Bomb Threat Emails Target Courts In Maharashtra's Thane, Hingoli; Cybercrime Probe Launched
Dog squads and Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad personnel searched the court premises, while Hingoli cybercrime officials began tracing the email.
Bomb Threat Emails Trigger Security Scare At 4 Maharashtra Courts
Court premises in Pune, Thane, Hingoli and Beed were evacuated as police and bomb detection teams launched search operations.
Fire breaks out at electrical shop and bike service centre in Thane
According to the civic authorities, the fire engulfed the plastic shed and documents stored on the mezzanine floor of the premises housing the shop and the service centre
Thane, Hingoli courts receive bomb threat emails; nothing suspicious found
The court authorities immediately informed the police, following which a police team, accompanied by the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS), rushed to the spot and launched a thorough search
Thane court receives bomb threat, judges and advocates safely evacuated
Bomb threat email prompted the evacuation of the court complex in Maharashtra's Thane on Monday afternoon. Judges, advocates and staff were safely evacuated as police, a dog squad and Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad personnel launched a search. No suspicious object has been found so far
Police raided a Halloween party at a Yeoor bungalow, seizing alcohol and banned e-cigarettes while investigating potential minor attendance and payments to forest officials.
Thane man loses Rs 2.5 lakh to fraudster posing as ATS officer
The accused allegedly contacted the victim through a WhatsApp call, accused him of being a Pakistani informant and claimed that suspicious financial transactions worth Rs 3 crore had been detected in his bank account
Thane: Man held with mephedrone worth Rs 40.68 lakh, 1.3 kg drug seized
The accused, a resident of Palava, was apprehended while riding a scooter in the early hours of October 30 near a hotel at Kalyan Phata in the Shil-Daighar area
Portugal Job Promise Turns Costly As Thane Friends Lose Rs 7.59 Lakh In Recruitment Fraud
Thane: Two friends from Thane, Maharashtra, allegedly lost Rs 7.59 lakh after being duped by an individual who promised to arrange lucrative employment opportunities in Portugal. The accused reportedly collected money from the victims on the pretext of completing recruitment formalities and processing their visas. According to police officials, the complainant, a 38-year-old resident of []
The IMD's district forecast indicates that rainfall activity in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar is likely to ease by November 4, while parts of Pune and the Western Ghats may continue to receive showers.
Social Worker Duped In Thane Cyber Fraud
A social worker in Ulhasnagar, Thane, was allegedly defrauded of Rs 2.5 lakh by a caller impersonating an Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) officer. The caller threatened the victim with terror links and an arrest warrant, coercing him into transferring money. Police have registered a case against three individuals, and an investigation is ongoing.
Thane Police Arrest Man With Mephedrone Worth Over Rs 40 Lakh
Thane police have arrested a 28-year-old man and seized 1.3 kg of mephedrone (MD) powder, valued at Rs 40.68 lakh, from his possession. The arrest was made on October 30 in the Shil-Daighar area, and a case has been registered under the NDPS Act.
Jammu-Born Writer and Filmmaker Ved Rahi Dies at 93
SRINAGAR: Eminent Dogri and Hindi writer, screenwriter and filmmaker Ved Rahi died at his residence in Maharashtras Thane district on Sunday morning. He was 93. A recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, one of the highest distinctions in Indian literature, Rahi made significant contributions to literature, Hindi cinema and television, earning recognition across the country. []
Maharashtra Plans Grain ATMs In Major Cities
The Maharashtra government plans to introduce automated grain ATMs in Mumbai, Nagpur, Thane and other cities: Reports
Thane Congress delegation raises alarm over Yeoor forest constructions
During the meeting, Congress representatives expressed concern over the alleged increase in constructions in the Yeoor forest area surrounding Sanjay Gandhi National Park. They alleged that large bungalows were being constructed at the cost of the region's natural environment and ecological balance
NASA Invites People To Send Their Names To Saturn's Moon With Dragonfly Mission
Titan has a thick atmosphere, rivers and lakes of liquid methane, large dunes and a landscape rich in organic material.
Recent findings from Cornell University reveal the crucial role freshwater plants play in regulating greenhouse gas emissions in pond ecosystems. The composition of these plants significantly influences levels of methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide. Notably, floating plants such as duckweed can trap these gases, inhibiting their escape. This research underscores the importance of pond management for homeowners, offering effective strategies to combat climate change.
Eminent Dogri Writer Ved Rahi Passes Away at 93
Jammu, Nov 1: Eminent Dogri and Hindi litterateur, Sahitya Akademi Fellow and Bollywood personality Ved Rahi passed away at his residence in Maharashtras Thane district on Sunday morning. He was 93. His last rites will be performed at the Kopari cremation ground in Thane later this afternoon. He is survived by his two daughters, Geetanjali [] The post Eminent Dogri Writer Ved Rahi Passes Away at 93 appeared first on Northlines .
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis accuses Congress of 'Samvidhan chori' during Emergency
Speaking at the BJP's 'Save Democracy' march organised in Thane against what he described as attempts to create anarchy, Fadnavis claimed that international forces and social media algorithms were being leveraged to spread misinformation and destabilise the country
Thane Court: Man Jailed For Culpable Homicide
A Thane court has sentenced Pravin Santosh Mukane to eight years' rigorous imprisonment for culpable homicide not amounting to murder in a 2018 assault case. Another accused, Satyawan Balkrishna Waghe, was acquitted. The incident involved a dispute where the victim was hit on the head with a wooden rod and later died.
Thane man, friend duped of Rs 7.59 lakh in overseas job fraud
Thane: Police have registered a case against an individual for allegedly cheating two friends from Thane in Maharashtra of Rs 7.59 lakh after promising them jobs abroad, officials said on Sunday, November 1. The accused lured the 38-year-old complainant, a resident of Kopri Colony in Thane, and his friend with promises of securing them jobs 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 FDA Nabs Driver In Rs 42.96 Lakh Gutkha Haul
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Thane, Maharashtra, has seized gutkha and pan masala worth Rs 42.96 lakh that were expired, banned, and improperly packed. The driver of the tempo transporting the illegal products was arrested, and authorities are searching for other individuals involved in the supply chain.
