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Pilot Project: Over 2.5K Thane ZP Pensioners Receive Pension on First Day, Other Districts to Follow Suit

Bengal: ER inaugurates biogas plant on Swachh Bharat Diwas

Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) As part of its ongoing Swachhata campaign and to mark Gandhi Jayanti, Eastern Railway (ER) inaugurated a biogas plant under the Sealdah Division on Friday. The day is also observed as Swachh Bharat Diwas. The plant will not only be a source of green, non-polluting fuel, but will also help in the disposal of organic waste generated at railway establishments. The biogas plant was inaugurated by ER General Manager Gitika Pandey at the Narkeldanga barracks of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Officials described it as a significant milestone towards a cleaner and greener future. The plant has been built at an estimated railway-funded project cost of nearly Rs 25 lakh and underscores ER's commitment under its Environment & Housekeeping Management initiative to transform organic waste into clean cooking energy for a sustainable future. The project is designed to process 250 kg of organic waste every day and generate about 8-10 m of methane-rich biogas daily. The plant will source segregated vegetable and food waste as feedstock directly from Sealdah station, the Sealdah railway colony at Narkeldanga, and B.R. Singh Hospital. The facility operates through a structured five-step mechanism, an official said. He explained that the process starts with waste collection, followed by shredding, where the machine breaks waste into fine particles for faster and more complete digestion. The waste then undergoes aerobic and anaerobic digestion in a two-chamber digester tank before passing through filtration and smart metering protected by a relief valve. Finally, a booster pump increases gas pressure before deployment. According to the official, the plant has the capacity to generate the equivalent of about 90-110 domestic cylinders annually. The fuel will be piped to the kitchen of the barracks. The nutrient-rich slurry by-product, which could amount to 73 tonnes per year, will nourish local plantations as organic manure, thereby reducing the use of chemical fertilisers, the official added. He said this would lead to lower carbon dioxide emissions and prevent the open dumping of methane through a transparent, smart-meter-monitored circular-economy model that can be replicated across other stations and colonies. The Liluah Workshop of ER also has a biogas plant. More such plants will come up at other locations. Shibram Majhi, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), ER, said the biogas plant reflects the railway zone's strong commitment to waste-to-energy solutions and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Best iPhone 18 cases for iPhone 18 Pro

