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Fate of 57 Maharashtra local bodies subject to Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court has stated that elections in 57 Maharashtra local bodies, where reservation exceeds 50%, will be subject to its ruling on OBC quotas. The court warned that polls held contrary to its orders could be set aside, emphasizing the need for smooth grassroots democracy and compliance with the 50% ceiling for future elections.

The Economic Times 26 Nov 2025 12:10 am

Eknath Shinde says friction between BJP and Shiv Sena a media creation, denies complaining to Amit Shah

Breaking the silence over his meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said he is not the sort of person who goes to Delhi to complain against state BJP leaders. He said that any issues within the Mahayuti alliance will be sorted at the state level. Shinde's clarification came after reports that he was unhappy at being sidelined in the decision-making of the BJP-led Mahayuti government and had hence rushed to Delhi to express his grievances to Shah. The meeting between the two leaders lasted for 50 minutes. Shinde said the friction between the Shiv Sena and BJP was a media creation. He clarified that there are no issues between the two alliance partners who both follow the Hindutva ideology. He said that he had a meeting with CM Devendra Fadnavis, where they decided that neither of them would poach each other's party leaders and workers. I also conveyed to my party leaders in the state that they should not induct anyone from the BJP, and the same promise has been given by the BJP as well. We have decided not to do anything that will create trouble in the alliance. We are very much clear since the beginning that state-level issues will be sorted at the state level by sitting together, said Shinde. I am a very positive person who always keeps a positive approach. As an NDA alliance partner, I was invited in Bihar for the oath-taking ceremony of Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, so before going to Bihar, I went to Delhi to meet Union Minister Amit Shah to congratulate him on the NDA victory in Bihar, he said. Shinde also added that in the local body elections, most of the candidates from the Mahayuti are contesting against each other, but they decided that they will not use any low-level language in the campaign that will hurt the alliance and strain the relationship.

The New Indian Express 25 Nov 2025 10:13 pm

Caste must not be allowed to divide us, whatever the circumstance: CJI Kant

The CJI said elections to Maharashtra local bodies could go ahead, subject to the outcome of proceedings

The Hindu 25 Nov 2025 9:32 pm

One Dead, Several Hospitalised After Toxic Gas Leak In Maharashtra's Vasai

A chlorine cylinder leak at Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporations water tank killed one and injured six. Locals blame civic negligence and demand a transparent probe.

News18 25 Nov 2025 8:19 pm

Prabhat Kiran takes charge as Executive Director of Bank of Maharashtra

He is expected to play a pivotal role in driving the banks growth, modernisation and customer-service excellence

The Hindu Businessline 25 Nov 2025 5:53 pm

'How Can There Be Democracy By Excluding OBCs': CJI Surya Kant On Maharashtra Local Body Polls

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant urged unity, warning against dividing society on caste lines, reinforcing the Supreme Court's commitment to social harmony

News18 25 Nov 2025 5:30 pm

Banana Boom: Maharashtra farmers expand acreage as India eyes bigger global market

Farmers in the western Indian State are rapidly shifting acreage as it becomes a hub for the fruit

The Hindu Businessline 25 Nov 2025 5:27 pm

Comply with 50 pc limit on quota in Maharashtra local elections: SC tell SEC

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi was informed by the SEC that elections for 246 municipal councils and 42 nagar panchayats have already been notified for December 2

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 4:51 pm

Devendra Fadnavis' Pataal Lok Announcement In Mumbai Viral

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis injected virality using the name of a Prime Video thriller to an otherwise plain comment on infrastructure development plans for Mumbai.

NDTV 25 Nov 2025 4:25 pm

Centuries-old wounds healing, PM Modi says in Ayodhya

Congratulating all Ram devotees and those involved in the temples construction, Modi said Ayodhya had always been the land where ideals become conduct. He stressed that India must think beyond the present and plan for future generations

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 4:18 pm

Souls of those who sacrificed for Ram Temple must be at peace today: RSS chief

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said the souls of those who sacrificed their lives for the Ram Temple must be at peace as the saffron flag was hoisted atop the Ayodhya shrine, marking the formal completion of its construction

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 4:17 pm

More foreign ships choosing Indian shipyards for complex refits: Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said ships from friendly foreign nations are increasingly opting for Indian shipyards for complex refits, highlighting Indias growing reliability, technological strength and competitiveness in the Indo-Pacific maritime domain

