The Times of India News

The BMC polls saw an intense scramble for tickets, with 2,516 candidates filing nominations for 227 seats, 84% on the final day. This surge is driven by a nine-year gap, party splits, and Mumbai's evolving political economy, where civic control offers significant influence and resources. Family legacy and winnability also played crucial roles in candidate selection.

Mumbaikars welcomed the New Year 2026 with unexpected heavy showers and drizzle across several parts of the city on Thursday morning. The unseasonal rains, which began shortly before 6 am and gradually reduced, made the weather pleasant for many residents. Social media users shared their surprise and appreciation for the beautiful, albeit unusual, weather.

Delivery workers across India observed a New Year's Eve strike protesting low pay and lack of social security, despite app-based platforms offering festive bonuses. While many customers remained unaware, several orders faced significant delays. Platforms like Swiggy and Zepto increased per-order pay, but some workers refused the incentives, citing unachievable targets and the risk of ID blocking.

Central Railway celebrated 2025 as a milestone year, marking 100 years of electrification and achieving significant passenger and freight targets. The railway enhanced passenger experience with new escalators, lifts, and stations, while also prioritizing safety through KAVACH trials and innovative technology. Sustainability and community engagement were also key highlights.

Over 900 railway police will be deployed across Western and Central Railway on December 31st, focusing on crowd control, women's safety, and anti-terror checks. Mumbai Traffic Police will also be on high alert, conducting checks for drink driving and other traffic violations from Wednesday evening to Friday morning.

A humble school near Byculla station, founded in 1795 by Goan merchant Antonio De Souza, has quietly celebrated 200 years. This institution, with roots in Mazgaon, has nurtured remarkable alumni like Raj Kapoor and poet Nissim Ezekiel, leaving an indelible mark on India's cultural and political landscape. Discover the legacy of this enduring educational establishment.

Noor Mehr Charitable Trust celebrated its silver jubilee, honoring alumni who seamlessly blend religious and secular education. This unique model, initiated by Syed Ali Hussain, empowers underprivileged students to become hafizs and clear board exams, leading to successful careers in various fields. Dignitaries praised the initiative for its dedication to educating impoverished children.

Celebrity fitness guru Yasmin Karachiwala has acquired two luxury ocean-facing apartments in Bandra West for Rs 37.5 crore. The 55-year-old trainer, known for working with Bollywood stars, invested in the elite Paradigm Superstar project. The development boasts unique wellness amenities, aligning with Karachiwala's focus on holistic health and recovery.

The number of women in Indian prisons has surged by 162% in two decades, outpacing general population growth. This rise, driven by factors like social stigma in non-violent offenses and procedural delays, highlights critical gaps in legal aid and gender-responsive reforms. Experts advocate for accelerated reforms, including fast-track courts and alternatives to incarceration, to address the growing crisis.

The Bombay High Court has ordered the return of original documents to two young doctors who resigned from JJ Hospital due to alleged unsanitary living conditions. The court waived the requirement for them to deposit Rs 20 lakh, allowing them to secure seats in other institutions like AIIMS.

As the city's skyline continues to grow vertically, residents in areas like Worli, Prabhadevi, and Lower Parel are reporting sleep disturbances from aviation warning lights on neighbouring buildings

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil Padma Bhushan Acharya Shri Ratnasundersuriswarji Maharaj Saheb's 500th book, World of Love, Love of the World, on January 11. This prolific Jain spiritual teacher, who began writing at his guru's behest despite initial doubts, has penned works spanning diverse themes, earning him two Guinness World Records for his extensive literary output.

Gold and silver prices surged in 2025, driven by global instability, investor flight to safety, and anticipated US interest rate cuts. Central bank purchases and strong domestic demand, particularly for silver's role in green technology, bolstered the rally. Experts foresee continued strength, emphasizing precious metals as strategic assets for wealth preservation and future technologies.

Tragedy struck Bhandup (West) railway station late Monday night as a BEST bus veered off course during a U-turn, crashing into pedestrians. The devastating incident claimed four lives and left ten others injured. CCTV footage captured the bus losing control, hitting a pole before mounting the footpath.