During the open debate on the Middle East in the UNSC, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Parvathaneni Harish, said that India has major interests in the security of the Middle East.Parvathaneni Harish, India's envoy to the UNDuring the United Nations Security Council (UNS...
Thane: 39-year-old man beaten to death with bamboo sticks, one arrested
Two unidentified persons fatally attacked victim Laxman Charpote, a resident of Shelar village near the Bhiwandi area, with bamboo sticks
A 39-year-old man was allegedly beaten to death by two individuals in Thane district, Maharashtra. Police have arrested one suspect and are searching for the other, while investigating the motive behind the killing.
NASA's SPHEREx telescope has opened a fascinating window into the realm of brown dwarfs, the enigmatic celestial bodies that sit between stars and planets. Recent data reveals diverse chemical signatures and significant atmospheric variability, challenging existing models. Researchers aim to delve deeper into these findings, seeking to untangle the mysteries surrounding brown dwarfs and their complex atmospheres as they continue their groundbreaking analysis.
The sun isn't taking a break! Ratnagiri swelters at 38 degrees Celsius
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for hot and humid conditions in isolated pockets of Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg and Dhule for Thursday and Friday
Seven of 16 Planetary Vital Signs of Earth Now at Record Extremes, Study Finds
Concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide all reached record levels again in 2026, the study found
Essar Oil & Gas wins five CBM blocks across three states, adds 6.6 Tcf gas reserves
Essar Oil & Gas has acquired five coal-blend methane blocks across West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana. The company aims to enhance domestic natural gas production while developing approximately 1,281 square kilometers of new acreage. This expansion also includes significant resources of around 6.6 trillion cubic feet of gas-in-place. Essar currently produces nearly 50 percent of Indias CBM production, reflecting its strong position in this sector.
Essar Oil & Gas bags 5 coal bed methane blocks across West Bengal, MP and Telangana
The newly awarded acreage will strengthen the companys presence in established gas-producing regions and open up opportunities in Telanganas Godavari valley
A rationing inspector in Thane, Vijaykumar Kacheshwar Waghwas, has been convicted in a 2016 bribery case and sentenced to one year rigorous imprisonment and a Rs 5,000 fine. He was found guilty of demanding a Rs 3,000 bribe from a fair price shop manager, with the court ruling he abused his public office for illegal gratification.
Man Held For Threatening India's Economy
A 27-year-old man was arrested by Kashigaon Police in Thane for allegedly calling the Delhi Police control room and threatening to destroy India's economy. The accused, Nikhil Sudarshan Sharma, who appeared mentally unstable, was apprehended after tracking his mobile number.
Essar Oil & Gas expands CBM footprint with five new blocks across three states
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 15 (IANS) Essar Oil & Gas Ltd. (formerly known as Essar Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Ltd. or EOGEPL), one of Indias leading Coal Bed Methane (CBM) producers, has been awarded five new CBM blocks through the Government of Indias Special CBM (SCBM) Bid Rounds 2025 and 2026. The blocks add 1,281 sq km of new acreage across West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana, with an estimated 6.6 TCF of gas-in-place resources. The contracts for the SCBM-2025 and SCBM-2026 Bid Rounds were formally signed on October 15 at a ceremony chaired by Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas. The signing marks an important step in the governments efforts, through the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (MoPNG) and the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH), to unlock Indias unconventional hydrocarbon potential, attract investment and strengthen domestic exploration and production. The two newly awarded blocks in the Raniganj region of West Bengal, together spanning approximately 330 sq km, will expand Essar Oil & Gas existing 500 sq. km. Raniganj East footprint to around 830 sq. km. The proximity of the new blocks to the companys existing producing asset will create significant synergies in infrastructure, operations, and technical capabilities, enabling the development of an integrated CBM producing field that is expected to become the largest CBM producing field in India. The Singrauli block in Madhya Pradesh further strengthens Essar Oil & Gas presence in an established CBM region, providing an opportunity to leverage the broader ecosystem associated with CBM development in the basin. The blocks in Telanganas Godavari Valley mark an expansion into a new CBM geography, allowing Essar Oil & Gas to apply its established expertise to developing new resource areas. Pankaj Kalra, CEO, Essar Oil & Gas Ltd., said, The award of these five CBM blocks marks a significant milestone in Essar Oil & Gas growth journey and reinforces our commitment to unlocking Indias vast unconventional hydrocarbon potential. Building on our proven track record at Raniganj, we see substantial opportunities to leverage our technical expertise, operational capabilities and established infrastructure to accelerate the development of these resources. Our focus will be on translating this expanded acreage into sustainable production growth, creating long-term value and contributing meaningfully to Indias energy security by strengthening domestic natural gas supplies and reducing dependence on imports. Bhuwan Chandra Tripathi, Chairman, Essar Oil & Gas Ltd. and Operating Partner Energy, Essar Group, said, Natural gas will continue to play an important role in Indias energy mix as energy demand continues to grow. The expansion of Essar Oil & Gas CBM portfolio reinforces our commitment to developing Indias indigenous energy resources. As a Group, we remain focused on supporting Indias energy security through responsible development of domestic hydrocarbon resources, while contributing to the countrys transition towards a more balanced and sustainable energy mix. Essar Group is a global conglomerate with over five decades of entrepreneurial experience in conceptualising, investing, building, and operating world-class assets across the energy, infrastructure, metals & mining, technology & retail sectors. Through Essar Oil & Gas Ltd, the Group is expanding its upstream portfolio across India. Essar Oil & Gas has invested more than Rs 6,000 crore in exploration and production at Raniganj and currently produces approximately 950,000 standard cubic metres of gas per day (SCMD), accounting for nearly 50 per cent of Indias CBM production. The Companys broader ambition is to contribute 5 per cent of Indias natural gas production by progressively developing its CBM portfolio and unlocking additional domestic gas resources. With over 25 years of pioneering experience in CBM exploration and production, Essar Oil & Gas is well positioned to help develop Indias vast unconventional hydrocarbon potential. Around half of Indias natural gas consumption is currently met through imports, making the accelerated development of domestic gas resources critical to strengthening the countrys energy security and supporting its transition towards a gas-based economy.