Macworld You waited months for Apples new iPhones to arrive, but its worth protecting that big investment from day one. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are tougher than previous generations, but they can still be scratched, chipped or damaged in a drop. A good case also does more than protect your phone: it can improve grip, add a stand or wallet, support MagSafe accessories and give your iPhone a completely different look. There are thousands of iPhone cases to choose from, ranging from inexpensive silicone shells to rugged cases built for serious drop protection. Price isnt always a reliable guide to quality, either: a cheap case can split, yellow or develop faulty buttons, while spending more doesnt necessarily mean youll get the best case for your needs. Thats why we hand-test and compare as many iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max cases as we can. We consider protection, materials, build quality, grip, raised screen and camera edges, MagSafe compatibility, weight, useful extras such as stands and card storage, and how the case feels in everyday use. Where manufacturers make specific drop-protection claims, we include those too so you can compare different levels of protection. In this guide weve grouped our recommendations into clear , colorful , protective and leather or faux-leather cases, with options at a range of prices. Best clear cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Best fun cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Best protective cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Best leather cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Best wallet cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Which type of iPhone case to choose Apple gives you a handful of finishes; a case gives you thousandsan easy way to make an iPhone 18 Pro look like yours. You can choose a clear case that shows off the iPhones original color but adds vital protection, or choose a case with more personality. Protection is key, and some cases will add higher levels of defense than others. Beyond looks, think about how you use your phone. Want hands-free video? Look for a case with a built-in stand . Want to leave your wallet at home? Choose one with a card storage wallet . And if you charge wirelessly, check for MagSafe compatibility most cases now offer it, and its worth confirming before you buy. Best clear cases for iPhone 18 If you want to keep your iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro Max looking like Apple intended you could leave it unprotected without a case, or simply choose a clear case that shows off the iPhones color while protecting it from everyday knocks and drops. Apple iPhone 18 Pro Clear Case Premium clear case Pros Made by Apple Shows off iPhone 18s color Cons Basic protection Ugly on Pro / Pro Max Expensive Price When Reviewed: $49 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $49 View Deal $49 View Deal $49 View Deal $49 View Deal $49 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 29g Camera edge: 2mm Button covers: Plastic Colors: Clear Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max This simple, rigid iPhone 18 protective case from Apple is thin and light. If you buy your iPhone in the Apple Store you might just choose an Apple case, and you can be sure its well made, but we think there are better choices than just giving yet more cash to Apple. They can afford to lose a case sale, believe me. But price is not the only reason to look elswhere. The point of clear cases is that they shouldnt disguise the color of your iPhone that you chose when you purchased it. However, Apples Clear Case has a prominent white MagSafe ring that aligns with the charging coil beneath the iPhones Ceramic Shield back. Its white whatever color of iPhone 18 Pro or Max that you ownits a shame Apple didnt color-match this to each phone but that would have meant creating four different versions. To be fair, its less obtrusive than the Apples Clear Case for iPhone 17 Pro. The Apple Clear Case is made from a blend of optically clear polycarbonate and other flexible materials, with a scratch-resistant coating on both the inside and outside. While its more protective than silicone cases and features a robust-looking 2mm camera lip, you can find tougher cases, which we have reviewed below. Zagg Crystal Palace & Santa Cruz Cases Quality family of clear cases Pros Shows off iPhone 18s color Differing levels of protection, function Anti-yellowing Metal accent models Price When Reviewed: From $29.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $29.99 View Deal Zagg $29.99 View Deal $54.99 View Deal $54.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes, except basic Lite Weight: From 36g Raised screen edge: 2mm Camera edge: 1.2mm Drop protection: 10 feet (Lite models), 13 feet (Crystal Snap, Santa Cruz) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Clear Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Zagg has a whole range of popular scratch-resistant clear case models for the iPhone 18 Pro series, including the Crystal Palace Snap, available with and without a kickstand) and a simpler Lite option without MagSafe and lower but still impressive drop protection. Zaggs ClearGuard tech reduces the yellowing that affects many clear cases surprisingly quickly. The Crystal Palace Snap ($54.99 / 39.99 with kickstand, $49.99 / 34.99 without) has textured sides for better grip, MagSafe, and 13ft drop protection. The Crystal Palace Lite Snap ($39.99 / 24.99) has MagSafe, 10ft drop protection and no kickstand. The entry-level Crystal Palace Lite ($29.99/ 19.99) lacks MagSafe and kickstand but still offers 10ft drop protection. Both use PC and TPU, but the construction is fundamentally different. The premium Crystal Palace Snap uses a single, solid piece of PC across the back and sides to create a harder, more scratch-resistant clear case, with TPU used strategically so that there are no seams between the back and sides. The Lite version uses significantly more TPU, relying on a PC back plate combined with flexible, TPU sides. That makes it lighter and less expensive, but more susceptible to yellowing over time than PC. If clear is sort of what you want but still a bit boring, Zagg adds metallic accents to its the Graphene-fortified Zagg Santa Cruz ($59.99 / 44.99 with kickstand, $54.99 / 39.99 without), giving the clear case an elegant edge and vibrancy with 13ft drop protection, MagSafe and kickstand. Mous Clarity clear case Customizable clear case Pros Shows off iPhone 18s color Customizable bump, stand, button colors Anti-yellowing Price When Reviewed: From $64.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Mous $64.99 View Deal $79.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Optional Weight: From 39g Raised screen edge: 1.8mm Camera edge: 0.5mm Button covers: Plastic; Metal option Colors: Clear (Black or Stone sides) Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max The Mous Clarity clear case shows off the device beneath with a UV anti-yellowing finish, but the sides do have their modesty hidden beneath a choice of either Black or Stone color frame. In the corners, AiroShock protection is a defense against drop impacts. The scratch-resistant layer is molded into the panel itself, not merely sprayed on top. You can buy as the clearest non-MagSafe ($64.99 / 54.99) or MagSafe compatible with logo ($69.99 / 59.99). For extra customization and a dash of flair, you can mix and match your case with different colors of metal kickstand, camera guard and metal buttons. Decoded Clear Case and Hybrid Stand Cases Add color frosting or kickstand Pros Shows off iPhone 18s color Frosted versions Kickstand option Anti-yellowing Price When Reviewed: $58 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Decoded $58 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 39g Raised screen edge: 1.2mm Camera edge: 1.2mm Drop protection: 10 feet (3m) Button covers: Plastic (Clear); Metal (Hybrid) Colors: Clear, Frosted, White, Frosted Sapphire, Frosted White Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max The Decoded Clear Case is available in totally clear or with a frosted hue if you want to add a dash of color. Built with GRS-certified recycled polycarbonate and shock-absorbing TPU it features 10-foot (3m) drop protection, plus a decent-height camera ring and raised screen lip. Embedded UV stabilizers are built directly into the polycarbonate, absorbing and neutralizing harmful radiation before it can yellow the clear material. For the same price as the Clear Case you can opt for a similar Hybrid Stand Case that features a built-in rotating aluminum-alloy kickstand that flips out to prop up your iPhone for hands-free display and folds flat when handheld or sitting tucked into your pocket. Best colorful cases for iPhone 18 Apples choice of iPhone 18 Pro colors is, shall we say, limited. Burgundy is nice but its no Cosmic Orange, and third-party case designers have had a lot more fun so you can personalize your new iPhone from a choice of thousandsfrom simple silicone cases to some pretty crazy designs. I do question the sanity of some of the designers at work here, but read on to enter a fairly wild world of fancy. Apple iPhone 18 Pro Silicone Case Apple's soft touch case Pros Made by Apple Color range Price When Reviewed: $49 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $49 View Deal $49 View Deal $49 View Deal $49 View Deal $49 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 30g Button covers: Silicone Colors: Burgundy, Olive, Crisp Blue, Navy, Magenta, Black Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max If youve got any money left after shelling out for the latest iPhone, Apple will gladly take your last pennies for one of its own iPhone 18 cases. Its Silicone Case comes in six fetching colors. Apples silky, soft-touch silicone case for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max feels great. On the inside, theres a soft microfiber lining for softer device protection. Its got the Apple logo on it, which you wont find elsewhere. Theres no ugly MagSafe block as found on Apples Clear Case as the silicone case creates its own choice of colors. The Silicone Case colors for the iPhone 17 range were more vibrantbut we like the 18 Pros punchy Magenta pink, in case Burgundy is just too dark for your tastes. Casely Cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Hundreds of colorful designs Pros Massive choice of styles Optional protection levels Cons Low camera edge Price When Reviewed: From $40 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Casely $40 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 39-56g (Classic); 46-62g (Bold Case) Raised screen edge: 1mm-3mm Camera edge: 1.5mm Drop protection: 8 feet (Bold Flex), 10 feet (Align) Button covers: Plastic Colors: 500 different designs Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Casely makes several types of case for the iPhone 18 Pro series. The Classic case is lighter, slimmer and more flexible with a glossy finish (1mm raised screen and camera edges), while the Bold Flex case is more protective (with 8-foot drop protection) and comes with a matte finish and 3mm raised edge. The Align cases offer an even more premium defense, with claimed 10ft drop protection and a soft-touch grip, and There are nearly 500 designs to choose from. Some I wouldnt dare take out of my pocket but everybodys different, right? There are psychedelic patterns, Beatles cases, psychedelic Beatles cases, plain/plaid/gingham/checkerboard/mirrored/marbled cases, impressionist cases and some just plain crazy styles from a Stephen King kindergarten. Casely also offers Grippy , a silicone suction phone mount with MagSafe that securely fastens to flat, glossy surfaces such as mirrors and windows for hands-free photo and video shooting or browsing. Casetify iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Cases Customizable cases for everyone Pros So many designs Optional protection levels Optional stand Price When Reviewed: From $42 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $42 View Deal Casetify 52 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 69g (Ultra Case) Raised screen edge: 1.4 to 1.8mm Camera edge: 0.54 to 2.2mm Drop protection: 8.2 feet (Impact), 11.5 feet (Ultra Impact), 32.8 feet (Bounce) Button covers: Plastic Colors: 1,000s of different designs Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: All iPhone 18 Pro series Fancy making your iPhone 18 Pro look like an old-school camera, or feature ripple or cloud effects, cartoons, Spiderman, drunk cats, polka dots, stars, and more? Yes, drunk cats. Not only does Casetify have an enormous range of thousands of iPhone case designs, but it offers many with different levels of protection: the slim Impact Case (for everyday defense of up to 8.2-foot drop protection); Ultra Impact Case (heavy duty with extra corner cushioning, thicker bumpers, and more pronounced raised edges, for up to 11.5ft drops); and Bounce & Ultra Bounce Cases (even stronger shock-absorption tech, with up to 32.8-foot drop protection). You can also choose to include an integrated camera ring that flips out as a stand when you need it and folds flat when you dont. Casetify Maybe the most bizarre/fun case for the iPhone 18 Pro/Max is the Casetify Cloud Case , pictured above. Built with a premium soft-touch silicone, and offering 6.6ft. drop protection, this case features a Michelin-Man-like protective puffed bumper and body with an ergonomic grip. The raised bezel from the screen is a mighty 2.1mm with 2.4mm raised camera ring. Available in Cotton, White, Sky Blue, and Marshmellow Pink, it is sadly not MagSafe compatible as most of the other Casetify cases are. Zagg Milan, Luxe and Sedona Cases for iPhone 18 Pro Fashionable yet protective cases Pros Range of styles and models Kickstand option Price When Reviewed: $54.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $49.99 View Deal $54.99 View Deal Zagg $54.99 View Deal $54.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 34g Raised screen edge: 2mm Camera edge: 1.2mm Drop protection: 16 feet (Sedona), 13 feet (Milan), 10 feet (Luxe) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Obsidian, Glitter, Polka, Ethereal, Navy, Pink, Mint, Navy, Gray, Green and more Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Zagg embraces fashion with its Milan range of iPhone cases, from ethereal waves to polka dots with many varied styles to choose fromwe are particularly taken by Ethereal Wave and Essence, but were not sure all the choices are exactly super-model. The Milan case can be purchased with or without a kickstand but all are MagSafe compatible, with a textured grip and robust 13ft drop protection. The Sedona series of cases feature more deep, muted tones than the sometimes wild Milan, but still with super-tough 16ft drop protection. It comes with a secure grip and kickstand option. The Luxe Case features lesser but still effective 10ft drop protection and is made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials in a handful of diverse colorways. Nomad Sport Case Smooth and grippy at the same time Pros Smooth backplate Grippy bumpers Price When Reviewed: $55 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $55 View Deal Nomad $55 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 47g Raised screen edge: 1mm Camera edge: 0.5mm Drop protection: 8 feet (2.4m) Button covers: Metal Colors: Driftwood, Lunar Gray, Black, Rosewood Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max The minimalist Sport Case features both a satin-smooth backplate and grippy bumpers to make it less easy to accidentally drop but still easy to pull from a pocketsome cases force you into an embarrassing tug of war as you try to extract it from your trousers. Interchangeable Stellar Orange buttons are included, which is a fun touch. With 2.2mm thick bumpers, its drop protection is 8 feetso perfect for placing on the top of your head even if you are very tall. ESR Classic Hybrid Case for iPhone 18 Pro Affordable protection with great flexible stand Pros Frosted or clear Flexible Stand Drop protection Wide color range Price When Reviewed: $33.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $29.99 View Deal ESR $29.99 View Deal $33.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 47g Raised screen edge: 1.2mm Camera edge: 2.4mm Drop protection: 16 feet (5m) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Clear, Black, Blue, Bubblegum Pink, Deep Burgundy, Misty Blue, Orange Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max ESRs Classic Hybrid Case for the iPhone 18 Pro series offers a clear or frosted TPU, PC and acrylic body that offers super-robust 16-foot drop protection plus an adjustable Flex stand that is an effective zinc-alloy camera-lens guard when not acting as the stable stand. On top of the varied color options, stand and protective functions, it is attractively priced. The Clear version of the ESR Classic Hybrid Case is best if you want to stick to Apples original iPhone color, and the MagSafe logo is much less obtrusive than on Apples own Clear Case. Above we see Apples new Burgundy next to the now sadly departed orange color in Apples new iPhone family. OtterBox Figura and Lumen iPhone 18 Pro Cases Smooth, minimalist cases Pros Soft and smooth finish Choice of designs Price When Reviewed: $39.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $29.99 View Deal OtterBox $39.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 27g Colors: Crema, Black, Eros (pink), Polus (blue), Terra (brown), Pois Green, Tortoise, Garden, Petals Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max A simple minimalist iPhone 18 Pro series case, the OtterBox Figura Case is the brands most affordable case while still offering a covered camera plateau and raised edges, plus MagSafe compatibility. It has a soft, smooth texture, and we like the plain but Apple-simple Crema color (first pictured above)although there are a bunch to choose from and not all are as plain. The similar but lower-profile OtterBox Lumen Case (Black only, shown on right of the picture above) is the lightest at just 34g. As with the Figura case, drop protection is down to 1x but that should still save you from casual drops and knocks. The OtterBox Commuter (3x), Sole (5x), and Defender Pro (7x) also reviewed here offer higher levels of drop protection. Torras Ostand cases Punchy looks and great stand Pros 360 precision stand Various protection levels Wonderful color choices Cons So many models to choose from Price When Reviewed: From $42.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $39.99 View Deal Torras $42.