How Recycled Ganesha Idols Are Turned Into Study Tables For Maharashtra Students
Malhar Kaalambe and Dr. Binish Desai transform post-visarjan PoP Ganesha idols into durable study tables.
IMA advises against antibiotic use as seasonal swine flu cases rise
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged people not to use antibiotics for swine flu symptoms, warning that indiscriminate use of drugs such as azithromycin, amoxicillin-clavulanate and cefixime during the ongoing seasonal Influenza A (H1N1) surge could worsen antimicrobial resistance without offering any benefit against the viral infection. In an advisor, the IMA said Influenza A (H1N1) is a viral illness, and antibiotics should only be prescribed if a qualified physician confirms a secondary bacterial infection based on clinical and laboratory findings. It also cautioned against self-medication with antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir, saying these are prescription medicines meant only for specific clinical categories under medical supervision. The advisory comes amid a seasonal rise in H1N1 cases during the monsoon, with Delhi reporting more than 1,770 laboratory-confirmed infections and additional cases being recorded in Maharashtra, Karnataka and West Bengal. According to the IMA, surveillance by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) shows that the circulating virus remains the seasonal Influenza A (H1N1) strain, with no evidence of new genetic mutations. The association said most H1N1 infections remain mild and self-limiting and there is no cause for panic, though people should remain vigilant. The IMA said common symptoms include sudden high fever, dry cough, sore throat, severe body aches, fatigue, headache, nasal congestion and, particularly in children, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea. It advised immediate medical attention if patients develop breathing difficulty, chest pain, bluish discolouration of the lips or fingers, coughing up blood, confusion, seizures, persistent vomiting or inability to drink fluids. In children, poor feeding, lethargy, grunting and severe chest retractions require urgent evaluation. The association also reiterated preventive measures, including frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing a well-fitted mask in crowded enclosed spaces, staying home until at least 24 hours after fever subsides, and annual influenza vaccination for healthcare workers, pregnant women, older adults and people with chronic illnesses.
Thailand floods: Heavy rain batters Bangkok, disrupts traffic and businesses
Heavy rain has caused widespread flooding in Bangkok, disrupting traffic, closing businesses and forcing about 900 people into shelters. More than 84,000 people across 21 Thai provinces have been affected, while authorities warn that heavy rainfall could continue through Sunday
Maharashtra: Land revenue, loan and power relief for drought-hit talukas
Maharashtra government has declared 265 talukas drought-affected and announced 12 relief measures, including land revenue and loan concessions, electricity bill exemptions, drinking water and fodder arrangements, and exam fee waivers
Tukaram Mundhe, the FDA Commissioner, is at the forefront of tackling food safety issues in Maharashtra. Recently, actress Preity Zinta expressed her backing by wearing a 'Team Tukaram Mundhe' T-shirt and praising his initiatives. Mundhe responded positively to her public endorsement, stressing that true support must lead to actionable change rather than mere symbolism. He persistently motivates the public to adopt a proactive approach to food safety.
Drought grips 74% of Maha as 265 talukas declared hit
The Maharashtra government has declared 265 out of 358 talukas as drought-affected, covering 74% of the state, due to significant rainfall deficit. This declaration activates 'Trigger-1' of the state's drought management framework, leading to the announcement of various relief measures for farmers and residents, including loan restructuring, revenue concessions, and provisions for water and fodder.
THE FIRST ARGUMENT by R.K. Garg I encountered was in Ranjit D. Udeshi v. State of Maharashtra , which was part of our criminal law course in the Faculty of Law. Garg was counsel for Udeshi, the owner of the Popular Book Stall in Bombay, who had been convicted for obscenity under S.292 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 for selling D.H. Lawrences novel Lady Chatterleys Lover. Garg argued that S.292 was an unconstitutional restriction on the freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a). The judgment of the Court by Justice M. Hidayatullah paid a compliment to the counsel for the appellant. Our brilliant criminal law teacher Dr A.S. Bedi, referring to that compliment, said, Mr Garg is a great lawyer indeed. But the judgment went against the appellant. The Court upheld both the section and the conviction, declaring Lady Chatterleys Lover obscene. In condemning a piece of literature, Dr Bedi told us, Justice Hidayatullah wrote a piece of literature himself. I was sceptical of that, and disappointed by the judgment. Justice Hidayatullah was the 1960s equivalent of todays woke judge. He was educated at Cambridge, was a barrister at law, and seemed to be a synthesis of erudition, liberalism and cosmopolitanism. How could he and the Supreme Court through him purport to say a piece of literature was obscene? And, in my innocence, I thought, if a counsel was being complimented for his argument, he should have won the case. It is only later that I realized that the losing counsel will sometimes get the consolation prize of a compliment; I have received some in my time. I had, of course, heard of R.K. Garg even earlier, in my years in school. My mothers first cousin, M.K. Ramamurthi, along with R.K. Garg, D.P. Singh and S.C. Agrawal had set up a litigating law firm in the Supreme Court called Ramamurthi and Co., which became very well known. They were from different parts of the country. Ramamurthi was from Tamil Nadu, Garg from Uttar Pradesh, D.P. Singh from Bihar and S.C. Agrawal from Rajasthan. I am writing about Ramamurthi in another chapter of this book, so I only need to tell you about D.P. Singh and S.C. Agrawal. D.P. Singh, a lawyer from Bihar, later became a Senior Advocate and a Congress MP. Singh was a vocal supporter of the major constitutional amendments that Indira Gandhi brought about to implement her socialist vision and was an articulate defender of the supersession of judges in 1973. S.C. Agrawal was the sole non-political member of the team. He was the workhorse of the firm, excelling in drafting. He later became a Judge of the Rajasthan High Court and then served with distinction as a Judge of the Supreme Court from 1990 until 1998. Rajendra Kumar Garg was born in October 1928. His hometown was Saharanpur known for its high-quality iron and brass locks in western UP. After his school education there, he studied at Ewing Christian College, Allahabad. He obtained a masters degree in philosophy and a degree in law from Allahabad University. Those were the glorious days of that great university. The English department had two young lecturers who became legendary names in Hindi and Urdu literature. The first was Harivansh Rai Bachchan, and the second was Raghupati Sahai, better known as Firaq Gorakhpuri. Firaq was to become Gargs lifelong friend. Poignantly, when Firaq died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), his body was brought