Job Scam: Thane Friends Duped Of Rs 7.59 Lakh
Police in Thane have registered a case against an individual for allegedly defrauding two friends of Rs 7.59 lakh by promising them jobs in Portugal. The accused collected money for formalities and visa processing before the victims realised they were cheated.
Thane jungle cat rescue: Kitten to be hand-raised at RAWW wildlife facility
An abandoned jungle cat kitten found in Thane district will be hand-raised at RAWW's wildlife facility after repeated attempts to reunite it with its mother failed. The kitten will undergo gradual rewilding before being released back into its natural habitat
Thane traffic relief in two years as Metro 4, coastal road nearing completion: Sarnaik
Thane Municipal Corporation restricts vehicle washing at service centres to conserve water
A 70-year-old man from Bhiwandi, Thane, allegedly lost Rs 1.29 crore after cyber fraudsters lured him into investing through a fake online trading app promoted via a WhatsApp group. Police have registered a case against the accused, but no arrests have been made so far.
Gujarat man held in Thane with methaqualone worth Rs 11.12 lakh - Rediff
Drug Bust In Thane: Man Held With Methaqualone
A man was arrested in Thane city with 1.11 kilograms of methaqualone powder, valued at Rs 11.12 lakh. The arrest was made on October 30 at Kharegaon toll plaza, and a case has been registered under the NDPS Act.
The revised water supply schedule covers Ghodbunder Road, Mumbra, Kalwa, Vartak Nagar and several other localities across Thane.
Indian-American lawmakers oppose census plan
Digital Desk | Washington, Oct 31 (IANS) Five Indian-American lawmakers joined more than 150 House Democrats in demanding that the Trump administration withdraw a proposed census rule that would exclude some non-citizens from the population used to allocate congressional seats. Pramila Jayapal, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Suhas Subramanyam and Shri Thanedar signed the public comment letter, according to the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus. The effort was led by Robert Garcia, the top Democrat on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, and the chairs of the Asian Pacific American, Hispanic, Black and Equality caucuses. We will fight this rule in Congress and the courts, Garcia said. The lawmakers argued that the proposal would violate the 14th Amendments requirement that representation reflect the number of people in each state. They said restrictions on demographic questions would weaken enforcement of voting rights and other civil rights protections. Grace Meng, who chairs the Asian Pacific American caucus, said the changes could cost minority communities representation and resources and weaken data needed to identify disparities. Under the bureaus proposal, lawful permanent residents, commonly known as green-card holders, would remain included in the apportionment population. Undocumented immigrants and non-citizens with legal status less permanent than a green card, including temporary visa holders, would be excluded. The proposed rule would also bar questions about race, ethnicity and sexual orientation on census questionnaires used to enumerate the population. That restriction would not apply to the American Community Survey or other surveys that do not enumerate the population. The bureau argues that lasting residence and allegiance to the United States should determine who is counted for apportionment. The agency is considering administrative records to establish individuals legal status and is seeking comments on whether to add a legal-status question to the census form. Separately, Republican Representative Mary Miller of Illinois announced a letter Friday supporting the proposal and urging the administration to go further by excluding all non-citizens, including green-card holders, from congressional apportionment. Millers group also sought restrictions on demographic questions in the American Community Survey, extending beyond the bureaus proposal. She argued that congressional representation should be determined by American citizens. The National Conference of State Legislatures, in comments published Friday, sought a further 60 days for public responses and consultation with states over the changes. The organisation said census data were essential for drawing electoral boundaries and that American Community Survey estimates and administrative records could not adequately replace detailed census counts for that purpose. It warned that changing the information collected without consulting states could complicate compliance with their redistricting laws. It said the survey generally provides data for larger geographical areas than individual census blocks, potentially forcing states to develop costly methods to allocate the information to the smaller units used to build electoral maps. The Census Bureau published the proposal on September 10. An October 5 notice extended the public comment deadline from October 13 to November 2. The United States conducts a census every 10 years. Its population figures are used to divide the House of Representatives 435 seats among the 50 states.
Former corporator seeks details of civic works in Thane since 2021, urges for transparency
BJP to organise Save Democracy march in Thane on November 1
Private tanker rates soar to Rs 4,000 amid water cuts, say Thane residents
Thane civic staff to get Rs 25,000 Diwali bonus, ASHA workers Rs 6,000
Gujarats first bullet train power substation nears completion at Bilimora
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) The first Traction Substation (TSS) for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is nearing completion at Bilimora in Gujarats Navsari district, as work progresses on the 14 substations planned to supply power along the 508-km high-speed rail corridor. The substation, spread across approximately 18,000 square metres, is at an advanced stage of construction, with equipment installation, testing and commissioning activities under way. Installation work in the control panel, changeover switch, transformer and circuit breaker buildings has been completed. Work on all gantry towers and beams has also been finished. A total of 14 traction substations (TSS) are being developed along the corridor to ensure an uninterrupted power supply for the bullet trains. These substations will receive electricity from the grid, transform it to the required voltage levels and feed it into the traction power system that powers the trains. Of the 14 substations, five will be located in Maharashtra at Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar and Thane Depot, while the remaining nine will be in Gujarat at Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Mahemdavad, Ahmedabad and Sabarmati Depot. In Gujarat, the traction substations will receive electricity from the Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited's (GETCO) 220 kV Ambetha Grid Substation. The power will subsequently be supplied to the overhead equipment (OHE) installed along the viaduct through the 2 25 kV traction power supply system adopted for the corridor. The system is designed to distribute electricity to the overhead equipment, which transfers power to the trains through their pantographs. The entire traction power supply network will be monitored in real time from a centralised control centre to oversee the electricity supply along the corridor. The 508-km Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor is India's first bullet train project, connecting Maharashtra and Gujarat. The 14 traction substations will form a key part of its power infrastructure, supporting the operation of trains along the route.
