Early crushing to shore up sugar supplies before Diwali
A quarter of Maharashtra's sugar mills will begin operations this week to alleviate sugar shortages before Diwali. Sugar prices have increased by approximately 4% recently due to dwindling supplies and farmer protests. Millers anticipate new sugar reaching markets after October 20, following crushing activities. Farmers are encouraging quicker harvesting of sugarcane due to crop conditions, leading to lower sugar content.
Insurers may face higher crop cover claims in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka
In Maharashtra, insurers' liability could be capped at Rs 1,540 crore before the state government takes over claims beyond that level. The state has declared drought-like conditions in 265 talukas, raising concerns over this year's losses.
Maharashtra Announces Rs 5,000 Advance Relief For Farmers Before Diwali
Mr Fadnavis chaired a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, during which the drought situation was discussed with ministers, including Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, and senior officials.
Hyundai bets on expansion; hopes to return to No 2 position in PV sales by 2028-29
Hyundai Motor India plans to expand its Talegaon plant to increase production capacity for the domestic market. The company aims to enhance its market share to reclaim the No. 2 position by 2028-29. With an investment of 7,000 crore in Maharashtra, Hyundai is focusing on localization and creating new job opportunities. Furthermore, plans to launch 26 new models are expected to strengthen Hyundai's product portfolio.
Pune police arrest three from Haryana for chain snatchings during Ganeshotsav
PCB seeks 105 crore from defence ministry amid financial crunch
PMC clears only 81k sq ft encroachments in blue line in 5 years, activists claim action inadequate
Wadgaon Sheri residents urge PMC to audit three decades-old overhead water tanks in Chandannagar
Heavy traffic expected on Pune-Mumbai Expressway, old highway; police urge use of public transport
No more resignations or suspensions of staff under pressure, says SPPU VC
SPPU restricts protests on national, social issues, not directly linked to them
Two public health officials suspended over neglect of key schemes
Mumbai under heatwave warning for third consecutive day
Kenya reports second Ebola case, says no evidence of wider community spread
Kenya has confirmed its second Ebola case, involving a 39-year-old family member of the first victim. Health authorities say there is no evidence of wider community transmission, while contact tracing and quarantine measures continue
Youth lands in ICU after iron rod from Mumbai Metro Line 12 falls on head
Deeply disturbed by police excesses on protesters: Bombay Bar Association
Centre sets up panel to study problems of sugarcane farmers
Representatives of sugarcane farmers from Karnataka and Maharashtra had met Union Ministers demanding that the government must increase remunerative returns to sugarcane farmers
Maharashtra Declares 304 Talukas Drought-Affected, Announces Relief Measures
Maharashtra government has declared 304 talukas drought-affected, introducing relief measures for farmers facing severe agricultural distress. Maharashtra Declares 304 Talukas Drought-Affected, Announces Relief Measures
Junnar, Ambegaon among 305 Maharashtra talukas declared drought-hit
Driverless cars should be the last priority for India, says Maharashtra CM
FDA suspends licenses of 3 blood banks over distribution of wrist watches at blood donation camp
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday took strong action against three blood banks in Mumbai regarding an incident where Titan watches were gifted to donors at a blood donation camp. The FDA...
Rediscovered in 2025, rare Borna snakehead fish faces fresh poaching crisis
Native exclusively to the Chel River basin in northern West Bengal, the species was first described in 1845 before virtually disappearing from scientific records for more than 80 years
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 14 (IANS) In a major move to provide relief to the agrarian community facing severe agrarian distress, the Maharashtra government on Wednesday declared 304 talukas across the state as drought-affected. The decision comes in the wake of significant rainfall deficits during the Kharif season, prompting the state administration to step in with immediate mitigation measures and financial aid. State Relief and Rehabilitation Minister Makarand Jadhav Patil announced that district collectors have been directed to initiate comprehensive and immediate panchanamas (crop damage assessments) across the affected regions to ensure timely compensation reaches impacted farmers. Earlier, on September 26, the state government had designated 265 talukas under Trigger-1 norms as drought-hit. However, following a thorough review of continuous precipitation shortages and ground-level agricultural parameters, an additional 39 talukas qualifying under Trigger-1 and Trigger-2 criteria have been newly incorporated. This brings the total tally of drought-affected administrative blocks in the state to 304. To alleviate the financial burden on farmers, farm labourers, and rural households living in the declared zones, the state government has rolled out 12 major concessions and welfare measures. The state government has announced complete waiver of land revenue for farmers in the affected talukas, rescheduling and extension of repayment deadlines for agricultural loans, a temporary halt on all coercive loan recovery actions by financial institutions, substantial relief on current power bills for agricultural pumps, complete exemption of examination fees for school and college students belonging to distressed families, directives ensuring that power connections to agricultural pumps in drought-hit regions are not disconnected, easing of norms under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme to swiftly generate manual work opportunities and deployment of water tankers to villages and remote hamlets experiencing acute drinking water shortages. The state government has guaranteed sufficient distribution of essential food grains to farmers and farm labourers and special provisions for cattle feed and fodder management to protect livestock. The state administration has emphasised that district authorities must execute these relief operations on a war footing to ensure that no affected farmer or rural resident is left stranded amid the unfolding crisis. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Cabinet on Wednesday announced drought relief package, Rs 5,000 advance aid to farmers ahead of Diwali. In a move to mitigate severe agricultural distress across Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday chaired a high-level Cabinet meeting, announcing a series of crucial relief measures, including an advance financial aid of Rs 5,000 to affected farmers before Diwali. The high-stakes meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and key members of the state Council of Ministers to assess the escalating drought situation across multiple regions. CM Fadnavis told reporters that each affected farmer will receive Rs 5,000 directly into their bank accounts as advance aid prior to Diwali. The state government has finalised list of 3.5 lakh farmers for loan waiver scheme with processing underway. Groundwater levels in Marathwada have plummeted by more than 3 metres. Adequate water tankers will be deployed, equipped with GPS tracking to prevent mismanagement. More than 16,000 illegal water connections have already been disconnected. Unconditional waiver on educational fees; strict instructions issued to banks and microfinance institutions against forcefully collecting loan repayments or electricity bills, CM Fadnavis said.