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 4:15 pm

Devotees praise PM Modi,CM Yogi ahead of historic flag-hoisting at Ram Temple

Devotees in Ayodhya praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ahead of the special flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Temple on Tuesday, calling it a moment of pride, even as Opposition leaders criticised the governments handling of the event

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 4:14 pm

PM Modi hoists saffron flag at Ram Janmabhoomi, says -old wounds are healing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Ayodhya for the flag hoisting at Ram Janmabhoomi. PM Modi further said that the wounds and pain of centuries are healing as a 500-year-old resolve is finally being fulfilled with the formal completion of the Ram temple in Ayodhya

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 4:12 pm

Mumbai: Three held for mugging, stabbing motorcyclist at Goregaon

Three men have been arrested for a brutal attack on a motorcyclist. The victim was waiting at a signal when the accused approached him. They picked a fight, snatched his keys, and stabbed him. The trio then stole his motorcycle and fled. Police teams swiftly investigated, scanning CCTV footage and questioning witnesses. Two accused were apprehended near Goregaon railway station.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 4:08 pm

China denies allegation of harassment of Indian woman at Shanghai airport

China refuted allegations that an Indian woman from Arunachal Pradesh was harassed at Shanghai airport, saying immigration officials acted lawfully, even as India lodged a strong diplomatic protest

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 3:58 pm

Man acquitted in 26/11 terror case can take up job not needing police clearance: Govt to High Court

Faheem Ansari, acquitted in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, can pursue jobs without police clearance. The Maharashtra government informed the Bombay High Court of this. Ansari sought a certificate to drive an autorickshaw. The court will hear the matter in chamber.

The Economic Times 25 Nov 2025 3:57 pm

Mumbai: 2 pose as RTO staff to extort motorist, held

Two men impersonating RTO officials extorted Rs 5200 from a college student in Kandivali East by threatening to tow his vehicle. The incident occurred on November 18, and the accused were apprehended on November 23 after the victim filed a police complaint. Police are investigating their criminal history.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 3:57 pm

Woman injured in accident involving vehicle from Ajit Pawar`s convoy dies

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was travelling from Partur in Jalna district to Ausa in Latur district when a fire brigade vehicle forming part of his convoy struck the motorcycle carrying the family of four, the police said

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 3:57 pm

ADB approves $400 million loan to improve road connectivity in Maharashtra

The loan will be used to improve road connectivity in 34 districts, particularly in the climate-vulnerable and economically lagging Marathwada and Vidarbha regions

The Hindu Businessline 25 Nov 2025 3:54 pm

ADB approves USD 400 million loan to improve road connectivity in Maharashtra

The loan will be used to improve road connectivity in 34 districts, particularly in the climate-vulnerable and economically lagging Marathwada and Vidarbha regions

The Hindu Businessline 25 Nov 2025 3:54 pm

Mumbai: Parking woes, hawker menace plague ward housing state, civic headquarters

Despite housing state and civic headquarters, this ward grapples with severe traffic congestion exacerbated by VIP movement and illegal hawkers. Residents face parking shortages and concerns over new developments, while political continuity is challenged by ward reservations for upcoming elections.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 3:40 pm

Bombay high court stays proceedings in gambling case against senior citizens

The Bombay High Court has stayed proceedings in an FIR against senior citizens aged 75-82 booked for gambling. The court questioned the police's actions against the elderly individuals, noting the FIR lacked independent witnesses and evidence. Proceedings were halted due to the case's reliance solely on the police's account.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 3:37 pm

Rs 250 crore drug case: Actor Shraddha Kapoor, her brother Siddhant appear before Anti-Narcotics Cell

Shraddha and Siddhant Kapoor appeared before the Anti-Narcotics Cell in connection with a massive Rs 250 crore drug case. The investigation stems from disclosures by a deported drug supplier who allegedly organized parties attended by Bollywood personalities. This development follows the summoning of social media influencer Orry, highlighting a significant drug trafficking network.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 3:33 pm

Custodial violence and death a blot on system: SC

While hearing a suo motu case concerning lack of functional CCTVs in police stations, a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta referred to its order passed in the matter and said 11 deaths were reported in police custody in eight months in Rajasthan

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 3:30 pm

Maharashtra: Man on the run for 19 years in fraud case arrested in Latur

A 53-year-old man absconding for 19 years in a fraud case was arrested in Latur. Identified as Abhang Prabhu alias Prabhakar Suryawanshi, he allegedly posed as a village sarpanch and issued fake birth certificates. A police team traced him to the Bobli (Bk) area after a tip-off

