Virat Kohli Meets Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde In London
Virat Kohli discussed sports, infrastructure and various government schemes initiated by the state government during the courtesy meeting.
Maharashtra Congress Accuses Government of Misleading OBCs in Census Process
Congress leader Nana Patole claims the government aims to categorize OBCs as general category in the census, urging for accurate representation. Maharashtra Congress Accuses Government of Misleading OBCs in Census Process
Kids Take Centrestage As Nagpur Celebrates Tanha Pola
Aapli Bus To Connect Devotees To Nagpurs Prominent Ganesh Mandals
Woman booked for duping contractor of Rs45,000 on promise to resolve family problems
Ganesh mandals flag steep power bills, delayed deposit refunds
Marbat Festival Symbolises Nagpurs Tradition Of Burning Away Peoples Woes: Fadnavis
Techie loses Rs5.9 lakh in matrimonial fraud
Retired bank officer loses Rs3.5 lakh in fake pension card scam in Pune
145-Yr Leap: From Old City Lanes To Global Spotlight
Nigerian national acquitted after nearly 4 years in jail as court finds flaws in drug seizure
Two bogus doctors caught in Pune; FIRs filed after civic body raid
HC To Police: Submit Action-Taken Report On DJs At Festivals
ABVP announces 123 college units in Pune, gives 2,142 students leadership roles
SpiceJet flight from Pune to Dubai delayed by 20 hours; flyers left fuming
Colour, Crowd, Satire: Marbat Carnival Rolls
Bombay HC clears construction on two Pune Cantt leasehold plots
Worker crushed to death after pallet falls on him
Pune residents face low water pressure scenario ahead of Ganeshotsav
Gadchiroli is emerging as mining & green steel hub, says Fadnavis
Discoloured water, dead fish raise alarm along Mula river
Enhance Coal Supply For Maharashtra Power Plants, CM Fadnavis Urges WCL
Delivery person stabs co-worker to death over 600, arrested
Maha lags in HPV vax coverage with just 8.4%, Gujarat & UP cover 100%
Maharashtra govt to regulate admissions, fees for PG diploma in management courses
5 years on, BMC begins upgrading Mumbais 1st climate action plan
How shadu mati Ganapati idols get their colour and character
Medical teachers challenge faculty post cuts, seek workload-based staffing
AERA revises tariff incentive rules to boost international flights from Navi Mumbai airport
Fadnavis promises sweeping MPSC overhaul after meeting students
Nagpur to get new district court complex with modern facilities
Cops tighten rules for OYO, hotels under Operation Shakti
Violations can invite criminal action against owners and managers
Outburst against HC: Maharashtra law secretary apologises
3 kids among 9 dead as van rams truck near Bhandara
CM warns against politicising MPSC paper leak agitation
RAIN, REVELRY & BHIDU: Marbat Gets Global Tadka
Drug-free MSRTC campaign launched to ensure driver and passenger safety
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 11 (IANS) In a major push toward enhancing road safety, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Friday announced a comprehensive state-wide campaign titled Drug-Free Driver, Safe Journey, Capable Maharashtra. The initiative aims to introduce an integrated alcohol and drug-testing framework across various passenger and freight transport sectors between 2026 and 2029. Speaking at a high-level meeting -- attended by senior officials from the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and the Transport Department -- Minister Sarnaik outlined the vision to curb driving under the influence through preventive measures, routine checks, medical treatment, and rehabilitation. To kickstart the initiative, the Minister, in his capacity as the Chairman of MSRTC, announced a personal donation of Rs 1 lakh to purchase drug-testing equipment dedicated to screening MSRTC drivers and conductors. The campaign will initially cover MSRTC buses, municipal bus services, government vehicles, public sector fleets, and state-contracted vehicles. It will subsequently expand to include private buses, tourist vehicles, taxis, app-based cabs, auto-rickshaws, and contract carriages. It will also include employee transport across MIDC industrial zones, factories, companies, and logistics providers and later trucks, tankers, hazardous material carriers, warehouses, distribution centers, and port transport, school and college transport, hospital vehicles, and ambulances under specialised guidelines. Minister Sarnaik added that the state government is establishing standardised guidelines for pre-duty breathalyser tests, scheduled and surprise drug screenings, and targeted testing based on reasonable suspicion or specific incidents. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) will also focus on deploying trained personnel, certified testing kits, and digital tracking systems. He also said that the state government plans to pilot certified rapid-testing kits capable of instantly detecting substances such as cannabis and various narcotics on-site. The kits allow screening without opening sealed packages, minimising direct exposure risks for testing personnel. Initial positive results will be followed by mandatory confirmatory tests and formal legal proceedings, the Minister added. While maintaining a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence, Minister Sarnaik said that the initiative prioritises driver welfare. Drivers who fail initial screenings will be immediately relieved of driving duties and replaced to protect passenger safety. Counselling, medical evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation options will be provided to drivers struggling with addiction, he added. He noted that strict measures will be implemented to safeguard the confidentiality of personal and medical data. The state government will enforce strict compliance across vehicle owners, transport contractors, industries, and educational institutions. An integrated digital portal will monitor test counts, device calibration, training logs, medical referrals, and institutional compliance. This state-level system will also seek integration with central agency databases. Ensuring the safety of every passenger and upholding the trust of every family is our collective responsibility, Minister Sarnaik added. A drug-free driver is the foundation of a safe transport system, which ultimately leads to safe families, a safe society, and a stronger Maharashtra, he said.