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 47g Raised screen edge: 1.2mm Camera edge: Up to 1.45mm Drop protection: 8 to 16 feet (2.4m to 5m) Colors: Many, many Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Aside from its stellar array of fun color choices, what (ahem) stands out about the Torras Ostand range of iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max cases is its 360 precision Ostand that rotates all the way around for stable hands-free support. Turning it can get addictive like with a fidget spinner. The cases themselves are well built and come in all sorts of hues. Hats off to the buzzing naming teams for color titles such as Dusk Purple, Violet Summit, Polar Slate, Amber Brown, Raspberry Mist, Moon Jellyfish, Blueish Mint, and more. The cases arent just fun to look at, they feel great in the hand, too. Youll need a while to inspect the whole range, which offers maybe too many models to choose from. These include the entry-level Ostand Q3 Spin (also available as a clear case), with claimed 8ft drop protection and raised screen and camera guards. The Ostand Q3 Air Pro is my favoriteit has an anti-slip side texture to improve hand grip, Air Pro Tech protection with a dual-layer airbag system (Air Duet) that absorbs impact in stages: the outer airbag intercepts impact, while the inner airbag disperses residual shock. It claims 16.4ft drop protection. Torras The Ostand Q3 VegSkin features a refined leather-inspired touch, the Ostand Gradient Air available in Dusk Haze, Alaska Aurora, or Arizona Glow, and the Ostand Q3 Air Football Limited (pictured above) has options that match national soccer jerseys, including USA, Argentina, England, Portugal, and Germany. You dont have to be a football fan to chose this case, you might just be fond of the flags. UNIQ Lyden DS, Elix and Keva Mv cases for iPhone 18 Stylish form and function Pros Good-looking slim cases Flexible 360 spinner kickstands (Elix and Keva) Price When Reviewed: $37.90 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price UNIQ $37.90 View Deal $45.48 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Optional Weight: From 39g Raised screen edge: 1.3mm (Lydon/Keva); 1.5mm (Elix) Camera edge: 2.3mm (Lydon); 2.9mm (Keva); 3.2mm (Elix) Drop protection: 8 feet (Lydon/Elix); 13 (Keva) Button covers: Metal Colors: Deep Maroon, Sage Steel, Sandy Brown, Charcoal Grey, Cloud Stone, Volt Orange, Carbon Black Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max UNIQ has a wide range of premium cases for the iPhone 18 series. Made from redefined, UV-resistant Verda vegan leather, the Lyden DS Case has a firm protective backplate and decent-sized aluminum camera bezel and side buttons, plus a soft microfiber lining to prevent scratches. It has a claimed drop protection of 8 feet (2.5m). The Elix Case has a dirt-resistant, leather-textured VeluxeSkin silicone exterior with the same durable protection, and adds a flexible Mvion spinner kickstand that can flip 180 to adjust your viewing angle and rotate 360 to find the right orientation. The camera lenses are further protected with a shield around them. Made with lightweight but super-tough impact-absorbing Aramid Fiber, the Keva Mv Case takes durability a step further, with 13-foot (4m) drop defense. Its Mvix spinner kickstand is even smoother than the one on the back of the Elix. Mous Printed Collabs cases Clear case with printed designs Pros Wide range of 100 designs Customizable bump, stand, button colors Anti-yellowing Price When Reviewed: $79.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Mous $79.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Optional Weight: From 39g Raised screen edge: 1.8mm Camera edge: 0.5mm Button covers: Plastic Colors: Many designs (Black or Stone sides) Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max You can order from Mouss wide range of designs, printed on durable, rigid iPhone 18 Pro/Max cases with the companys AiroShock tech, similar to the companys Clarity clear cases but with less of the iPhones original color showing throughthese designs are more fun. Choose from Stripes and Checks, Floral, Animal Prints, Polka Dots, Serpent, and Fruits. Our favorite is called Deconstruct, which acts as if you can see the circuitry inside your iPhone. That would make it even clearer than the clear case, which is a bit of a mind-bender. Burga iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max cases Stylish fade-resistant designs Pros Over 500 original designs Protective options Fade-resistant hard shell Price When Reviewed: from $59.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $59.95 View Deal Burga $59.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Optional Weight: From 46g Raised screen edge: 1.7mm Camera edge: 0.6mm; 0.8mm (Elite) Button covers: Plastic Colors: 500+ designs Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Another enormous range of designs is available from Burga, a favorite of my daughter and with a plethora of out-there patterns and pictures. There are over 500 to choose from, so give your self time to scroll. There are also three different case types: Tough, Elite, and Elite Mirror. Tough is a classic glossy, lightweight hard shell case, while the Elite features higher end structural benefitsincluding CloudGuard shock absorption, microfibre lining, and improved side grips. The Elite Mirror a reflective surface and premium metallic camera bezels. Burga has another case type called the Puffy Elite that has a squishy texture made with a soft, bouncy, and touchable exterior, but there were no puffy cases for the 18-series at the time of writing, mores the pity. Best protective cases for iPhone 18 As pretty as some iPhone cases are, your principal consideration should be protection. Most decent cases offer reasonable protection, but these protective cases have extra robust features while often adding as little bulk as possible by using the latest, strongest materials. Kevlar is the material used to make bulletproof vestsits also known as Aramid Fiber but I wouldnt try turning a rifle on it. Graphene is even stronger, and would probably make Superman wince trying to snap it in half. Other protective iPhone cases dont worry so much about thinness, and bulk up to protect your iPhone from the worst disasters that can befall it. These might suit you if you work in riskier environments or are an active outdoors iPhone user. Material matters too: Graphene (elastic yet harder than diamond and up to 200x stronger than steel, according to case makers) or Kevlar (the material used to make bulletproof vests) for serious durability. Kevlar is a type of Aramid Fiber , a strong, heat-resistant synthetic material that gives the material incredible strength and stability. OtterBox Defender Pro, Sole & Commuter Cases Serious multi-layer protection Pros Grippable rubber edges Three- or two-piece designs Super protection level Price When Reviewed: From $69.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $53.85 View Deal OtterBox $69.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 50g (Pro XT); 63g (Pro) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Black, Blue, Green Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max You have to work to get the maximum protection for your iPhone. You construct the OtterBox Defender Pro cases for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max from either two or three protective pieces. OtterBox claims it has been tested to 7x military-grade protection levels, which is a grander claim than any other case maker. The slimmer two-part Defender Pro XT case remains reasonably thin but lacks the grippier sides of the three-part non-XT model. Its back is clear, although some versions have a pattern on top. Both feature shock-absorbing corners that dont bulge out too much as on some ultra-protective cases. The final third layer on the Defender Pro provides grippy sides and back to help prevent phone drops in the first place. These cases include a clever cover for the USB-C charging port to stop fluff and other debris entering and causing charging problems down the line. With 5x military-grade protection, the OtterBox Sole Case is a one-part design with a high-ridge tread around the case edge that feels rugged and adds grip. Theres an Xtra Hot Pink version for adventurous pinkies, who will also appreciate its removable, colorful finger loop. OtterBox Also highly protective, the OtterBox Commuter Case , pictured above, comes with a new retractable finger grip that tucks away flat when you dont need it and opens with a single finger when you do ($59.99) and without ($49.99). Military-grade protection is down from 7x to a still-impressive 3x as commuters are less at risk of wandering into combat zones on the way to the office. Its a slimmer dual-layer design with an inner rubber cover to absorb impacts and a rigid outer shell for bangs and scrapes, and again the charging port is covered. Also available at Amazon . Zagg Rainier and Teton Cases for iPhone 18 Pro Extreme 22-foot drop protection Pros High 22-foot drop protection Rainiers high raised screen edge Price When Reviewed: $69.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $69.99 View Deal $69.99 View Deal $69.99 View Deal Zagg $69.99 View Deal $69.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 68g Raised screen edge: Up to 2.75mm Camera edge: 1.2mm Drop protection: 22 feet (6.7m) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Black, Pop Pink, Wild Green, Sandstone, Navy Blue, Moss, Aubergine, Electric Orange Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Zagg has two super-protective cases, each with 22ft drop protection. Both the Rainier and Teton cases (who dreams up these names?) are put together in a two-piece construction with reinforced frame and rugged case with impact-absorbing bumpers. Both feature a dual-orientation kickstand that lies flush with the case when folded in. In terms of looks, the Teton has a plainer design and the Rainier is colored on the sides and edges. The difference is also pronounced at the vulnerable edges with the Ranier boasting a 2.75mm raised edge around the screen compared to the Tetons shorter but still above-average 2mm. Zagg markets its Teton iPhone case as engineered for harsh environments and rough terrain, and it comes with a holster for outdoor carrying. Rokform Rugged and Crystal Nothing looks tougher Pros Super protection level Magnetic case Bike/Car mount system Cons Chunkier than others Price When Reviewed: $69.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $69.99 View Deal Rokform $69.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 75g Raised screen edge: 2mm Camera edge: 1mm Drop protection: 6 feet (1.8m) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Black, Semi-Clear Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Available only in black ( Rugged Case ) and a black and admittedly barely clear ( Crystal Case ) Rokforms cases for the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max appear to have only one thing on their minds, and thats super protectionbut theyre actually more clever than that. For protection, few cases look as toughthe build pairs a shock-absorbing TPU inner shell with a rigid polycarbonate outer shell and reinforced corners that push impact away from the screen and camera for true 360-degree defense. The sides are textured for better grip. Theres undoubtedly added bulk but it still adds only 4.15mm thickness. If you want to see a little of the iPhones own color, the Crystal Case has the same defensive highlights but a semi-clear design. On the tough back of each case, the companys RokLock twist-lock system attaches to a full range of bike, motorcycle and vehicle mounts. With your iPhone safely inside the Rokform Rugged, you can crash your bike knowing that only you might get hurt. ESR Cyber Tough Magnetic Case Solid colors, solid stand, solid design Pros High protection level Built-in kickstand Color options Cons Protection comes with a little bulk Price When Reviewed: From $29.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $29.99 View Deal ESR $29.99 View Deal $33.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 72g Raised screen edge: 1.7mm Camera edge: 2.4mm Drop protection: 26 feet (8m) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Deep Burgundy, Misty Blue, Orange, Space Gray, Olive Green Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max ESRs most robust case is the Cyber Tough for the iPhone 18 Pro series. Drop protection is upped to 26 feet with its triple-layer shockproof structure featuring a rigid PC back, flexible TPE bumper, and PORON foam to absorb and disperse impacts. The adjustable Flex stand pulls out from the zinc-alloy camera-lens guard, making sure its hidden when not in use. Despite being so tough, the case is still available in a wide range of colors including a striking orange that shakes its fist at Apples culling of Cosmic Orange in the 18 lineup. Nomad Rugged Leather Case Refined robustness Pros 15-foot drop protection Matte fingerprint-resistant backplate TPU bumpers & camera ring Price When Reviewed: From $69 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $69 View Deal Nomad $69 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 47g (Pro); 55g (Max) Raised screen edge: 1.85mm Camera edge: 0.7mm Drop protection: 15 feet (4.6m) Button covers: Metal Colors: Norte, Balandra, Arroyo Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Nomads most protective iPhone 18 case is the aptly named Rugged Case. It has a combination of durable polycarbonate frame with fortified corner bumpers to protect your iPhone 18 from all angles. Drop protection is an impressive 15 feet, in case you like taking your iPhone out while climbing ladders or leaning out of windows. The backs feature eye-catching topographic maps based on Californian watersports spots famous for surfing and kiteboarding. UAG protective cases for iPhone 18 Pro Pros High protection levels Killer looks Price When Reviewed: From $55.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $59.95 View Deal UAG $59.95 View Deal $99.95 View Deal $99.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 50g Drop protection: 18-25 feet (5.5m to 7.6m) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Deep Burgundy, Misty Blue, Orange, Space Gray, Olive Green Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max If Judge Dredd had enough credits to buy the iPhone 18 Pro Max, hed probably head to UAG for its Monarch Pro Kevlar Case , with its chiseled corners and reinforced camera protection, plus impact-resistant TPU frame, inner hex pattern, and ballistic and tactile Kevlar inlay. UAG claims an impressive 25ft (7.6 meters) drop protection. Terminators T-1000 would probably go for the clearer UAG Plyo that is lightweight but still has a TPU shock-absorbing frame and durable polycarbonate backplate. Another almost-clear case is the ultra-light UAG Pathfinder with its sleek, translucent 18ft drop design particularly eye-catching in the Active Neon colorway. Robocop will choose the UAG Forged Carbon Fiber Case for its striking hand-laid forged carbon chip grain and 16ft drop protection. Mous Limitless cases Tough and attractive Pros Wide color range Upgradeable camera bump, stand, buttons Cons Some parts sold separately Price When Reviewed: From $69.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check on Amazon Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 41g Raised screen edge: 1.8mm Camera edge: 0.5mm Button covers: Plastic; Metal option Colors: Many colors Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Mous offers a range of protective cases to its iPhone 18 Pro series range, with its flagship Limitless Case, plus slimmer Aramid Fiber Ultra Thin and Super Thin cases. Limitless (from $69.99) is available in a range of colors and styles including the famous Mous Walnut finish to pretend your phone is carved from part of a tree, Black Leather, Speckled and of course Dark Cherry (the old and frankly better name for Apples Burgundy) for the iPhone 18 Pro and Max. Other colors include Marine and Sky (different shades of blue) Stone, and Sage (green). The Limitless case is built from stiff, interlocking AiroShock impact-absorbing materials that reduce torsion or twisting during impact, adding structural rigidity. During purchase you can swap in a Camera Guard (sold separately) for full camera-bump coverage, or a Camera Kickstand for hands-free viewing. You can also upgrade to sandblasted and anodized, machined aluminum buttons to color match your case. Mous offers a Super Thin Case (with 1.3mm sides and 2mm back, and slightly lower 1.2mm raised screen edge) plus the lightweight 30g Ultra Thin Aramid Case (0.7mm sides and 1.7mm back) made from a material more commonly found in ballistic protection. Torras Ostand Q3 Rugged Defensive but still fun Pros High protection levels Kickstand More fun color options Price When Reviewed: $49.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $44.29 View Deal Torras $49.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 60g Raised screen edge: 1.4mm Camera edge: 0.8mm Drop protection: 16 feet (5m) Colors: Jet Black, Island Blue, Plum Purple, Sunrise White Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max We mentioned the Torras Ostand cases earlier, and all offer decent everyday protection and more, but the Ostand Rugged likes to think of itself as the best when it comes to top-line defense. It is built with a flexible TPU bumper, dual-layer TPU air cushions at the top and bottom, 1.4 mm raised bezel around the screen, and a rigid 3mm rubberized matte PC back panel for impact protection and more comfortable grip. The fantastic Island Blue and Sunrise White colorways make it stand out from other super-tough iPhone 18 casesshowing that you dont have to look like a military armored vehicle to be tough, you can look a bit like a toddlers toy too. Pitaka Cairn, Summa and Edge Cases Aramid Fibre patterns Pros Woven aramid fiber design Smooth texture High protection level Price When Reviewed: From $59.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $59.99 View Deal Pitaka $59.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 33g (Cairn, Summa), 20g (Edge) Raised screen edge: 0.1-0.3mm Camera edge: 0.5mm Drop protection: 4 feet (Summa), 8 feet (Cairn) Colors: Burgundy, Sunset Moment, California Dream and Twilight and Midnight Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Pitaka is known for its tough woven aramid fiber cases with a pleasant silky-smooth texture. Distinctive colors include Sunset Moment, California Dream and Twilight and Midnight patterns, but there are also plainer and latticed patterns to choose from if the pretty patterns give you a headache. The Pitaka Cairn Case is the toughest, made from a combination of aramid fiber and shock-absorbing TPU. The four corners feature an arched design that creates space around the phone, acting like built-in air cushions. On impact, they should deform to absorb shock. The sleek Pitaka Summa Case has a slightly slimmer profile but the robust same aramid fiber shell. The super-thin Pitaka Edge Case leaves more of the sides exposed but still offers solid protection despite being only just over 1mm thick and weighing less than 20g. It uses what Pitaka calls Mammoth Resin fused with the aramid fiber to reinforce structural integrity. Speck Candyshell Icon Case for iPhone 18 Playful grippers Pros Wide color range No-slip grips Price When Reviewed: $39.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $39.99 View Deal Speck $39.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 41g Drop protection: 13 feet (4m) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Black Licorice, Sour Apple, Vanilla Forest, Berry Taffy, Grape Soda, Tangerine Sour, Bubblegum Pop, Blue Raspberry Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Available in eight splendidly named bold colorsSour Apple anyone?the slim CandyShell Icon series from Speck is both playful and robustly protective, with dual-layer impact-absorbing shock corners providing up to 13 feet of drop protection without the adding a lot of bulk. To stop drops happening in the first place, the cases feature comfortable but no-slip inverted grips. Smartish Gripmunk and Gripzilla Cases for iPhone 18 Seriously grippy Pros Contoured finger grooves and textured sides Air-pocket corners Price When Reviewed: 24.