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 3:18 pm

Ethiopia volcano ash reaches India: All you need to know

The cloud, carried by strong upper-level winds, passed over Gujarat, Rajasthan, northwest Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR, Haryana and Punjab, before gradually moving towards the Himalayas

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 2:44 pm

Woman injured in accident involving vehicle from Ajit Pawar's convoy dies

BEED: A woman who, along with her husband and two minor daughters, was injured after a vehicle in the convoy of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar rammed into their motorcycle in Beed district, died on Monday, police said. The accident occurred on Telgaon-Dharur Road in Dharur tehsil on November 22, they said. Deputy CM Pawar was travelling from Partur in Jalna district to Ausa in Latur district when a fire brigade vehicle in his convoy hit a motorcycle on which the couple and their two daughters were going , as per the police. Vishnu Sude (35), his wife Kusum (30) and their two daughters - aged 6 and 9 - sustained injuries, an official of Dharur police station said. They were immediately taken to Dharur Rural Hospital and later shifted to Sahyadri Hospital in Latur. Kusum's condition remained extremely critical and she succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment on Tuesday morning, the official said. Her husband and daughters are currently undergoing treatment. After the accident, the police had registered a case of rash driving against the fire brigade vehicle's driver, the official said.

The New Indian Express 25 Nov 2025 2:41 pm

'Seized my Mumbai house, dismantled me financially': Celina Jaitlys chilling allegations against husband Peter Haag

Actress Celina Jaitly has filed a case against her husband, Peter Haag, alleging continuous domestic violence and financial deprivation. Jaitly claims Haag hoodwinked her to take possession of their Mumbai house and is seeking Rs 10 lakh monthly maintenance and Rs 50 crore in compensation for suffering.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 2:41 pm

Bengal voters list may see over 10 lakh deletions following SIR, says EC

The ECIs estimate follows an evaluation of enumeration forms already collected by two-level officers (BOs/BLOs) and uploaded to the BLO App, an insider from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, said.

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 2:08 pm

'Continuous acts of abuse': Actor Celina Jaitly files domestic violence case against husband Peter Haag; seeks Rs 50 crore compensation

Former Miss India and Miss Universe runner-up Celina Jaitly Haag has initiated legal proceedings against her husband, Peter Haag, in a Mumbai court. The complaint details allegations of domestic violence, cruelty, and manipulation. The court has issued a notice to Haag, with the next hearing scheduled for December 12. Neither Jaitly nor Haag have publicly commented on the matter.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 1:21 pm

Tornado tears through Harris County, Texas; over 100 homes damaged

Constable Mark Herman confirmed the destruction in a Facebook post, noting that first responders are actively searching for residents who may be injured or trapped in the affected areas

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 12:53 pm

Evonith Steel to raise Rs 500 crore from PE firms ahead of public issue

Evonith Steel, a Maharashtra-based flat steel producer, is seeking to raise Rs 500 crore from private equity and family offices in South Asia over the next 9-10 months. The company, backed by Nithia Capital, is aiming for a valuation of 10-11 times its Ebitda ahead of a planned IPO.

The Economic Times 25 Nov 2025 12:49 pm

Ram temple flag ceremony: Babri Masjid litigants son invited among special guest

Representatives of tribal and forest-dwelling communities from Sonbhadra were invited as special guests for the Ram temple flag-hoisting ceremony. They received a warm welcome, with accommodation, hospitality and transport arranged by the Ram Mandir Trust and Ayodhya officials

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 12:34 pm

Five injured as fifth floor of building collapses in Delhi`s Jwala Nagar

Five people were injured after the fifth floor of a building collapsed in northeast Delhis Jwala Nagar on Tuesday morning, prompting a swift response from the Delhi Fire Services

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 12:16 pm

Trump holds `nuanced and commonsense opinion` on H-1B visas, says White House

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump has a nuanced and commonsense position on H-1B visas, asserting he supports skilled foreign workers only to kickstart complex manufacturing projects while prioritising American jobs in the long term

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 11:39 am

Ash cloud from Ethiopia volcano to clear India by 7.30 pm: IMD

Ash plumes from the recent eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia impacted flight operations in India on Monday; Forecast models indicated ash influence over Gujarat, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana on Tuesday

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 11:33 am

Politics, Puran Poli And Humility Of Dharmendra

In the heart of Maharashtra, where the golden crust of 'puran poli' carries the fragrance of home and tradition, memories of Dharmendra linger - rich and timeless, much like the delicacy he adored.