3 from Sambhaji Brigade throw black powder on MPSC secretary, arrested
3 kids among 9 dead as vanrams truck near Bhandara
Petition in Bombay high court challenges constitutional validity of Maharashtra anti-conversion law
Why single out Pune with 13-day liquor sale ban during Ganesh festivities: Bombay HC
Education dept issues show-cause notice to MLAs school over Paryushan food advisory
ATS arrests Mumbra woman in probe into passports obtained using fake documents
Centre launches OneTag to let FASTag users switch banks without replacing tag
Jarange Patil sets sights on Mumbai as Maratha agitation escalates
Digital Desk | Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Sep 11 (IANS) With signals suggesting that the Maharashtra government delegation may ignore the ongoing agitation, Manoj Jarange Patilwho has brought the issue of certificates back to the centre of discussion by seeking to rectify flaws in the Maratha reservation is preparing to head to Mumbai along with his supporters. A meeting of supporters has been called at 12 p.m. on September 12 to decide the further course of action. Jarange Patil stated that permission for the protest at Mumbais Azad Maidan has been sought, expressing confidence that the government will grant it. Criticising the administration by stating, Unless you press the nose, the mouth doesn't open, he made it clear that the protesters are now bound for Mumbai. If we apply according to the law, it is the government's responsibility to grant permission. The Home Ministry must approve it, and the government should abide by the rules. However, the government considers itself above everyone, above the courts, and is violating the Constitution. Permission will be granted, and the hunger strike will take place at Azad Maidan, Jarange Patil said. He instructed supporters not to bring vehicles to Antarwali Sarati, advising those coming from distant places to arrive at night and locals to arrive in the morning. The government representatives noted that out of the 15 demands raised during Jarange Patil's movement, 12 have already been fulfilled upon detailed review, emphasising that the government keeps all doors open for discussion. Even as the decision to intensify the agitation was being made, Abhijit Dipke of the Cockroach Janata Party met Jarange Patil, requesting him to end his hunger strike considering his deteriorating health, while simultaneously warning the government against laying a hand on him. Expressing deep concern over Jarange Patils deteriorating health, Dipke urged the activist to end his fast, emphasising that Maharashtra desperately needs his presence for the broader social cause. At the same time, Dipke issued a sharp warning to the state government, demanding immediate dialogue and cautioning authorities against taking any coercive measures against the hunger striker. If the government had fulfilled its basic duties by providing quality education and employment opportunities, people like Manoj Jarange would not have been forced to sit on indefinite hunger strikes. This is a clear failure of the administration, Dipke told reporters after meeting Jarange Patil. Dipke heavily criticised the administration's perceived apathy, contrasting its inaction with its public engagements elsewhere. The government seems to have time to meet comedians and social media figures, but nobody has time to come here and talk to a leader who has been fasting for 14 days for the welfare of his community, he remarked. Invoking recent events involving activist Sonam Wangchuk, Dipke strongly warned against any forceful police removal from the site. This is Maharashtra. If the government tries to forcibly touch or remove Manoj Jarange Patil, people from every corner of the state will march directly to Antarwali Sarati, and the government will have to face the consequences, Dipke declared. Meanwhile, support for Jarange Patil's movement continues to grow across various districts of Marathwada even as preparations gain momentum for the proposed protest march to Mumbai's Azad Maidan. Under the banner of Sakal Maratha Samaj, a two-hour road blockade was staged on the Latur-Barshi route in the Chincholirao Wadi area of Latur taluka, where protesters raised fierce slogans against the government. In Nitur, Nilanga taluka, tyres were burnt to block the Latur-Zaheerabad highway. As supporters take to the streets, the government has begun releasing summaries detailing the number of certificates issued across different districts.
