The Times of India

Maharashtra has formed an expert committee to boost patent quality and commercialisation from academic institutions, addressing a decline in its national patent ranking. The move aims to shift focus from filing quantity to successful grants and industry adoption, tackling issues like poor drafting and academic-driven filings.

India's data centre capacity is set for a significant surge, adding nearly 500 MW by 2026. This expansion, driven by 5G and data localisation, is moving beyond metros, promising faster internet and enhanced digital services for citizens.

India's religious hubs are phasing out single-use plastic water bottles for recyclable, paper-based alternatives, starting with Mumbai's Siddhivinayak and Kashi Vishwanath Mandirs. This initiative by Temple Connect and Blueprint Water aims to combat plastic waste generated by millions of devotees, with plans for reusable bottles and local production units.

Two hospitals in Palghar, Sub-District Hospital Kasa and Rural Hospital Talasari, have been upgraded into trauma stabilisation centres along the accident-prone Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor. This initiative, part of the Zero Fatality Corridor programme, equips facilities with critical gear to manage emergencies during the crucial 'golden hour', aiming to significantly reduce road accident fatalities and disabilities on National Highway 48.

The Supreme Court has ordered Rajasthan to halt untreated effluent discharge into rivers, citing widespread groundwater contamination and health risks. Authorities must seal discharge points, prosecute violators, and conduct a comprehensive assessment of ecological damage. The court also mandated a 'zero liquid discharge' ecosystem and stricter oversight of industries.

Mumbai's ambitious biomining project at Mulund dumping ground faces another setback. The contractor, citing fuel supply disruptions from the West Asia war, has requested a third extension. This geopolitical event is deemed a 'force majeure' by the firm, impacting machinery operations and transport. Civic officials are reviewing the request, which follows previous delays due to Covid-19 and Cyclone Tauktae.

A Govandi man was allegedly stabbed by his wife and cousin on Sunday. He reportedly found them in a compromising position at his home. An argument ensued later, leading to the alleged stabbing. The man sustained injuries to his hand and thigh. Police have filed an FIR against the duo for attempt to murder.

The remains of seafarer Dixit Solanki arrived in Mumbai from Sharjah on Sunday. Solanki died in an alleged missile strike off the Oman coast on March 1. His family is seeking DNA confirmation before performing the last rites. They have approached the Bombay High Court for directions to refer the matter to a forensic laboratory.

The ongoing turmoil in West Asia is sending shockwaves through the industries of Ambernath and Dombivli, resulting in staggering losses exceeding Rs 1,000 crore each month. The shortage of gas and raw materials has resulted in production cuts of nearly 50%, leading many workers to seek jobs elsewhere and disrupting vital supply chains.

The Air India flight 171 crash inquiry faces a critical question: did the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deploy before or after the fuel switches moved? A pilots' organization argues the manufacturer's documentation contradicts the preliminary report's timeline, suggesting a potential electrical failure preceded any crew action. This distinction is vital for understanding the accident's cause and the pilots' legacy.

In a troubling shift, numerous highly skilled oncologists in India are facing restrictions that prevent them from treating patients under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. This decision, rooted in the absence of officially recognized super-specialty qualifications from the NMC, fails to acknowledge the invaluable real-world expertise and dedication these doctors have brought to cancer treatment over the years.

In a surprising political maneuver, Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar reached out to former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray for his backing in securing a smooth win for the unopposed Baramati byelection.