NDTV 25 Nov 2025 11:16 am

Maharashtra NEET PG counselling 2025 revised schedule released for rounds 1 and 2: Check new dates here

The Maharashtra CET Cell has released an updated counselling schedule for NEET PG 2025, paving the way for MD/MS aspirants. With over 5,700 candidates selected for state quota placements, crucial dates for the seat matrix, choice submission, and final reporting are fast approaching in November and December.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 11:07 am

Delhi AQI update: Thick layer of toxic smog blankets NCR; AQI at 363

Delhis air quality remained in the very poor to severe range on Tuesday, with the city recording an average AQI of 363. Thick smog reduced visibility across key areas even as GRAP-III remains in force. Several localities touched severe pollution levels, triggering protests at India Gate

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 10:58 am

Dharmendra's final journey: Swift & simple funeral at Juhu crematorium; fans, celebrities reach after ceremony ends

Veteran actor Dharmendra's final rites were performed at Pawan Hans crematorium, with family members Esha Deol and Hema Malini present. Many Bollywood stars, including Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan, paid their respects. Sunny Deol performed the Mukhagni ceremony. The family opted for a simple farewell, reportedly to avoid media frenzy following a recent false death rumour.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 10:32 am

BMC polls: MVA needs MNS to challenge Mahayuti majority, data shows

Congress's solo stance for BMC polls hinges on MNS exclusion, yet data suggests MVA needs MNS to challenge Mahayuti. Assembly election analysis reveals MNS's potential to sway 25-30 wards, impacting tight races and minority vote consolidation. This crucial BMC election, post-splits, could hinge on thin margins and strategic alliances.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 10:28 am

After 10,000 years of dormancy, Ethiopias volcanic ash cloud eruption impacts India skies; 28 flights rerouted

Ash from Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi volcano, dormant for 10,000 years, drifted into international air routes west of India. This forced many aircraft flying over the Arabian Sea to reroute, with at least one flight diverted. The ash plume is expected to impact flight operations in parts of northwest India, including Delhi-NCR.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 10:16 am

Mumbai: BMC makes counting mistake, teachers to return salary

BMC education department found major errors in teacher pay fixation. Teachers appointed on January 1, 2004, received excess pay due to miscalculation. This error occurred in private aided schools. The BMC now demands pay-fixation proposals be resubmitted for correction. Recoveries will be made in installments to ease the financial burden on teachers.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 10:15 am

New CJI Surya Kant disallows oral mentions, takes up 17 cases on day one

As proceedings commenced around noon, the CJI pronounced a judgement on a plea filed by Himachal Pradesh against a private firm.

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 9:14 am

Medical visas to India will resume soon, says Afghan minister

Azizi said there is potential and strong will from both sides when it comes to private investment. He also said that during his visit, several issues like visas both for commerce and medical purposes, air and land corridors for trade transit, and the Chabahar port were discussed

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 9:11 am

Cyril Ramaphosa calls IBSA a driving force for global change

Ramaphosa was meeting Brazilian President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he made the remarks

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 9:09 am

Airlines on alert as Ethiopian volcano ash drifts toward India

Akasa Air also stated that they are closely monitoring the volcanic activity in Ethiopia and its potential impact on flight operations in nearby regions

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 9:06 am

Donald Trump announces April trip to Beijing and state visit for Xi Jinping

Beijing, which announced the phone call first, said nothing about the state visits but noted that the two leaders discussed trade, Taiwan and Ukraine

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 9:02 am

Dubai Airshow honours late Wing Commander Namansh Syal

The last rites were performed in accordance with all traditional practices, including the gun salute, procession, and wreath-laying ceremony

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 8:59 am

Gunmen attack a Yemeni official`s motorcade, killing 5 security officers

It has been under Houthi blockade since 2016 as part of their war against the internationally recognised Yemeni government

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 8:51 am

PM Modi to hoist 191-ft Dharma Dhwaj at Ayodhyas Ram Janmabhoomi

The `Dharma Dhwaj` carries three sacred symbols, Om, the Sun and the Kovidara tree, each representing profound spiritual values rooted in the Sanatan tradition

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 8:47 am

Russia strikes Ukraines capital even as US pushes for peace talks

Video footage posted to Telegram showed a large fire spread through multiple floors of the nine-story building in Dniprovskyi. At least four people were injured, the head of Kyiv city administration, Tymor Tkachenko, said

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 8:44 am

Mumbai shocker: Drunk Audi driver arrested for kidnapping, seeking sexual favours from man in Bandra

A 31-year-old man, Chirag Hargunani, was arrested in Bandra for allegedly kidnapping another man and demanding sexual favors. Hargunani, driving an Audi, lured the victim into his car under the guise of asking for directions. The victim managed to escape after the accused assaulted him and stopped the vehicle.