Thane Court: Consensual Relationship Not Rape By False Promise
A Thane court has acquitted a 35-year-old man accused of rape under the pretext of marriage, ruling that the relationship was consensual. The court cited a Supreme Court precedent, noting that a promise of marriage made after the first sexual encounter does not constitute a false promise.
Maha govt forms task force to shape comprehensive transit network under 'Viksit Maharashtra 2047'
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 15 (IANS) In a major step towards modernising urban mobility, the Maharashtra government has issued a Government Resolution (GR) to establish a high-level Task Force, which will draft a comprehensive framework for expanding railway networks, metro corridors, and Regional Rapid Transit Systems (RRTS) across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and other urban areas in the state. The initiative aligns with the 'Viksit Maharashtra 2047' vision, which aims to plan and expand transit networks more effectively and systematically. The formation of the Task Force follows a high-level meeting held on October 7, under the chairmanship of the Additional Chief Secretary (Urban Development-1). The newly established task force has been mandated to deliver its strategic recommendations and report within six months. Its core responsibilities include the formulation of policy recommendations and coordination measures to ensure seamless integration of public transit networks under the Viksit Maharashtra 2047 goals, conducting deep assessments regarding feasibility, suitability, and economic viability to determine which transport systems should be deployed in specific regions and the evaluation of the expansion of railway networks, the implementation of metro corridors, RRTS, and connecting major cities via semi-high-speed rail. The task force comprises key leaders and planning chiefs from major infrastructure and urban development bodies. Chaired by the Chairman and Managing Director, Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC), the Chief Manager (Planning), Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC), will be the member secretary. The task force's members include Joint Secretary (UD-7), Urban Development Department; Director (Planning/Projects), Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (Maha-Metro), Nagpur; Director (Projects), Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (Maha-Metro), Pune; Director (Planning), Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (MMRCL), Mumbai; Head (Transport & Communications), Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Mumbai. The invitees (Planning Department Heads) include the representatives from CIDCO (Navi Mumbai), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority, Nashik Metropolitan Region Development Authority, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Metropolitan Region Development Authority, Nagpur Metropolitan Region Development Authority, and Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited. The task force chairman is also empowered to invite additional members as necessary for deliberations. The transit network in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) comprises a massive, multi-modal public transport system that serves millions of daily commuters. It is anchored by the historic suburban railway grid, rapidly expanding metro lines, and feeder systems. Spanning over 435 km, Mumbai's suburban rail network is one of the oldest and busiest in Asia, carrying roughly 7.5 million passengers daily. It is structured mainly across three primary trunk routes -- the Western Line, Central Line, and Harbour Line -- extending from South Mumbai deep into the extended suburbs and neighbouring districts. The network continues to undergo capacity upgrades, station improvements, and rolling stock modernisation (including widespread introduction of air-conditioned local train services) managed by the Central Railway, Western Railway, and other bodies, such as the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC). The Mumbai Metro network has seen substantial operational growth, scaling up to an operational length of roughly 80 km across key intersecting corridors. Line 1 (Blue Line): Versova to Ghatkopar (11.4 km, fully elevated, operational since 2014) while Line 2A (Yellow Line): Dahisar East to Andheri West (18.6 km), Line 7 (Red Line): Dahisar East to Gundavali (16.5 km) are operational and Line 3 (Aqua Line): Cuffe Parade to Aarey Colony (33.5 km, fully underground, completed in phases through late 2025, serving major commercial hubs like BKC and the airport). Daily metro ridership has scaled past 1.6 million passengers, providing vital east-west and north-south links that complement the traditional north-south bias of the suburban rail network. Over 120 km of additional metro tracks are currently in various phases of construction or approvals (including Line 2B, Line 4/4A Green Line, Line 5, Line 6, and extensions like Lines 9 and 12) to interconnect Thane, Navi Mumbai, Kalyan, and Mira-Bhayander. A single monorail corridor operates in pockets of the city, though its integration and service reliability have faced historic bottlenecks. Extensive municipal and state transport bus fleets (BEST, TMT, KDMT, NMMT) serve as critical first- and last-mile connectors to railway and metro stations.
Mumbai, Thane under IMD yellow alert as hot and humid conditions persist
The combination of high temperatures and humidity could make conditions particularly uncomfortable, especially during the afternoon. The IMD has also warned of the possibility of heatwave conditions in parts of the region
Thane: Man shot dead near Ulhasnagar station complex; police suspect old rivalry
Harish Gajwani was shot dead near the Ulhasnagar railway station complex in Thane district on Wednesday night, October 14. Unidentified assailants allegedly fired two bullets into his head in the Camp 4 area. Police suspect an old rivalry
Thane: Blaze damages machinery at 3 shophouses on Ghodbunder Road
A fire broke out at three shophouses near Hill Crest Society on Ghodbunder Road in Thane West early Thursday. The blaze was extinguished by 5:30 am, with machinery and materials at Mateshwari 3D Art damaged. No injuries were reported
Man Shot Dead In Ulhasnagar Over Suspected Old Rivalry
A man named Harish Gajwani was shot dead near Ulhasnagar railway station complex in Thane district on Wednesday night. Police suspect an old rivalry as the motive, though the identities of the assailants are yet to be established. The incident occurred at 8.30 p.m.