Indian Navy to commission indigenous multi-purpose vessel Samarthak on Oct 16
Built by Larsen & Toubro Ltd under the Government of India's Make in India initiative, Samarthak is the first of four multi-purpose vessels being inducted into the Indian Navy. The commissioning marks another milestone in India's efforts to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing
Maharashtra cyber police help rescue Delhi woman from digital arrest fraud after Rs 27 lakh loss
Tata Power builds 2.8GW data centre pipeline across India; plans Rs 15,000 crore Mumbai grid upgrade
Kakodkar to head state-appointed panel for study on effects of data centres
Min stays FDA action against JJ & Nair hosps over gifts given to blood donors at pvt camp
Maharashtra drought: Tankers to be last resort, says minister Bawankule
Maharashtra has directed officials to restore defunct water supply schemes within 15 days and make tankers the last resort amid drought conditions. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule also announced plans for fodder banks and special SOPs for water and fodder management
After Jantar Mantar detentions, Abhijeet Dipke calls for Tiranga march
As you all know, Saurabh and Aashu have been jailed simply for hoisting the Tricolour. So, I appeal to all patriots, to everyone who loves the Tricolour, to gather at Central Park, Connaught Place, on October 16 at 5 pm with the flag. We will hoist it there and demonstrate that waving the Tricolour is not a crime, Dipke said
Review Walkeshwar Road width cut plan: Malabar Hill MLA request to BMC chief ahead of PIL hearing
Five-day Durga Puja to get off to colourful start on Friday
Nurse helps rescue residents trapped in Nalasopara building fire
Bombay high court upholds property tax demand on charitable trust that runs educational institutions
Digital arrest scam: Maharashtra Cyber helps rescue woman who lost Rs 27 lakh
Maharashtra Cyber helped rescue an elderly woman in Delhi from an ongoing digital arrest scam after tracing a suspicious Rs 14 lakh bank transfer while investigating a separate cyber fraud worth about Rs 3 crore in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Maharashtra formulates special SOPs for fodder and water supply
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 14 (IANS) Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who leads the Cabinet sub committee on drought relief, on Wednesday directed the state administration that water tankers should be used only as a last resort to address the drought situation across the state. He directed the District Collectors to restore non-functional tap water supply schemes within 15 days and immediately frame a Special Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for managing fodder and water resources. After chairing the Cabinet sub committee meeting, Minister Bawankule announced plans for a One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme to resolve pending water scheme dues. Under this initiative, interest and penalty charges on pending dues totaling around Rs 3,000 crore will be waived, allowing local bodies to clear the principal amount in installments. Minister Bawankule said that District Collectors were explicitly instructed to restore smooth electricity supplies and complete 75 fully constructed schemes as well as 25 per cent of incomplete schemes delayed due to fund shortages, making them operational within 15 days. Funds from the 15th and 16th Finance Commissions will be utilised to clear ongoing electricity bills, he added. To combat potential feed scarcity for livestock, District Collectors, in coordination with the Agriculture and Animal Husbandry departments, will set up a dedicated Fodder Bank alongside structured SOPs. Excess fodder from surplus districts will be transferred to neighboring drought-hit regions. Fodder seeds worth Rs 62 crore will be distributed to farmers with sustainable water sources to boost local production. Government agencies will procure fodder from farmers at guaranteed prices, Minister Bawankule said. According to the Minister, the third phase of drought mitigation is actively underway across 305 talukas. Crop loss assessment (panchanamas) is currently 70 per cent complete. Full data collection is expected by October 31, following which a comprehensive picture of the state's drought status will be published next week. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds from major companies and District Planning and Development Committee (DPDC) funds will be mobilised for drought relief. Road construction projects must incorporate water body creation (storage tanks and water sources). Unused revenue department land will be allotted to Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for fodder cultivation, the Minister said.
ED attaches assets worth Rs 129 crore in TTD ghee adulteration fraud
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Oct 14 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached immovable and movable assets worth Rs 129.85 crore belonging to Bhole Baba Organic Dairymilk, Sri Vyshnavi Dairy Specialities and other entities as part of an ongoing money laundering probe into the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) ghee adulteration fraud. The Enforcement Directorate, Hyderabad Zonal Office, attached the assets of Bhole Baba Organic Dairymilk Pvt Ltd, Sri Vyshnavi Dairy Specialities Pvt Ltd, their promoters Vipin Jain and Pomil Jain, and their family members; Sukriti Foods Pvt Ltd, its promoter Kailash Chand Mangla and his family members; and other related entities/individuals, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The Central agency said in a statement on Wednesday that it initiated an investigation on the basis of an FIR registered at Tirupati East Police Station alleging criminal conspiracy, cheating, forgery and corruption in the fraudulent supply of adulterated ghee to TTD. The agency filed a chargesheet and a supplementary chargesheet before the Special Judge for SPE and ACB Cases, Nellore, disclosing a massive criminal conspiracy to supply adulterated ghee to TTD for preparation of the sacred Lord Venkateswara Laddu Prasadam, thereby cheating TTD, endangering public health and generating huge unlawful gains. Investigation under PMLA has revealed that adulterated ghee worth Rs 234.5 crore was supplied to TTD by Bhole Baba, directly and through front dairies which bid for TTD tenders in their own names for a commission, while the ghee was actually manufactured at the factories of Bhole Baba and Sukriti Foods by blending refined palm oil, palm kernel oil and palmolein with chemicals such as monoglycerides, acetic acid ester, lactic acid and betacarotene, invoiced as edible oils. To clean the books, the palm oil so consumed was shown as sold to bogus buyers, while fictitious purchases of milk and ghee and fictitious sales of byproducts such as skimmed milk were recorded to project a genuine dairy operation, said the statement. Payments made through banking channels against the fictitious purchases were returned in cash through hawala channels, and this cash was used to fund the bogus palm-oil buyers, to pay commissions to the front dairies and to pay other persons connected with the fraud, it added. Earlier, ED had conducted searches on June 3, 2026, at 16 premises in Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh linked to the principal conspirators, front dairies, chemical suppliers and accommodation-entry providers, resulting in seizure/freezing of cash and bank balances of Rs 2.7 crore. ED has also arrested Vipin Jain and Kailash Chand Mangla, promoters and directors of Bhole Baba Organic Dairymilk Pvt Ltd and Sukriti Foods Pvt Ltd respectively, who orchestrated the manufacturing of adulterated ghee and its fraudulent supply to TTD. Total attachments in this case, including seizure and freezing under Section 17 of PMLA, amount to Rs 132.55 crore so far. Further investigation is in progress, said the agency.