to Gargs house in Niti Bagh. In his student days, Garg was a prominent leader of the All India Student Federation and, in a natural progression, became a leader of the undivided Communist Party of India. He started his practice in Saharanpur in 1953 and was also elected vice-chairman of the Saharanpur municipality. He shifted to Allahabad in 1955 and joined the chambers of the progressive lawyer S.N. Dwivedi, who later became a Judge of the Allahabad High Court and eventually a Judge of the Supreme Court. Justice Dwivedi was in the minority of six in the Kesavananda Bharati case, holding in favour of Parliaments unlimited power to amend the Constitution. Such was his ardour for parliamentary supremacy that when he was elevated to the Supreme Court, he told a gathering of lawyers who had come to say goodbye to him at the railway station that he was going to Delhi to overrule Golak Nath. In 1960, R.K. Garg decided to shift to Delhi. He wrote to the Attorney General, Motilal Setalvad: You are the most eminent lawyer in independent India, and I shall consider myself fortunate if I am given the opportunity to join your chamber as I desire to learn to defend the interests of the working class, whom I politically represent. It is to the credit of the staid and dour M.C. Setalvad that he agreed to take a firebrand communist into his chamber. Till the end, Garg revered Setalvad, and no one who went to brief Garg could miss his photograph on his office wall. In his advocacy, Garg was vociferous and strident, and had the delightful habit of looking back after what he thought was a punchline to see if the rest of the courtroom liked his argument. I have often wondered why and how, in this obsequious and milord-ing profession, lawyers like Garg and Ramamurthi were aggressive. I believe that in the geriatric Supreme Court, in which they set up practice, in a court dominated by the likes of Setalvad, C.K. Daphtary and A.C.V. Viswanatha Sastri, youngsters could not afford to be meek. And thus, stormy petrels like them would not curb their natural style. Most judges took Gargs aggression in their stride, but not Justice A. Varadarajan, who, sitting as a junior judge with Justice Murtaza Fazl Ali, insisted (much to the discomfiture of the senior judge) on issuing a notice of contempt to him. Varadarajan retired in August 1985, and the matter lay hidden in the depths of the Courts registry till Gargs passing. However, behind the aggression and flamboyance lay a formidable intellect. There was both depth and width of knowledge, not only of law but of politics, literature and philosophy. As Chief Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah said at the Full Court Reference held on his passing, His was an enormous mind indeed. Gargs intellectual integrity made him a bit of an oddball in party politics. He was an elected member of the UP Legislative Assembly on a Communist Party of India (CPI) ticket from 1973 to 1977. I had always wondered why a person of such formidable talent and stature was not chosen by the CPI to represent it in Parliament. The party was evidently uncomfortable with him because of the Congress Partys comfort with him. In fact, his election to the UP Legislative Assembly on a CPI ticket was also with the support of the Congress. He was ultimately expelled by the Communist Party of India. Interestingly, Garg was in favour of the supersession of judges, and had backed Indira Gandhis progressive policies. He also did not oppose the Emergency. In fact, the CPI (his party at the time) supported it. Garg was, however, uncomfortable with the emergence of Sanjay Gandhi, and memorably described him as an extra-constitutional centre of power. Gargs contributions to the jurisprudence of the Court starts from the 1960s, and continued till his premature death in 1994. They were in the fields of personal liberty, freedom of speech, the right to life, criminal law, independence of the judiciary, public service law, and in varied areas of constitutional law and interpretation. Full Court References are rarely able to capture all the contributions of a lawyer to the jurisprudence of the court, but in the case of Garg (and a few months earlier in the case of his comrade Ramamurthi), the many cases argued by him are mentioned. In an era where fees were freely given in cash, and that was in fact the norm in criminal cases, Garg was known to deposit and declare every rupee that he earned. So he had the moral authority and standing to approach the Supreme Court himself as an honest taxpayer to challenge the Special Bearer Bonds Scheme. This was a scheme introduced by the post-Emergency Indira Gandhi government allowing the investment of black money into non-taxable, anonymously held bonds. The aim was to raise investment for the government by providing immunity from prosecution to those who put their undisclosed funds into government bonds. He failed in his challenge, but succeeded in getting a dissent from Justice A.C. Gupta. Decades later, my mind went back to Garg, as the Supreme Court struck down the Electoral Bonds Scheme, and as Justice B.V. Nagarathna wrote her powerful dissent in the demonetization case. Gargs long-time junior, Sunil Kumar Jain, recalls his senior as a kind person but a hard taskmaster. If they were working late into the night on a case, Garg himself would drive Sunil home to his flat in Lajpat Nagar. But he also recalls the many dressing-downs he received, during some of which he actually wept. Communal harmony was a cause dear to Garg. This was not surprising because Saharanpur had a large Muslim population, and he was educated in that great GangaJamuni town of Allahabad in its pre-Prayagraj avatar. One weekend in July 1994, when he was in the midst of hearings in the Presidential Reference on Ayodhya, he travelled to Saharanpur to address a meeting on secularism.9 Tragically, he died in a road accident during that trip. The circumstances of his passing left many of us teary-eyed. One of those who died with Garg in the accident was a communist friend of his. Sunil Jain recalls that the last rites for both were conducted together. Poignantly, a wreath on behalf of the Communist Party of India was placed on the body of the colleague but not on that of Garg. Expulsion from a communist party is no different from excommunication by a conservative religious sect; it goes right up to your grave. For me, it was a double whammy because my senior, Ramamurthi, had passed just the previous year, in 1993. In one of two instances of which I am aware of a court noting with regret the passing of a lawyer who had been arguing before it in an ongoing hearing, Justice S.P. Bharucha wrote: We are indebted to the learned Attorney General for the assistance that he has rendered to the Court. We are indebted to counsel who have appeared in these matters; if we single out Mr. R.K. Garg, it is because of his untimely demise. The other instance is Gobinda Mukhoty, about whom I write separately. The Full Court Reference to Garg in the Supreme Court on 10 August 1994 was one of the most memorable I have ever witnessed (I must confess that in the last couple of decades, I have stopped attending Full Court References because they have become mechanical and mindless repetitions of biodatas). The Attorney General Milon Kumar Banerji said, One Rajendra Kumar Garg, never a second again. One could see how moved Chief Justice Venkatachaliah was, and his description of Garg as the pillar of the alternative argument is unforgettable.