The Times of India 25 Nov 2025 8:09 am

Mumbai: Maharashtra Minister Pankaja Mundes PA held in wifes suicide case

Family alleges foul play; demands CBI investigation and chief ministers intervention; Anant Garje was produced before court later in the day and remanded to police custody till November 27, officers confirmed

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 7:20 am

Halt ops, give us 3-mth window: Maoists to govt

RAIPUR: The Maharashtra-Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh (MMC) Special Zonal Committee of the banned CPI (Maoist) has sought time until February 15, 2026, to arrive at a collective decision on surrendering arms and accepting the governments rehabilitation package. The MMC committee operates in the dense tri-junction forest region of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh a strategically vital corridor used by Maoist cadres to move between different areas of the Dandakaranya Special Zone. In a signed press release issued in the name of Anant, spokesperson of the MMC Special Zonal Committee, the outfit addressed Chief Ministers of the three states Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra), Vishnu Deo Sai (Chhattisgarh) and Mohan Yadav (Madhya Pradesh) requesting a halt to anti-Maoist operations. Most wanted Maoist leader Madvi Hidma killed 12 days ahead of Amit Shah's deadline The letter released to the media claimed that the proposal has the approval of Politburo member Sonu Dada and Central Committee members Satish and Chandranna, all of whom have reportedly renounced armed struggle and surrendered. Acknowledging the lack of secure and rapid communication channels within the underground network, the statement said: Since we do not have a fast mechanism to contact one another, the requested period till February 15, 2026, is required. This is well within the March 31, 2026, deadline set by the government. 'Lay down arms...': Surrendered Maoist leader Bhupathi appeals to active members in police-released video Reacting to the development, Bastar Range Inspector General of Police P Sundarraj said, The remaining Maoist cadres and their depleted leadership now have no option except to shun violence and join the social mainstream. Such a press note has emerged when the organisation has crumbled... They are now leaderless, directionless and demoralised. As per directives of governments and desire of the native population, troops are committed to bring an end to the left-wing extremism as early as possible. Request to convey message on radio Maoist leader Anant requested that his message be run on radio to ensure it reaches cadres soon. Allow us to meet representatives and journalists, so that we can declare a date on laying down arms, he said.

The New Indian Express 25 Nov 2025 7:18 am

What if everything was all good?

A new virus starts a pandemic that turns humans into a kind, gentle, caring and sharing species. Would you finally be happy? Dont read the last para till youve read the rest

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 7:14 am

Decent workplace premises is a basic human right

This unofficial rest area doubles as their waiting point between trips, as it has for years together