Cinpolis India and RealD announce 3D Film Festival across 18 cities, tickets priced at Rs 150
Cinpolis India, in partnership with RealD, has announced a special 3D Film Festival starting October 23, 2026. The festival will be held across 23 Cinpolis cinemas in 18 cities across India, bringing a selection of popular film franchises, family entertainers and cult classics back to the big screen in 3D. Tickets for all screenings will be priced at Rs 150. The festival's lineup includes Spider-Man: No Way Home, Fast & Furious 7, Jurassic World, Mufasa: The Lion King and Lilo & Stitch in English, along with the Hindi film Raaz 3. The initiative aims to give moviegoers an opportunity to revisit these titles in a 3D theatrical format at an accessible price. The festival will take place in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Gurugram, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Navi Mumbai, Noida, Pune, Surat, Thane and Vadodara. Speaking about the initiative, Ashish Misra, Head of Commercialisation, Cinpolis India, said, When people come back to a film they already know, they come for the moments. They know exactly when the big scene is coming, and they wait for it with a hall full of people who are waiting for the same thing. That's what makes watching a film in a cinema special and seeing it in 3D on a big screen adds to it. We've taken the festival to 18 cities, from Bhopal to Bhubaneswar, because people everywhere should be able to enjoy that. Nathan Davis, VP of Marketing at RealD, also spoke about the collaboration and the festival's focus on bringing audiences back to cinemas. He said, India continues to be one of the world's most exciting moviegoing markets, and we're thrilled to partner with Cinpolis India to bring audiences back into theaters for some of the most memorable 3D experiences ever released. This festival is a great opportunity for fans to rediscover the immersive storytelling that premium 3D can deliver, while also building excitement for the next generation of cinematic events. As audiences look ahead to highly anticipated releases such as Ramayana and Avengers: Doomsday, we're excited to help create even more unforgettable moments on the big screen through the power of RealD 3D. Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Cinepolis Indias Ashish Misra predicts HISTORIC Rs. 15,000 cr India box office in 2026; says, Ramayana can be the BIGGEST film Indian cinema has ever seen
Satellites accurately detect methane emissions in largest controlled test yet
Researchers have conducted the largest-ever controlled test of space-based methane monitoring, finding that dedicated methane sensors correctly detected nearly all methane plumes released on clear days.
SIT Summons Ex-Thane Mayor In Shiv Sena Leader Murder Case
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has summoned former Thane city mayor Meenakshi Shinde for questioning in connection with the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar last month. Her husband, Rajendra Shinde, was previously questioned. The Purnekar family has accused the Shinde couple of orchestrating the killing, which Meenakshi Shinde denies. Five individuals have been arrested in the ongoing probe.
U.S. methane emissions flatline, despite increases in oil and gas production
Methane emissions from the oil and gas sector held steady in the United States even as oil and gas production increased during a recent period of heightened regulations, according to new research from Johns Hopkins University.
Thane Murder: Five Charged In Mobile Phone Dispute Killing
A criminal case has been registered against five individuals in Mumbra, Thane, for allegedly murdering a 54-year-old man. The victim was reportedly attacked with sticks, pipes, and belts on Tuesday evening following a dispute over a mobile phone. Police have filed charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, but no arrests have been made yet as investigations continue.
The accused have been identified as Dinesh Babu Manekar (39), a resident of Mahape in Navi Mumbai, and his alleged accomplice Suresh alias Babu Tanaji Mhatre (55), a resident of Chikhali in Raigad district
The accused have been identified as Dinesh Babu Manekar (39), a resident of Mahape in Navi Mumbai, and his alleged accomplice Suresh alias Babu Tanaji Mhatre (55), a resident of Chikhali in Raigad district
Man Arrested In Thane For Robbing Senior Citizens
Thane Police's Crime Branch has arrested Dinesh Babu Manjrekar for allegedly robbing elderly citizens using distraction and impersonation. His father and another accomplice are absconding. Police recovered gold jewellery worth Rs 24.24 lakh, and Manjrekar is linked to multiple cases across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Mira-Bhayandar, and Thane City.
EU proposes one-year delay to methane rules for oil and gas imports
The European Commission has recommended postponing the enforcement of methane emissions regulations concerning oil and gas imports. This shift comes amid pressure from nations like France and the United States, focusing on energy supply challenges. Concerns regarding potential expenses and compliance issues raised by EU member states have also played a role.
IMD issues heatwave yellow alert for Mumbai, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in isolated pockets of Mumbai, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg. Thane is likely to experience hot and humid conditions, with residents advised to take precautions against prolonged exposure to heat
EU delays methane rules on oil and gas imports for a year
The European Commission proposed a one-year delay to the EU's methane emissions rules for oil and gas imports on Wednesday, after pressure from governments including France and the United States. The rules, due to take effect on January 1, 2027, would have required
IMD issues yellow heat alert for Mumbai, Thane as temperatures rise
Mumbai and its suburbs are expected to experience mainly clear skies, with the maximum temperature forecast to be around 37 degrees Celsius and the minimum around 25 degrees Celsius
The IMD has issued an official yellow heat alert for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, and Ratnagiri districts, warning residents of rising temperatures and oppressive, heatwave-like conditions across coastal Maharashtra.