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 26 (IANS) Actress Juhi Chawla praised the atmosphere and safety arrangements at Mumbais Ganpati celebrations, where she further highlighted how thousands of devotees, including men and women, were able to participate in the festivities safely and peacefully. Speaking about the celebrations, Juhi said she was struck by the respectful and joyful atmosphere surrounding the festival, with devotees coming together to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. As you can see, what can I say, there is a very happy and respectful atmosphere here. So many people are going to worship Baba, with so much respect. I am surprised that, and a very good thing, there are women here, men too, and everyone is going safely, she told IANS. Juhi further said, Everyone is going safely, and you can see, there are so many people, thousands, lakhs of people, but everyone is safe. And everyone is going with ease, with their happiness, to worship Baba. It is a very beautiful atmosphere, she added. I think this is the pride of Mumbai, and thank you, Shaina, for inviting me here. Watching this on TV is one thing, but actually watching it in real life, fills the heart, Juhi said. The actress also spoke about the significance of Ganpati celebrations in Maharashtra and Gujarat, describing the festival as a special part of the region's cultural celebrations. I am saying the same thing, that, first of all, this festival is very important for Maharashtra, for Gujarat. Here, we celebrate this with a lot of love, and this is very special. What you are seeing here, maybe this doesn't happen anywhere else in the world. Where else in the world is such a festival celebrated? she said. Alongside praising the festivities, Juhi also used the occasion to make an appeal for greater environmental consciousness. She urged organisers of large Ganpati pandals to take the lead in adopting eco-friendly practices. And I say to the big pandals, the big Ganpatis, I say to them, please, when will you make an eco-friendly Ganpati? When will you? When you do, all the pandals will follow you. So please, first try to become eco-friendly, she said. Known for her work across Hindi cinema, Juhi Chawla has remained associated with many social and environmental causes over the years. She has been a part of the entertainment industry for over four decades.
Juhu beach clean-up: Ajay Devgn joins Amruta Fadnavis, daughter Divija after Ganesh Visarjan
Ajay Devgn joined Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis' wife Amruta Fadnavis and daughter Divija Fadnavis for the annual 'Sea Shore Shine 2026' clean-up drive at Mumbai's Juhu Beach, a day after Ganesh Visarjan. Organised by the Divyaj Foundation with the BMC and Mumbai Police.
Maharashtra Declares Drought In 74% Of State, 265 Of 358 Talukas Affected
Trigger-1 is the first stage in the state's drought framework, activated by a rainfall deficit of more than 25 per cent combined with a prolonged dry spell of 21 days.
Maharashtra declares 265 of 358 talukas drought-hit, announces relief
The Maharashtra government on Saturday declared 265 of the 358 talukas in the state as drought-affected, announcing relief measures, including restructuring of crop loans, concession in land revenue and deferment of recovery of agriculture-related loans. According to a government resolution issued late on Friday, this covers 74 per cent of the state. The decision follows Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's recent visit to some drought-affected parts of the state. The state government has activated 'Trigger-1' under its manual for drought management 2016 (updated in 2020) and Drought Management Code to declare drought conditions and initiate relief. Trigger-1 is the first stage in the state's drought framework, activated by a rainfall deficit of more than 25 per cent combined with a prolonged dry spell of 21 days. A report submitted by the Agriculture Commissioner found drought-like conditions in the 265 talukas across 32 districts due to rainfall deficit and other factors since ...
West Bengal Police reshuffle: New appointments in intelligence, traffic, CID
The West Bengal government has transferred 23 IPS officers in a major reshuffle covering the state and Kolkata Police. The changes include new appointments in the Intelligence Branch, Traffic, Detective Department, CID, Security and other key police units across the state
Minor girl alleges sexual assault in Bihar's Darbhanga district, two arrested
Two youths have been arrested in Bihars Darbhanga after a minor girl alleged she was sexually assaulted after accepting a motorcycle ride from an examination centre. Police seized the motorcycle and are investigating the allegations, sequence of events and roles of those arrested
Wrestlers appeal against Brij Bhushan acquittal adjourned to September 28
A Delhi court has adjourned to September 28 the hearing on an appeal by four women wrestlers challenging the acquittal of former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and Vinod Tomar. The wrestlers argue that the trial court incorrectly assessed evidence in the sexual harassment case.
Maharashtra declares drought in 265 talukas, announces 12-point relief package
Mumbai The Maharashtra government on Saturday declared drought conditions in 265 of the states 358 talukas following deficient monsoon rainfall The post Maharashtra declares drought in 265 talukas, announces 12-point relief package appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Maharashtra Declares Drought In 265 Talukas, Announces Crop Loan And Land Revenue Relief
Maharashtra has declared 265 of its 358 talukas drought-affected, with the state government announcing a series of measures to provide relief to farmers and others impacted by the lack of rainfall. The declaration covers 74 per cent of the state's
Watch Duronto Express stone pelting video: A window pane on the Nagpur-Mumbai Duronto Express cracked after someone hurled a stone at the train near Borkhedi station in Maharashtra on Friday night. Three coaches were hit, nobody was injured, and railway police are still searching for the person responsible.
