The Times of India
Elections 2026Maharashtra / The Times of India
For the first time, Indian Institutes of Technology will allow students to take courses and spend terms at other campuses. This move aims to break down the rigidity of the JEE-based system, enabling pan-IIT academic mobility. A structured mechanism for credit transfer is being developed, similar to international exchange programs, initially implemented in a controlled manner.
International universities are launching offshore campuses in Mumbai, accepting applications for their inaugural batches. Offering sought-after courses like AI and computer science, these institutions aim to attract students with annual fees ranging from Rs 12-20 lakh. This move provides a practical alternative to overseas education amidst evolving immigration policies, with campuses set to open for the 2026 fall intake.
Maharashtra ATS launched a massive search operation across 21 locations in Yavatmal and Ahilyanagar districts based on intelligence about extremist activities. This follows previous actions, including an arrest in January related to a religious conversion racket and searches in October concerning a Pune ISIS module.
BMC's A ward demolished unauthorized structures at HR College in Churchgate on Saturday after the management failed to provide valid permissions or approved building plans. Despite being given ample time, the college's attempts to regularize the constructions were rejected, leading to the civic body's action.
In a surprising turn of events at Mumbai Airport, local authorities from Sahar have detained two cab drivers for allegedly conning a newly arrived couple out of 1,000 Thai baht (around Rs 3,300). The drivers reportedly insisted on payment in foreign currency, leaving the unsuspecting tourists out of pocket.
Five individuals, including project directors and managers from RAJV-Milan Infra and DB-Hill-LBG consortium, were arrested after a Metro Line 4 parapet segment collapsed, killing one and injuring three. MMRDA imposed penalties on contractors and consultants, while politicians highlighted previous violations and safety concerns. An inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the incident.
A viral video showing a candidate's son inside a Solapur polling booth has led to the suspension of a polling officer and a police constable. The Maharashtra State Election Commission deemed allowing the minor into the voting compartment a violation of election rules. An FIR has been filed against the candidate, with departmental action initiated against the officials.
A section of an under-construction metro rail pillar collapsed onto an autorickshaw in Mulund West on Saturday afternoon, with three to four individuals feared injured. The incident occurred near the Johnson & Johnson company on LBS Road when a cement segment gave way during ongoing work. Rescue operations are underway, and the injured are being transported to a hospital.
At a vibrant music festival in Mumbai, the spirit of the blues comes alive as artists emphasize its timeless appeal, deeply ingrained in personal stories. Fresh from his Grammy triumphs, Eric Gales reflects on the genre's dynamic journey.
Mumbai witnessed a 33% surge in losses to digital arrest scams in 2025, reaching Rs 155 crore despite a slight dip in registered cases. AI tools have significantly lowered the barrier to entry for cybercriminals, making scams more accessible and sophisticated. Law enforcement faces an uphill battle as masterminds often operate from overseas, while the elderly remain particularly vulnerable.
A key member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has issued a fresh audio threat, this time targeting actor Ranveer Singh and filmmaker Rohit Shetty. The gangster warned of severe consequences for Singh, even mentioning his support staff, and urged Bollywood to fall in line. Security agencies are analyzing the clip amid ongoing industry alerts.
A 23-year-old woman in Malad East has filed a police complaint against her ex-boyfriend for stalking and issuing threats to her and her family. The accused, who met the victim on Snapchat two years ago, allegedly began harassing her after her engagement in January 2026.
Kasturba Marg Police have arrested a 19-year-old from Malwani for motorcycle theft in Borivali East. The arrest also led to the resolution of two other theft cases. The stolen motorcycle, valued at Rs 80,000, was recovered from the accused.
A 35-year-old man was arrested by the Government Railway Police for repeatedly molesting a 14-year-old girl on a Karjat-bound local train. The victim slapped the accused, and her parents and co-travellers handed him over to police at Dombivli station. The accused has been booked under the POCSO Act and the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Mumbai has unveiled India's first musical road, a 500-meter stretch on the Coastal Road playing the 'Jai Ho' tune. Designed to encourage safe driving, the feature generates the melody through precisely cut grooves when vehicles travel between 70-80 kmph. This innovative installation utilizes Hungarian technology, with plans for further expansion.
Suraksha Smart City in Vasai is poised to make waves in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region with the launch of 5,868 budget-friendly homes this year as part of the PMAY scheme. Leveraging cutting-edge precast technology, these 1 BHK residences come at 22.5 lakh, along with a 2.
Bollywood actor Aayush Sharma has reportedly received an extortion demand from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang via email, adding him to a list of industry figures targeted recently. This development is significant as Sharma is Salman Khan's brother-in-law, who has also faced threats from the same gang. Police are investigating the email's origin and have advised Sharma to remain vigilant.
Amid rising tensions, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar has voiced suspicions of foul play in the air crash of Ajit Pawar, claiming interference from a politically linked individual experienced in the aviation sector may have obstructed earlier reports.

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