Thane journalists protest against MNS leader Avinash Jadhav, demand apology
The protest was organised by members of the Thane City Journalists Association on Monday, following remarks made by Jadhav during an October 9 demonstration by Opposition parties over the deteriorating law and order situation in Thane and the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar
Thane: Fire guts 22 vehicles parked along roadside in Divas Sabegaon
A fire broke out in Divas Sabegaon area in Thane district at around 2.02 am on October 13, gutting an auto-rickshaw and 22 two-wheelers parked along the roadside. The blaze was extinguished by 3.16 am. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains unknown
Pradeep Purnekar case: Court remands two key UP suspects to 7-day police custody
A Thane court has extended the police custody of Subhash alias Pappya Shinde by a day, while co-accused Santosh Kanojia alias Talli and Amit Singh alias Paplu, arrested in Prayagraj last week, have been remanded to seven days of police custody
Purnekar Murder: Custody Extended, SIT Probes Funding And Logistics
A Thane court extended the police custody of Subhash Shinde, the first arrested accused in the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar, by a day. Two other recently apprehended suspects from Uttar Pradesh, Santosh Kanojia and Amit Singh, were sent to four-day police remand. The Special Investigation Team is probing the murder conspiracy, including funding for the suspects' stay in UP and the arrangement of logistics, weapons, and getaway vehicles.
TV Actor Rescued From High-Profile Sex Racket In Thane
A female handler has been arrested, and a search for her male accomplice is underway. Two others have been arrested.
Bombay HC directs Thane civic body to form key committees within eight weeks
The order concerns the appointment of nominated corporators, members of the transport committee, the standing committee and other important committees of the civic body. Their formation had remained pending, prompting Advocate Sagar Kadam to approach the HC seeking intervention
Shiv Sena Leader's Son Demands CBI Probe
Ram Purnekar, son of murdered Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar, has demanded a CBI probe into his father's killing, alleging political pressure on Thane police. He also accused former Thane mayor Meenakshi Shinde and her husband Rajendra of being the masterminds behind the September 29 murder.
Pradeep Purnekar murder: Two key suspects brought to Thane from Prayagraj
With their arrests, the number of people arrested in the case has risen to five. Purnekar, the ward chief of Shiv Sena (UBT) in Manpada, was killed on September 29. He was shot at and attacked with a chopper
Indian-Americans back favourable candidates in US midterms elections
Indian-Americans are seeking not just a share in power in the US by getting elected as lawmakers but are also supporting others sympathetic to their cause in the November 3 midterm elections. The outgoing US House of Representatives have six members of Indian origin, but the number is likely to shrink to four with Raja Krishnamoorthi from Illinois and Shri Thanedar from Michigan failing to clear the primaries. Indian-American Congresspersons Ro Khanna (California-17), Pramila Jayapal (Washington-7), Ami Bera (California-3) and Suhas Subramanyam (Virginia-10) are up for re-election. The US midterm elections are held halfway through a president's four-year term to elect all 435 members of the House of Representatives, the lower house of Congress, and about one-third of the 100-member Senate, the upper house. The polls also include elections for several state governors and legislatures, as well as some mayors and other local officials. The results determine which party controls Congre
Samosa Caucus set to shrink as two Indian Americans exit
Digital Desk | Washington, Oct 11 (IANS) The number of Indian Americans in the US House of Representatives is set to fall from six to four after the November 3 midterm elections unless Democrats Amish Shah in Arizona or Pia Dandiya in Florida win their closely fought races, as Congressmen Raja Krishnamoorthi and Shri Thanedar prepare to leave the chamber. All six Indian-American members of the current House, informally known as the Samosa Caucus, are Democrats: Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal, Krishnamoorthi, Thanedar and Suhas Subramanyam. Krishnamoorthi, who represents Illinois's 8th Congressional District, gave up his seat to run for the Senate. He lost the March 17 Democratic primary to Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, who won 40.39 per cent of the vote to his 32.71 per cent. Obviously, this is not the result we sought But unlike Donald Trump, I'm not going to question the outcome. I'm proud of the race we ran, Krishnamoorthi said in his concession. Thanedar lost the August 4 Democratic primary in Michigan's 13th Congressional District to state Representative Donavan McKinney, 48.1 per cent to 51.9 per cent. Justice Democrats spent nearly $1 million backing McKinney, who was also endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders. I want to congratulate Representative Donavan McKinney on a hard fought race It was the honor of my life to represent the 13th District in the United States Congress, Thanedar said in a Facebook statement on August 5. The other four Indian-American incumbents are on the ballot in seats rated Solid or Safe Democratic by the Cook Political Report, Inside Elections and Sabato's Crystal Ball. They are Bera in California's 3rd District, Khanna in California's 17th, Jayapal in Washington's 7th and Subramanyam in Virginia's 10th. In two of those races the community wins either way. Khanna faces Indian-American Republican Ritesh Tandon, while Jayapal faces Indian-American Republican Nirav Sheth. That leaves two possible pickups. In Arizona's 1st Congressional District, Shah, an emergency room physician, faces Trump-backed Republican Jay Feely. The Cook Political Report moved the race from Toss-up to Lean Democratic on September 25, while Inside Elections and Sabato's Crystal Ball rate it a Toss-up. The only public October poll, by FirstStrategic, has Shah at 44 per cent and Feely at 42 per cent, within the survey's margin of error of 5.4 points. Shah narrowly lost the seat to Republican David Schweikert in 2024. Now, it's my job to earn the support of every voter in this districtincluding Democrats who voted for another candidate, Independents frustrated with our political system, and Republicans disappointed with the state of the country, Shah said after winning the Democratic primary in July. In Florida's redrawn 22nd Congressional District, an open seat, Dandiya faces Republican Casey Askar. Cook rates the race a Toss-up, Inside Elections rates it Tilt Republican and Sabato's Crystal Ball has it as Lean Republican. Trump won the new seat 55-44 in 2024. Polling is sparse. A survey by Impact Research for House Majority PAC, a Democratic sponsor, put Dandiya at 46 per cent and Askar at 44 per cent, while an August poll by Tavern Research showed the two tied. Dandiya, a former teacher and principal born in Palm Beach County to parents who immigrated from India, would be Florida's first South Asian member of Congress. I am so thrilled and honoured to be your Democratic nominee for US Congress here in my home state of Florida, she said in her primary victory speech in August. The caucus cannot grow beyond six in January, as no other Indian American is a competitive House nominee. Republicans Tandon, Sheth and Mahesh Ganorkar, who faces Democrat Valerie Foushee in North Carolina's 4th District, are all running in Solid Democratic seats. The departures come in a difficult cycle for incumbents. Twelve sitting House members lost primaries this year, seven of them Democrats. Before 2012, only two Indian Americans had served in Congress: Democrat Dalip Singh Saund of California, from 1957 to 1963, and Republican Bobby Jindal of Louisiana, from 2005 to 2008. Bera's election in 2012 began a steady rise. Khanna, Jayapal and Krishnamoorthi arrived in 2017, Thanedar in 2023 and Subramanyam in 2025. Indian Americans number about 5.5 million, roughly 1.6 per cent of the US population. In an AAPI Vote/AAPI Data survey this summer, Indian-American voters favoured Democratic House candidates by 66 per cent to 18 per cent.
