Cow urine sprinkled in Maharashtra temple after MLA Abdul Sattars visit
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: A group of Hindutva youth, along with temple management, on Monday, February 16, sprinkled cow urine inside the Nageshwar Mahadev temple after Shiv Sena MLA Abdul Sattar visited the temple to perform puja during Maha Shivratri in Maharashtras Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. After he visited the temple in the Rahimabad village, right-wing youth allegedly Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Mumbai: The family of Ramdhani Yadav, who died after a portion of a parapet collapsed at a Metro construction site in Mulund on Saturday, has refused to claim his body, demanding higher compensation and a government job for his daughter. Relatives of the deceased have sought Rs. 2 crore as compensation and employment assurance for one of his daughters, stating that the announced relief is inadequate for the familys survival. Rajendra Singh Yadav, the victims elder brother, told Hindustan Times that Ramdhani was the sole breadwinner. With him gone, the family has no means to survive, he said. Mumbai Metro Line 4 Mishap: MMRDA Halts Construction Work After Parapet Collapse; Safety Inspection Underway https://t.co/VzFcHJdAk4 To get epaper daily on your whatsapp click here: https://t.co/Y9UVm2LHAx Free Press Journal (@fpjindia) February 16, 2026 Another relative, Shashikant Yadav, said the family had been asked to take custody of the body but declined, insisting that proper compensation must be ensured first. He added that the deceased is survived by his wife and two daughters, both of whom were financially dependent on him. He termed the Rs. 20 lakh compensation announced by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) as grossly inadequate. He said the family would not claim the body until they receive a written assurance of a government job for one daughter, along with 2 crore in compensation. Meanwhile, authorities have announced a compensation package for the victims family. This includes Rs.5 lakh as ex gratia assistance from the Maharashtra government, Rs.15 lakh from the MMRDA, and an additional insurance payout estimated between Rs.15 lakh and Rs.20 lakh, subject to policy assessment and statutory provisions. Mumbai News: MMRDA Announces Comprehensive Financial Assistance For Metro 4 Victims In the case of the injured, the entire cost of medical treatment, including hospitalisation, procedures, medicines, rehabilitation, and follow-up care, will be borne by the MMRDA. Additional compensation will also be provided to the injured as per applicable policies and contractual provisions of the Metro project. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Excitement is building among lottery players as the Nagaland State Dear Dwarka Monday Morning Lottery results are set to be declared today, February 16, 2026, at 1 PM. The first prize winner will take home a grand prize of 1 crore, making it one of the most anticipated draws of the week. The official result list will be uploaded shortly after the announcement on the Nagaland State Lottery Departments official website. At The Free Press Journal (FPJ), were closely following the live updates to bring you the latest winning numbers. If youve purchased a ticket for the Dear Dwarka Monday Lottery, you can check the complete winner list here once its released. Official websites to check the lucky draw The users can also check the results on the official website of the Nagaland State Lottery on www.nagalandlotteries.com , www.lotterysambad.com and www.nagalandlotterysambad.com and follow the steps. Playing lottery is legal in only 13 states in India In India, lottery draws are legal and actively run in 13 states, offering millions of people a chance to try their luck every day. These include Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, Nagaland and Mizoram. Each of these states operates its own official lottery under strict government regulation. Among them, the Nagaland State Lottery and West Bengal State Lottery are especially popular due to their high prize amounts, with the first prize often reaching 1 crore. These lotteries are known for their transparency and accessibility - even those with limited means can participate, as tickets for lotteries such as the Sikkim, Nagaland and West Bengal State Lotteries are priced as low as 6, while offering life-changing rewards. The prizes of the Nagaland State Lottery are as follows: 1st Prize: Rs 1 Crore 2nd Prize: Rs 9,000 3rd Prize: Rs 450 4th Prize: Rs 250 5th Prize: Rs 120 Cons Prize: Rs 1,000 Nagaland State Lottery Result: February 15, 2026, 8 PM Live - Watch Streaming Of Winners List Of Dear Magic Sambad Night Sunday Weekly Draw Disclaimer: FPJ does not support or encourage playing the lottery. It's important to be careful because playing lotteries too much can be addictive and this involves financial risk. The information provided here is just to share updates and should not be seen as advice or encouragement to play.