Maharashtra Cancels Irregular Appointments In Ministers Offices
The CMO, meanwhile, has a sanctioned strength of 172 personnel but currently has around 250 officials and employees working there, officials said.
Khilafat House redevelopment: Shifting of old grave shelved
Thane MACT awards Rs 14.8 lakh to tempo driver injured in 2015 ST bus crash
Virat Kohli meets Eknath Shinde in London, discusses sports and Maharashtra development
The Deputy CM said the two also spoke about helping young people improve their skills and perform well in competitions. Kohli shared ideas on how to support and develop young talent, which Shinde said could benefit Maharashtra and the country.
Four arrested for hacking 42-year-old from Maharashtra to death
2 buyers paid Rs 1.16cr, got no flats; RERA orders builder to refund with interest
The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority has directed the developer to refund the amounts paid, along with applicable interest, after noting that the project remained incomplete and its registration had lapsed without an extension.
Onion prices in Mumbai region rise to Rs 70 per kg, likely to surge after Ganeshotsav
Shinde Seeks UK Investment For Maharashtra Growth
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde concluded a two-day visit to the UK, focusing on attracting foreign direct investment and promoting the state's economic potential. His engagements included receiving leadership awards, meeting with sports figures like Virat Kohli to discuss Olympic aspirations, and appealing to British investors to bring technology and capital to Maharashtra, leveraging the India-UK FTA.
Kohli And Shinde Meet In London For Sports Development Talks
Former India cricket captain Virat Kohli met Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in London to discuss enhancing sports infrastructure, athlete development, and the state's progress. The dialogue focused on policy improvements, upcoming sports facilities like a Sports City near Navi Mumbai, and empowering youth through sports initiatives. Kohli also shared his passion for cricket and commitment to guiding young athletes.
Virat Kohli Meets Maharashtra Dy CM Shinde in London, Discusses Sports, More
The dialogue focused on necessary policy improvements to expand sports facilities in Maharashtra and nurture talent capable of achieving national and international acclaim.
Bombay high court refuses to bar Jarange from entering Mumbai, says agitation a fundamental right
Congress Targets Fadnavis Over Assault On Ministers Brother, Nephew
Congress demands Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis resignation after the assault of minister Atul Saves brother and nephew.
NGT fines CIDCO Rs 10,000 for delay in filing flamingo-flight study report
Kohli, Shinde Meet In London Over Sports and State Development
Former India cricket captain Virat Kohli met Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in London to discuss enhancing sports infrastructure, athlete development, and state progress. The meeting focused on policy improvements for sports facilities in Maharashtra and nurturing young talent, with Kohli expressing interest in supporting such initiatives.
