The Times of India

Maharashtra has seen a surge in autonomous colleges, more than tripling to 314 by 2025, with Mumbai University leading. Eased UGC norms, including removing the 'A' grade requirement, have fueled this growth. While proponents highlight enhanced course flexibility, concerns about diluted academic standards and potential fee hikes are being raised, prompting calls for careful selection and continuous monitoring of institutions.

Iran's iconic heritage sites, including Unesco-listed Golestan Palace and Naqsh-e Jahan Square, have reportedly sustained damage from US-Israel airstrikes. While not always directly hit, shockwaves and falling debris caused harm to these ancient monuments. Historians and heritage enthusiasts express outrage, emphasizing the universal value of these sites.

A self-proclaimed spiritual leader's arrest in Maharashtra for sexual assault has sparked a political storm, with the Opposition drawing parallels to the 'Epstein files'. Allegations of 58 assault videos and links to ruling alliance politicians have intensified scrutiny. The Maharashtra government has formed an SIT to investigate the disturbing claims.

Hindu new year festivals, including Gudi Padwa, unfolded across Mumbai with grand parades and traditional observances. Celebrations honored the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram' and marked the start of Vikram Samvat 2083. Other communities also celebrated Ugadi, Cheti Chand, and the upcoming Jamshedi Nowruz and Eid ul' Fitr.

Catholic bishops in Maharashtra have voiced deep disappointment and strong protest against the recently passed Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act 2026. They are demanding its withdrawal or substantial revision, asserting that the law undermines the constitutional right to religious freedom rather than safeguarding it.

An eight-year-old boy tragically lost his life after falling into a water-filled construction pit in Malad East on Thursday evening. The child had reportedly gone to retrieve a ball when he slipped into the excavated pit. Despite being rescued and rushed to the hospital, he was declared dead on arrival.

A historic Art Deco building, Malabar Court, in Mumbai's Malabar Hill, will be redeveloped into a luxury residential tower by JSW Realty. The project, expected to generate over Rs 2,000 crore, aims to blend the building's Art Deco legacy with contemporary design, offering exclusive residences and amenities. This redevelopment highlights ongoing urban transformation pressures on heritage structures.

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde will move into a refurbished heritage bungalow at VJB Udyan. The extensive Rs 1.48 crore renovation includes structural restoration and high-end interior upgrades, featuring Italian marble flooring and redesigned living spaces. The opulent transformation aims to create a more luxurious official residence.

Three IIT-Bombay students died on the Mumbai-Pune expressway after their car rear-ended a truck while attempting to overtake. The vehicle flipped multiple times before hitting a safety railing near the Panvel exit. Police are investigating the incident, with an FIR lodged against the unidentified truck driver.