Bihar: Three detained after alleged molestation of woman at Mandar Parvat
The action follows media reports and a video circulating on social media that allegedly shows a group of men surrounding and harassing the woman. The video was reportedly edited in an objectionable manner and subsequently circulated online
Bombay HC Bans Firecrackers, Loud Music Across Maharashtra
The Bombay HC has imposed stringent restrictions on the use of firecrackers, high-intensity lighting and loud sound systems during festive celebrations and processions across Maharashtra, citing concerns over air and noise pollution and the impact of excessive noise on ordinary citizens. The directions came during the hearing of a suo motu public interest litigation concerning [] The post Bombay HC Bans Firecrackers, Loud Music Across Maharashtra appeared first on Tfipost.com .
Delhi car crash kills auto driver, leaves another injured in Sukhdev Vihar
A 45-year-old auto-rickshaw driver was killed and another man injured after an allegedly speeding car rammed into an auto and cycle rickshaw in Sukhdev Vihar, Delhi. Police said a tea seller reported that two cars were allegedly racing before the crash. Investigation is underway
Maharashtra declares drought in 265 talukas, covering 74% of State
Overall, the State recorded an 18.8% rainfall deficit, receiving actual rainfall of 755.9 mm from June to September 18
Maharashtra govt declares 265 of 358 talukas drought-affected, announces relief measures
This covers 74% of the state, government resolution says
Actual aid decision for drought-hit farmers after ground-level assessment: Sunetra Pawar
Maharashtra has declared drought in 265 of its talukas due to severe crop damage and water shortages. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar announced 12 relief measures to assist affected farmers. An objective ground-level assessment will determine the specific assistance to farmers in need. Marathwada district faces particularly challenging conditions concerning drinking water and livestock fodder. Additionally, the government is considering concessions for students affected by the drought crisis.
Maharashtra declares 265 of 358 talukas drought-affected amid rainfall deficit
Maharashtra government has declared 265 of the states 358 talukas drought-affected, covering 74 per cent of the state, amid an 18.8 per cent rainfall deficit. Beed, Dharashiv, Latur and Solapur are among districts facing severe rainfall shortages and crop losses
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis declares drought in 265 talukas, announces measures to address crisis
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday took a major decision and declared drought in 265 talukas of the state. He declared drought in 265 of the state's 358 talukas, or approximately 75 percent of Maharashtra.
Maharashtra Govt declares 265 of 358 talukas drought-affected
Maharashtra has declared 265 out of 358 talukas as drought-affected due to inadequate rainfall this season. The total rainfall deficit across the state was noted to be 18.8 percent, impacting crop production. Significant drought has been noted particularly in districts like Dharashiv and Beed, which have not received rainfall since July. Farmers have reported crop failures and increased pest issues, prompting protests for relief measures.
Strait of Hormuz: Iran sets seven-day timeline for reopening If US agrees
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehrans seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would begin once the US accepts its proposal. He said Washington would need to meet specified conditions, after which the waterway could reopen and talks between Tehran and Washington resume
Maharashtra Declares Drought in 265 Talukas, Announces Relief Measures for Farmers
Maharashtras CM announces drought status in 265 talukas, initiating relief measures for affected farmers and citizens. Maharashtra Declares Drought in 265 Talukas, Announces Relief Measures for Farmers
These elections should be held on ballot paper; Gyanesh Kumar should be jailed immediately; all the wrong decisions of the Election Commission should be revoked, said Uddhav Thackeray
Trump rejects Iran's 7 day ceasefire proposal, prepares for military escalation
The US President has told aides he expects to resume bombing Iran after the November midterms. This follows his open threat of annihilating Iran made during his speech to the UN General Assembly earlier this week.
Chhattisgarh govt declares school holiday amid heavy rain, flood-like situation
Sai said heavy rainfall could lead to waterlogging, rising water levels in rivers and streams and transportation difficulties in several areas, and the decision was taken to ensure that children don't face any risk.
Telangana CM Revanth Reddy receives Aryadan Muhammed-2026
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy received the Aryadan Muhammed-2026 Best Public Servant Award in Nilambur, Keralam, on Friday. The award was presented to Reddy by Lok Sabha MP Alappuzha KC Venugopal in recognition of his public service.
Sunetra Pawar assures direct support to drought-hit farmers; vows no one will be left behind
Digital Desk | Nanded, Sep 26 (IANS) In a direct interaction with drought-affected farmers during an on-site visit in Sonkhed village from Nanded district, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President, Sunetra Pawar, on Saturday assured affected families that the state government is taking strict note of crop damage and will not leave anyone stranded. Speaking to a gathering of local farmers while inspecting dry and damaged crops hit due to scanty rainfall, Dy CM Pawar highlighted that government officials are actively conducting ground inspections to assess the situation directly rather than relying solely on official data or statistics. She told the farmers that on-ground surveys (Panchnamas) are ongoing to evaluate actual ground conditions and crop losses. Reports will be finalised quickly to expedite government relief. Addressing concerns over agricultural credit, Dy CM Pawar confirmed that loan waiver processes are underway, with funds being processed directly through banking channels based on individual loan categories. Funds will be directly credited into farmers' bank accounts based on the specific type/category of loan they hold, she said. State intervention will extend beyond crop damage. Special focus is being given to livestock careincluding fodder and water supplyas well as managing education-related difficulties faced by farmers' children due to financial stress, she assured. Emphasising her connection to the region as a daughter of Marathwada, Dy CM Pawar stated that she deeply understands the agrarian plight and assured farmers that the administration is treating their hardship with utmost gravity. I am a daughter of Marathwada. I intimately understand the pain and hardship of our farming community, she reassured the growers. We will not abandon a single farmer to uncertainty. Ensuring quality education for your children, securing fodder for livestock, and supporting family livelihoods remain top-tier priorities for this administration, she said. Local farmers also brought forward urgent demands regarding local water infrastructure, requesting that nearby lakes and water storage facilities be filled to tackle the severe drought. Pawar reassured the crowd that the government stands firmly with them and that comprehensive relief announcements will follow as soon as field reports are submitted. She urged farmers not to worry, reassuring them that the government will not leave anyone in the lurch. Dy CM Pawar confirmed that following her firsthand inspection, comprehensive follow-ups will be initiated at the state Cabinet level to roll out necessary relief packages and structural measures. She added that district administrative officials will be instructed immediately to execute thorough situational audits and deliver swift executive action. Reaffirming the state government's commitment amid volatile rainfall patterns, severe crop yield declines, and compounding financial pressure, she assured rural communities that the administration stands firmly behind Maharashtras agrarian sector. Meanwhile, former Union Agriculture Minister and NCP SP President, Sharad Pawar, will lead a march in Solapur district to draw the state government's attention for declaring drought and providing immediate relief to the farmers hit due to the agrarian crisis. Further, Aaditya Thackeray is on a tour of Dharashiv, Solapur, and Nanded today, where he will interact with drought-affected farmers.
