal Describing the Republican losses in the 2026 US midterm elections as a strong message of public discontent with President Donald Trump, Indian-American Congressman in the US House of Representatives, Shri Thanedar, said that the results reflected growing frustration over rising living costs, the Iran war, tariffs and corruption within the administration. Speaking to ANI on the midterm election outcome, Thanedar, a Democrat representing Michigan's 13th Congressional District in the House, said that the electoral setback was not necessarily an endorsement of the Democratic Party but rather a reflection of voters' dissatisfaction with Trump's leadership and policies. I don't see this as support for the Democratic Party. This I see as dissatisfaction with Trump. This is really on Trump, Thanedar said. He argued that Trump's economic and foreign policies had become central issues in the election, turning the midterms into a referendum on the President's performance. Tru...
Thane: Three vehicles collide on Patlipada Bridge, chemical tanker overturns
A chemical tanker carrying 20,000 litres of propylheptanol overturned after three vehicles collided on Patlipada Bridge along Ghodbunder Road in Thane early Wednesday. One tempo driver was injured and taken to a nearby hospital, while traffic movement on the route remained slow
Thane mans organs saves 3 lives after brain death in Kolkata
Thane: 68 construction sites issued notices over air pollution
Thane civic body's inspection drive was focused on dust-control measures and compliance with pollution guidelines across six municipal ward areas, officials said
Haunted By Dreams, Man Confesses To Murder
A man in Dombivli, Thane, confessed to killing his friend during a drunken quarrel after being haunted by the victim in his dreams. Prabhu Karkade, 24, was arrested after he approached the police, admitting to beating Pallav Kadam, 43, to death and disposing of the body. The police have registered a murder case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
BEST's electric fleet grows to 94 buses as 44 new AC vehicles launch on Kandivali and Thane routes
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.
BEST adds 44 electric buses to Mumbai fleet, to operate on five routes
The 12-metre-long buses were introduced on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at an event held at the Magathane Depot in the presence of BEST Committee Chairperson Trupti Vishwasrao and other dignitaries
Mumbai: More than 2,000 families have made Kalpataru Parkcity their home, embracing the promise of Thanes Finest Commune. Spread across 108+ acres on Kolshet Road, the development reflects the evolution of an integrated residential community and its growing role in shaping the character of the surrounding neighbourhood. Kalpataru Parkcity brings together six essential elements of []
Bomb Threat Emails Trigger Security Scare At 4 Maharashtra Courts
Court premises in Pune, Thane, Hingoli and Beed were evacuated as police and bomb detection teams launched search operations.
Fire breaks out at electrical shop and bike service centre in Thane
According to the civic authorities, the fire engulfed the plastic shed and documents stored on the mezzanine floor of the premises housing the shop and the service centre