FIR filed against developers for Rs 43 lakh flat fraud in Maharashtra
Maharashtra: Congress alleges Central Scheme to place OBCs in General category
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 11 (IANS) Senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Nana Patole on Friday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modis administration, accusing the Union Government of deceiving the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community under the guise of conducting a caste census. Speaking to the media after leading a delegation to meet Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Patole alleged that the Modi government is actively attempting to shift the OBC population into the open (general) category through the census process. Highlighting specific flaws in the census format, Patole stated that out of the 40 questions included in the enumeration form, Question No. 10 reveals an underlying design to categorise OBCs under the open category. The OBC community comprises numerous castes and sub-castessuch as Kunbi and Banjarawith varied regional nomenclatures across states (Lamta in Andhra Pradesh, Kurmi or Jat in other regions). Classification based on linguistic and regional identities requires urgent updating so that these names are accurately reflected in a caste-wise enumeration, Patole argued. He urged the Centre to adopt the comprehensive caste census models previously implemented by state governments in Bihar and Telangana to ensure fair representation. Patole further noted that despite formal written representations sent to Prime Minister Modi by Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, the Union Government has failed to respond, reflecting what he termed an anti-OBC mindset. In the memorandum submitted to Governor Varma, the delegation emphasised that authentic, updated demographic data is critical for formulating social justice policies, welfare schemes, educational opportunities, and employment strategies. The delegation demanded that a provision for a separate, dedicated column/category for OBCs be made in the national census enumeration form. Independent and precise data collection for every sub-caste within the OBC umbrella will address existing socio-economic and educational disparities among different subgroups. The delegation emphasised the need for a comprehensive mapping of educational progress, economic status, employment participation, and utilisation of government schemes to enable scientific, objective policymaking. Patole demanded the direct intervention by the Maharashtra State Government to strongly advocate for an independent caste census with the relevant central ministries. Addressing the severe agricultural distress in the state, Patole urged the government to declare a drought in affected regions, including parts of Vidarbha, Western Maharashtra, and Marathwada, where dry spells have damaged standing crops. Comparing the state's response to neighbouring regions, the Congress leader demanded that the state government immediately declare a drought, provide substantial financial assistance to farmers and agricultural labourers, and make urgent arrangements for fodder and water for livestock, echoing relief measures implemented by the Karnataka government.
Maharashtra FDA intensify inspections, conducts 12,083 checks in 3 months
The Tukaram Mundhe-led Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration conducted 12,083 inspections between June and August 2026, issuing 5,269 improvement notices and suspending 603 licences. The FDA also seized food stock worth Rs 67.20 crore and intensified action against banned pan masala and gutkha
BRICS Summit 2026: Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled arrives in Delhi
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, where India and the UAE are expected to further strengthen their strategic partnership, including cooperation in trade and energy security
Norway's Princess Astrid dies at 94, 2 days after brother King Harald's funeral
The Norwegian Royal Court announced her death on Friday, saying Princess Astrid had died earlier in the day. King Haakon VIII, her nephew, expressed deep sorrow over her passing and remembered her for a lifetime of warm and dutiful service to the Norwegian Royal House
Arjun Sabale from Maharashtra has turned one acre into a thriving flower business by cultivating roses and gerberas in a naturally ventilated polyhouse. This method of protected cultivation provides him with a consistent daily income, leading to impressive monthly turnover and net profit. His remarkable success showcases the advantages of crop diversification and modern farming techniques.
Virat Kohli meets Maharashtra's Deputy CM Eknath Shinde in London
Speaking about Kohli, Shinde said he was delighted to know that despite scoring several centuries, the cricketer remained humble. He also revealed that the discussions included projects related to Third Mumbai, Atal Setu, and other matters
Raut urges Mohan Bhagwat to visit Marathwada, witness farmers agrarian crisis
Speaking to reporters in Maharashtra's Nanded, Sanjay Raut said the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had undertaken extensive social work and noted that Mohan hagwat frequently comments on issues ranging from religion to international affairs
Maharashtra weather update: IMD forecasts thunderstorms, heavy rain till Sept 15
On Sunday, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, heavy rain, and gusty winds of 4050 kmph are likely at isolated places. Rain is expected to ease to moderate levels on September 14 and light to moderate rain on September 15
Maharashtra FDA conducts 12,083 inspections, seizes food worth 67.2 cr
The regulator issued 5,269 improvement notices, suspended 603 licences and arrested 875 people during enforcement action conducted between June and August
3 Killed As Speeding Tanker Rams Bike In Maharashtra's Beed
The accident occurred around 11.30 pm near Ukanda village in Patoda tehsil, about 20 km away from the district headquarters, an official said.
Kohli Bowls Shinde Over With Humility During London Meeting
Virat Kohli impressed Eknath Shinde with his humility during their London meeting, while the duo discussed Maharashtra's development, sports, youth talent and the cricketer's upcoming ODI milestones.