ISCR and Chakra ink agreement to strengthen clinical research capacity in Maharashtra
Chakra is an initiative of the Maharashtra governments Medical Education and Drugs Department (MEDD), established in April 2025 as a Section 8 company and launched by the Chief Minister in June 2025
Maharashtra to make Scout-Guide training mandatory in all schools
Currently, around 17.33 lakh students from 30,000 schools receive Scout-Guide training. The state plans to extend the initiative to all schools as part of the School Education Departments Nation First approach
Maharashtra Scrambles To Secure Water, Fodder
Maharashtra has directed officials to revive stalled water schemes, prioritize local water sources and establish fodder banks as drought conditions affect 305 talukas.
West Asia conflict: India stands in solidarity with Saudi Arabia, says MEA
India has condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia as 'unacceptable' and expressed solidarity with Riyadh. The MEA said flight disruptions have affected Indian travellers, while eight Indians injured in an October 10 attack remain hospitalised
Maharashtra heatwave: Yavatmal records state's highest temp at 38.4 degrees C
Vidarbha remained among the hottest regions in Maharashtra, with Yavatmal topping the states maximum temperature readings at 38.4 degrees Celsius. Amravati recorded 36.6 degrees Celsius, 3.7 degrees above normal, while Akola reached 35.7 degrees Celsius
Nalasopara blaze: Two women die of suffocation
Maharashtra FDA has suspended the licences of 17 eateries in Mumbai due to food safety violations. Inspections revealed issues such as pest infestation and failure to display FSSAI licences prominently. Among the suspended outlets were three Domino's Pizza locations operated by Jubilant Foodworks Ltd. The FDA also conducted training for Navratri mandal members on preparing safe food offerings for devotees.
State waives exam fees for drought-hit students, warns colleges of strict action
Maharashtra has directed universities and colleges to waive examination fees for students from drought-affected talukas and refund fees already collected. Higher Education Minister Chandrakant Patil warned of strict action against institutions that fail to comply
Mumbai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper likely to be launched by Dussehra
One tiger death in Yorkshire, hundreds in India: What explains the difference?
Highlights: Britain recorded at least six tiger-related deaths since 1980. India reported 393 deaths between 2021 and 2025. Maharashtra accounted for 231 of Indias fatalities. Many Indian victims were collecting forest produce for their livelihoods. Indias tiger population rose to 3,682 in 2022. The death of William Chapman at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in 2026 has brought Britain's record of fatal tiger encounters under scrutiny. It also provides a striking comparison with India, where hundreds of people have died in encounters with wild tigers in recent years. Yet the difference between the two countries goes beyond the number of deaths. It lies in the circumstances that bring humans and tigers together. Britain has recorded at least six known tiger-related fatalities between 1980 and 2026, involving five animal keepers and one visitor. India, by comparison, recorded 393 deaths between 2021 and 2025, according to figures presented to the Lok Sabha on August 3, 2026. In 2022 alone, India recorded 109 deaths, roughly 18 times Britain's documented total across nearly five decades. However, these figures measure different situations. Britain's incidents involved captive tigers in zoos and wildlife parks, while India's largely involved wild animals in forests and surrounding settlements. Comparing them reveals how human exposure, employment, land use and conservation policies shape the risk of fatal encounters. A rare Amur Tiger cub, aged four months, experiences its reserve for the first time at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster, northern England on July 29, 2015. Only around 450 Amur Tigers survive in the wild in their native Russia and Yorkshire Wildlife Park's release of three cubs, named Hector, Harley and Hope, into their reserve coincides with International Tiger Day. Getty Images Britain: Six deaths in nearly five decades Chapman's death at Yorkshire Wildlife Park was the first known case of a member of the public being killed by a tiger at a British zoo. He deliberately entered the enclosure, although his reasons remain unknown. An inquest has yet to establish the full circumstances. The previous five documented fatalities involved people employed to care for captive animals. Three occurred at Howletts in Kent. In August 1980, Siberian tigress Zeya killed keeper Brian Stocks, 29. A month later, the same animal killed another keeper, Bob Wilson, during routine cleaning. In 1994, keeper Trevor Smith was also killed at the park. In 2013, Sarah McClay, 24, died at South Lakes in Cumbria after a Sumatran tiger entered a staff corridor. An inquest heard that a faulty bolt had allowed the animal through. Four years later, Rosa King, 33, was killed at Hamerton in Cambridgeshire after entering an enclosure without realising that a separating slide was open. Her death was ruled accidental. The common factor in the five earlier cases was occupational exposure. Keepers were working in environments designed to separate people from dangerous animals, but failures involving equipment, access or procedures contributed to fatal encounters. The Yorkshire incident differs because it involved a visitor entering an enclosure rather than an employee carrying out animal-care duties. India: Nearly 400 deaths in just five years India's experience reflects a much broader pattern of contact between people and wild tigers. Official figures show 51 tiger-related deaths in 2021, rising to 109 in 2022 before falling to 88 in 2023, 74 in 2024 and 71 in 2025. Across the five years, that amounts to an average of almost 79 deaths annually, or approximately one death every four to five days. Maharashtra accounted for 231 fatalities, nearly 59 per cent of India's total. Uttar Pradesh followed with 52, Madhya Pradesh with 39 and Bihar with 17. The concentration of deaths in Maharashtra is particularly significant because the state does not have India's largest tiger population. According to the 2022 tiger assessment, Madhya Pradesh had 785 tigers, compared with Maharashtra's 444. Yet Madhya Pradesh recorded only 39 human deaths over the five-year period. In other words, Maharashtra recorded almost six times as many fatalities despite having