14 US senators urge Trump to withdraw Putins G20 invite
Fourteen bipartisan US senators have urged Donald Trump to withdraw Vladimir Putins invitation to the December G20 summit in Miami. They also called for sanctioned Russian officials to be barred from US-hosted G20 meetings, citing Russias ongoing war in Ukraine
Watch: Stone shatters Nagpur-Mumbai Duronto Express window as passengers sit just inches away
US Attorneys General appose USD 103,265 H-1B Visa fee, citing legal concerns
A coalition of 22 US attorneys general is challenging the Trump administrations proposed $103,265 fee on certain H-1B visa petitions. They argue the charge exceeds executive authority, violates federal law and could worsen shortages of teachers, doctors and nurses
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 24: ISDI Mumbai, Indias leading design school, has been at the forefront of design education, preparing students to stay ahead of the curve as the role
Trump pocket rescission plan puts nearly USD 1 billion in federal funds at risk
President Donald Trump is moving to cancel nearly USD 1 billion in federally approved spending through a disputed pocket rescission. The move, made days before the fiscal year ends, has drawn objections from lawmakers over Congress authority over federal spending
Maha CM's wife Amruta, daughter Divija join Juhu beach clean-up drive day after Ganesh Visarjan
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 26 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' daughter Divija Fadnavis and his wife, Amruta Fadnavis, on Saturday participated in the Divyaj Foundation's annual 'Sea Shore Shine 2026' beach clean-up drive at Juhu Beach, a day after Ganesh Visarjan. Speaking to reporters, Divija Fadnavis said it was important for young people to participate in social initiatives such as beach clean-up drives as they help foster a sense of responsibility towards the nation. I think it's very important for the youth and younger generation to be involved in social initiatives like beach clean-ups, because it gives us a sense of responsibility towards our nation and builds confidence in ourselves to ensure that we keep our beaches and our nation clean, she said. BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide also joined the clean-up drive at Juhu Beach to promote environmental awareness and cleanliness. The campaign was organised under the leadership of Divyaj Foundation founder Amruta Fadnavis. Actor Ajay Devgn also participated in the initiative and said he wanted to support the campaign because of its creative approach. Because this is a creative initiative. I wanted to thank the whole team, so I want to be a part of it, and I am a part of it, Devgn said. Speaking to IANS, BJP MLA Ram Kadam said Amruta Fadnavis, through the Divyaj Foundation, had been working for the cleanliness of the beach for the past six years and personally participated in the clean-up efforts. Several NGOs and spiritual organisations are also associated with this initiative. This is a great work. The immersion has been completed, but we ourselves should keep our city clean, Kadam said. Ganesh Visarjan was observed on Friday, September 25, coinciding with Anant Chaturdashi. The occasion marks the conclusion of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, when devotees bid farewell to Lord Ganesha after bringing idols home or installing them in public pandals. The immersion of idols, accompanied by devotional songs, prayers and offerings, marks the departure of the deity, with devotees seeking Lord Ganesha's blessings before bidding him farewell until the following year. Environmental concerns surrounding idol immersion have also highlighted the need for post-immersion clean-up drives. The use of non-biodegradable materials, paints and other substances in idols can affect water quality, aquatic ecosystems and marine life. Such initiatives aim to remove waste from beaches and promote greater public awareness about keeping marine and river ecosystems clean.
Black Magic Scam: Woman Defrauded In Thane
A 40-year-old woman in Thane, Maharashtra, was allegedly defrauded of Rs 5.6 lakh by four individuals who convinced her there was hidden treasure beneath her house. The accused performed black magic rituals and extracted cash and gold under false pretences, later fleeing with the valuables. Police have registered a case under relevant laws.
PM Modi surprises youth at Bhajan Clubbing event in Delhi
The gathering saw young people and other attendees immerse themselves in devotional songs, describing the evening as memorable and refreshing. The Prime Ministers surprise presence generated widespread enthusiasm among the crowd
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 25: JM Financial Services (JMFS) hosted an exclusive, invitation-only Environment & Energy Conclave for its clients, at its corporate office at Cnergy IT Park Prabhadevi, Mumbai. The two-day event brought together India's leading companies from across the sustainability value chain for a series of insightful sessions and one-on-one interactions covering sector insights, growth strategies and the investment thesis behind India's transition to a sustainable economy.