A Thane businessman and social media influencer are embroiled in a legal dispute involving serious allegations of extortion and harassment. Legal Battle Erupts Between Thane Businessman and Social Media Influencer Over Allegations of Extortion
Rs 1.5 Cr Mephedrone Seized In Mumbra Drug Bust
Mumbra Police in Thane have seized mephedrone worth over Rs 1.50 crore from four foreign nationals, including three Tanzanians and one Nigerian, following a raid on Thursday. The accused have been booked under the NDPS Act, and authorities have urged residents to conduct tenant verification for foreign nationals.
Mumbai local train updates: Central Railway to operate mega block on November 1
The block will be operated on the UP and DOWN Slow lines between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Vidhyavihar on the Main line, and on the UP and DOWN Trans-Harbour lines between Thane and Vashi/Nerul
Mumbai, Thane and Palghar likely to receive light rain: IMD
The weather department has forecast dry conditions in all three districts from October 31, until Tuesday, November 3. It suggests that the Mumbai Metropolitan Region is likely to experience a largely dry spell after Fridays predicted light showers
Thane Man Jailed For Attacking Wife, Rescuer
A court in Maharashtra's Thane district has sentenced a 32-year-old autorickshaw driver to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for attempting to murder his estranged wife and stabbing a man who intervened. The attack, which occurred in November 2021, left his wife with a 40% permanent disability in both hands.
Two Nigerians Arrested In Thane Drug Haul
Police in Thane, Maharashtra, have arrested two Nigerian nationals and seized mephedrone and cocaine valued at Rs 2.2 crore. The Anti-Narcotics Cell of Navi Mumbai police conducted the operation, which is part of a larger drug case where nine individuals have been arrested so far.
India says AI, maritime security key priorities for its UNSC candidature for202829
Mr. Parvathaneni underscored the need to safeguard freedom of navigation and maritime commerce, saying recent attacks against commercial shipping have demonstrated how disruptions at critical maritime chokepoints can have consequences far beyond their immediate geography
AI, maritime security key priorities for 2028-29 UNSC bid: India at UN
Maritime security and Artificial Intelligence will be key priorities for India during its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-29 term, India's envoy to the UN has said. India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, said on Thursday that technology must make shared maritime commons safer, not more contested. Oceans are the arteries of global commerce, connecting economies, sustaining livelihoods and ensuring food and energy security. Their safety and security are indispensable to international peace and prosperity, Parvathaneni said. Addressing the high-level open debate on 'Emerging Technologies and Maritime Security: Implications for Peace and Security' at the Security Council, India has identified Artificial Intelligence (AI) and maritime security as important priorities for its candidature to the Security Council for 20282029. Parvathaneni said that emerging technologies are fundamentally transforming the
India says AI, maritime security key priorities for its UNSC candidature for 202829
United Nations, Oct 30: Maritime security and Artificial Intelligence will be key priorities for India during its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-29 term, India's envoy to the UN has said. Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, said on Thursday that technology must make shared maritime commons safer, not more contested. Oceans are the arteries of global commerce, connecting economies, sustaining livelihoods and ensuring food and energy security. Their safety and security are indispensable to international peace and prosperity, Parvathaneni said. Addressing the high-level open debate on Emerging Technologies and Maritime Security: Implications for Peace and Security at the Security Council, India has identified Artificial Intelligence (AI) and maritime security as important priorities for its candidature to the Security Council for 20282029. Parvathaneni said that emerging technologies are fundamentally transforming the maritime domain. Artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, satellite-based surveillance and advanced cyber capabilities offer unprecedented opportunities to strengthen maritime security. Equally, their misuse presents new challenges that demand our collective attention, he said. Our objective is clear: technology must strengthen human security, not undermine it; it must expand opportunity, not inequality; and it must make our shared maritime commons safer, not more contested. India stands ready to work with all partners towards this objective, he said. India stressed that technological advances must not deepen existing disparities. Developing countries require access to technology, training and institutional capabilities to secure their maritime infrastructure and participate meaningfully in shaping technological governance, Parvathaneni said. New Delhi has announced its candidature for a non-permanent seat at the Security Council for the 2028-29 term, elections for which will be conducted in June next year, when India and Tajikistan will compete for the sole seat in the Asia-Pacific Group category. Parvathaneni underscored the need to safeguard freedom of navigation and maritime commerce, saying recent attacks against commercial shipping have demonstrated how disruptions at critical maritime chokepoints can have consequences far beyond their immediate geography. They threaten seafarers, disrupt supply chains and disproportionately affect developing countries through higher costs and economic uncertainty, he said, reiterating Indias strong condemnation of attacks against commercial vessels. He said Delhi reiterates the importance of freedom of navigation, unimpeded lawful maritime commerce and the safety of seafarers, in accordance with international law. Highlighting the need to harness technology to strengthen maritime security, Parvathaneni said AI-enabled analysis of satellite imagery, radar and vessel-tracking data can improve maritime domain awareness, detect suspicious activities and support search and rescue operations. In this context, India's Information Fusion CentreIndian Ocean Region, located near New Delhi, demonstrates the value of cooperation and information-sharing in strengthening maritime security. Our approach is guided by the vision of SAGAR Security and Growth for All in the Region and the broader commitment to inclusive maritime cooperation, he said. Calling on the international community to address emerging technological vulnerabilities, he said increasing digitalisation and automation also expose ports, vessels, communication networks and undersea infrastructure to cyber threats. The proliferation of autonomous systems raises complex questions of attribution, accountability and unintended escalation. We must therefore ensure appropriate safeguards, meaningful human oversight and clear responsibility in the deployment of emerging technologies, he said. India emphasised that the UN Charter and international law, including the law of the sea as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), provide the essential framework for State conduct. India also called for strengthening international cooperation while respecting institutional mandates, saying the work of the International Maritime Organisation and other relevant institutions must be reinforced, not duplicated. The Security Council should focus on technological developments with demonstrable implications for international peace and security, encouraging practical cooperation, confidence-building and resilience, Parvathaneni said. The debate was held under Greeces Presidency of the Security Council for the month of October. In September, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had co-chaired an event AI in the Context of International Peace & Security, with an Emphasis on Maritime Security, alongside Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis on the margins of the high-level UN General Assembly week. Jaishankar had emphasized the need to harness the possibilities offered by AI, anticipate its consequences and mitigate its risks. He had stressed that in the maritime domain, AI can enhance maritime domain awareness, search and rescue, disaster response, identification of suspicious activity and resilience of ports and critical infrastructure.