Mumbai weather: Yellow alert issued for Mumbai, Thane, 3 other districts
Mumbai and its suburbs are likely to witness mainly clear skies, with maximum and minimum temperatures expected to hover around 36 degrees Celsius and 26 degrees Celsius, respectively
UP STF, Maha Police arrest two in Thane murder case
Key Suspects Held In Shiv Sena Leader Murder Case
The Thane Police Special Investigation Team (SIT) is seeking transit remand for two key suspects, Santosh Kanojia and Amit Singh, apprehended in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, in connection with the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar. These arrests bring the total number of accused to five. Kanojia and another accused, Subhash Shinde, are believed to have orchestrated the murder, which occurred on September 29.
UKs Poo Bus ran on human waste and food scraps. How five peoples annual waste fuels a 300 km journey
The UK launched the Bio-Bus, a 40-seat vehicle powered by biomethane made from human sewage and food waste in 2014. Operated between Bath and Bristol Airport, the bus could travel up to 300 km on a full tank, using fuel produced from the annual waste of around five people, according to GENeco.
Thane: Karivili sarpanch arrested in Rs 7.5 lakh bribery case
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) laid a trap and caught Sanjay Parshuram Naik, 62, sarpanch of Karivili village in Bhiwandi taluka, while he was allegedly accepting the money on Friday, ACB inspector Pramod Ahire said, according to PTI
Mumbai weather update: Yellow heat alert for Mumbai and Thane
According to the IMD's 8:30 AM weather report, the Colaba observatory in South Mumbai recorded a high of 37.0 degrees Celsius, while the Santacruz observatory in the suburbs logged 37.8 degrees Celsius
Son Kills Father Over Domestic Row In Thane
A 70-year-old man was allegedly stabbed to death by his 32-year-old son in Dombivli, Thane district, following a domestic dispute. The incident occurred on Friday morning, and the son has been apprehended by police. A murder case has been registered, and investigations are ongoing.
CJP members in Mumbai, Thane allege police pressure ahead of protest
Mumbai, Thane, and Navi Mumbai members allege police calls and visits to check identities, whereabouts and travel plans
Thane court acquits two men booked under MCOCA in 2022 chain-snatching case
According to the prosecution, the incident occurred on May 22, 2022, when a woman and her husband were walking near Khadakpada Circle in Kalyan West
India, Mali commemorate World Cotton Day, discuss opportunities to boost value chains
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 9 (IANS) Leaders and experts, commemorating the World Cotton Day at the UN, discussed opportunities to strengthen cotton value chains, support smallholders and artisans, improve processing capacity and market access, encourage use of technology and advanced science in the sector and deepen international partnerships, according to an official statement on Friday. The Permanent Missions of India and Mali to the United Nations jointly organised the event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, said the Ministry of Textiles. The event brought together Members of Parliament from India, representatives of Member States and international organisations to discuss cottons contribution to livelihoods, value addition and the Sustainable Development Goals. Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, Permanent Representative of India to the UN, recalled Mahatma Gandhis association of cotton and the spinning wheel with self-reliance, dignity and Indias freedom struggle. Parvathaneni highlighted four priorities: supporting producers livelihoods; expanding value addition and access to markets; promoting sustainability; and strengthening technology and partnerships. He also emphasised the need for affordable inputs and finance, support for smaller enterprises, and South-South and triangular cooperation to help cotton-producing countries retain more value and advance the SDGs. Ambassador Issa Konfourou, Permanent Representative of Mali to the UN, highlighted cottons importance to Malis economy and rural livelihoods. He underscored the challenges posed by limited processing capacity, input costs, market access, and trade-distorting support. Outlining Malis efforts to expand domestic processing and create employment, he welcomed mutually beneficial partnerships, including South-South cooperation, and acknowledged India as a key partner. Asit Kumar Mal, Member of Parliament, drew on the experience of Kantha embroidery in Bolpur, West Bengal, to highlight how traditional craftsmanship adds value to cotton, supports womens livelihoods and promotes reuse and resource efficiency. He emphasised the importance of fair remuneration, affordable credit, design support, and market access for artisans. LK Sudhish, Member of Parliament, highlighted Tamil Nadus experience in cotton knitwear and garment manufacturing, including the contribution of smaller enterprises, shared infrastructure and skilled workers. He referred to the integrated textile park being developed under the PM MITRA initiative and wastewater recovery and reuse in textile processing, said the statement.