Ganesh Visarjan: Four drown, five feared dead in separate incidents in MP
The incidents were reported in Dhar, Bhind, Khandwa and Sehore districts in Madhya Pradesh as devotees gathered to immerse Ganesh idols, officials said on Friday
Tamil Nadu moves to top of equity FDI table in Q1
The surge was driven by a landmark MUFG-backed Shriram Finance deal and broader momentum in manufacturing and GCC investments, even as Karnataka and Maharashtra saw declines and Gujarat posted modest gains
IIT Bombay student suicide: Sahil Wakodes parents spend 8 hours at Crime Branch office amid probe
India clocks 6 per cent rise in FDI at $19.81 bn during April-June
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 25 (IANS) Foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into India recorded a 6 per cent increase to $19.81 billion in the April-June quarter of the current financial year compared to the corresponding figure of $18.62 billion in the same quarter of 2025-26 despite the global uncertainties, according to figures compiled by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The month-wise figures show that FDI inflows nearly doubled in April this year to 12.1 billion from $6.6 billion in the same month of the previous year, after which they declined in May to $2.8 billion before picking up some momentum at $4.91 billion in June. Japan emerged as the highest investor during the first quarter of the current financial year with FDI to the tune of $5.71 billion, followed by Singapore at $5.22 billion, Mauritius ($2.31 billion), the Netherlands ($1.38 billion), the US ($1.34 billion), and the UAE ($868 million). FDI from the US declined by over 76 per cent to $1.34 billion in April-June 2026-27 from $5.61 billion in the same period of the previous financial year, while inflows from the UAE dropped $868 million compared with $1 billion in the first quarter of 2025-26. The main sectors that have attracted healthy inflows include services ($7.04 billion), computer software and hardware ($2.84 billion), trading ($1.92 billion), non-conventional energy ($1.24 billion), and auto ($622 million). Total FDI, including equity inflows, reinvested earnings and other capital, increased about 22 per cent to $30.65 billion during April-June 2026-27. Tamil Nadu led among the Indian states, attracting as much as $5.95 billion in FDI during the first quarter of the current fiscal year, with Maharashtra coming in the second position as receipts touched $4.22 billion, followed by Delhi ($2.67 billion), Karnataka ($2.11 billion), and Gujarat ($1.3 billion), which made up the rest of the top five in the FDI list.
Divers recover 52 bodies from capsized Indonesia ferry as search continues
Divers have recovered 52 bodies after the Virgo Transport 8 ferry capsized in rough seas in Indonesias Java Sea. Of the 243 people aboard, 108 were rescued, while 83 remain missing. Authorities continue searching for victims and plan to salvage the wreck from about 30 metres underwater.
Pakistan: PTI delays Islamabad protest march from September 27 to October 4
Pakistans PTI has postponed its planned Islamabad long march from September 27 to October 4. The party is seeking the release of jailed founder Imran Khan, while authorities have blocked roads and increased security in Islamabad and surrounding areas ahead of the protest
Water, Fodder Crisis Looms As Drought-Like Conditions Hit 255 Talukas
Drought-like conditions are affecting 255 of Maharashtras 358 talukas, with crop losses and concerns over drinking water and fodder shortages.
Jaishankar flags rising attacks on seafarers, calls for global action at UN
Addressing the inaugural meeting of the Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar said India and Liberia had brought together a group of countries to strengthen efforts to protect commercial vessels and their crews
Shinde steps in after on-duty cop collapses during Ganesh Visarjan day
According to an official statement issued by Shinde's office on Friday, Police Inspector Sanjay Nalawade was part of the Deputy Chief Minister's convoy during the Anant Chaturdashi celebrations in Maharashtra
Pune bids farewell to Bappa as Manache Ganpati lead visarjan procession
Ram Temple donation theft: 'CCTV shows Avinash Shukla removing money 85 times'
The voluminous charge sheet puts the recovered proceeds of crime (PoC) at over Rs 79.85 lakh and flags more than 105 instances of cash removal or concealment by counting staff, an investigator linked to the Supreme Court-appointed SIT of the Uttar Pradesh Police said
SC upholds Bombay HC view that Dua for poll victory is not religious appeal
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 25 (IANS) The Supreme Court has upheld the Bombay High Court's view that offering 'Dua' (prayer) for electoral success does not, by itself, amount to undue influence or soliciting votes in the name of religion, while dismissing an appeal challenging the election of AIMIM's Mufti Mohammad Ismail Abdul Khalique from Maharashtra's Malegaon Central Assembly constituency. A Bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Augustine George Masih and Sandeep Mehta dismissed the appeal filed by Samajwadi Party candidate Shaan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed against the Bombay High Court's judgment upholding Mufti Ismail's election. The controversy before the High Court centred, among other allegations, on instances where Mufti Ismail allegedly offered 'Dua' for his electoral success during prayers and campaign meetings. The election petitioner had alleged that when people attending such gatherings responded with Amen to the prayers, it amounted to a collective pledge to vote for Mufti Ismail. The Bombay High Court rejected the contention, holding that saying Amen in response to a prayer could not be equated with making a formal pledge to vote. By saying Amen, the person can be said to have agreed with or seconded the prayer for the electoral success of the Respondent No.1 (Mufti Ismail). However, saying Amen is materially distinct from making the pledge, which is in the nature of a formal promise or undertaking, it had held. It further held that a prayer for electoral success did not amount to soliciting votes on the ground of the candidate's religion or prejudicing the prospects of a rival candidate on that basis. As the Dua is essentially a form of communication by the believer with God, saying prayer for success in the election neither amounts to exercise of undue influence nor soliciting votes in the name of the religion, a single-judge Bench of Justice N. J. Jamadar had observed. The High Court was dealing with an election petition challenging Mufti Ismail's victory in the November 2024 Maharashtra Assembly polls from Malegaon Central. The election petition alleged that the returned candidate and his campaigners had committed various corrupt practices under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, including allegedly appealing to voters on religious grounds. Applying the legal test under Section 123(3) of the Representation of the People Act, the High Court concluded that mere reference to religion or religious organisations, without an appeal to vote for a candidate on the ground of religion, would not by itself constitute a corrupt practice. The election petition was consequently rejected at the threshold, with the High Court holding that it failed to make out a complete cause of action warranting a trial. With the Supreme Court dismissing Nihal Ahmed's appeal, the Bombay High Court's findings, including its view on the 'Dua' offered for electoral success, stand affirmed.