AI, maritime security key priorities for its UNSC candidature for202829: India
Technology must make shared maritime commons safer, not more contested, Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni says
'This war is not over': Obama, Trump trade fire in midterms' closing week
Digital Desk | Washington, Oct 29 (IANS) Former US President Barack Obama and current President Donald Trump held dueling rallies in Georgia and Ohio five days before the November 3 midterm elections, with Obama attacking the Iran war and tariffs and Trump mocking his predecessor while backing Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy for the Ohio Governor. Campaigning in the Atlanta area on Wednesday for Senator Jon Ossoff and gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms, Obama said the President had chosen o start an unnecessary war that nobody asked for and nobody voted for, according to remarks released by his office. This is the reason why the price of oil is up. This is the reason why the price of diesel is up, the price of just about everything is up, he added. And by the way, contrary to the promises and statements and declarations that were made seven months ago, this war is not over. It's still going on, which means you are not getting any relief anytime soon. He mocked Trump's trade war with Canada. And the big trade war he's waging now is that well-known evil empire, that historical adversary of the United States, Canada, the people who gave us maple syrup and Martin Short, the nicest people around, our friendly neighbours to the North, Obama said. Now, they're booing our hockey games. He also returned to his jibe about White House renovations. They mobiliSed a whole of government response to that joke, not to inflation, but to that joke! Obama said, The Guardian reported. Obama urged Georgians to vote early before Friday's deadline. At the same time in Chillicothe, Ohio, Trump rallied for Senator Jon Husted and Ramaswamy, and hit back at Obama over the renovations. I paid for it myself. I fixed it, and now it's more beautiful and in better shape, Trump said, according to The Guardian, calling Obama someone who doesn't understand cleanliness, who doesn't understand broken, cracked stone and sidewalk. He also said of Obama's campaigning: He got involved with Hillary Clinton ... and he lost. He then got involved with Kamala and he lost. Trump attacked the 2015 Iran nuclear deal as one of the dumbest deals I've ever seen in my life. He again defended Ramaswamy's advertisement featuring the estranged mother of Democratic rival Amy Acton. The mother said that Amy Acton, the daughter, is a liar, that she's no good, that she lied about the opponent. How the hell is that his problem? he said, NBC4 and Al Jazeera reported. NBC4 noted the mother never says in the ad that Acton lied about Ramaswamy. National polls favour Democrats. An NPR/PBS News/Marist poll conducted on October 19-20 gave Democrats a 52-44 per cent lead among likely voters on the generic Congressional ballot. The Harvard CAPS/Harris poll, conducted on October 24-26, put the race at 52-48 among voters and Trump's approval at 39 per cent. Several Indian-Americans are on the November 3 ballot. Besides Ramaswamy, the House's Indian-American members, including Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ami Bera, Shri Thanedar and Suhas Subramanyam, are seeking re-election. Nithya Raman is running for Mayor of Los Angeles and Saritha Komatireddy as Republican Party nominee for the New York Attorney General.
Pradeep Purnekar murder case: Aaditya Thackeray accuses Eknath Shinde of protecting conspirators
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 29 (IANS) Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Thursday alleged that Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is desperate to safeguard former Thane Mayor Meenakshi Shinde from the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar murder case. The Sena (UBT) leaders alleged that the police have merely arrested the contract killers and that until Meenakshi and Rajendra Shinde are arrested, the true conspiracy will never come out. We demand that the main accused and conspirator should be arrested at the earliest. We have no idea why she is being protectedwhen we met the police commissioner, we sensed that the policemen are convinced about who the main accused is, said Thackeray, addressing a press conference in Thane. Thackeray, along with Purnekars son Ram, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut and Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders from Thane, held a press conference after holding a meeting with the Thane police commissioner. Earlier, Thackeray visited the house of Purnekar to meet the wife of the dead leader. Thackeray said that despite giving the evidence of CCTV footage, arrests have not been made. What and why are you waiting for? Thackeray asked. This is a political murder of which CCTV footage is available. Why are the main conspirator and masterminds not being arrested? Why is Eknath Shinde so desperate to safeguard the accused and conspirator? he asked. Thackeray criticised deputy CM and Thanes guardian minister Eknath Shinde for detaining Ram Purnekar, who had gone to meet the latter demanding action in his fathers murder. We had come to Thane only to meet the Purnekar family and the police commissioner. But the local MP used abusive language and made a childish attempt to threaten us. Instead of facing us, they (Shinde-led Sena leaders) protested somewhere else and did not face us, said Thackeray. He also slammed Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis for failing to deliver justice to the Purnekar family. The Home Minister is busy breaking parties, cutting trees and selling Sahyadri mountain ranges instead of stopping all these things, he said. Targeting CM Fadnavis, Shiv Sena UBT MP Sanjay Raut said that Maharashtra never had such a weak home minister. I want to tell those who challenged us to come to Thane that we not only came here, but we are ready to wait till we face you. Dont boast because you are in power. It is not permanent. Meenakshi and Rajendra Shinde are the main accused in this case, and people are coming out of the streets to safeguard killers, he said, adding that police will have to arrest both of them.