substantially fewer tigers. This suggests that tiger population size alone cannot explain human mortality. The frequency and circumstances of contact between people and wildlife are equally important. Visitors watch Jai, a Bengal tiger enjoying in a pool on a hot afternoon at the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo in Mumbai on May 10, 2026. Getty Images The biggest difference: Why people encounter tigers The clearest distinction between Britain and India concerns the reasons people enter tiger habitats. In Britain, five victims were animal keepers whose jobs required them to work around captive predators. The sixth was a visitor who entered an enclosure deliberately. In India, many victims were villagers collecting forest produce, gathering firewood, grazing livestock or undertaking other activities connected to their livelihoods. Chandrapur district in Maharashtra illustrates this difference. More than 50,000 families, representing over 100,000 people, reportedly enter local forests during a single season to collect tendu leaves, which are used in bidi production. In May 2025, five people were killed in three days in Chandrapur. All were women collecting tendu leaves inside the forest. Their exposure to tigers was associated with earning an income rather than visiting a wildlife attraction. Research from the Tadoba-Andhari landscape also recorded 132 tiger and leopard attacks between 2005 and 2011, including 71 fatalities. Most victims were collecting forest produce. The comparison highlights two distinct forms of risk: controlled but potentially dangerous workplaces in Britain and shared landscapes where economic activity regularly brings people into contact with wild animals in India. More tigers, but not necessarily more deaths India's tiger conservation programme adds another dimension to the comparison. The country's estimated tiger population increased from 2,967 in 2018 to 3,682 in 2022. India now supports approximately 75 per cent of the world's tigers. This recovery follows a long decline. Estimates suggest India had around 40,000 tigers at independence in 1947, before numbers fell to 1,411 in 2006. However, conservation gains have occurred alongside population growth, development, and continued dependence on forests. The Indian government has identified expanding settlements, infrastructure development, depleted prey, and forest-based livelihoods among the factors contributing to human-wildlife conflict. Around 40 per cent of tiger territory across 20 Indian states is reportedly shared with approximately 60 million people. The MaharashtraMadhya Pradesh comparison is especially revealing. A higher tiger population does not automatically produce a higher death toll. Human activity within tiger habitats and the nature of local livelihoods and patterns of settlement may be more important in determining exposure. Britain faces a different conservation and safety challenge. Its tigers are kept in managed facilities, where preventing contact depends primarily on secure enclosures, operational procedures, and visitor controls. A boy looks at Shakti, a Bengal Tiger strolling inside its enclosure at Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo after the facility was reopened for visitors as part of easing of restrictions imposed earlier to curb the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic in Mumbai on February 10, 2022. Getty Images What international research says about captive tigers A 2026 study examining 1,047 recorded accidents involving animals at zoos, parks, and aquariums found that tigers were involved in 169 incidents, more than any other species examined. Of those incidents, 72 were fatal. Elephants were involved in 142 accidents, killer whales in 123, lions in 86 and bears in 60. The research also found that visitor accidents, particularly those involving intruders or children, were disproportionately represented among the most severe cases. These findings provide context for Britain's incidents, although the study covers multiple countries and types of facilities. It cannot be used to calculate the likelihood of a tiger attack at a particular British zoo. Compensation and the economic cost of conflict India's response to fatal wildlife encounters also differs from Britain's captive-animal safety framework. Since December 2023, the central government has provided $11,700 in compensation for deaths or permanent incapacitation caused by wild-animal attacks, and around $2,340 for grievous injuries. Maharashtra increased its death compensation to 20 lakh in 2022, with 10 lakh payable immediately and the remainder placed in a fixed deposit. These payments acknowledge the financial consequences for affected families. However, compensation addresses losses after an incident rather than the underlying reasons people encounter tigers. For forest-dependent communities, reducing exposure can be complicated when the same land provides income, fuel and fodder. There is also a wider wildlife conflict to consider. Elephants caused 2,898 recorded human deaths in India over five financial years from 202021 to 202425, approximately seven times the tiger death toll. Tigers attract considerable attention, but they are not India's leading cause of fatal human-wildlife encounters. What the comparison ultimately reveals The British and Indian figures should not be interpreted as equivalent measures of national safety. They cover different periods, different tiger populations and fundamentally different environments. Britain's documented fatalities occurred over nearly 50 years in captive settings. India's 393 deaths occurred over five years, predominantly in landscapes where humans and wild tigers coexist. The comparison nevertheless reveals an important distinction. In Britain, preventing deaths largely depends on keeping people and captive predators physically separated through reliable equipment, secure enclosures, and effective safety procedures. In India, prevention requires a broader approach involving forest management, local livelihoods, settlement patterns, early warnings, and conservation planning. The Yorkshire death raises questions about how a visitor could enter a tiger enclosure. India's fatalities raise a more complex question: how can millions of people continue depending on forest landscapes without facing potentially deadly encounters with the wildlife those landscapes protect? Both countries face the same biological danger, but the circumstances producing that danger are fundamentally different. Britain's challenge is primarily one of managing captivity. India's is managing coexistence.