Mid Day 25 Nov 2025 7:12 am

Comeback shot! Kerala lines up first-ever basketball franchise league

KOCHI: For decades, basketball ruled Keralas playgrounds, especially in schools and colleges. The state produced stars who dazzled on national and international courts, and galleries once filled up for neighbourhood games as if they were festival matches. Now, in an ambitious bid to relive that golden era and bring back the lost frenzy, the Kerala Basketball Association (KBA) is set to roll out the states first-ever exclusive basketball league in April 2026. The developmental competition titled Basketball League Kerala to debut in Kochi is KBAs biggest push yet to revive a sport whose grassroots sheen has dimmed even as Keralas women continue to shine on the national stage. Back then, basketball courts were always packed, just like football or volleyball. We have lost that completely, recalled veteran player George Zachariah, captain of Keralas 1983 senior nationals squad. College teams used to dominate. Now, its the school teams that are doing well. This league is a great chance to revive the sport. In its first season, the league will feature only Kerala-based players and is structured as a full-fledged talent pipeline. It is being organised in association with Kochi-based Starting Five Sports Management which has struck a 20-year partnership with KBA and Pune-based ABCFF League, the team behind Maharashtras successful basketball league. Scouting begins this December, when registered players in four categories U-14 boys and girls, and U-18 boys and girls will compete in a unique One Minute to Hoop Skill (OMH) challenge. Shortlisted players will go through match-play trials in late January, after which 100 players will enter a digital auction powered by virtual points. Six franchise teams will build their squads from this pool. Leagues like this make children serious about the sport from a very young age, said Anirudh Pole, CEO of ABCFF and a coach who helped build Maharashtras league in just four years. BLK Season 1, scheduled from April 2 to 12 at the Regional Sports Centre, Kochi, will pack in 72 matches the biggest competitive stage Keralas U-14 and U-18 talent has ever had. The tournament will be streamed on FanCode. It will also open the doors for 48 Kerala coaches, alongside referees and support staff, to be part of the league ecosystem. Looking at Keralas basketball arc, KBA life president and former state captain P J Sunny pointed to the financial strain that has stunted the sports growth. Expenses have been really high. It has affected the number of high-level tournaments. We need money both to support players and to run advanced facilities. Were trying to revive all that now, he said at the launch event in Kochi. KBA officials added that a senior league too is planned for next season.

The New Indian Express 25 Nov 2025 7:06 am

Chessboxer who blends brains and brawn on her way to glory

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: At just 20 years old, Arundhathy Raju Nair is already a force to reckon with in the rare and demanding sport that is chessboxing. A final-year BTech student at LBS Engineering College in Thiruvananthapuram, Arundhathy has managed to balance the pressures of academics with the intensity of training, and in the process, etched her name in Asia Book of Records for being the only female athlete to win the Asian Chessboxing Championship for three consecutive years: 2023, 2024 and 2025. Her journey began in Class V when she discovered chess. Representing her school at state-level competitions, Arundhathy quickly developed a reputation for her sharp mind and calm composure. However, her life took an unexpected turn when her coach, Sandhanu Vijayan, introduced her to chessboxing, a hybrid sport that demands both mental agility and physical aggression. I started with a loss after just two months of practice, she recalls. Later, I picked up momentum, winning gold or silver regularly in Asian and national championships. Unlike any other sport, the main challenge in chessboxing lies not only in mastering chess and boxing, two games at opposite ends of the spectrum, but also in switching seamlessly between them. First, a chess match is played in the boxing ring. If no decision is reached within three minutes, the players spar. The game keeps alternating until there is a winner. Unlike other combat sports such as kick boxing, chessboxing combines pure chess and pure boxing, with rules of both the disciplines enforced strictly. Usually, chess players do not take up boxing. They prefer concentrating on the board. Boxers, on the other hand, show aggression but may not think of ways to win a board game. Chessboxing shows you are both mentally and physically fit, Arundhathy explains. Arundhathy in action against Russias Oksana Komissarova during the Asian Chessboxing Championship in 2023 The toughest part, she admits, is regaining focus after a bout. You may not be in a position to think through the strategies you planned earlier. Her breakthrough moment came in 2023, during her first year of engineering, when she scored back-to-back victories against Maharashtras Madhavi Gonbare, a prominent Indian chessboxer. Those wins, first at the Asian Championship (her maiden Asian title) and then at the Indian Open World Championship, catapulted her to fame. I was just one of the players till then, she says. She has gone on to win gold at the Asian Championship in Kolkata, competing in the under-55 kg category, and has built a professional boxing record of two wins and one loss. Behind her success lies a strong support system. Arundhathy grew up in Oruvathikotta, Thiruvananthapuram, studied at GGHS Cottonhill, and comes from a family deeply rooted in academics and professional excellence. Her father, Raju N R, is a senior IT professional at Allianz Technology, while her mother, Suma M S, serves as the principal of Sholayur HSS in Palakkad. Her younger sister, Aparna N Nair, also tried her hand at boxing before Arundhathy. Her familys encouragement and example provided Arundhathy with a strong foundation of discipline, resilience and ambition, shaping her journey both inside the ring and on the chessboard. Training for her is a disciplined affair. She practises boxing at the Brothers Boxing Academy and hones her chess skills at Masters Academy. Before competitions, she follows a strict 45-day regimen that combines diet and training. I am underweight, so there isnt much weight restriction, she says with a smile, acknowledging the unique advantage she carries into her bouts. Chessboxing may still be a niche sport in India, but it is gaining recognition abroad. It was even showcased at the Paris Olympics cultural event. Arundhathy hopes to be part of the wave that brings the sport into the mainstream in India. Her next big goal is the World Championship in France, where she plans to represent the country on the global stage. Arundhathys story is not just about medals and records. It is about breaking stereotypes, proving that a chess player can throw punches, and a boxer can think several moves ahead. Her journey embodies resilience, discipline, and the courage to step into uncharted territory.