Former Thane Mayor Resigns Amid Political Row
Former Thane Mayor and Shiv Sena leader Meenakshi Shinde resigned as the party's district women's wing chief on Thursday. Her resignation comes two days after she was questioned by police regarding the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar, a case that has intensified political friction and led to accusations against her and her husband.
Meenakshi Shinde resigns as Thane Shiv Sena womens wing chief amid allegations
In a letter dated October 29, 2026, Shinde said allegations and counter-allegations circulating on social media and in political circles had caused her considerable distress. She said her name was being linked to matters with which she had no connection
Thane: Spectacled cobra spotted preying Russells viper along Ghodbunder Road
A spectacled cobra was documented feeding on an adult Russells viper at Waghbil along Ghodbunder Road in Thane West. Wildlife enthusiast Shivam Dubey of NGO WWA captured the rare encounter, highlighting ophiophagy
The protests, which continued overnight, followed allegations by Purnekars family that police had failed to act against former Thane mayor Meenakshi Shinde and her husband Rajendra Shinde despite evidence allegedly linking them to the murder conspiracy
Purnekar Murder: Family Alleges Cover-Up, Police Deny
A month after Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar was shot dead in Thane, his family accuses the police of shielding the real culprits and ignoring evidence, despite five arrests. The killing has heightened political tensions, with protests and opposition leaders expressing solidarity, while police maintain they are conducting a comprehensive investigation to establish the motive.
Bhayandar Police Bust Racket, Two Women Rescued
Police in Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar have busted an alleged prostitution racket, rescuing two women and arresting one female agent. The accused reportedly supplied women to various locations including Mumbai, Thane, and Goa. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend a second absconding agent and identify other individuals involved.
Mumbai: Thane protests trigger 27-km traffic snarl, woman crushed by container
Slain Sena (UBT) leader supporters blockade spills over to Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway, commuters stranded for hours, traffic personnel deployed to ease congestion
Kashmir Pashmina testing rises sharply as GI certification demand grows
The Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) at the Craft Development Institute (CDI), Srinagar, has recorded a sharp rise in the testing of Geographical Indication (GI) products, especially Kashmir Pashmina, Kani and Sozni embroidered shawls, during the current financial year. The surge reflects stronger institutional capacity, upgraded laboratory infrastructure and growing demand for authentic GI certification and QR coding. In a detailed press statement issued here today, a spokesman of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, stated that the testing rate, which was 40-45 per day in 2024-25, has now risen to 170 per day in 2026-27. In 2024-25, PTQCC conducted 13,369 tests at an average of 40-45 tests per day. This rose to 22,351 tests in 2025-26, with the daily average increasing to 75-85 tests. In the current financial year, PTQCC has already performed approximately 21,000 tests. With another 21,000 tests projected between November 2026 and March 31, 2027, the annual total is expected to reach around 42,000 tests, nearly doubling the testing rate achieved in the previous year, the spokesman explained. To support this expansion, the spokesman further stated that Pashmina Laboratory has been strengthened with advanced equipment, including a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and two High-Resolution Digital Microscopes. The Department is in the process of procuring another OFDA 2000 fibre analyser and an additional digital microscope during FY 2026-27 under CAPEX. These additions are expected to further accelerate testing, improve precision in fibre identification and quality assessment and meet the rising demand for GI testing and QR coding of certified products, he said, adding that those GI Authorised Users who submit hand-spun, hand-woven Pashmina products with Sozni embroidery are being given preferential treatment. In order to bring greater transparency in GI testing, certification and QR coding at PTQCC, the Department has developed an in-house Online Appointment Token Management System to further streamline the operations across all testing labs of the Department, including IICT and QCD (Quality Control Division). The web application has been developed by the Resource Cell of the department, which shall be operational shortly on a pilot basis, he added. The Directorate is in the process of augmenting additional manpower to operate the machines, for which technical staff is being sent to Wool Research Association (WRA), Thane, Maharashtra, for technical training. With trained manpower, we shall have more teams in place to conduct tests in PTQCC so that the rising demand for GI testing and QR coding post aggressive media campaign, by GI Authorised Users is met. The enhanced testing capacity strengthens the authentication of Kashmirs prized handicrafts, protects the interests of artisans and weavers and builds greater consumer and buyer confidence in genuine GI-tagged products, the spokesman stated. Faster and more reliable certification is particularly important for exports and premium domestic markets, where authenticity is a key differentiator for Kashmir Pashmina and related handicraft products, the spokesman concluded.
PTQCC boosts testing capacity for Kashmir handicrafts
Srinagar, Oct 28: The Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) at the Craft Development Institute (CDI), Srinagar, has significantly expanded its testing capacity for Geographical Indication (GI) products, including Kashmir Pashmina, Kani and Sozni-embroidered shawls, with the daily testing rate rising from 40-45 in 2024-25 to around 170 in the current financial year. According to a spokesman of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, PTQCC conducted 13,369 tests in 2024-25, which increased to 22,351 in 2025-26. The centre has already conducted approximately 21,000 tests in the current financial year, with the annual tally projected to reach around 42,000 by March 31, 2027. The increase has been attributed to strengthened laboratory infrastructure, improved testing facilities and growing demand for GI certification and QR coding of authentic handicraft products. The Pashmina laboratory has been equipped with advanced instruments, including a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and two high-resolution digital microscopes. The department is also procuring an additional OFDA 2000 fibre analyser and another digital microscope under the CAPEX budget for 2026-27 to improve testing efficiency and accuracy. The department is also developing an online appointment and token management system to bring greater transparency to GI testing, certification and QR coding. The system, developed by the department's Resource Cell, will initially be launched on a pilot basis and will cover its testing laboratories, including the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT) and the Quality Control Division (QCD). To meet the growing demand, the Directorate is augmenting its technical workforce and sending staff to the Wool Research Association in Thane, Maharashtra, for specialised training in operating the testing equipment. The department is also giving preferential treatment to GI-authorised users submitting hand-spun and hand-woven Pashmina products with Sozni embroidery. The enhanced testing capacity is expected to strengthen the authentication of Kashmir's traditional handicrafts, safeguard the interests of artisans and weavers, and improve consumer confidence in genuine GI-tagged products. The department said faster and more reliable certification would also benefit exporters and manufacturers catering to premium domestic and international markets, where authenticity is a key factor in determining the value of Kashmir's renowned handicrafts.