Ranji Trophy: Bengal Thrash Delhi, Haryana Prevail; Karnataka, J&K Settle For Draws
Debutant Ankur Paul: Bengal opened their 2026-27 campaign in the Ranji Trophy with a commanding nine-wicket victory over Delhi, while Haryana defeated Himachal Pradesh by seven wickets as the opening round of the domestic first-class tournament concluded on Wednesday. Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir were saved by rain after a dramatic second-innings collapse against Madhya Pradesh, while Karnataka fought back against Andhra to secure a draw. Bengals bowlers dismissed Delhi for 277 in their second innings before the visitors chased down the target of 89 in just 15.3 overs to collect six points from their Group C encounter. Pradipta Pramanik claimed three wickets for 72 runs, while Amir Gani and Sumanta Gupta picked up two wickets each. Debutant Ankur Paul scored 38, and captain Abhimanyu Easwaran remained unbeaten on 34 to guide Bengal to victory. Haryana, meanwhile, completed their chase of 71 in 18.1 overs after resuming at 26/3 on the final day. Himanshu Rana scored 37, while Dheeru Singh remained unbeaten on 24 as the pair added 51 runs to secure the Group D victory. Haryana had taken a 43-run first-innings lead before bowling Himachal Pradesh out for 113 in their second innings, with Anshul Kamboj claiming four wickets. Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir suffered a dramatic collapse against Madhya Pradesh in Srinagar, slipping to 12/5 while chasing a challenging target after the visitors declared 249/6 in their second innings. J&K recovered to 88/7, but rain and bad weather stopped play, allowing the hosts to escape defeat. Madhya Pradesh earned three points for their 76-run first-innings lead. Karnataka also had to settle for a draw against Andhra in Group B after conceding a 144-run first-innings lead. Andhra posted 418 in reply to Karnatakas 274, but the visitors fought back through a determined second innings, declaring at 337/9 with veteran Karun Nair playing a key role. Andhra finished at 104/4, earning three points against Karnatakas one. In other Group A results, Baroda defeated Goa by an innings and 135 runs after posting 472/8 declared and dismissing their opponents for 199 and 138. Mahesh Pithiya took five wickets in Goas first innings, while Bhargav Bhatt claimed four in the second. Vidarbha beat Puducherry by 160 runs after setting a target of 291. Vidarbha defeated Puducherry by 160 runs in another Group A fixture. After scoring 428 in their first innings and declaring at 175/3 in the second, Vidarbha bowled Puducherry out for 313 and 130. Maharashtra began their Group C campaign with a 127-run victory over Services in New Delhi. Prithvi Shaw scored 70 off 73 balls, while Ankit Bawne made a major contribution with the bat as Maharashtra posted 333 in their first innings. Services managed 227 in reply, and despite Maharashtra being dismissed for 141 in their second innings, the visitors were bowled out for 120 while chasing 248. In another Group B fixture, Saurashtra took three points after securing an 80-run first-innings lead over Chhattisgarh. Ravindra Jadeja scored 102 and later claimed three wickets as Chhattisgarh were dismissed for 312 in response to Saurashtras 392. Saurashtra then reached 229/1 declared in their second innings, with Chirag Jani scoring an unbeaten century, before the match ended in a draw. Punjab also secured three points against Assam in a drawn Group B encounter. Assam scored 373 in their first innings, but Punjab responded with 478/6 declared to take a 105-run lead. Debutant Vihaan Malhotra scored 103, while Emanjot Singh Chahal remained unbeaten on 114 to help Punjab recover from a middle-order collapse. Assam finished at 157/6 in their second innings. Jharkhand earned three points against Kerala in Group C after building a sizeable first-innings lead. Jharkhand scored 587, with centuries from Shikhar Mohan, captain Virat Singh and Aditya Singh. Kerala replied with 395, with Abhishek P. Nair scoring 126, but failed to avoid the follow-on. Kerala were 62/2 in their second innings when the match ended in a draw. Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu also played out a draw in Group D, with Rajasthan securing an 89-run first-innings lead. Rajasthan made 363 before Tamil Nadu were dismissed for 274, losing their last five wickets for just 10 runs. Tamil Nadu reached 73/0 in their second innings before the teams agreed to a draw. Uttarakhand took three points after securing a first-innings lead against Railways in another drawn fixture. Uttarakhand scored 470, while Railways were bowled out for 278. Railways reached 272/4 in their second innings before the match ended. Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu also played out a draw in Group D, with Rajasthan securing an 89-run first-innings lead. Rajasthan made 363 before Tamil Nadu were dismissed for 274, losing their last five wickets for just 10 runs. Tamil Nadu reached 73/0 in their second innings before the teams agreed to a draw. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Centre sets up Ramesh Chand-led panel to examine sugarcane farmers demands in Karnataka, Maharashtra
A committee led by Ramesh Chand has been established to address sugarcane farmers' concerns regarding pricing. The panel will evaluate demands for higher sugarcane prices and an increase in the minimum selling price of sugar. It will also review systems for testing sugar recovery and weighment practices at sugar mills. Committee members include representatives from various agricultural departments and officials.