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $19.99 View Deal $24.99 View Deal Smartish $24.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Optional Weight: From 40g Raised screen edge: 1mm Camera edge: 1mm Drop protection: 6 feet (1.8m) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Black Tie Affair, Moving Mountains, Liquid Sky, Blues on the Green, So Jaded, Very Cherry Blossom Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max The clue is in the name of these iPhone cases: the best defense for dropping your phone is not to drop it in the first place, and grippy textured sides and backs will help you keep your phone in hands and not spiralling to the hard floor (or worse) beneatha friend of mine dropped her iPhone in the toilet at a Hungarian music festival Remarkably it was found a few days later, but she couldnt face using it again after that incident! The slim Gripmunk Case has the textured sides, as well as cushioned air-pocket corners and raised edges to protect your phone if even the grips dont do the trick. The Gripzilla Case goes further with special finger grooves as well as the grippy sides, plus the same air-pocket corners and raised edges to guard your screen and camera. Both some in an interesting and refreshing selction of designs. Best leather and faux-leather cases for iPhone 18 Looking for a more luxurious look? There are many fine leather cases, more animal-friendly vegan leathers, and cases made from fully recycled materials such as Apples own TechWoven fabric made from 100 percent recycled polyester. Nomad Leather Cases Traditional, Modern, Clear, Back Pros Stylish Horween and Modern/Traditional options Price When Reviewed: From $69 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $59 View Deal Nomad $69 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 35g Raised screen edge: From 1mm Camera edge: 0.5mm Drop protection: 8 feet (Modern) Button covers: Metal Colors: Saddle, Rustic Brown, Black, Burgundy, Olde Dublin Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Nomad has four different types of leather cases for the iPhone 18 Pro series, including one that has leather only on part of the backplate. The Traditional Leather Case is available in Camino or Horween leathers with a full wrap from sides to back. Adding further protection, the Modern Leather Case has a grippy TPU bumper and 8ft drop protection. The interesting hybrid Clear Leather Case has has a clear polycarbonate body thats UV-blocking to stop yellowing, but also a leather back that hides the MagSafe elements that spoil that Apple Clear Case. If you like your iPhone 18s color and slimness more than most, the Mag Leather Back is an ultra-thin, precision-cut 2.2mm case-back that snaps on with micro-suction patches and an integrated magnet array. You lose any side protection but gain back the iPhones original thin frame. Apple iPhone 18 Pro TechWoven Case Apple's leather alternative Pros Tactile leather alternative Price When Reviewed: $59 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $59 View Deal $59 View Deal $59 View Deal $59 View Deal $59 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices MagSafe compatible: Yes Button covers: Metal Colors: Burgundy, Olive, Taupe, Chambray Blue, Mulberry, Black Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Apple has created its own custom technical woven fabric thats made from 100% recycled polyester. It looks great as it features multiple colored yarns woven togetheron a Jacquard loomthat creates a dimensional texture with a rich depth of color. There are six colors to choose from. As with its Silicone Case, Apples range is muted rather than vibrant. Look elsewhere for some fun, but TechWoven is certainly lovely to look at. Again, being an Apple case, you get the famous logo shown off at the back. To give a better grip, the TechWoven Cases sides are coated with a lightly textured thermoplastic polyurethane. Native Union Neo Case for iPhone 18 Classy leather alternative Pros Super smart looks Cross-grained leather alternative Price When Reviewed: From $39.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $39.99 View Deal Native Union $39.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: From 38g Raised screen edge: 1.3mm (ReClassic); 1mm (Neo, Active) Camera edge: 0.8mm Drop protection: 6 feet (ReClassic); 12 feet (Neo) Button covers: Metal (ReClassic, Active); Plastic (Neo) Colors: Various (see below) Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Similar to Apples TechWoven Case for iPhone 18, Native Unions (Re)Classic Case has an equally tangled name but top-end premium build, made from beautifully textured recycled animal-free leather-like materials that are resistant to stainsa common complaint on Apples first TechWoven cases. It features 6ft (1.8m) drop protection with raised edges. Both the polycarbonate frame and microfiber lining are recycled for good measure, with metal buttons. As with Apples case, the colors are muted: Tan, Black, Burgundy, and Navy With a slightly higher 10-foor (3m) drop limit and tougher TPU frame, the Native Union Action Case is also crafted from animal-free leather, and features a reinformed camera block for lens protection. Available in Navy, Black, Sandstone, and Slate-Green Staying with an Apple-like theme but away from anything leather-like, Native Union has named its entry-level hard-backed case, Neo . While you cant fit a MacBook Neo in itcheck out the companys stylish sleeves for thatits a great option for either the 18 Pro or Pro Max iPhones with an anti-slip textured grip and what it calls Air Chamber Impact Absorbtion Technology for 12ft (3.6m) drop protection. We particularly like the Neos softer color range of Azur, Lemon, and Candy, plus Black if you must. Native Unions cases are designed to pair with the companys Wallet, City Sling, and City Grip wrist straps. ESR iPhone 18 Pro Max Atelier Case Vegan leather, zinc-alloy stand Pros Soft Vegan Leather Flexible Stand Drop protection Price When Reviewed: $42.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $39.99 View Deal ESR $42.99 View Deal $42.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 47g Raised screen edge: 1.85mm Camera edge: 0.5mm Drop protection: 12 feet (3.7m) Button covers: Metal Colors: Black, Deep Burgundy, Light Gray, Misty Blue Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max ESRs Atelier Case brings a mixture of a refined leather feel with robust protection, including drop protection up to 12 feet via its TPU frame, microfiber lining, and raised edges. Despite its vegan provenance it has a leather-like grain to fool cowboys and fashionistas. Id never heard of the word oleophobic before researching this case. Its a microscopically thin protective coating made of fluoropolymer materials that resists daily stains layer . One of its standout features is the Flex Stand that pulls out from the protective camera guard and adjusts from 15 to 69 for easy viewing in either portrait or landscape orientation. Troubadour Leather Cases Actual leather with mod option Pros Stylish Wallet option for 18 Pro and Max Price When Reviewed: $59 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $47.20 View Deal $59 View Deal Troubadour $59 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 40g Raised screen edge: 1mm Camera edge: 1mm Button covers: Metal Colors: Black, Basalt, Tan, Obsidian Green, Terracotta Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Previously sold under the Mujjo brand name, the Troubadour Leather Case for iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max is crafted from full-grain, velour Danish calfskin, vegetable-tanned and processed with waterless DriTan technology. As there are no plastic coatings, the leather acquires a patina over time. Inside theres a satin-soft Japanese microfiber lining. Troubadour, which makes some of Macworlds favorite MacBook bags , also sells a Modular Case model featuring a removable magnetic back panel that allows you to switch between two modes. With the magnetic panel removed, a leather bumper protects the sides and corners while leaving the back of the phone bare. MagSafe accessories, such as the $49 / 49 MagSafe 3 Card Leather Wallet Stand , sit snugly inside the cavity rather than stacking on the back, keeping the profile slim in hand and in your pocket. Casebell Vintage Luxe and Timeless Cases Personalize your leather Pros Personalization options Nice color range Price When Reviewed: $79 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Casebell $79 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 40g Raised screen edge: 1.15mm Camera edge: 1mm Button covers: Metal Colors: Racing Green, Stone Gray, Sky Blue, Umber, Dark Brown, Noir Black, Burgundy Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Casebell uses two leathers: Vintage Luxe is vachetta, vegetable-tanned in Tuscany; and Timeless Luxe is Italian nappa full-grain leather. Both are designed to age with a patina. A luxury microfiber lining protects against scratches and dust. Burgundy is dyed through in the same wine dark red as the iPhone 18 Pro/Max, and deepens with age rather than wearing off the way a coated finish does. Sky Blue matches Apples Glacier. Wed have loved Apple to make a Racing Green iPhone just like one of the Casebell casesfingers crossed for the iPhone 19 or whatever Apple decides to call the 20th anniversary iPhone. This case stands out with its personalization options with custom embossing in gold, silver, or blind emboss (up to 4 characters). Best wallet cases for iPhone 18 The iPhone is the new wallet with Apple Pay available digitally, but if you prefer to still carry physical credit, travel, cash, or ID cards you can buy iPhone cases with a wallet attachedor alternatively buy one that clamps on magnetically. Nomad Modern Leather Folio for iPhone 18 Classy leather wallet folio Pros Wallet folio Can protect iPhone screen Holds 3 cards and cash Horween and Camino Leather versions Price When Reviewed: From $99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Nomad $99 View Deal $119 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Can be affected by cards Weight: 70g (Pro); 81g (Pro Max) Raised screen edge: 1mm Camera edge: 0.5mm Drop protection: 8 feet (2.4m) Button covers: Metal Colors: Black, Taupe, Chocolate Brown, Midnight, Rose Quartz (Silicone) Available for: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max Nomad offers its Leather Folio in either Camino or Horween leathers. Horween leather is more expensive as its handcrafted by the historic Horween Leather Co. in Chicago, and presents a patina more quickly than Camino. There are three card slots and a compartment for cash, receipts or other important paper stuff. While you cant remove the whole wallet flapas you can on Decodeds Detachable Wallet Case reviewed belowyou can detach the magnetic clasp on the Nomad for a slimmer profile. Drop protection is claimed at up to 8 feet (2.4m). Decoded Leather Detachable Wallet Case remove wallet flap if you fancy Pros Detachable wallet folio Can protect iPhone screen Holds 3 cards and cash Leather and Silicone versions Price When Reviewed: $93 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Decoded $93 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: Can be affected by cards Weight: 40g Raised screen edge: 1.2mm Camera edge: 1.2mm Drop protection: 4 feet (1.2m) Button covers: Metal Colors: Black, Taupe, Chocolate Brown, Midnight, Rose Quartz (Silicone) Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Decoded makes its Detachable Wallet Case in either ECCO Leather or Polyurethane Silicone. On either, the wallet attaches and detaches magnetically. You take the wallet off and you keep a slim back cover, and then put it back on and you carry your cards again with the three-card plus cash compartment wallet folding over the iPhones screen in a folio-style. Its a neat magnetic option for when you dont need to carry your cards around, although not as 100% reliable as the Nomads fixed wallet wing. Drop protection is claimed at up to 4 feet (1.2m). While it can be used for wireless charging with the wallet in place, Decoded notes that if your iPhone doesnt start charging or charges slowly, you should take the wallet off and put it back on when you are done. The case itself can stay on your iPhone. Smartish Wallet Slayer Case for iPhone 18 Slim, static card holder case Pros Holds 4 cards and cash Kickstand option Price When Reviewed: From $34.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $29.99 View Deal Smartish $34.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide MagSafe compatible: No Weight: 39g (Pro); 45g (Pro Max) Raised screen edge: 1mm Camera edge: 1mm Drop protection: 6 feet (1.8m) Button covers: Plastic Colors: Black Tie Affair, Walnut Woods, Liquid Sky, Blues on the Green, So Jaded, Very Cherry Blossom Available for: iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max Amazon: iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max This side-loading design is different to the examples above, holding up to four cards plus cash with no moving parts. There are two models: Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 and Wallet Slayer Vol. 2 where the saffiano-textured vegan leather card holder doubles as a kickstand. The backplate design wraps nicely round the case sides. FAQ 1. What is Apples Ceramic Shield protection for iPhones? Apple introduced Ceramic Shield with the iPhone 12 in 2020, developed jointly with glassmaker Corning, and its been standard on every iPhone since (excluding the budget SE line). Its made by fusing nano-ceramic crystals into glass, then dipping it in molten salt so potassium ions swap places with smaller sodium ions, creating a compressive surface layer that resists cracking. This gave the original iPhone 12 four times better drop performance than the iPhone 11. Ceramic Shield 2 arrived with the iPhone 17 lineup in 2025, keeping the same crystal-infusion and ion-exchange process but with a refined composition thats roughly three times more scratch-resistant than the first generation, while retaining similar drop protection. On the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, Ceramic Shield 2 protects the front, while the back uses Ceramic Shield. 2. Why do you need an iPhone case? Your iPhone is a precision device that lives in an unpredictable worldpockets, bags, countertops, pavement. A case is what stands between an accidental drop and a cracked screen or shattered back. Its not a small risk either: plenty of new iPhone owners crack a screen within the first ten weeks of ownership ( source ). The IP68 rating means real dust and water resistance, but thats a lab resultreal life is messier. Add in the daily wear of being pulled in and out of a pocket, plus UV exposure over time, and the damage adds up quietly. A case wont make your iPhone indestructible, but it absorbs the everyday hits so you dont end up paying for a repair or a replacement. 3. Will the iPhone 18 Pro fit a case for the iPhone 17 Pro? The iPhone 18 Pro series are virtually identical to the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. Even my iPhone 16 Pro fits in an 18 Pro case, and it works just fineit looks a bit weird at the back, but otherwise fits nicely. On the other hand, a 17 Pro or 18 Pro wouldnt fit in a 16 Pro case because of the rear camera positioning. Rokform told Macworld that its iPhone 18 Pro case lineup is compatible with iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro models. However, its older iPhone 17 Pro case lineup is not compatible with iPhone 18 models due to camera plateau design differences. Cases designed with tight tolerances might therefore have a problem as the camera plateau on iPhone 18 Pro/Max is about 0.5mm taller than on iPhone 17 Pro/Max. Leading case manufacturer OtterBox reports that its iPhone 18 Pro/Max cases are also compatible with iPhone 17 Pro, so the cases can be used interchangeably between those two models. New cases are custom-built for each device to guarantee a perfect fit and protection, so buying a case built specifically for your iPhone model is the safest option. Check our roundup of the Best iPhone 17 Cases and Best iPhone 16 Cases for the older models. 4. Do I need a screen protector if I use a case? Yes, its still worth using a screen protector even if you have a case, as the two provide different but complementary protection. A case protects the back, corners, and edges of your iPhone, while a screen protector is designed to protect the display itself from scratches and cracks. Tempered-glass screen protectors can help absorb direct impacts and protect against everyday scratches and abrasions. A case with a raised screen lip offers some protection if your iPhone lands face down, but it cant prevent every object or surface from making direct contact with the screen. 5. What type of iPhone case offers the best protection? When it comes to maximum protection for your iPhone, the clear winners are rugged cases built with multi-layer materials and military-grade drop ratings. Rugged cases typically combine a hard polycarbonate outer shell with a shock-absorbing TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) inner layer, reinforced corners, and raised edges around both the screen and camera to prevent direct surface contact on drops. While silicone and leather cases offer decent everyday scratch protection, they simply cant match the impact resistance of a purpose-built rugged case. When choosing a protective case, look for: Raised screen edge around the front (at least 1mm) to keep the screen safely off surfaces. Raised camera edge (0.5mm minimum, some go up to 3.6mm). MIL-STD-810G certification a U.S. Department of Defense standard for durability. Reinforced corners for impact absorption. MagSafe compatibility if you wirelessly charge. 6. Do I need an iPhone case for iPhone 18? Many consumers damage their devices each year, with cracked, chipped or shattered screens the leading reason for iPhone repairs. A screen protector is an important first line of defense, but a case with a raised screen edge can much better protect the display from everyday knocks and drops, and tough sides and back will reduce the risk of damage from an accidental fall. Ceramic Shield 2, introduced with the iPhone 17 generation, protects the front of the iPhone 18 Pro and offers three times better scratch resistance than the iPhone 16 Pro. The back uses Ceramic Shield, which Apple says offers four times better crack resistance than the back glass used on earlier models. The 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are the best-protected iPhones yet, but a case is still worth buying. It helps keep that pristine finish looking new and, when its time to trade up, a well-protected iPhone can retain far more resale value than the cost of the case itself. How we test iPhone cases When we receive new cases, we test them for fit, button feel, grip, MagSafe strength and alignment, raised-edge camera and screen protection, bulk, weight, and day-to-day handling. Where we are unable to test a case ourselves, we assess it based on its specifications and our experience with other cases from the same manufacturer that have impressed us. We report manufacturers claimed drop-protection metrics. As we have listed iPhone cases only from trusted companies we feel safe in these claims but note that measurement is the makers own and not ours or Apples.