Thane civic body cracks down on banned plastic, fines violators Rs 69,100
During the drive, the civic body inspected 214 establishments across markets and commercial areas. Officials seized 30 kg of banned plastic and collected Rs 69,100 in fines from those found violating the rules
TMC issues 6,580 notices to property tax defaulters, seals 126 properties
Thane Municipal Corporation has stepped up its property tax recovery drive, issuing notices to 6,580 property owners, initiating seizure proceedings against 286 properties, disconnecting water supply to 73 properties and sealing or restricting the use of 126 properties
Gujarat: PM Modi to lay foundation for two Bio-CNG plants with 175-tonne daily capacity
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 28 (IANS) Two new Bio-CNG plants in Gujarats Tharad and Radhanpur, which will together process 175 metric tonnes of cattle dung daily, will take the number of such facilities operated by Banas Dairy to six, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to lay their foundation stones from Bhildi in Banaskantha district on October 30. The plants, with processing capacities of 75 metric tonnes per day in Tharad and 100 metric tonnes per day in Radhanpur, are expected to boost the production of clean fuel and organic fertilisers while providing an additional source of income for animal husbandry farmers. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and Legislative Assembly Speaker and Banas Dairy chairman Shankar Chaudhary will attend the event. The four existing Bio-CNG plants operated by Banas Dairy in Banaskantha collectively process around 340 metric tonnes of cattle dung daily. With the addition of the two proposed facilities, their combined processing capacity will rise to 515 metric tonnes a day. Banaskantha has an estimated livestock population of 28 lakh, including around 24 lakh animals belonging to husbandry farmers associated with Banas Dairy. These animals are estimated to generate approximately 24,000 metric tonnes of cattle dung every day, providing substantial raw material for the dairy cooperatives waste-to-energy model. Banas Dairy began producing and selling compressed biogas (CBG) in 2020 at its plant in Dama village in Deesa taluka, which can process 40 metric tonnes of cattle dung daily. Subsequently, three plants, each with a daily processing capacity of 100 metric tonnes, were established at Agthala, Bhukhla and Vinchhivadi in partnership with Suzuki Motor Corporation and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). According to the state government, the four operational plants have the capacity to produce around 6,150 kg of Bio-CNG, 83 metric tonnes of solid organic fertiliser and 260 metric tonnes of liquid organic fertiliser daily. Under the model, cattle dung is procured from animal husbandry farmers, giving them supplementary income. The Bio-CNG produced during processing is used as vehicle fuel, while the remaining slurry is converted into solid and liquid organic fertilisers and supplied to farmers under the brand name 'Bhumi Amrut'. The Bio-CNG is sold at subsidised rates compared with conventional CNG, with Banas Dairy currently selling approximately 6,100 kg daily. The expansion is also expected to increase the environmental benefits of the initiative. Cattle dung left in the open releases methane, a greenhouse gas with approximately 28 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide over 100 years. By converting dung into fuel, the Bio-CNG plants help reduce methane emissions while producing an alternative energy source. According to Banas Dairys estimates, the six plants will collectively prevent between 33,400 and 34,600 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
The BMC issued the warning over a possible impact on water quality following the recommissioning of a repaired reservoir at the Pise-Panjrapur water supply complex
Why Doctor Khushbu Taori Modi Quit Her Government Job For SewaConnect
Former medical officer Dr Khushbu Taori Modi launched SewaConnect to transform NGO funding through a volunteer platform after serving as a government medical officer and Thane doctor, supporting grassroots NGOs with CSR partnerships, advancing public health and social impact on a free platform built for NGO collaboration, volunteer matching, and community medicine across Maharashtra NGOs. []
PTQCC nearly doubles GI testing capacity for Kashmir Pashmina, Kani and Sozni products
Srinagar, Oct 28: The Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) at the Craft Development Institute (CDI), Srinagar, has recorded a sharp rise in the testing of Geographical Indication (GI) products, especially Kashmir Pashmina, Kani and Sozni embroidered shawls, during the current financial year. The surge reflects stronger institutional capacity, upgraded laboratory infrastructure and growing demand for authentic GI certification and QR coding. In a detailed press statement issued here today, a spokesman of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir stated that the testing rate which was 40-45 per day in 2024-25, has now risen to 170 per day in 2026-27. In 2024-25, PTQCC conducted 13,369 tests at an average of 40-45 tests per day. This rose to 22,351 tests in 2025-26, with the daily average increasing to 75-85 tests. In the current financial year, PTQCC has already performed approximately 21,000 tests. With another 21,000 tests projected between November 2026 and March 31, 2027, the annual total is expected to reach around 42,000 tests, nearly doubling the testing rate achieved in the previous year, the spokesman explained. To support this expansion, the spokesman further stated that Pashmina Laboratory has been strengthened with advanced equipment, including a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and two High-Resolution Digital Microscopes. The Department is in the process of procuring another OFDA 2000 fibre analyser and an additional digital microscope during FY 2026-27 under CAPEX. These additions are expected to further accelerate testing, improve precision in fibre identification and quality assessment and meet the rising demand for GI testing and QR coding of certified products, he said, adding that those GI Authorised Users who submit hand-spun, hand-woven Pashmina products with Sozni embroidery are being given preferential treatment. In order to bring greater transparency in GI testing, certification and QR coding at PTQCC, the Department has developed an in-house Online Appointment Token Management System to further streamline the operations across all testing labs of the Department including IICT and QCD (Quality Control Division). The web application has been developed by the Resource Cell of the department which shall be operational shortly on pilot basis, he added. The Directorate is in the process of augmenting additional manpower to operate the machines for which technical staff is being sent to Wool Research Association (WRA), Thane Maharashtra for technical training. With trained manpower, we shall have more teams in place to conduct tests in PTQCC so that the rising demand for GI testing and QR coding post aggressive media campaign, by GI Authorised Users is met. The enhanced testing capacity strengthens the authentication of Kashmirs prized handicrafts, protects the interests of artisans and weavers and builds greater consumer and buyer confidence in genuine GI-tagged products, the spokesman stated. Faster and more reliable certification is particularly important for exports and premium domestic markets, where authenticity is a key differentiator for Kashmir Pashmina and related handicraft products, the spokesman concluded.