Arbaaz Khan Unveils The Global Valley, The Amazic Group's First Global-Themed Villa Plots Community
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 25: Mr. Arbaaz Khan was present at the launch of The Global Valley, a premium villa plots concept unveiled by the Amazic Group this week, marking the developer's entry into the fast growing Mumbai 3.0 corridor.
Maharashtra polls: Chennithala accuses EC of 'fraud', seeks CEC's resignation
Chennithala, who was in charge of the Congress campaign in Maharashtra, made the remarks amid a political row over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and reports of objections raised by two Election Commissioners
SIR row: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader flags concerns over voter roll changes
Shiv Sena-UBT leader Priyanka Chaturvedi said concerns over the Special Intensive Revision are not limited to political parties, claiming common people are also questioning voter additions, deletions and the validity of electoral rolls
Bihar Congress, RJD protest against CEC Gyanesh Kumar over SIR issues; police use water canons
Digital Desk | Patna, Sep 25 (IANS) The Bihar Congress staged a protest march in Patna on Friday against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and over issues related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls. The RJD also staged a demonstration in Patna over the issue. Police used water cannons to stop the protesters as they attempted to proceed towards the State Election Commission office. The protest march was organised from R-Block to the State Election Commission office. A large number of Congress leaders and workers participated in the demonstration, raising slogans against the Election Commission and demanding the resignation of the CEC. Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee president Rajesh Ram said the protest was linked to the questions being raised by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding the electoral process and voter lists. The protest against the Election Commission stems from the fact that Rahul Gandhi was consistently exposing them... today it has been proven that governments in Bihar, Haryana, and Maharashtra were formed through vote theft. The Election Commission has not yet responded to Rahul Gandhi, Ram said. These allegations reflect the Congress party's political position and have not been established as facts by the Election Commission or a court. Tension was reported during the demonstration as Congress workers and police personnel came face-to-face. Some protesters climbed the barricades while carrying an effigy of the CEC, leading to a commotion at the site. Police subsequently used water cannons to disperse the protesters. Congress workers and leaders also demanded the removal and arrest of CEC Gyanesh Kumar during the demonstration. Purnea MP Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav also criticised the Election Commission amid the nationwide Congress protests. They have committed an injustice against 13 crore people in Bengal, Bihar, and Assam. How can they simply be allowed to get away with it? Yadav said. The RJD, a key constituent of the Mahagathbandhan, also staged a demonstration in Patna over the issue. RJD leaders and workers took to the streets and raised questions over the functioning of the Election Commission, particularly in connection with the revision of electoral rolls and the electoral process. The protests in Bihar are part of a broader political campaign by Opposition parties questioning the Election Commission's handling of voter lists and the Special Intensive Revision. The protests come amid a recent report by a national English daily newspaper alleging that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had formally recorded objections at least 14 times over a period of 10 months regarding decisions and procedures of the poll panel. The reported objections covered issues including voter registration and deletion, restoration of names, changes to Form 6, new voters and the management of electoral-roll data. The report said some of the objections concerned decisions that the two commissioners stated had been taken without their knowledge or approval. The objections reportedly included concerns about the centralisation of electoral-roll database controls and aspects of the SIR process. The Election Commission has rejected the suggestion that the reported objections demonstrate a lack of consensus within the three-member poll panel. According to the Commission, all decisions taken by it, including those related to the SIR, had the approval of all three Election Commissioners and were reached unanimously. The Commission said that highlighting individual internal notes without considering the broader body of decisions and approvals presents only one part of its decision-making process. The controversy over the functioning of the Election Commission and the revision of electoral rolls continues, with Opposition parties demanding greater accountability while the poll panel maintains that its decisions have been taken in accordance with its established procedures.
Jodhpur Mayor poll: Prasannchand Mehta wins 53-47 against Congress candidate
BJPs Prasannchand Mehta was elected Jodhpur Mayor after securing 53 votes in the 100-member municipal corporation, defeating Congress candidate Rajendra Solanki, who received 47. Congress raised allegations about ballot secrecy and claimed BJP workers obstructed its councillors bus, though the claims were not independently verified.
FSSAI proposes to prohibit manufacturing, sale of analogue paneer across country
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 24 (IANS) Indias food regulator has proposed to prohibit manufacturing and sale of analogue paneer across the country, notifying draft amendments for consultations. According to the FSSAI draft, the amendment is proposed in the following regulation to restrict manufacturing and sale of analogue product as paneer so as to prevent misleading consumers regarding the nature and composition of the product. Products already licensed or registered under 'Analogue in Dairy Context' category shall discontinue the use of the term Paneer in their nomenclature, labelling or marketing. It added. Several state governments have banned the sale and manufacturing of analogue paneer. FSSAI has decided to introduce draft amendments in the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) regulations. The draft regulations shall be taken into consideration after the expiry of a period of sixty days from the date on which copies of the Official Gazette in which this notification is published are made available to the public. The food regulator has taken regulatory action against several food businesses after inspections found food safety violations and non-compliance. The regulator suspended licences and issued prohibition orders relating to non-compliant ghee products and adulteration concerns. The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration recently banned the production, distribution and sale of artificial 'analogue' paneer for one year, citing public health concerns. The action followed laboratory findings in which more than 35 per cent of recent paneer samples tested in the state failed quality tests due to vegetable-fat adulteration. The Gujarat government also announced a statewide ban on the manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of non-standard analogue paneer, cheese, and butter, citing concerns over consumer deception, food safety, and the protection of the state's dairy sector. Products made from vegetable oil and other non-dairy ingredients were being presented as paneer, misleading consumers, harming genuine dairy producers and raising serious food safety concerns.
Retired IAS officer Shatrughna Singh appointed to Maharashtra UCC panel
The Maharashtra government has approved Shatrughna Singhs appointment after the name was suggested by committee chairperson and retired Supreme Court judge Justice Ranjana Desai
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 25: Eleven young, highly educated devotees from different corners of the world will take Atmarpit Diksha, a lifelong vow of celibacy and service, in Mumbai this Saturday. The ceremony will be one of the central moments of 'Aho Gurudev', the celebration of the 60th birthday of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, founder of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur (SRMD).
