The Times of India

Ratnagiri district has launched a pioneering District Development-cum-Climate Action Plan, integrating climate-resilient measures into its growth strategy. The plan prioritizes renewable energy, climate-proof infrastructure, and strengthening farm and fisheries value chains to safeguard livelihoods and unlock new economic opportunities in the coastal region.

Mumbai's cinema halls may soon see costlier tickets as the BMC plans to reintroduce entertainment tax after September 2026. This move, despite the GST regime, is expected to burden audiences, particularly low and middle-income families, potentially impacting theatrical footfall and the wider film industry.

The historic Asiatic Library in Fort has received a Rs 75 lakh grant from the BMC budget for 2026-27. While less than the Rs 1 crore sought, the funds are crucial for operational needs like book purchases and maintaining precious artefacts. This allocation addresses ongoing salary expenses, supplementing existing government grants with specific spending restrictions.

Mumbai Central's new Tardeo-Nagpada-Mumbai Central flyover is now open. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the structure. This replaces an old bridge. Commuters can expect smoother traffic flow. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation completed the project ahead of schedule. This vital east-west corridor will ease congestion in South Mumbai.

An ISIS-linked accused, Areeb Majeed, claims two individuals posing as Army officers offered to drop his case if he joined a covert operation. He refused, suspecting a trap, and alerted authorities. The court has now demanded responses from the NIA and local police regarding this serious incident of alleged impersonation and interference with justice.

Mumbai's residents are embracing a new weekend trend: visiting vibrant sunflower farms on the city's outskirts. These outings offer a refreshing escape, fostering family and pet togetherness amidst stunning blooms. Beyond picturesque views, participants enjoy authentic farm-to-table meals, creating meaningful connections with nature and local produce, a welcome pause from urban life.

A 58-year-old BMC employee has been booked for allegedly securing his job using fake educational certificates. An FIR was registered against Eknath Indulkar, a coordinator at a Mazgaon health center, after an inquiry revealed his Sanitation Inspector course mark sheets and certificates were fabricated. He was suspended and his documents handed over to the police for investigation.

Bombay HC directs developer to withdraw anticipatory bail plea, seek relief from sessions court

Rohit Pawar plans to file an FIR in Baramati after Marine Drive police allegedly refused his complaint against VSR. Supriya Sule demanded a government statement on recent plane crashes and strict action against officials responsible for VSR's non-compliance, citing DGCA's initial report as an attempt to clear the airline.

The highly anticipated Messi Experience A Dream Come True is set to launch in India this March as part of its 2026 world tour. Following successful international runs, the immersive exhibition will open in Mumbai on March 20, 2026, and then move to Bengaluru on June 19, 2026.

Mumbai's civic body plans a significant education budget increase for 2026-27, introducing NCC units, digital classrooms, and English labs. A new CBSE school is slated, alongside tablet distribution and science park pilots. Infrastructure upgrades and library enhancements are also prioritized, aiming to boost student learning and facilities across the city.

Four men from Wasseypur were arrested for extorting a Borivali jeweller by impersonating members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. They demanded Rs 30 lakh, threatening the jeweller with death if the ransom wasn't paid. The accused were apprehended by police after a sting operation involving fake gold coin payment.

Maharashtra reported 93,940 women missing in 2024-2025, with 72% found. Minor girls missing numbered 23,429, with 80.1% recovered. Operation Muskaan, running since 2015, has traced over 41,000 children, with the current phase finding 1,409 children between January and February 2025.

The University of Bristol has launched its first international campus in Mumbai, set to open in August 2026. This expansion includes significant collaborations with IIT-Bombay and Tata Consultancy Services, focusing on AI and industry-aligned learning. A 1.5 million donation will bolster India-UK research and student mobility, creating new opportunities.