Thane: Man gets 20-year jail term for sexually assaulting 5-year-old girl
The terrified child later returned home and informed about the incident to her mother, who subsequently confronted the accused before reporting the matter to the police, the prosecution said
Thane bans use of drinking water for vehicle washing at service centres
The civic body issued the directive on Wednesday, October 28, urging residents and vehicle service centres to use water carefully and avoid unnecessary wastage
Thane: TMC urges residents to boil water before consumption for a week
The advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure amid concerns that the repairs and subsequent resumption of operations could affect the quality of water supplied to parts of the Mumbai metropolitan region
Maharashtra issues 14 GRs on tribal rights as protesters call off Mumbai march
Thousands of tribals marching towards the Maharashtra secretariat in Mumbai from Thane district to press for various demands have withdrawn the protest after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed officials to expedite measures to address the issues
Maharashtra tribals call off march to Mantralaya after CM assures action
Nearly 49,000 people set out from Bhiwandi in Thane district on Tuesday afternoon as part of the Samvidhan Hakk Sangharsh Morcha, led by Shramjeevi Sanghatna founder Vivek Pandit
Thane traffic: Protest over Sena (UBT) leaders murder leaves commuters stranded
Videos showing the agitation and long queues of vehicles circulated widely on social media. Some users claimed the blockade continued for six to seven hours. Traffic movement returned to normal by Wednesday morning, police said
Trump says he's ending restrictions on climate-warming emissions from oil drilling
Billings, Oct 28: President Donald Trump said Tuesday his administration is terminating a Biden-era rule that aimed to cut planet-warming emissions of methane from oil and gas drilling. Trump said during a campaign rally in Texas that the change would save consumers and energy producers USD 45 billion and unlock 210 million barrels of oil. That's equivalent to about 10 days of US petroleum consumption. The move aims to encourage more domestic drilling as Trump faces criticism over high fuel prices amid the US war in Iran. Methane is responsible for about a third of planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions, scientists estimate. Cuts in methane emissions have emerged in recent years as a global priority to slow the rate of climate change. Oil and gas operations are the largest industrial source of methane, which is the main component in natural gas and far more potent to the atmosphere than carbon dioxide in the short term. The invisible gas leaks from equipment and is released into the atmosphere or burned off as a waste product by oil drillers. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin previewed the changes last month, saying they would eliminate the agency's Super Emitter Program that requires companies to investigate and repair major methane releases from oil and natural gas facilities. The agency would also set less restrictive standards for small oil and gas wells. The loosening of the emissions rule comes as Trump and Republicans in Congress have been methodically dismantling climate policies enacted under former President Joe Biden. That's included the revocation of a scientific finding that was central to US action on greenhouse gas emissions, lower fuel economy standards for vehicles and a move to repeal emission restrictions for coal and natural gas power plants. Environmental groups criticized the latest rollback. They said it lets companies continue polluting the atmosphere with gas that could be captured and provide energy to millions of households. It will impose a heavier pollution burden on our front-line communities and make our energy sector less efficient, said Max Lopez, an Environmental Law & Policy Center attorney. Zeldin has said the methane rule would have cost USD 18 billion and was holding back the US energy industry. The Trump EPA is committed to fixing this so the US can reach its full energy potential, he said last month. The Biden methane rule was announced by officials including former Vice President Kamala Harris during a 2023 UN climate conference in the United Arab Emirates. Federal officials under Biden said it would prevent an estimated 58 million tons (52.6 million metric tonnes) of methane emissions by 2038 and reduce other pollutants that cause health problems. By 2034, the rule was projected to yield USD 98 billion in benefits. That figure was derived by calculating the future social costs of greenhouse gas emissions on public health and the environment, an approach rejected by Trump's EPA. While previous regulations focused only on new oil and gas wells in the US, the Biden rule regulated existing wells. Operators also would have needed to plug leaking methane from smaller wells that produce just 6% of the nation's oil and gas while accounting for up to half all methane emissions from oil and gas fields. The final rule was published in 2024. The EPA last year imposed an 18-month delay to give companies time to meet new inspection requirements and other provisions. The rule was crafted to be coordinated with a methane fee, approved in the 2022 climate law. The fee program would have levied a waste emissions charge of as much as USD 1,500 per metric ton of methane on energy producers that exceed a certain level of methane emissions. The fee marked the first time the US government directly imposed a fee, or tax, on greenhouse gas emissions. Congress repealed it weeks after Trump took office. Officials also tried to rein in methane from oil and gas under former President Barack Obama, but that effort was scaled back during Trump's first term.