Purnekar murder: Thane mayor denies family links, Naresh Mhaske targets Sena UBT

Speaking at a press conference in Thane, Meenakshi Shinde said the police were conducting a detailed investigation and should be allowed to proceed without interference. I am ready to face questioning and will fully cooperate with the police if summoned, she said

Shinde Denies Involvement In Sena (UBT) Leader's Murder

Shiv Sena leader and former Thane mayor Meenakshi Shinde has vehemently denied any involvement in the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar. Her denial comes after Purnekar's son accused her and her husband of plotting the crime. Shinde has called for an impartial police investigation and pledged full cooperation, while police continue to probe multiple angles with a 23-member SIT.

Major Breakthrough In Shiv Sena Leader Pradeep Purnekar Murder Case

Police in Thane have arrested two key suspects, including the alleged shooter, in connection with the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar. The arrests of Nikhil Yadav and Nitesh Pawar followed technical surveillance, providing crucial leads into the crime that had previously caused tensions among party workers. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive and apprehend the remaining absconding suspects, with the victim's son accusing a former Thane mayor and her husband of involvement.

Shiv Sena Leader Murder: Thane Police Constitute SIT

Thane police have established a 23-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar, who was shot and stabbed. One person has been arrested, and the victim's son has accused former mayor Meenakshi Shinde and her husband, who deny the allegations.

Thane: Three arrested for chital skin trafficking, wildlife parts and car seized

Police said they recovered chital skin. A car, mobile phones and other material allegedly linked to the offence were also seized. Further investigations were underway

SIT To Probe Shiv Sena Leader Murder In Thane

Thane police have established a 23-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar. Purnekar was shot and stabbed on Tuesday night and later succumbed to his injuries. One arrest has been made, and two vehicles seized, with police investigating all angles under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Arms Act.

23-Member SIT To Investigate Killing Of Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader

Thane Police Commissioner Ashutosh Dumbre constituted an SIT led by Amarsinh Jadhav, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch). It also includes two Assistant Commissioners of Police, three senior inspectors, six assistant inspectors, three sub-inspectors and eight police constables, to ensure a thorough investigation into the high-profile killing.

Thane Crime Linked To Urban Development

BJP MLA Sanjay Kelkar has attributed the rise in crime in Thane to the booming real estate sector, particularly redevelopment and cluster development projects. His statement follows the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar, highlighting concerns about anti-social elements emerging amidst rapid urbanisation.

SatLeo Labs on TAPAS-1 mission, Series A and satellite manufacturing plans

SatLeo Labs is set to launch TAPAS-1, its first thermal-imaging payload, aboard SpaceXs Falcon 9 Transporter-18 mission via Dhruva Spaces LEAP-2 platform on October 1, 2026. The mission is intended to validate the Bengaluru-based startups thermal-sensing technology, which captures temperature patterns across the Earths surface and can support applications such as crop-stress monitoring, urban heat mapping and forest-fire detection. On the sidelines of the launch, Dataquest spoke to Urmil Bakhai, Chief Strategy Officer at SatLeo Labs , where he excusively talked about the companys commercial plans, letters of intent worth more than US$50 million, a planned Series A fundraise, and a proposed satellite manufacturing facility near Ahmedabad. The company is also working towards a larger satellite constellation through its planned TAPAS-2 and PYRO missions. What distinguishes TAPAS-1 from existing government satellites with infrared imaging capabilities, and what is the mission expected to demonstrate? India, through ISRO, already has thermal sensing capabilities on some satellite missions, primarily for climate monitoring and government applications. TAPAS-1 is different because it is a commercial technology demonstrator for our broader thermal intelligence platform. It will help us validate our sensor capabilities and data-processing pipeline in orbit. Our flagship mission, PYRO, is planned to combine medium-wave infrared (MWIR), long-wave infrared (LWIR) and optical sensors to generate an opto-thermo-fused dataset.TAPAS-1 carries a relatively small payload weighing approximately 1.5 kg, while PYRO is planned as a microsatellite in the 150 kg class. The TAPAS-1 mission is the first step towards building a commercially accessible thermal intelligence platform for applications including agriculture, forest fire monitoring and urban heat mapping. What can thermal imagery reveal that conventional optical satellite imagery cannot, and what are the key specifications of TAPAS-1 and the planned PYRO mission? Optical imagery shows what is present on the Earth's surface, while thermal imagery adds information about how the surface behaves. For instance, optical imagery can identify buildings, roads and industrial facilities, whereas thermal data can help identify heat patterns across urban areas and changes in the thermal profile of infrastructure.Thermal sensing also works at night because it measures emitted infrared radiation rather than relying on reflected sunlight. TAPAS-1 has a native spatial resolution of approximately 60 metres, and our immediate focus is on validating the sensor and data quality. PYRO is being designed for sub-10-metre resolution, with super-resolution algorithms potentially enabling outputs at around five metres. Our target temperature accuracy is approximately one Kelvin. Who are SatLeos prospective customers, and how does the company plan to commercialise its thermal intelligence data? We have received letters of intent worth more than US $50 million from partners across different regions, including India, Italy and other Western markets. These include agricultural and downstream companies, as well as data aggregators such as Australia's ArthiSpace and Space Button 2, a Middle Eastern space intelligence company. These letters of intent are generally non-binding and represent prospective business rather than confirmed revenue or signed commercial contracts. We have also conducted pilot projects to validate our data insights platform. Rather than simply selling raw satellite images, we want to provide actionable information. Customers will be able to select their area of interest and purchase processed insights through our platform.For agricultural customers, for example, these could include drought monitoring, Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) alerts, vegetation health indicators, water stress levels and crop stress information at the farm level. What were the Ahmedabad and Tumakuru municipal corporation projects focused on, and how was thermal intelligence used in each case? In Ahmedabad, we conducted a pilot with the municipal corporation during peak summer. We combined publicly available datasets with ground-validated information from Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and drones. We provided ward-wise temperature information and a predictive model covering the following three days. For the Ahmedabad pilot, we used open-source satellite data and applied super-resolution algorithms to generate ward-level temperature information at a 30-metre 30-metre resolution. Drone imagery and data from some Internet of Things (IoT) devices were also used to support and improve the super-resolution process. The reported temperature forecast performance of 2C to 3C refers to the comparison between forecasts and actual temperatures, which were checked through ground-truth measurements. Citizens could scan a QR code to identify heat-prone areas. The corporation could then prioritise interventions, including drinking water points, shade and the distribution of medicines in the most heat-vulnerable wards. In Tumakuru, we monitored the solid waste dump and landfill area using drones equipped with thermal cameras alongside satellite data. We developed an analytics platform that allowed the municipal corporation to monitor conditions across the landfill and identify areas requiring attention.The company said methane leakage was directly measured using thermal data, with algorithms used to analyse temperature variations and identify relevant patterns. A single satellite has limitations in coverage and revisit frequency. What is your constellation plan, and when do you expect to deploy the next missions? We plan to deploy 1215 PYRO satellites over the next three to four years, alongside four to five TAPAS satellites. Our aim is to cover the global land surface twice a day once the constellation is operational.TAPAS-1 alone will not provide that frequency of coverage. As we add more satellites, we expect to improve temporal resolution and revisit locations more frequently.TAPAS-2 is scheduled for the second quarter of 2027, around April or May. For PYRO, we are targeting late 2027, depending on launch availability, or early 2028 at the latest. How are you using AI and machine learning to convert satellite data into actionable insights, and what capabilities are planned for future missions? We use proprietary and open-source algorithms to process sensor data, correct alignment and radiometric and geometric errors, clean up the data, and convert it into useful information for customers. From TAPAS-2 onwards, we plan to introduce edge computing, allowing the satellite to process data onboard and transmit only relevant information. For example, in forest fire monitoring, the satellite could identify when certain thresholds are crossed and transmit an alert rather than the entire dataset.We plan to incorporate an AI chip onboard TAPAS-2 to support this capability. TAPAS-1 will use machine learning at the platform level, rather than onboard processing. How is SatLeo funding its expansion, and when do you expect the missions to begin contributing more significantly to revenue? We have raised a total of US $6.7 million across three funding rounds. Our first round was US $3.3 million in pre-seed funding, followed by a US $2.2 million seed round and US $1.2 million in pre-Series A funding. This capital is intended to support TAPAS-1, TAPAS-2 and PYRO. Following the TAPAS-1 launch, we plan to raise a Series A round to support the constellation and our proposed satellite manufacturing facility near Ahmedabad. We currently generate a small amount of revenue from pilot projects, and our focus is on converting these into larger engagements. TAPAS-1 itself is not expected to contribute significantly to revenue; TAPAS-2 is where we expect a more direct link to revenue generation. Initially, we expect a larger share of our business to come from government customers. Defence is a key area of interest, although some discussions remain ongoing. Beyond the launches, what are your priorities over the next 12 to 24 months? We plan to establish partnerships with downstream companies across different regions and expand the reach of our data and analytics offerings. We are also planning to establish our own satellite manufacturing facility near Ahmedabad.Our focus will be on expanding our go-to-market operations, particularly in international markets, and building a stronger sales presence outside India.TAPAS-1 is an important milestone for us. The team has developed the payload in approximately six to eight months, and we are proud of the work that has gone into the mission.