Maha Cabinet approves resolution praising PM Modis 25-year public service
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 14 (IANS) The Maharashtra Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, on Wednesday passed a unanimous resolution congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing an unbroken 25 years of public service as head of government, spanning his tenures as Chief Minister and Prime Minister from October 7, 2001, to October 7, 2026. The cabinet lauded PM Modis leadership in driving national transformation across good governance, inclusive development, infrastructure expansion, social empowerment, and national security. Highlighting his philosophy of serving as Pradhan Sevak, the resolution emphasised how his policies have prioritised the welfare of the poor, exploited, deprived, and vulnerable sections of society. Acknowledged the national goal of reaching a USD 5 trillion economy by 2029 and highlighted Maharashtras concurrent objective of building a USD 1-trillion economy backed by robust central support. The resolution noted that infrastructure projects worth approximately Rs 12 lakh crore are currently underway in the state with central collaboration. The 701 km Hindu Hrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg expressway was completed, boosting economic development across Vidarbha, Marathwada, and North Maharashtra. There has been accelerated momentum for metro projects in Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, including the 33.5-km underground Mumbai Metro Line 8 (Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ). The 22-km Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu) and the Navi Mumbai International Airport have become operational, while the construction of the Vadhavan Port in Palghar district and the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project are underway. PM Modi-led government took the historic decision granting Classical Language status to Marathi on October 3, 2024, alongside the establishment of the Centre of Excellence for Classical Marathi Language Studies in Pune. The resolution also recognised central initiatives, including celebrating Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (including naval insignia inspired by the Rajmudra and UNESCO World Heritage status for 12 hill forts), the development of Panchteerth sites, land allocation for the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar National Memorial at Indu Mill, and the nationwide celebrations for Mahatma Phules bicentenary alongside the Bhide Wada memorial project. The resolution cited the implementation of 29 major and medium irrigation projects under the Pradhan Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (creating 4.49 lakh hectares of irrigation capacity by July 2026), the Baliraja Jal Sanjeevani Yojana (allocating Rs 15,000 crore for drought-prone regions), and the installation of 11.80 million solar agricultural pumps under the PM-KUSUM scheme alongside PM Surya Ghar free electricity initiatives. Further, the resolution highlighted the reach of Ayushman Bharat (benefitting 4.40 crore citizens in Maharashtra), PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (supporting 91 lakh farmers), Jeevan Mission water connections, and extensive coverage under rural housing, Mudra loans, and financial inclusion schemes.
Mad Sandhu murder case: Key accused Jobanpreet Singh held from Mumbai; 3 pistols recovered
In a major breakthrough in the Mad Sandhu murder case, Counter Intelligence (CI) Jalandhar, in coordination with the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), has apprehended a key operative from Chembur in Mumbai, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Wednesday. The arrested accused, identified as Jobanpreet Singh, is a resident of village Jandoke in district Tarn Taran. Police teams have recovered three sophisticated pistols, including one 9MM Glock, one 9MM Beretta and one .30 bore PX5, along with five magazines and 11 live cartridges from his possession. On October 3, two motorcycle-borne assailants had opened fire at social media influencer Madhu Sudan Singh alias Mad Sandhu on Loharka Road in Amritsar, resulting in his death. A Case FIR no 186 dated 03.10.2026 under sections 103 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 25 and 27 of the Arms Act was registered at Police Station Cantonment at Commissionerate Amritsar. Earlier, two of his...
Pune (Maharashtra) [India], October 14: FITTR, a technology-enabled preventive-healthcare company, today announced its collaboration with PRA Groups Sendh Lake City to spread fitness, preventive healthcare and healthier everyday living across
Pune (Maharashtra) [India], October 14: FITTR, a technology-enabled preventive-healthcare company, today announced its collaboration with PRA Group's Sendh Lake City to spread fitness, preventive healthcare and healthier everyday living across the community. The announcement was made at the launch of the project, which was attended by Rohit Chattopadhyay, Co-Founder and Director, FITTR.
Panel submits report on higher education policy for single-mother families
Maharashtras committee has submitted a report to help frame a policy offering educational support, protection and empowerment to students from single-mother families. Higher Education Minister Chandrakant Patil said the policy aims to address financial, social and educational challenges
Recurve champion Kumkum Mohod staying grounded as she targets the LA Games gold
A Virat Kohli fangirl, the Amravati, Maharashtra, based girl wants to meet the cricket star as she likes his discipline and hard work
Maharashtra Cyber summons singer Honey Singh for questioning on October 16
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Centre forms panel to look into issues raised by sugarcane farmers
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 14 (IANS) The Centre has constituted a committee under the chairmanship of NITI Aayog's former Member, Prof Ramesh Chand, to examine issues raised by sugarcane farmers and recommend appropriate measures for addressing their concerns. The committee, which also comprises the Agriculture Commissioner, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the Joint Secretary, Sugar, Department of Food and Public Distribution, and the Joint Secretary, Legal Metrology, Department of Consumer Affairs as members, will examine the demand for an increase in remunerative returns to sugarcane farmers, taking into account cultivation costs and other relevant factors. It will also examine the demand for revision of the ex-mill Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of sugar in the context of sugar production costs, market realisations, and the financial viability of sugar mills. Other key areas that the committee will examine include existing mechanisms for testing and reporting sugar recovery, measures to ensure transparent verification of recovery, and prevailing sugarcane weighment practices at sugar mills, including the adequacy of calibration, inspection, and verification mechanisms. The Committee will also examine prevailing practices relating to deductions from the weight of mechanically harvested sugarcane and assess the extent of actual losses, if any, arising from mechanised harvesting. It will evaluate the financial impact of the present practices on the cane price payable to farmers and may consider any other related matters deemed necessary. The Committee will consult all stakeholders, including farmers representatives, sugar mill associations, state governments and other experts or organisations, as considered necessary. The Committee will submit its report, containing its findings and specific recommendations, as early as possible, for consideration by the competent authority. The constitution of the committee follows the decisions taken during a meeting of representatives of sugarcane farmers from Karnataka and Maharashtra with the Union Ministers of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. Prof. Ramesh Chand, an eminent agricultural economist and public policy expert, served as a NITI Aayog Member from 2015 to 2026 and previously as Director of ICAR-NIAP and Member of the Fifteenth Finance Commission. He has extensive expertise in agricultural development, farmers issues, food security, agricultural markets and pricing policy.