Hydraulic crane topples at Thane elevated freeway worksite, auto driver and passenger injured
Key Accused In Shiv Sena Leader Murder Remanded Till October 13
Police in Thane are investigating the source of a costly firearm used in the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar. Two key accused, Nikhil Yadav and Nitesh Pawar, have had their police custody extended until October 13 as authorities seek to identify the mastermind and procurement chain behind the September 29 killing.
One injured after crane tilts at MMRDA elevated road construction site in Thane
The incident resulted in minor injuries to one passenger travelling in the auto-rickshaw. The injured passenger was admitted to Lake City Hospital for treatment, sources said
Thane civic body speeds up Navratri pandal permissions, 51 applications cleared
The civic administration said the permission process is being carried out through both online and offline modes to make it easier for organisers and prevent inconvenience to devotees and citizens. Of the applications received so far, 103 were submitted online, while 208 were filed offline
Navratri 2026: Thane traffic police announce restrictions at Tembhi Naka
Thane Traffic Police will impose restrictions and diversions from October 11 to 20 around Tembhi Naka and Bhawani Chowk during Navratri, with several routes affected to manage the expected rush of devotees
EPA says it will rescind US policy targeting oil and gas industry methane leaks
The US
EPA says will rescind policy targeting oil and gas industry methane leaks
The US Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday said it is days away from proposing to rescind a Biden-era policy that sought to rein in large leaks of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, from oil and gas operations. The move is part of a broad Trump administration effort to slas
A research team has developed a photocatalytic technology that improves the stability of MXene, an emerging material vulnerable to water, to efficiently convert carbon dioxide into methane.
US returnee became 'lone wolf' after watching videos: Maha ATS
The Maharashtra ATS has filed a chargesheet against Zaib Ansari, a US returnee, for allegedly stabbing two security guards in Thane. The chargesheet states Ansari self-radicalised by watching extremist videos and was battling personal issues. He faces charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
WNS Global Services leases 322,000 sq ft of office space in Thane tower
WNS has leased 322,000 sq ft at Hiranandani Centaurus through two agreements, with monthly rent of about 2.90 crore and total rental outgo estimated at 619.37 crore.
Thane District Collectorate Mahsul Sevak (Kotwal) Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 111 Posts
Thane District Collectorate has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 111 Mahsul Sevak (Kotwal) posts. The online application process will be conducted from 07-10-2026 to 21-10-2026. Eligible candidates can apply through the official website, thane.nic.in.
Fire guts sandwich shop, damages power distribution point in Thane's Talao Pali
The fire department received information about the blaze at 8.07 pm on Tuesday. The fire broke out at Preeti Sandwich, located next to Chintamani Jewellers near Talao Pali, Naupada, Thane West. The blaze also affected the MSEDCL DP located adjacent to the sandwich shop
EU to delay methane emissions rules for one year and no more, energy chief says
The European Union plans to delay methane emissions rules for oil and gas imports by one year, but no longer than that
Exporters to get an extra year on methane rules: EU's Ursula von der Leyen
Ursula von der Leyen said the EU will give methane exporters an extra year to prepare for its methane regulation amid concerns over high energy costs
EU's von der Leyen: exporters to get an extra year on methane rules
Exporters of
Railway Manager Booked For Harassment
A deputy station manager in Kalyan, Thane, has been booked by railway police for allegedly sending inappropriate WhatsApp messages and making improper advances towards a woman colleague. The case was registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Pretty in pink, but Malarikkals lilies worry ecologists
A two-year study for the Kerala State Biodiversity Board finds the water lily, which appeared in Malarikkal after the 2018 floods, has shown unprecedented and uncontrolled growth; ecologists flag its impact on local aquatic plants, water flow and sunlight penetration, besides concerns over methane emissions from decaying plant biomass; the seasonal bloom has transformed Malarikkal into a tourism hotspot, bringing additional income to farmers, boat operators and local residents
2027 should be marked as Metro Year: Maha CM calls for completion of Metro routes
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 5 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday directed officials to designate 2027 as the Metro Year by clearing pending works and completing at least 70 km of Metro routes by next year. He instructed agencies to accelerate progress and expand the target of completing 36 km of Metro lines by December 2026 to 50 km. To complete infrastructure projects within stipulated timelines, at least 50 per cent of project work should rely on mechanisation, he said. Fadnavis also advised officials to address labour shortages through mechanisation while ensuring the availability of skilled workers. The Chief Minister was speaking during a Chief Ministers War Room meeting to review various infrastructure projects. Regarding Metro Line 2B (D.N. Nagar to Chembur), Fadnavis said a special 12-hour road block should be planned on Sundays, whenever required, to complete girder installation work near Juhu Circle. He said further road blocks should be decided after assessing progress while ensuring minimal inconvenience to citizens. The Chief Minister directed that the Sewri-Worli Elevated Corridor connection be completed and opened to the public before May 31, 2027. He said planning must be undertaken to prevent traffic congestion wherever a new road merges with an existing corridor. Immediate technology-driven solutions should be identified for traffic bottlenecks at Vakola Junction, along with necessary interventions at congestion hotspots on the Western Express Highway, he added. Fadnavis said the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and other agencies must maintain updated mapping of underground utility networks. A streamlined system should be developed so that such data is easily accessible during utility and infrastructure works, thereby reducing project completion timelines. At active infrastructure construction sites, guidance boards, barricades and other safety measures must be installed to ensure the safety of both citizens and workers. He also directed the establishment of an independent safety management company to develop a low-cost business model for such services. Reviewing the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Water Supply Scheme, Fadnavis said care must be taken to ensure that every household receives a tap connection. He said planning should be undertaken in a manner that avoids repeated road excavation while laying connections. Agencies must ensure that contractors do not merely complete routine work but actively achieve the targets set for the project, he added. The Chief Minister warned that contractors who delay projects or fail to complete them despite expiry of deadlines would face blocklisting. He also directed officials to expedite legal proceedings and land possession issues related to Metro Line 6 (Swami Samarth Nagar to Vikhroli). Fadnavis reviewed projects including the Sewri-Worli Elevated Connector, Metro Line 9 (Dahisar East to Mira-Bhayander), Metro Line 5 (Thane to Dhamankar Naka and Kasheli Depot), Metro Line 2B (D.N. Nagar to Diamond Garden-Mandale), Metro Line 6 (Swami Samarth Nagar to Vikhroli), and the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar City Water Supply Scheme, according to an official government release.