Uddhav Thackeray Visits Family of Slain Thane Leader Pradeep Purnekar, Questions Law and Order in Maharashtra

Uddhav Thackeray met the family of Pradeep Purnekar, who was murdered in Thane, raising concerns about Maharashtras law and order situation. Uddhav Thackeray Visits Family of Slain Thane Leader Pradeep Purnekar, Questions Law and Order in Maharashtra

Thane: Man poses as RTI activist, extorts Rs 1.35 lakh from developer; booked

The accused has been identified as Tribhuvan Lalbihari Singh, 47. According to police, he allegedly targeted the developer's construction sites in Airoli and Digha from the first week of May 2026

Murder of Sena (UBT) leader: In police statement, son blames ex-mayor of Thane, her husband

Pradeep Purnekar was shot dead in Thane, leading to major protests by his family and supporters. His son, Ram Purnekar, has accused Meenakshi Shinde and her husband of orchestrating the crime. The police arrested one suspect and detained another in connection with the murder case.

Purnekar Murder: Son Points Finger At Former Thane Mayor

The son of slain Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar has accused former Thane mayor Meenakshi Shinde and her husband of orchestrating his father's murder. The accusation comes amidst protests and increased pressure on the police, who have arrested one suspect and detained another. The son's statement details political rivalries, land disputes, and a prior warning from his father about potential targeting.

Sanjay Raut claims Shiv Sena UBT leader Pradeep Purnekar was silenced after challenging Thane drug mafia

The News Mill

Sena-UBT leader murder: 2 held, kin claim political rivalry

Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar was brutally murdered in Thane, Maharashtra, leading to one arrest and one detention. The incident has sparked widespread protests, with party leaders like Aaditya Thackeray and Sanjay Raut alleging political rivalry and demanding further arrests, including a former mayor and her husband. Police are investigating all potential angles, including personal enmity and Purnekar's activism against the builder lobby and drug networks.

Oppn attacks govt, asks if Thane is turning into Wasseypur

IMD yellow alert: Mumbai, Thane, Kolhapur likely to see rain, thunderstorms

The IMDs nowcast said light to moderate spells of rain, with the possibility of thunder and lightning, were very likely at isolated places in Mumbai, Thane and Kolhapur. The yellow warning is valid for three hours from 5.30 pm

US bipartisan delegation meets Dalai Lama in Dharamsala

Digital Desk | Dharamsala, Sep 30 (IANS) A high-level bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast met Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama at his residence here on Wednesday, against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The delegation comprised Representatives James Gallagher, Jimmy Patronis, Haley Stevens and Shri Thanedar. They were accompanied by Tibetan Prime Minister Penpa Tsering and Jigme Tsering of the New Delhi-based Office of the Dalai Lama. A senior Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) functionary said the meeting sent a message that the international community had not forgotten Tibet. Chinese repressive policies will not go unchallenged, the functionary said. Voice of Tibet, quoting the 91-year-old Dalai Lama in a post on social media platform X, said the Nobel Peace laureate told the delegation that Tibetans around the world placed great hopes in him as they had kept their struggle and traditions alive. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Mast said China was among the major issues discussed and expressed concern over what he described as Beijing's transnational repression. The threat from China in terms of transnational repression is far-reaching, Mast said, alleging that China monitors people and sends personnel to other countries to suppress activities it opposes. We believe in freedom and democracy for all of our people. These are fundamental differences between what China represents, what America represents, and what the people of Tibet seek, he added. Mast also said the Dalai Lama considered it important for Trump to meet Xi, describing them as leaders of two of the world's most powerful countries. He added that such a meeting did not diminish the US delegation's opposition to repression of people in China, including Tibetans and Uyghurs. The visit comes amid continuing tensions between Washington and Beijing over a range of issues, including human rights and China's policies in Tibet and Xinjiang. Beijing, which considers the Dalai Lama a 'separatist', had said that it was seriously concerned about the visit of the US lawmakers to Dharamsala. The Dalai Lama has been living in self-imposed exile in India since fleeing his homeland in 1959. Meanwhile, three years after the launch of the first vision paper, Securing Tibet's Future, by the 17th Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) launched a revised version of the paper here. The paper aims of fostering strong leadership-bureaucratic alignment in fulfilling the CTA's two key responsibilities: seeking an early resolution to the Sino-Tibet conflict and promoting the welfare of the Tibetan community in exile, while also ensuring efficient and effective administrative functioning of the CTA through strengthening its capacity.

Gutkha, soyabean oil worth 4.78 crore seized in Maharashtra FDA operations

In the first operation, FDA teams seized banned gutkha, pan masala and scented tobacco along with two trucks, collectively valued at 1.26 crore, following interceptions in Palghar and Thane districts

Maharashtra weather update: Thunderstorms, gusty winds forecast across state

The IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, light to moderate rain and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph at isolated places in Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Ahilyanagar, Pune, Kolhapur, Satara and Sangli

Sanjay Raut attacks Maharashtra govt over Thane Shiv Sena (UBT) leader's killing

Pradeep Purnekar, a local Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and city division head, died after unidentified persons allegedly shot and assaulted him within the jurisdiction of the Kapurbawdi police station at around 9 pm on Tuesday

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader shot dead in Thane; one arrested, another detained

Digital Desk | Thane, Sep 30 (IANS) Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, Pradeep Purnekar, was shot dead in Maharashtras Thane on Tuesday night, with police intensifying their investigation into the killing on Wednesday. One suspect has been formally arrested, while another is being questioned in connection with the case. The attack took place at around 9 p.m. in the Manpada-Manorama Nagar area, near Purnekars office and within the jurisdiction of the Kapurbawdi police station. According to police, unidentified assailants opened fire at Purnekar, hitting him twice. He was rushed to a hospital on Ghodbunder Road, where he died while undergoing treatment. CCTV footage examined by investigators showed that one of the two detained suspects was present at the scene during the firing and was allegedly involved in the conspiracy, while the other reportedly provided a vehicle to the two accused who carried out the shooting. One of the suspects has been formally arrested, while the other is being questioned by police. Investigators are also looking for other people who may have been involved in the attack and are examining CCTV footage from the area and surrounding roads to establish the sequence of events and trace the suspects movements. Pradeep Purnekars body was sent to Mumbais JJ Hospital on Wednesday morning for a post-mortem examination, DCP Prashant Kadam said. After the post-mortem, a detailed report will be available, he said. Reacting to the killing, Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey raised concerns over the law-and-order situation in Maharashtra. What has happened to Maharashtra? There are so many criminals, mafias, and murderers roaming freely that I cannot even tell you. Whether it is Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, Mumbai, and now Thane, late last night, a senior leader of our party, Shiv Sena (UBT), was shot dead Dubey told IANS. Reports said the attackers were wearing helmets and masks. Police are examining footage from multiple cameras and other evidence to identify all those involved and determine how the accused fled the scene. The killing has also raised questions about a possible connection with a proposed agitation against a local builder. Purnekar had reportedly announced plans to stage a protest over alleged irregularities by a local builder and had sought permission from the Kapurbawdi police for the demonstration. However, police have not confirmed any link between the proposed protest or the builder dispute and the killing. Investigators are examining multiple possible motives, including political rivalry and personal enmity. The exact reason behind the attack remains under investigation.

75-day traffic & power block: From October 1, 8 Mumbai-bound trains to be short-terminated as CSMT redevelopment resumes

Central Railway will impose a 75-day traffic and power block at CSMT from October 1 to December 15 for redevelopment work, affecting platforms 14 and 15. Eight long-distance trains will be short-terminated at Dadar and Thane during the period. The block is part of the Rs 2,450-crore CSMT redevelopment project, whose completion deadline has been extended to October 2028.

Saturns moon Enceladus may reveal signs of life without drilling, study finds

Furthermore, laboratory experiments demonstrate that Earths methane-producing microbes can survive in simulated Enceladus ocean conditions, enhancing its promise as a habitable world

Shiv Sena UBT questions Maharashtra CM after Thane leader

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Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar shot dead outside office in Thane

The shooting took place at around 9.30 pm, when the attackers allegedly opened fire at Purnekar outside his office before fleeing the area, according to police

Shiv Sena UBT Leader Pradeep Purnekar Shot Dead Outside Office in Thane, Probe On

Investigators were scanning CCTV footage of the area and surrounding arterial roads to trace the perpetrators' escape routes.

Shiv Sena UBT leader Pradeep Purnekar shot dead outside Thane office

The News Mill

Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Pradeep Purnekar Assaulted, Shot Dead In Maharashtra's Thane

Local Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar died in a hospital after unidentified assailants fired two rounds at him besides physically assaulting him in Maharashtra's Thane city on Tuesday night, police said. Purnekar was the Thane 'vibhag pramukh' or division head of the Uddhav Thackeray-led party, a Sena (UBT) leader said. The incident took place under the jurisdiction of the Kapurbawdi police station around 9 pm. The incident sparked tension in the area and triggered widespread concern among local party workers and supporters.

Shiv Sena-UBT Leader Shot Dead in Thane, Maharashtra

Pradeep Purnekar, a Shiv Sena-UBT leader, was shot dead in Thane amid rising tensions over local builder disputes. Shiv Sena-UBT Leader Shot Dead in Thane, Maharashtra

Team Uddhav Leader Assaulted, Shot Dead In Maharashtra's Thane

Local Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar died in a hospital after unidentified assailants fired two rounds at him besides physically assaulting him in Maharashtra's Thane city on Tuesday night, police said. Purnekar was the Thane 'vibhag pramukh' or division head of the Uddhav Thackeray-led party, a Sena (UBT) leader said. The incident took place under the jurisdiction of the Kapurbawdi police station around 9 pm. The incident sparked tension in the area and triggered widespread concern among local party workers and supporters.