Maharashtra Cyber issues fresh summons to Honey Singh, asks him to appear on Fri
Maharashtra Cyber has issued a fresh summons to singer Honey Singh, directing him to appear for questioning on October 16 over alleged objectionable remarks. He failed to appear despite three earlier summons, citing his absence from India
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 14 (IANS) Rapper and singer Yo Yo Honey Singh has been summoned once again by Maharashtra Cyber Cell to appear before the investigating officer for questioning with regards to his controversial remarks during a TV show. The rapper has been asked to appear before the Maharashtra Cyber Cell on October 16. A Maharashtra Cyber Cell official said that Honey Singh has been accused of making objectionable remarks during a TV show. After which a complainant lodged a complain with Maharashtra Cyber Cell. However, Honey Singh did not come even after 3 summons. He claimed that he is not able to come because he is abroad. According to a cyber cell official, if Honey Singh still does not come, then the process of issuing LOC against him can also be started. For the unversed, earlier this year during a concert in Dehil, Honey Singh made an an objectionable remark. During the concert he said, Delhi's cold! It's really fun to do it in the car in this cold. Have sex in the car, in Delhi winter. Use condoms, guys, please. Play it safe. He later addressed his controversial remark, as posted a video on social media and tendered an apology. Offering a detailed clarification he stated , A video of mine has been going viral on Instagram since morning, edited in a way that's offended many people. I want to tell you the whole story. My intention was never to hurt, insult, or offend anyone. A few days prior to the incident, I had interactions with a leading gynaecologist and sexologist who shared about the rising concerns of sexually transmitted diseases among the younger generation due to unprotected sex. This conversation stayed with me. While being a guest at the show of Nanku and Karun, and seeing a large number of Gen Z in the audience, I tried to convey a message about the importance of protection in a language which they would refer to which is used in OTT they watch, he added. This isnt the first time the rapper has landed into a controversy. He has been accused of objectionable content in some of his alleged songs, and his remarks during shows.
National Hockey: Haryana, Maharashtra Secure Victories
Haryana, Maharashtra, and Chandigarh secured victories in their respective Division 'A' pool matches at the Hockey India Senior Men National Championship in Jhansi on Wednesday. Tamil Nadu and Bengal played to a draw, while Kerala and Arunachal also registered wins in Division 'B'.
Maharashtra FDA Suspends Licences Of 3 Mumbai Food Outlets, Including Domino
Maharashtra FDA suspends licences or registrations of three Mumbai eateries after inspections reportedly uncover improper food storage, cockroach infestation and other hygiene violations.
Hyundai to invest 4,000 crore in Maharashtra, double Pune plant capacity by 2030
The expansion is part of Hyundais broader India strategy, which includes 26 new models, electric vehicles and greater localisation of components.
Toyota Kirloskar to ramp up Bidadi production from early 2027, add 1 lakh units of capacity
The expansion will complement the automakers existing Karnataka operations and a separate Maharashtra facility planned for completion in 2029.
Oppn, farmers slam Mahayuti Govt over Rs 5,000 aid to drought-hit Maha growers; term it cruel joke
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 14 (IANS) The Maharashtra governments announcement of a Rs 5,000 advance drought relief payment to farmers for districts facing severe agrarian crisis from 305 talukas, has triggered sharp political backlash and widespread outrage among farmers' organisations. Opposition leaders and the All India Kisan Sabha have slammed the financial assistance as inadequate, labeling the package a cruel joke and an insult to the struggles of distressed agricultural communities. The Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA, Kailas Patil, criticised the announcement, calling the Rs 5,000 relief an insult and mockery of farmers facing severe hardship and inflation. Former Home Minister Anil Deshmukh and NCP(SP) leader slammed Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, stating that the government had initially promised blanket assistance to all affected farmers, but has now scaled it back using administrative excuses. Senior Congress leader and MLA, Vijay Wadettiwar, launched a scathing attack on the Maharashtra administration, stating that the Rs 5,000 relief is equivalent to ubbing salt into the wounds of struggling farmers. Highlighting the gravity of the crisis, Wadettiwar noted that farmers are not only reeling under current losses but are deeply anxious about their survival in the coming year. Many have borrowed heavily from private lenders and financial sources to fund their cultivation, only to face total crop failure, leaving their granaries empty and mountains of debt overhead. Questioning the state's financial priorities, Wadettiwar asked how the government could claim to lack funds for distressed farmers while simultaneously allocating thousands of crores for mega-projects like the upcoming Kumbh Mela and the Shaktipeeth Expressway. Gaining the blessings of farmers is far more important than funding the Kumbh Mela, he asserted, demanding that the Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis-led government scrap non-essential high-budget projects and redirect funds toward substantial financial relief for farmers. Echoing similar outrage, the All India Kisan Sabha (AKS) strongly condemned the Rs 5,000 advance payment announced by Chief Minister Fadnavis across 305 drought-affected tehsils. In a joint statement released in Mumbai, prominent Kisan Sabha leadersincluding Dr Ashok Dhawale, J.P. Gavit, Dr Ajit Nawle, Yashwant Zhade, and Umesh Deshmukhpointed out that the meager sum fails to cover even the basic production costs of fertilisers, seeds, pesticides, and manual labour. With agricultural supply vendors aggressively pressing for the clearance of old credit, farmers find themselves trapped in an inescapable cycle of debt ahead of the Diwali festival. The Kisan Sabha has demanded that instead of arbitrary token amounts under NDRF guidelines, farmers should receive compensation matching the insured sums under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). It has urged the government to immediately disburse the long-delayed 9th and 10th installments of the Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana, which amounts to an estimated Rs 3,590 crore in total unpaid dues for nearly 8.9 million eligible farmer families. The Kisan Sabha criticised the massive drop in beneficiaries under the Ladki Bahin Yojana (which saw numbers decline from 2.47 crore to 1.66 crore), demanding that the nearly 81,000 excluded women be reinstated and paid their due installments. It claimed that delays in actual debt relief disbursements have left farmers vulnerable, threatening their eligibility for fresh seasonal crop loans from cooperative banks. Expressing extreme discontent over unresolved issues encompassing drought relief, farm loan waivers, crop insurance, and forest rights, the Kisan Sabha has announced a massive statewide agitation. Beginning October 26, thousands of farmers will rally in vehicle convoys from Akole in Ahilyanagar toward Mumbai, marching directly toward Chief Minister Fadnavis official residence, Varsha. Following their arrival in the capital, protesters are set to launch an indefinite 'Satyagraha' at Azad Maidan starting October 27. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Fadnavis issued strict directives to financial institutions and banks instructing them not to execute forced recovery actions against farmers. He reiterated the state's intent to disburse Rs 5,000 directly into farmers' accounts as immediate advance relief ahead of the festive season.