Thane Traffic Chaos: Protest Over Sena Leader's Killing
Hundreds of Shiv Sena (UBT) supporters blocked Thane's Ghodbunder Road overnight, burning tyres and causing severe traffic disruption, to protest the detention of Ram Purnekar and demand arrests in connection with his father Pradeep Purnekar's murder. The protest, which stranded commuters for hours, was triggered by Ram Purnekar's attempt to march to the Deputy CM's residence, leading to political leaders joining the agitation and calls for the Deputy CM's resignation.
Trump says he's ending restrictions on climate-warming methane from oil drilling
US President Donald Trump has announced the termination of a Biden-era rule aimed at reducing methane emissions from oil and gas operations, arguing that the move will save energy producers and consumers $45 billion. The rollback would ease restrictions on oil and gas companies, including requirements to detect and repair methane leaks. Environmental groups have criticised the decision, warning it could increase greenhouse gas emissions and undermine efforts to tackle climate change.
PM SHRI KV AFS Thane Teacher Recruitment 2026
PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya AFS Thane (Shift I) (PM SHRI KV AFS Thane) Recruitment 2026 for the post of Contractual Teacher will be conducted through a Walk-in Interview.
Kendriya Vidyalaya Thane (KV Thane) has released Ref.F.27049/Cont.Tr.Appt./2026-27/KVTHN for 3 vacancies, including TGT (Science), Primary Teacher, and Vocational Instructor posts, to be filled through a Walk-in Interview. The interview will be held on 29 October 2026. Further details are available at afsthane.kvs.ac.in.
TMC Fitness Trainer Recruitment 2026
Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has released the notification for the post of Fitness Trainer. Eligible candidates can submit their offline applications from 27 October 2026 to 29 October 2026.
TMC Team Manager Recruitment 2026
Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has released the notification for the post of Team Manager. Eligible candidates can submit their offline applications till 29 October 2026.
TMC Cricket Coach Recruitment 2026
Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for the post of Cricket Coach. Offline applications will be accepted till 29 October 2026.
Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has released the notification for the post of Assistant Coach for Men's Cricket Team. Eligible candidates can submit their offline applications from 27 October 2026 to 29 October 2026.
Mumbai water alert: BMC issues 7-day boil-and-filter advisory for THESE wards
Mumbai residents in several civic wards, along with people in parts of Thane and Bhiwandi supplied by the BMC, have been advised to boil and filter drinking water for seven days. The precaution comes as Compartment No 2 of the Yewai balancing reservoir is set to be recommissioned on October 28
Trump to roll back methane rules in latest Texas campaign push
President Donald Trump will
Maha Cabinet clears Rs 13,856-cr Metro Line 12-A; CM Fadnavis sets 3.5-year deadline
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 27 (IANS) The Maharashtra Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, on Tuesday approved the 18.40 km Mumbai Metro Line 12-A, connecting ManpadaKatai Naka to Taloja via Kalyan Phata. The committee directed authorities to ensure the project is completed within three and a half years. The project cost is estimated at Rs 13,856.37 crore. The 18.40 km fully elevated corridor connecting ManpadaKatai Naka to Taloja (via Kalyan Phata) will have 12 elevated stations. It includes a 6.93 km 4-lane integrated flyover and an 8.69 km 6-lane integrated flyover. The expected daily ridership will be 4,74,000 commuters. The project is likely to cut road commute times by 40% to 50%. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is the implementing agency, and the government has also declared it the Special Planning Authority (SPA) for the project. Metro Line 12-A is designed as a crucial connectivity corridor linking industrial and logistics hubs across Kalyan-Dombivli and Navi Mumbai. The project will have multimodal integrations. There will be interchanges with Metro Line 12 and the MumbaiAhmedabad Bullet Train feeder routes at Katai Naka. It will be connected to Metro Line 14 between Katai Naka and Kalyan Phata and also to Navi Mumbai Metro Line 1 at Amandoot station. Feeder bus services are planned at all 12 stations to ensure smooth last-mile connectivity. Selected government lands within the project influence zone will be transferred to MMRDA to support development and funding. According to MMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, the shift from private road transport to rapid transit will reduce congestion on national highways and cut carbon dioxide (CO_2) emissions. Beyond traffic relief, the project aims to accelerate economic and industrial development across the ThaneNavi Mumbai region. CM Fadnavis also instructed officials to accelerate all ongoing metro construction projects state-wide to meet target deadlines.
Thane Metro Line 4 First Phase From Gaimukh To Cadbury Junction Set To Open In December 2026
India has reiterated its call for comprehensive structural reforms within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), advocating that any new permanent members must share equal veto rights rather than creating a multi-tiered hierarchy. Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, stressed that veto powers currently enjoyed exclusively by [] The post India Demands Comprehensive UN Security Council Reforms, Calls for Veto Power Expansion to All Permanent Members appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
New UNSC permanent members without veto would be 'second-class': India
India has asserted that any reform of the UN Security Council that creates a new category of permanent members without veto powers would effectively relegate them to second-class status, leaving the existing five permanent powers in control of the decision-making process. China, France, Russia, the UK and the US are the five permanent members of the 15-nation Security Council and enjoy veto powers. The Council also has 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, on Monday said the veto must be held by all permanent members of a reformed Council as long as the provision exists, stressing that fairness and justice demand equal rights and responsibilities for all permanent members. India's position on the veto is principled and well known... We reiterate that as long as the veto exists, it must be held by all permanent members of a reformed Council, he said. Addressing the Inter-Governmental (IGN)
Pradeep Purnekar murder: Son gives 24-hour ultimatum over murder investigation
Son of slain Shiv Sena (UBT) leader threatens protest outside Eknath Shindes residence if former Thane mayor, husband not arrested
Mumbai: Mid-Day staffer recount ordeal as signalling failure delay local trains
mid-day staffer Shahebaz Khan was stuck on a Central Railway train between Thane and Sion for three hours on Monday. He recounts his ordeal...