Rajasthan civic polls: BJP wins Kota and Jaipur, Jodhpur result awaited
BJPs Anusuiya Goswami was elected Kota mayor with 65 votes against Congress candidate Sunita Sumans 35. Sunil Kothari won Jaipur, while voting in Jodhpur was underway. Protests were reported outside Jaipur Municipal Corporation over alleged irregularities during the voting process.
Maharashtra NEET AYUSH Round 1 Selection List 2026 - Check Status Online at medical2026.mahacet.org
Maharashtra NEET AYUSH Round 1 Selection List 2026 will be released on September 26 @ medical2026.mahacet.org. Check login steps & reporting dates (Sept 27-Oct 1).
EC row: AISA holds protest at Jantar Mantar, demands arrest of CEC Gyanesh Kumar
The protest was organised by the AISA Delhi unit amid a wider political and public debate over the functioning of the Election Commission and its handling of electoral rolls and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)
Air India suspends pilot after failed breath analyser test at Zurich airport
Air India has suspended a pilot who failed a breath analyser test at Zurich airport before operating a Delhi-bound flight, with the airline initiating further medical evaluation and an investigation while strengthening compliance measures after recent incidents
Russia-Ukraine war: Drone strike on Kyiv apartment kills 14-year-old boy
A Russian drone struck a 16-storey residential building in central Kyiv, killing a 14-year-old boy and injuring at least seven people, Ukrainian officials said. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said attacks also hit several other Ukrainian regions, including Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy and Mykolaiv
Indian-Origin Swedish MP Irked as Minister Uncle, Cousin Claim Her Glory
Nila Vikhe Patil's uncle is Maharashtra minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil of BJP and the cousin is his son and former Lok Sabha member Sujay Vikhe Patil
Jaipur mayor election: BJPs Sunil Kothari defeats Congress Sunita Mawar
Kothari, a councillor from Ward 112, secured 89 votes, crossing the majority mark of 76 in the 150-member corporation. Mawar received 60 votes. The mayoral election was marked by protests and allegations from Congress during the voting process
Disgusting: Man in SUV with BJP sticker spits paan, throws bottle on Mumbai road; video viral
Ganeshotsav: Maharashtra FDA seizes 6.34 lakh kg of suspected adulterated food
The Food and Drug Administrations statewide food safety drive covered 3,068 establishments across Maharashtra and seized stock worth 9.76 crore between September 1 and 23
Video: CM Fadnavis, wife Amruta bid farewell to Lord Ganesha
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis and his wife Amruta Fadnavis took part in the traditional immersion ceremony and offered prayers to Lord Ganesha before the idol was immersed
NEP 2020: Pralhad Joshi highlights student innovation, Atal Tinkering Labs
Speaking at the Seva First Innovation Challenge at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, Joshi said the objective of the education policy was not merely to prepare students for jobs but also to encourage them to think critically, experiment, innovate and find solutions to real-world problems
Breaking out: 97-year-old South Indian Bank wants to outgrow name, go national
The lender, based in Thrissur, Kerala, plans to expand in Maharashtra, Gujarat and the national capital.
Fadnavis warns of action against misuse of Mathadi law, announces APMC revamp
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the government would hold consultations with Mathadi leaders to curb illegal practices while maintaining that the Mathadi Workers Act has helped provide dignity to organised labourers
Athens blast: Building collapses in tourist district of Plaka, two injured
A powerful explosion struck Athens historic Plaka district near the Acropolis, collapsing a two-story building and damaging nearby structures. Two women were rescued from an adjacent building and taken to hospital, while authorities investigated the cause
SIR row: Supreme Court plea seeks prosecution of CEC Gyanesh Kumar
The plea, filed by advocate Shailendra Mani Tripathi through advocate Chand Qureshi, seeks to declare unconstitutional and void the decisions, guidelines and software modifications allegedly undertaken by Kumar without the concurrence of the two other Election Commissioners
Marathwada water crisis: 500 wells acquired, 246 tankers deployed
The eight-district region has received only 442.4 mm of rainfall against its expected seasonal average of 679.5 mm, according to official data. Marathwada comprises Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jalna, Parbhani, Nanded, Beed, Dharashiv, Hingoli and Latur
Ganesh immersion: Five Manache Ganpatis lead grand procession in Pune
Kasba Ganapati, regarded as Punes first Manacha Ganapati, led the procession after setting out on a flower-decorated palanquin. The idols departure marked the beginning of the citys major immersion proceedings, with the remaining four prominent mandals joining the parade along their designated routes
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis immerses Ganesh idol with family
The News Mill
Xi Jinping to visit US National Archives with Donald Trump amid Washington visit
President Donald Trump is set to take Chinese President Xi Jinping to the US National Archives during his three-day state visit. The tour will highlight Americas founding documents as both leaders seek to maintain ties despite limited progress on major issues.
Shiv Sena (UBT) demands immediate drought declaration in Maharashtra
In an editorial in the party mouthpiece Saamana said areas in Solapur, Ahilyanagar, Marathwada and Western Vidarbha have gone weeks without rainfall, with some regions reportedly receiving no rain for nearly two months
1.65 lakh household idols to be immersed in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
The idols of 941 Ganesh mandals set up by community groups will also be taken for immersion, officials said. According to an official, idols from the Cantonment area are scheduled to be immersed on Saturday
Fadnavis warns of action against misuse of Mathadi law; announces Navi Mumbai APMC revamp
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said action would be taken against those misusing the Mathadi law after consultations with Mathadi leaders. He also announced redevelopment of Navi Mumbais 50-year-old APMC market and said the government was preparing measures to tackle drinking water and fodder shortages in drought-affected areas.
A Year on, Arz Kiya Hai Continues Its Chart-Topping Run at No. 1 on Spotify India
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Business Wire India