Why single out Pune?: Bombay high court questions 10-day liquor ban during Ganeshotsav
Pharma racket: Karnataka SIT raids 10 locations across 6 states
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 11 (IANS) The Karnataka Special Investigation Team (SIT), probing the fake pharmaceuticals racket that was recently unearthed in Dodderi on the outskirts of Bengaluru in Ramanagara district, conducted raids at 10 locations across India. The raids were conducted at multiple locations in Karnataka, Haryana, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh and Telangana on Friday. The operation was carried out jointly by the SIT and the Drugs Control Department as part of the ongoing investigation into the alleged counterfeit medicine network. Raids were conducted at multiple locations in Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Mumbai, Chennai and Telangana. Around 80 to 100 officials and staff members are involved in the searches, which targeted offices, properties and other premises linked to companies allegedly involved in manufacturing, repackaging and supplying counterfeit medicines. In Bengaluru, searches were conducted at the premises of pharmaceutical company at Minerva Circle near Lalbagh as part of the probe. Officials are examining medicines allegedly sourced from different locations and subsequently repackaged or supplied through the network. The investigation has reportedly revealed an international connection, with counterfeit labels allegedly being sourced from foreign locations. The raids were conducted in continuation of the investigation into the racket that came to light around two weeks ago. Investigators are examining the supply chain, sources of the medicines, manufacturing and repackaging facilities, as well as the distribution network. The case came to light in August 2026 after the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) and local police busted a major counterfeit medicine racket near Bidadi in Ramanagara district. Authorities seized counterfeit medicines estimated to be worth around Rs 5 crore and uncovered an alleged unlicenced repackaging facility operating from a farmhouse in Kurubara Karenahalli, near the Bidadi toll gate. According to the investigation, low-cost, substandard or expired medicines were allegedly sourced from different states. The medicines were reportedly transferred into new vials and repackaged using counterfeit labels bearing the names of expensive and prominent multinational pharmaceutical brands before being sold at substantially higher prices. The racket assumed greater significance after authorities found that some of the counterfeit medicines were allegedly intended for use in hospital Intensive Care Units (ICUs). The drugs were reportedly supplied to private hospitals and pharmacies at prices nearly 50 per cent lower than the market rates. Karnataka Health Minister, U.T. Khader, had described the case as a major drug mafia operation and ordered steps to investigate the suspected inter-state network. The formation of the SIT was aimed at identifying the wider network and tracing those involved in sourcing, repackaging, labelling and distribution of the medicines. The latest raids across six states are expected to help investigators establish the extent of the alleged network and identify other individuals and companies involved in the supply of counterfeit pharmaceuticals. Officials are also examining the alleged international links and the source of the counterfeit labels as part of the continuing investigation.
HC refuses to stop Jarange's Maratha quota march to Mumbai
The Bombay High Court has declined to issue a prohibitory order against Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange's proposed protest march to Mumbai, stating that the Maharashtra government is fully capable of managing any potential law and order situation. The court emphasised the right to protest in a democratic country and directed the government to ensure Jarange receives medical assistance if needed.
Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistani national arrested near International Border
Security forces arrested a Pakistani national, aged around 60-65 years, near the fencing along the International Border in Kathua's Hiranagar sector. The man was taken into custody for questioning, with further details about his identity and border crossing awaited
Virat Kohli meets Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde in London
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WATCH | BRICS Summit 2026: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrives in Delhi
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrived in New Delhi to attend the 18th BRICS Summit, with India-Iran ties, trade, economic cooperation and Chabahar Port expected to feature in discussions during his visit
India's mining sector is projected to contribute half a trillion dollars over twenty years. This vital industry is expected to create three crore new jobs for the nation's economy. Mineral security is now intrinsically linked with energy security for global stability. Emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing depend heavily on mineral resources. Vidarbha is poised to become a significant engine for India's mining-led economic growth.
WATCH | PM Modi meets Putin ahead of BRICS Summit; India-Russia trade, nuclear t
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi ahead of the BRICS Summit, with trade, civil nuclear cooperation, industrial ties, critical minerals, and fertiliser cooperation likely to be discussed
Maharashtra engineering colleges have released ACAP merit lists for 2026. Check your rank, understand the reporting process, and ensure you complete document verification by the September 14 deadline to secure your B.Tech seat.
Sukhbir Singh Badal skips Behbal Kalan SIT questioning, cites medical grounds
Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal skipped his appearance before the Special Investigation Team probing the 2015 Behbal Kalan police firing case, citing medical reasons. His party said he needed a check-up for injuries sustained in a recent attack in Maharashtra's Nanded
Alliance Air Prayagraj-Delhi flight makes emergency landing
The aircraft, an ATR 72-600 twin-engine turboprop, was operating Alliance Air flight 9I 698 from Prayagraj to the national capital when the incident occurred