Shiv Sena UBT leader Pradeep Purnekar shot dead by unidentified attackers outside party office in Thane

A shocking incident has come to light from Maharashtra's Thane district, where Pradeep Purnekar, the Manpada sub-division chief of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction, was shot dead on Tuesday. According to preliminary information, two unidentified attackers opened fire at him, firing more than two rounds. The incident reportedly took place when Purnekar was present at his office in the Manpada area. The attackers allegedly opened fire on him outside the office, leaving him seriously injured.

Who Was Pradeep Purnekar? Shiv Sena UBT Leader Shot In Thane; Dies During Treatment

Senior leaders of the party have demanded immediate arrests of the culprits and a swift probe into the incident.

Shiv Sena (UBT) neta shot dead outside party office in Thane

Pradeep Purnekar, a functionary of Shiv Sena (UBT), was shot outside his party office on Tuesday night. He sustained serious injuries and was taken to a private hospital where he was pronounced dead. This incident occurred in a residential area, raising concerns over law and order in the locality. Police are investigating the incident and reviewing CCTV footage to identify the assailants.

Attack on Shiv Sena Leader in Thane Leaves Him Injured

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar was shot by unknown assailants in Thane, prompting police investigation into the incident. Attack on Shiv Sena Leader in Thane Leaves Him Injured

Local Sena (UBT) leader dies in Thane after firing by unidentified assailants

Purnekar was the Thane 'vibhag pramukh' or division head of the Uddhav Thackeray-led party, a Sena (UBT) leader said

Attack on Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Pradeep Purnekar in Thane Leaves Him Hospitalized

Pradeep Purnekar, a leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), was shot by unknown assailants in Thane and is currently receiving treatment in a local hospital. Attack on Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Pradeep Purnekar in Thane Leaves Him Hospitalized

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar dies after assault, firing in Thane

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar died after he was allegedly assaulted and shot at by unidentified assailants in Thane, police said, according to PTI.

Overnight sand mining crackdown nets 10 barges, 16 suction pumps in Thane

India conveyed concerns over SRIA to US Congressional delegation: MEA

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS) India conveyed its concerns to a visiting US Congressional delegation over the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act (SRIA), including the impact it could have on bilateral relations and on the international energy market, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday. The Foreign Secretary had a meeting with the Congressional delegation. This happened on Sunday. The congressional delegation is led by the House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairperson, Congressman Brian Mast. At the meeting, various issues of a bilateral nature were discussed. The Foreign Secretary conveyed our concerns regarding the SRIA legislation, including the kind of implications it would have for the bilateral relationship as well as the international energy market, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said while replying to a question during a bi-weekly media briefing in New Delhi. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held the meeting with the bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman, Representative Brian Mast, on Sunday, with discussions held on bilateral ties, including the recently enacted SRIA and the future trajectory of the relationship. The two sides also held discussions on international issues of mutual concern, energy security, counter-terrorism, and freedom of navigation. The US Congressional delegation included Shri Thanedar and other US lawmakers. Discussions covered the entire gamut of India-US relations, including the recently enacted SRIA legislation and the future trajectory of the relationship. They also exchanged views on international issues of mutual concern, energy security, counter-terrorism and freedom of navigation, the MEA stated. Misri also held a meeting with US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker in New York last week, with discussions held on developments across various sectors of bilateral cooperation, including energy security, the recently enacted SRIA, civil nuclear cooperation, Transforming the Relationship Utilising Strategic Technology (TRUST) and the Indian Ocean Strategic Venture initiative. Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed possible sanctions against countries trading with Russia and Iran during a meeting in New York. Good to meet Secretary Marco Rubio of the US at UN High Level Week. Reiterated India's interests and concerns with regard to SRIA. Also discussed the Gulf and Ukraine situations, EAM Jaishankar had posted on X.

Crackdown in Thane against illegal sand mining; barges, suction pumps seized

The Thane district administration said all 10 seized barges were found to be unregistered with the Maharashtra Maritime Board and were therefore unauthorised

2021 Antilia bomb-scare: Mumbai court grants bail to ex-cop Sachin Vaze

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 29 (IANS) In the 2021 Antilia bomb-scare case, a Special NIA Court here on Tuesday granted bail to former cop Sachin Vaze but barred him from entering five districts, including Mumbai and Thane, till the recording of statements of key witnesses. Special Judge Chakor S. Baviskar granted bail to Vaze, who is also a suspect in the Mansukh Hiran murder case, against a personal bond and surety of Rs 1 lakh each and directed him to surrender his passport, a lawyer said. While offering relief to former encounter specialist Vaze, the Special NIA Court noted that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case of terrorism under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against him. The bail was granted on the condition that the former cop Vaze will not enter the jurisdiction of Brihanmumbai, Navi Mumbai, Raigad, Thane and Palghar districts until the statements of key witnesses are recorded. The court also directed the former Assistant Police Inspector (API) to provide his location information or the address of his proposed residence outside these five districts within seven days of the order. The Special Judge said that Vaze will be required to report to his local police station every Sunday between 12 noon and 3 p.m. and share his location on calls/video calls with the NIA or the police. The court noted that the gelatin sticks found in the car near outside Antilia the residence of a top industrialist - without detonators did not prima facie constitute a direct terrorist act or a threat to the country's economic security. The court noted that no statement has been recorded from any victim or member of the family living in Antilia. The Special Judge accepted Vazes plea seeking bail on the grounds of parity with other accused who had already been granted similar relief. His lawyers pleaded that co-accused Pradeep Sharma and Sunil Mane had already been granted bail by the Supreme Court and the High Court, and on the grounds of parity, Vaze should also be granted bail. Vaze had been in custody since March 13, 2021, and given the magnitude of the case (320 witnesses and a charge sheet of over 14,000 pages), the trial was unlikely to be completed soon, said his lawyer. According to the National Investigation Agency, an explosives-laden SUV carrying a threat letter was found parked near the multi-storey Antilia building in south Mumbai on February 25, 2021. Businessman Mansukh Hiren, who claimed that the SUV had been stolen from his possession, was found dead in a creek in Thane on March 5, 2021. Vaze was arrested in the case a few days later. The Special NIA Court framed charges against Vaze and nine others on August 1, 2026, paving the way for them to face trial under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and murder. The NIA said that Vaze was involved in parking the SUV with the motive of terrorising wealthy individuals and extorting money.

Tanishaa Mukerji calls Maharashtra state electricity board, a mafia

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 29 (IANS) Actress Tanishaa Mukerji has raised the issue of inflated electricity bills in Lonavala. On Tuesday, the actress took to her X, formerly Twitter, and penned a long note, as she expressed her anger at the Maharashtra state electricity board, and called them a mafia. She wrote, Maharashtra state electricity board in lonavala are behaving like mafia ! They are giving huge bills and forcing payment by cutting off electricity. She further mentioned, This is just criminal! Coming on a Saturday evening to cut off the electricity even if it is before the due date and just holding people hostage. @CMOMaharashtra @Dev_Fadnavis @myogiadityanath @AmitShah @TataPower pls come to lonavala ! There is no regulation. They are just doing whatever they want! #inhuman. Recent complaints over inflated electricity bills in Maharashtra have increasingly centred on the rollout of smart meters by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), popularly known as Mahavitaran. Consumers in Thane, Vasai-Virar, Palghar, Ulhasnagar and other areas have reported bills substantially higher than their previous consumption, with some alleging sudden spikes after meter replacement. In a recent case, a household in Nagpur received a bill of INR 1.44 lakh for 348 units. MSEDCL later acknowledged a meter-reading mismatch and revised the amount to about INR 13,800. MSEDCL maintains that smart meters do not inherently record higher consumption and says billing discrepancies can be investigated through meter testing. In Thane, the utility announced plans to install conventional check meters alongside 2025% of new smart meters and compare readings over two to three months. The authorities have also organised camps and technical teams to address the grievance and examine disputed bills and meters.

Antilia bomb scare case: Mumbai NIA court grants bail to ex-cop Sachin Waze

On February 25, 2021, an explosives-laden SUV was found parked near Antilia, the south Mumbai residence of industrialist Mukesh Ambani. The vehicle was later linked to businessman Mansukh Hiran, who was found dead in a creek in neighbouring Thane on March 5

EU eyes methane law delay, IEA to discuss oil stock releases if needed

The European Union is considering delaying its methane emissions rules for oil and gas imports, while International Energy Agency members may discuss whether

Bullet train: First steel bridge installed in Maharashtra after 1,300-km journey

The bridge is the first steel structure of its kind to be set up in Maharashtra under the ambitious high-speed rail project. It was transported to Thane from a specialised workshop in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, located around 1,300 km away, and assembled at the site before being launched into position

First steel bridge set up in Maharashtra for bullet train project

A 100-metre-long bridge, weighing 1,405 metric tonnes, for the ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has been installed in Maharashtra's Thane district, officials said on Tuesday. It is the first steel bridge set up in Maharashtra as part of the project, they said, adding that the structure was transported on trailers from a workshop in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, located 1,300 km away, and assembled on site for installation, the officials said. The 14-metre-high and as-wide structure was launched over National Highway-3 at Dive-Anjur village in the Bhiwandi area here on Monday, a release by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) said. With this installation, 16 out of the total 28 steel bridges planned along the entire bullet train corridor have now been completed, it said. Exemplifying indigenous technical and material capability under the Make in India initiative, the bridge was fabricated at a specialised workshop in Trichy. The structure was transported ov

Bullet train: First steel bridge set up in Maharashtra after being transported over 1,000 km

A 100-meter-long steel bridge for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has been successfully installed in Thane. This bridge, weighing 1,405 metric tonnes, is the first of its kind in Maharashtra. It was transported from a workshop in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, and assembled on-site after traveling 1,300 kilometers. Sixteen out of the planned twenty-eight steel bridges along the bullet train corridor have now been completed.

Thane Ganesh Mandal Member Held while Fleeing to Andhra

The incident occurred on Sunday night, and the accused was apprehended within 12 hours on Monday from a train at Kalyan railway station here as he tried to escape to his native place in Andhra Pradesh: Police

Shiv Sena leader thrashed inside police station

A Shiv Sena youth leader, Siddhesh Abhange, was allegedly assaulted inside Kopri Police Station in Thane over a monetary dispute with women involved in the textile business. The incident caused brief tension, and police are investigating, recording statements, and registering an FIR.

Sena leader allegedly attacked inside Thane police station over money dispute

Siddhesh Abhange, a youth leader affiliated with the ruling Shiv Sena, was allegedly attacked inside the police station during an argument that followed a disagreement over money, according to police

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.

SC stays Sena corporator's bail in hospital assault case

The Supreme Court has stayed the Bombay High Court's order granting bail to Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre, who is accused of assaulting doctors at a Thane hospital. The apex court emphasised that the medical fraternity must not be attacked, directing Mhatre to surrender within three days.

SC stays Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre's bail in Thane doctors' assault case, says medical fraternity can't be attacked

The Supreme Court halted the bail granted to Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre by the Bombay High Court. Mhatre is accused of assaulting doctors at a Municipal hospital in Thane district. The Supreme Court emphasized the protection of the medical fraternity, stating they should not be attacked. Mhatre has a history of involvement in 19 criminal cases, although he has been acquitted in 18.