Navi Mumbai Airport expands multimodal transport network ahead of winter flight schedule
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 5 (IANS) Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is strengthening its public transport and ground mobility infrastructure ahead of the Winter Schedule 2026-27, with a wider network of buses, taxis, autorickshaws, car rentals, and airport shuttles aimed at improving connectivity across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Pune and the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region, it was announced on Monday. The airport, operated by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), is preparing for the Winter Schedule that will run from October 25, 2026, to March 27, 2027. As part of the expansion, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) will launch e-Shivai electric bus services from NMIA on October 7. The first phase of MSRTC services will connect the airport with Dadar, Borivali and Pune. Fares from NMIA have been set at Rs 450 for Pune, Rs 210 for Borivali, and Rs 170 for Dadar East. Children below 12 years and women travelling with a National Common Mobility Card will be eligible for a 50 per cent fare concession. The Dadar-NMIA service will operate through Sion and Atal Setu, while the Borivali-NMIA route will connect CSMIA Terminal 1, Bandra, and Atal Setu. The Pune route will have two daily services, with one operating in the morning and another in the afternoon. MSRTC also plans to introduce services connecting NMIA with Thane and Nashik by mid-November. Private bus operator Chalo Bus is already providing 21 daily services connecting NMIA with Marol in Andheri East, Bandra, Dadar, and the World Trade Centre in Colaba. The operator is also adding capacity during peak periods to cater to passenger and airport employee movement. Within Navi Mumbai, Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) is operating seven dedicated airport routes, A1 to A7, linking Terminal 1 with Kharkopar, Targhar, Belapur, Nerul, Panvel, Khandeshwar and the Airport Project Office. Services between Belapur and Nerul are available every 15-20 minutes during peak hours, while further connectivity to Vashi and Panvel is planned. The airport is also expanding taxi and last-mile connectivity. Uber Go and Uber Premier will provide app-based cab services, while Uber Auto will cater to passengers seeking on-demand autorickshaw services for shorter journeys. Prepaid taxi and autorickshaw facilities, along with car rental services, are also being introduced at the airport. Bharat Taxi is scheduled to begin operations at NMIA from October 10 with a dedicated fleet of up to 40 vehicles, adding another option for passengers travelling to and from the airport. A complimentary inter-airport shuttle service is also being introduced between NMIA and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). Operated by Cityflo, Aarya and Chalo, the shuttle will run every hour and provide passengers with a direct transfer option between Mumbai's two airports. Overall ground transport capacity at NMIA is being scaled up to 4,594 vehicles and services, including 3,787 app-based taxis, 184 car rentals, 171 autorickshaws and 547 buses. The airport is also deploying mobility signage, improved wayfinding systems and on-ground passenger assistance, with designated areas for buses, shuttles, arrivals, departures and private vehicles.
Nagpur Man Finds About Wife's Affair, She Kills Him 8 Months After Love Marriage
Thane police arrest woman in husband's murder linked to extramarital affair and dispute.
Thane Doctor assault: Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre surrenders, sent to jail
Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre and the three accused were remanded to Adharwadi Jail in Kalyan after surrendering on Sunday, officials said. The Supreme Court had directed them to surrender before the trial court by October 5
Shiv Sena (UBT) mans murder: Thane crime branch hunts for 7.65mm firearm, chopper
Corporator Mhatre Surrenders After SC Cancels Bail In Doctor Assault
Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre and three others surrendered to a Thane trial court after the Supreme Court cancelled their bail in a doctor assault case. The apex court overturned a Bombay High Court order, emphasizing the need to protect doctors from violence and intimidation, and highlighted Mhatre's criminal history.
Thane cab driver jumps off Raigad fort
Mumbai, Thane, Palghar to witness hot and humid conditions: IMD
Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad and Ratnagiri are expected to see hot and humid conditions in isolated pockets on October 4 and 5, an IMD weather bulletin said
Corsair PS service center...........
Hi, anyone knows service center for Corsair PS in Thane/Mumbai THanx
Thane MACT awards Rs 38 lakh to mother six years after sons road death
In its order passed on Saturday, MACT member R V Mohite rejected claims that the deceased was responsible for the accident and directed the offending vehicles insurer to pay the compensation initially
Thane teacher dupes autorickshaw driver of Rs 10.30 lakh over fake govt jobs
According to the complaint, the 46-year-old victim, who lives in Bhiwandi in Thane district, had enrolled his daughter for pre-recruitment training for police jobs at an academy near Kalyan Railway Station
Nagpur man killed over wifes affair; woman held in Thane after weeks on run
The accused, identified as Deepali alias Bali Vijay Salunke, was arrested in Thane on Saturday in connection with the August 20 killing of her husband, Gaurav Ragde, a 27-year-old autorickshaw driver from Ajni in Nagpur
Wife Held For Husband's Murder Over Alleged Affair
Thane police have arrested a woman who was on the run for one-and-a-half months in connection with the murder of her husband in Nagpur. The accused, Deepali Salunke, allegedly had an extramarital affair, which led to discord and ultimately the fatal attack on her husband, Gaurav Ragde. She confessed to her involvement during interrogation.