The New Indian Express 25 Nov 2025 7:01 am

Ash cloud from Ethiopia's volcano expected to reach North India by 10 pm

An ash cloud from Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi volcano is heading towards India. It is expected to reach Gujarat this evening. The cloud will then move across Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab. This volcanic ash may darken the sky and affect air travel. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

The Economic Times 25 Nov 2025 6:04 am

Girl, 5, Raped In Maharashtra, Villagers Stop Family From Alerting Cops

Some residents of a village in Maharashtra's Beed district allegedly stopped the kin of a child who was sexually assaulted by a 15-year-old boy from reporting the matter to the police or seeking medical treatment for her, officials said on Monday.

NDTV 24 Nov 2025 11:38 pm

Iron pipe falls on GB hway, labourer killed

The Times of India 24 Nov 2025 11:21 pm

14-Year-Old Student Dies By Suicide At Maharashtra Residential School

A 14-year-old boy allegedly committed suicide at a residential school for tribal students in Maharashtra's Palghar district on Monday, police said.

NDTV 24 Nov 2025 10:25 pm

Air pollution crisis: Offices in Delhi to enforce 50 per cent work-from-home

Essential servicesincluding hospitals, private health facilities, fire services, public transport, water supply and sanitationhave been exempted. Private establishments have also been asked to introduce staggered working hours wherever feasible and minimise office-related vehicular movement

Mid Day 24 Nov 2025 10:24 pm

Maoists offer to surrender by February 15 in letter to three CMs

Special zonal committee of the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist) asks Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh to pause security operations as it considers the governments rehabilitation programme

The Hindu 24 Nov 2025 10:12 pm

Guru Tegh Bahadur Jis Sacrifice: A Historical Foundation for the Global Human Rights Struggle Against Religious Intolerance

Kishan Bhawnani, Maharashtra Guru Tegh Bahadur Singhs message of martyrdom was not restricted to any single land or community. Over the centuries, his sacrifice has evolved into one of the strongest moral foundations of the global human rights movement. The international observance of the 350th martyrdom year of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in 2025, therefore, [] The post Guru Tegh Bahadur Jis Sacrifice: A Historical Foundation for the Global Human Rights Struggle Against Religious Intolerance appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 24 Nov 2025 10:07 pm

NSE invites high-impact climate innovation ideas for Mumbai Climate Week 2026

MCW is an initiative of Project Mumbai in partnership with the government of Maharashtra and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation

The Hindu Businessline 24 Nov 2025 9:50 pm

Train shooting: Ex-RPF cop says mental health deteriorating

The Times of India 24 Nov 2025 9:10 pm

We only want our son to get justice: Father of student who died by suicide

Meanwhile, Delhi Police on Monday summoned three more teachers for questioning in connection with the suicide case. Police questioned two other teachers on Sunday, while some students have also been examined as part of the investigation

Mid Day 24 Nov 2025 8:54 pm

Explainer: New Labour Codes promise better worker protection, cleaner compliance

The new, uniform definition of wages caps allowances at 50 per cent of total compensation. This means basic pay will rise, increasing provident fund (PF) and gratuity contributions. Take-home salary may fall slightly, but retirement benefits grow significantly

Mid Day 24 Nov 2025 8:47 pm

Two jackals herded back after escape from Delhi zoo; `no threat to visitors`

An extensive search operation by zoo staff is still underway to trace the remaining one or two jackals that may be roaming the forested belt behind the enclosures, zoo Director Sanjeet Singh said

Mid Day 24 Nov 2025 8:31 pm

Maharashtra police to re-investigate major accidental fires, cylinder and chemical blasts of last 3 years

Police will investigate whether anti-national or terrorist elements were involved in these incidents, which were passed off as accidents

The Hindu 24 Nov 2025 7:59 pm

Keeping leopards out of the Kumbh: Maharashtras unusual battle plan

Forest conservators offer a far simpler explanation for these feline visits: humans have pushed too far into leopard territory.

The Hindu Businessline 24 Nov 2025 7:32 pm