Maharashtra FDA Intensifies Action Against Illegal Drugs, Seizes
The Maharashtra FDA has ramped up inspections, seizing 20.23 crore worth of illegal drugs between April and September 2026. Maharashtra FDA Intensifies Action Against Illegal Drugs, Seizes 20.23 Crore Worth of Medicines
Maharashtra heatwave: Panvel civic body urges residents to take precautions
In an advisory issued on Wednesday, October 14, the civic body appealed to citizens to avoid stepping out during peak sunlight hours, stay hydrated and take extra care of vulnerable groups, particularly young children, senior citizens and people working outdoors
Turmeric prices cross 23,000 a quintal in Erode
Prices being pushed up by drought conditions in major turmeric-growing regions, including Marathwada in Maharashtra, Nizamabad in Telangana, and parts of Tamil Nadu
WaterLabs Expands Its Home Water Filtration Range with HL-12-PP
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Maharashtra) [India], October 14: White deposits on taps, scale inside geysers and sediment in household water can turn everyday routines into recurring maintenance problems. Water quality matters throughout the home, from the storage tank to the bathroom and washing machine. WaterLabs builds filtration products for these different uses, helping households choose solutions suited to the water they use every day.
Rapper and singer Honey Singh has been summoned by Maharashtra Cyber for questioning on October 16 after he failed to appear despite being called three times in connection with a complaint over alleged objectionable remarks...
Thane water cut: Supply to parts of city to remain suspended for 24 hours
Shutdown at MIDC's Jambhul water treatment plant to affect Mumbra, Diva, Kalwa and parts of Wagle and Majiwada-Manpada; Maharashtra adds 40 talukas to drought-hit list
WATCH: Trumps new press secretary Katie Zacharia calls husband my president
The 41-year-old made the gaffe while discussing how her family was adjusting to her new role and whether the demanding job would affect her personal life. Speaking about her family of four children, Zacharia slipped up while referring to her husband, saying, my president, excuse me, my husband
A student movement in Maharashtra that brought institutional accountability into focus
While MPSC protest has ended with government conceding several demands of the candidates, the true test of its success is whether future candidates can approach examinations with the confidence that the rules will be clear, the process will be secure, and selection will be based on merit
Maharashtra tightens out-of-taluka property paperwork rules
Fadnavis defends Maharashtra SIR, calls it routine electoral roll revision
Devendra Fadnavis said voters whose names were missing or had been incorrectly omitted could apply for inclusion or seek corrections within the prescribed deadlines
85% of Maha declared drought-hit; farmers to get Rs 5,000 aid
Maharashtra is grappling with an escalating drought crisis, with 305 talukas now declared drought-hit, prompting the state government to announce Rs 5,000 in financial aid for farmers before Diwali and extend comprehensive relief measures.
Two Dead, Six Injured as Fire Engulfs 14-Storey Residential Building in Maharashtra
Tragedy struck Maharashtras Palghar district late Wednesday night when a massive fire broke out in a 14-storey residential building, claiming the lives of two women and sending panic through the community. According to officials from the Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVMC) fire department, the blaze was reported at 12:10 AM at Imperial Heights, located along [] The post Two Dead, Six Injured as Fire Engulfs 14-Storey Residential Building in Maharashtra appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
UK trade delegation signs growth partnership with businesses in Maharashtra
The visiting delegation includes three Cabinet ministers, seven mayors and around 200 businesses and institutions, with over 1 billion in new deals expected
Rahul Gandhi vows action over alleged police assault on students protesting CEC
Rahul Gandhi alleged that the authorities were attempting to suppress a collective voice of dissent and called on students to document their experiences and share evidence with the Congress
Ukraine: Zelenskyy heads to London as UK ramps up air defence missile deliveries
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is visiting London for talks with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham as Russia intensifies attacks. Britain has pledged urgent support and faster air defence missile deliveries to strengthen Ukraines defences ahead of winter
Youth With Sickle Causes Panic At Beed College
A 19-year-old youth was arrested in Maharashtra's Beed district for allegedly creating panic at a medical college by roaming around with a sharp sickle. Police received information on Tuesday evening about a man with a sickle at Swami Ramanand Teerth Rural Government Medical College and Hospital in Ambajogai. The youth, Noman Jabbar Shaikh, was taken into custody, and the weapon was seized. A case has been registered under the Arms Act and Maharashtra Police Act.
India-China: EAM S Jaishankar says LAC peace essential for normalising ties
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said peace and stability along the LAC are essential for normalising India-China relations. He also flagged the trade imbalance and limited market access for Indian businesses in China, while noting that bilateral ties are gradually moving towards normalcy
Maharashtra drought relief: Rs 5,000 advance aid for farmers ahead of Diwali
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the measures after chairing a Cabinet meeting attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Sunetra Pawar and Eknath Shinde, along with other ministers
One arrested in fake surety bail case
Aaditya backs CJP leaders jailed after protest at Delhis Jantar Mantar
CJP leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were sent to five days of judicial custody on Wednesday and lodged in Delhis Tihar Jail, police said. They were accused of violating their peace bonds and trespassing into the Jantar Mantar area
85% of Maharashtra declared drought-hit; farmers to get Rs 5,000 aid before Diwali
Maharashtra's government has declared drought in over 305 talukas due to a severe rainfall deficit. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that Rs 5,000 will be deposited in farmers' accounts before Diwali. Efforts are being made to prevent coercive loan recoveries from farmers facing hardships. A zero-tolerance approach is being enforced against unauthorized water extraction to ensure drinking supplies.