Pradeep Purnekar murder: Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders kin demand CBI probe in Thane
Purnekars family met visiting BJP leaders, including MLA Sanjay Kelkar and MLC Niranjan Davkhare, on Friday, urging them to arrange an urgent meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to ensure a fair investigation free from political pressure
Kashmir gets first machine-sown direct-seeded rice crop
First Time in Kashmir: SKUAST-K Demonstrates Mechanised Direct-Seeded Rice at Khudwani Khudwani (Kulgam), Oct 03: For the first time in the Valley, rice has been sown by machine straight into the main field, skipping the nursery, the puddling and the transplanting that have defined paddy cultivation in Kashmir for generations. At the Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC), SKUAST-Kashmir, in Khudwani, scientists this season demonstrated mechanised Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR) over one hectare, with half the plot under DSR and the other half under conventional puddled transplanted rice, grown side by side under identical conditions for direct comparison. Dr Tasneem Mubarak, the project's Principal Investigator, said the demonstration marked a historic first for the Valley, where direct-seeded rice, known locally as Votur, was sown through a machine for the first time. The technique is not entirely new to Kashmir, Dr Mubarak told Rising Kashmir. Before the Green Revolution, farmers in the Valley practised a form of direct sowing they called 'Vothur', broadcasting pre-germinated seed by hand across the field. But the method came with serious drawbacks. The biggest problem farmers faced was weeds, he said, explaining that without proper tilling and a lack of novel herbicides, weeds overran the fields. Since sowing was done by hand rather than with any precision method, the crop grew patchy in some places and too dense in others, with birds also damaging the broadcast seed. There was no suitable herbicide at the time that could control every category of weed, which meant farmers had to weed the fields repeatedly through the season by hand, in addition to thinning the crop where it grew too dense, Dr Mubarak said, describing it as a laborious form of farming that consumed large amounts of human labour. By the 1960s, as the Green Revolution reached Kashmir, farmers shifted almost entirely to transplanted rice, which allowed better control over plant population and made it easier to manage weeds through proper tillage, standing water and herbicide application. Direct seeding fell out of use, Dr Mubarak said, ot because it was a flawed idea, but because the tools needed to make it work well simply did not exist at the time. He said farmers lacked a suitable variety with the right potential, and precision sowing methods were not available either, adding that weed management and, more recently, shrinking water resources, remained the other major gaps. The machine used at Khudwani sows seed at an exact, adjustable spacing, anywhere from 10 centimetres to 25 centimetres apart depending on the variety and the field, while placing fertiliser directly beneath the seed in the same pass. The spacing can be modified in the machine according to the situation, the variety and the location, which is why the method is called precision sowing, Dr Mubarak said. Because the method eliminates nursery-raising, puddling and transplanting entirelyoperations that each consume significant water, time and manual labourthe savings compound quickly. Thirty-five to forty per cent of water is saved through the technique in general, Dr Mubarak said, adding that this season, thanks to evenly distributed rainfall, the demonstration plot saved as much as 50 per cent of the water a conventional transplanted crop would have needed. He said eliminating the nursery raising, puddling and transplanting alone cuts labour requirements by roughly 40 to 45 per cent, and once the crop is harvested and threshed mechanically as well, total labour savings cross 50 per cent compared to the traditional method. After sowing, the field gets one irrigation immediately, then none for the next 10 to 15 days while the seedlings emerge, followed by intermittent irrigation monitored through water-level tubes installed below the surface. Novel herbicides now available can control a much wider range of weed species than what farmers had access to decades ago, cutting down the weeding labour that once made direct seeding so demanding, Dr Mubarak said. The technology also has an environmental payoff. Standing water in conventional transplanted rice drives significant methane emissions, averaging around 200 kg per hectare, Dr Mubarak said. Under DSR, with less standing water through the season, that figure drops to around 60 kg per hectare, a reduction of 60 to 80 per cent. The research behind the technology has been published in journals including Scientific Reports (Nature group), BMC Plant Biology, Advances in Weed Science, and Sustainability. Dr Mubarak, along with Prof Ashaq Hussain and Dr Intikhab Aalam, who worked on the project, were conferred the Achiever of the Year award by SKUAST-Kashmir in January 2026 in recognition of the work. Dr Mubarak said the Khudwani demonstration, carried out under an ICAR-IIRR project, is meant to be the first step toward testing how the technology fits into Kashmir's existing cropping systems. Since DSR sowing has to be done in May, the team is now studying which rice varieties and cropping sequences will work best around that timeline.
FDA raids: Banned pan masala, flavoured tobacco worth Rs 2.69 crore seized
The Maharashtra FDA seized banned pan masala, flavoured tobacco and other prohibited food products, along with three vehicles, worth Rs 2.69 crore in raids across Thane and Palghar on Friday and Saturday
Thane court sentences man to 5 years for harassing minor girls online
Navi Mumbai: Excise Department seizes 600 boxes of fake country liquor, one held
Acting on a tip-off about the illegal transportation of counterfeit country liquor, officials from the State Excise Department, Thane-1, conducted a raid near Juinagar railway station on the Panvel-Sion Highway around 11.30 am
Thane Murder: Opposition Demands CBI Probe For Slain Sena (UBT) Leader
Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sushma Andhare has called for a CBI probe into the murder of party leader Pradeep Purnekar in Thane, alleging contract killing and potential political pressure on local police. Opposition parties are planning a protest march, while police have made arrests, and the victim's son has accused a rival Shiv Sena leader.
Sena (UBT) leader's Murder: Oppn Parties to Take Out Protest March in Thane
Opposition leaders of Sena (UBT), NCP (SP), Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), Congress, AAP, Dharmarajya Paksha and Republican Party of India (RPI) announced the protest march