Medical community can't be attacked: SC cancels Shiv Sena corporator's bail

Asserting that the medical fraternity cannot be touched, the Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Bombay High Court order granting bail to Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre who was accused of assaulting doctors at a municipal hospital in Thane district. The corporator was directed to surrender within three days A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta admitted the Maharashtra government's order appeal for hearing. The message should go out loud and clear that the medical fraternity cannot be touched. They serve people and cannot be attacked in this manner, it said. There was a similar incident involving the same party after the Mhatre episode, the apex court noted. Senior advocate Siddharth Dave, appearing for Mhatre, said two witnesses had already been examined. The complainant, a woman doctor, is to be examined on October 3, the trial has started and there is no obstruction, he said. The bench said the Mhatre incident also shows that he was involved in 19 criminal case

Four Assam labourers die after suspected toxic gas leak in septic tank in Meghalaya

Digital Desk | Shillong, Sep 28 (IANS) Four construction labourers from Assam died after reportedly inhaling suspected toxic gas while working inside an underground septic tank at Rangdokram village in Meghalayas South Garo Hills district, officials said on Monday. The incident occurred at the residence of Sebastian Ch Sangma in Rangdokram village, where the workers were engaged in construction-related work on a newly built septic tank. According to preliminary reports, two of the labourers attempted to open the lid of the underground tank when they suddenly collapsed after being exposed to fumes trapped inside. Two other workers reportedly rushed to their aid but were also overcome by the suspected toxic gases and fell unconscious. Police and personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services were alerted and rushed to the site. However, rescuing the workers proved challenging as the septic tank was located underground and access to the victims was severely restricted. The rescue teams were forced to dig through the soil surrounding the structure to reach the trapped labourers. During the operation, two fire personnel also reportedly lost consciousness after being exposed to the fumes. They were immediately provided medical attention. The four labourers were subsequently declared dead. The deceased have been identified as Mofidur Rohman, 34, from Diara, Purandiara in Mankachar; Ajiyer Rahman, 41, from Chengurchar, Purandiara; Ismail Hussain, 20, from Chomrashali, Kalapani; and Rakib Hussain, 22, from Boalia, Radhamadhab Hat. All four were residents of Assams South Salmara-Mankachar district. Preliminary findings indicate that inadequate ventilation or the absence of a proper gas outlet or soak pit may have resulted in the accumulation of hazardous gases inside the confined space. Septic tanks can contain gases such as hydrogen sulphide and methane, both of which can become potentially fatal at high concentrations. Authorities, however, have not yet confirmed the exact nature of the gas or established the precise cause of death. Further investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The incident has also highlighted the serious dangers associated with entering confined underground spaces without proper ventilation, gas detection equipment and safety measures.

Vinod Kambli Shares Message From Elderly Care Centre In Thane

Former India cricketer Vinod Kambli shared a video message from the Nidan Centre for Elderly Care in Thane, where he is currently staying. His positive words have drawn attention from cricket fans.

Over 25,000 jobs on offer as CM Fadnavis launches 'Rozgar Mahakumbh' on Sept 29

The job fairs will cover 12 districts, including Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg in Konkan, and Nashik, Ahilyanagar, Jalgaon, Dhule and Nandurbar in the Nashik division

Thane: Car catches fire near Ayyappa Temple in Wagle Estate

The incident was reported at around 11.48 pm near Ayyappa Temple. The vehicle, an MG Hector bearing registration number MH 49 BK 5588, was parked inside a shed at the Parnakuti building when it caught fire

Thane netas donate to Maharashtra drought relief funds

Thane court acquits man after 11 years in POCSO case, cites delay in FIR and lack of corroborative evidence

10,281 Ganpatis immersed as Thane noise nears 100 dB

Eknath Shinde Rushes to Aid Collapsed Traffic Cop in Thane Convoy

Thane Police Sub-Inspector Killed in Attack by History-Sheeter

Thane Ganeshotsav: 10,281 idols immersed on Anant Chaturdashi

Thane Municipal Corporation said 10,281 Ganesh idols, including 281 public idols, were immersed across the city on Anant Chaturdashi, with 6,867 immersions taking place in artificial ponds amid the civic bodys eco-friendly arrangements

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.

I have received a lot of love: Vinod Kamblis message from Thane care centre reassures fans, says he feels at home

Vinod Kambli has shared a video message from an elderly care centre in Thane, where he is currently staying, speaking positively about the facilities and treatment he has received. The former India cricketer praised the centres hygiene and cleanliness as first class and said the affection shown to him has made him feel comfortable and at home.

Hidden treasure scam: Thane woman allegedly duped of Rs 5.6 lakh

A 40-year-old woman in Thane district was allegedly cheated of Rs 5.6 lakh by four people who claimed hidden treasure was buried beneath her house. Police said the accused took Rs 4 lakh in cash and gold worth Rs 1.6 lakh during purported occult rituals

Acquittal In Child Assault Case Highlights Procedural Lapses

A special court in Thane has acquitted a 56-year-old man accused in a child sexual assault case, citing significant failures by the prosecution, including the inability to establish the suspect's identity and lack of photographic evidence. The court also noted the victim's denial of the assault in court.

Thane woman loses Rs 1.1 crore in fake share trading app cyber fraud

A 59-year-old woman from Thane allegedly lost Rs 1.1 crore after cyber fraudsters lured her into investing through a fake share trading app promising high returns

Thane: Two arrested with mephedrone worth Rs 11.6 lakh in Ambernath

Acting on a tip-off, Ambernath police intercepted the accused, Fakruddin Nizamuddin Sheikh, 20, and Asif Mohammad Qasim Sheikh, 26, on Tuesday night, an official said

Housing sales fall 6% to 103K units across top 9 cities in Q3: PropEquity

Housing sales fell 6 per cent to 1.03 lakh units in the July-September quarter across nine major cities, mainly due to subdued demand and lower fresh supply of homes, according to PropEquity. Global economic uncertainties also contributed to muted buying sentiments. Real estate data analytics firm PropEquity tracks primary residential markets in nine major cities -- Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune and Kolkata. Housing sales in these nine cities fell to 1,03,170 units in July-September from 1,09,420 units in the year-ago period, according to data. New supply fell to 98,165 units from 1,00,330 units during the period under review. Housing sales generally are slow during the July-September quarter because of monsoon rains, discouraging real estate developers from launching projects. Sales improve in the December quarter on account of festive demand. To cash in on this demand, developers increase fresh supply and also offer many incentives t

Black Magic Scam: Woman Defrauded In Thane

A 40-year-old woman in Thane, Maharashtra, was allegedly defrauded of Rs 5.6 lakh by four individuals who convinced her there was hidden treasure beneath her house. The accused performed black magic rituals and extracted cash and gold under false pretences, later fleeing with the valuables. Police have registered a case under relevant laws.

Pak reporter in EAM Jaishankar exchange had White House clash

Digital Desk | United Nations, Sep 26 (IANS) The Pakistani journalist who drew a sharp response from External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar at the United Nations had clashed with reporters over standing space before a White House news conference by President Donald Trump in April. Jahanzaib Ali asked EAM Jaishankar when India would stop sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan after the minister and Liberian Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti spoke to reporters on Friday about the safety of ships and seafarers. A terrorist country is asking me that question. Come on, EAM Jaishankar replied. Indias permanent representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, then told the journalist he had received his answer. Ali posted video of the exchange on his social media account. This IANS correspondent was present during the April 6 confrontation in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room, when Ali had a heated exchange with other White House correspondents, including women reporters, over his position near the front of the room. Several journalists had stood for more than two hours to secure places in the crowded room, following the customary first-come, first-served approach to standing space. About 15 minutes before Trump was due to speak, Ali breaking the decorum, quietly moved into a position ahead of them. Reporters nearby objected and asked him to move back. Ali refused and argued with them. More journalists joined the calls as he stood his ground and started arguing with them in an indescent manner. Veteran White House correspondent April Ryan saw the dispute and also told Ali to move back. A senior member of the White House press office came into the room and reprimanded him while the confrontation was underway. The Daily Beast reported the exchange the following day, quoting Ryan as calling out, Go to the back! It also reported that White House Correspondents Association President Weijia Jiang tried to restore order. The dispute took place before Trump entered the room. Alis White House press pass was reportedly revoked days later, according to information available to this correspondent. Sources also say he is no longer a member of the White House Correspondents Association or the National Press Club. However, Alis public social media profile still describes him as a member of both organisations. His current membership status and the reasons for the reported loss of his pass could not be independently established. Fridays UN exchange followed remarks on a new India-Liberia initiative focused on threats to commercial shipping and seafarers. Alis question shifted the interaction to India-Pakistan relations and prompted Jaishankars brief response. Ali is known for asking anti-India questions at press conferences in Washington DC and New York.

A Terrorist Country Asking Me That Question: Jaishankars Sharp Reply To Pak Journalist At UN

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar responded sharply to a Pakistani journalists question on terrorism during a press interaction at the UN headquarters in New York. Jaishankar and Liberias Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti were addressing the Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers when the journalist asked when India would stop allegedly sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan. Jaishankar replied, A terrorist country is asking me that question. Come on. Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, then intervened, saying the journalist had heard Jaishankars response loud and clear. The exchange came a day after a journalist questioned Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over harbouring terrorists.

Webb detects ammonia and unexpected chill on a distant giant planet

Using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), a team of astronomers led by the University of Maryland identified water, methane and ammonia in the atmosphere of HATS-6 b, a giant planet 500 light-years from Earth. The observations also revealed that HATS-6 b may be significantly cooler than standard calculations predict

Bodies of two girls, aged 7 and 4, found in Jogila Lake in Thane; probe launched

The bodies were taken to a hospital in Thane. Police have launched a further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the girls' deaths, officials said

Anandana The Coca-Cola India Foundation and Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Strengthen Responsible PET Collection During Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations Across Mumbai and Thane

The initiative builds on the broader Maidaan Saaf campaign, which focuses on promoting responsible plastic waste collection, segregation and recycling at high-footfall cultural events

Mother Demands Death For Son In Rape Case

The mother of dismissed police constable Shailesh Patil, accused in a rape case in Bhiwandi, Thane, has publicly sought the death penalty for her son. She alleges he has victimised multiple women and forcibly seized her property, rendering her homeless.

Two Minor Girls Found Dead in Thane Lake, Probe Underway

It is still unclear when and how the girls ventured into the lake and drowned, police informed

Cop dies after assault by history-sheeter in Thane

Thane: A police sub-inspector died during an operation after allegedly being assaulted by a history-sheeter in Maharashtras Thane city, officials said Friday, September 25. Deputy Commissioner of Police Prashant Kadam said the incident occurred when a patrolling team led by sub-inspector Kisan K Bhoir reached Wagle Estate to shut a shop operating late into Thursday 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 .

Thane court sentences two to life for rape, robbery under MCOCA

Prosecution says verdict is first in country involving sexual assault and organised crime

Mumbai: Monkey attacks rise in Khindipada, children among reported victims

Children aged three to 10 are among the 10 people attacked in fresh spate of incidents in Khindipada, adjacent to Sanjay Gandhi National Park in the Bhandup-Mulund area. Thane forest divisions territorial team has increased staff deployment in the area

Spain captured landfill methane from 700 tonnes of daily waste; the result generated 4.4 million kWh of electricity in one year at Bilbaos Artigas landfill project

The Artigas landfill in Bilbao, Spain, revolutionized waste management by converting decomposing urban waste into renewable biogas. During its first operational year, this facility successfully produced 4.4 million kWh of electricity, which was sold to Iberdrola. This initiative not only mitigated noxious gas emissions and odors but also ensured ongoing safety through careful monitoring of the gas composition, enhancing the efficiency of the energy production process.

Thane transport department launches prepaid auto facility at station

Opposition in Thane seeks explanation for Metro 4-4A operation delay

Chain-snatcher held in Thane, 22 cases solved, gold worth Rs 32.3 lakh seized