Nashik: The newly elected mayor of Nashik, Himgauri Aher-Adke, has assured that maximum funds will be secured from both Delhi and Mumbai by effectively following up at the state and central levels, leveraging the opportunity of the upcoming Simhastha festival. She stated that these funds would be utilised for sustainable, long-lasting development projects that will leave a lasting impact on the citizens of Nashik. She was speaking as the chief guest at a felicitation ceremony and interaction session jointly organised by Nashik Industries and Manufacturers Association (NIMA), Ambad Industries and Manufacturers Association (AIMA), NICE, Laghu Udyog Bharati, Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, and NIVEK at the NIMA auditorium. Prominent dignitaries present on the dais included NIMA President Ashish Nahar, AIMA President Rajendra Pansare, NICE President Ramesh Vaishya, Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce North Maharashtra Vice President Sanjay Sonawane, NIVEK President Mangesh Patankar, Laghu Udyog Bharati President Nikhil Tapadiya, Satish Kothari of Udyog Aghadi, NIMA Secretary Rajendra Ahire, and Transport Association representative Rajendra Phad, among others. Pune Airports New Security Hold Area Likely To Be Operational By May End Mayor Aher-Adke emphasised that she would prioritise securing approvals for two key roads in the Nashik MIDC area. She also announced that a separate annual allocation would be made in the municipal budget specifically for MIDC roads. Calling the industrial sector the backbone of Nashiks economy, she reaffirmed the municipal corporations commitment to providing all necessary infrastructure and facilities to support its growth. She further stated that efforts would be made to ensure the holistic development of Nashik, culturally, industrially, and socially. A Centre of Excellence Committee will be established to guide future development initiatives. Plans are also underway to bring a Skill University to Nashik, keeping future generations in mind. Special emphasis will be laid on IT sector development to make Nashik self-reliant in employment generation. Deputy Mayor Vilas Shinde, in his response, appealed to industrialists to adopt city squares and open spaces to beautify and maintain them as green zones. In his introductory speech, NIMA President Ashish Nahar raised several key demands, including increasing NashikOzar airport city link services, expediting road works in industrial estates, offering incentives for new investments, implementing the underground drainage project at the earliest, reducing traffic congestion, and improving infrastructure in industrial zones. Representatives from various industrial associations also presented suggestions such as the immediate implementation of the underground drainage scheme, repairing and upgrading roads in industrial areas, restoring non-functional streetlights, increasing the number of public toilets, utilising the Kumbh Mela as a development opportunity, prioritising the use of the high school ground for parking to ease traffic congestion, reducing pollution levels in Nashik, and constructing truck terminals at closed octroi naka locations. A large number of industrialists and citizens attended the programme, including Nishikant Ahire, K.R. Bedmutha, Kishor Rathi, Kiran Patil, Sandeep Bhadane, Akhil Rathi, Harshad Brahmankar, Sanjay Mahajan, Nitin Awhad, Kailas Patil, Ramhari Sambherao, Rajesh Gadakh, Balasaheb Jadhav and many others.
Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Monday criticised the BJP for escalating the Tipu Sultan controversy in Maharashtra. He said the portrait displayed in the Malegaon Deputy Mayors office has been removed, and the issue should end now. Speaking on the comparison controversy, Raut slammed the BJP and questioned why such issues dominate debate while farmers suicides, unemployment, labour distress and womens safety remain unaddressed in Maharashtra and the country. Delhi: On the controversy over Malegaons Deputy Mayor displaying Tipu Sultans portrait in her office, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut says, His picture was displayed on the wall of the Malegaon Deputy Mayors office, which has now been removed. This issue should end here. The pic.twitter.com/QIQsMmFR3P IANS (@ians_india) February 16, 2026 He also accused the BJP and said that when there is no issue of public or national interest, the saffron party raises any matter to create Hindu-Muslim tensions. While speaking to IANS , Raut added, If the truth about Tipu Sultan is to be known, listen to the speech given by President Ram Nath Kovind in the Karnataka Assembly, whom you yourselves appointed. BJP corporators in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation had also proposed naming a road after Tipu Sultan... #WATCH | Delhi | On Maharashtra Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal's remarks on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Tipu Sultan, Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Sanjay Raut says, ...Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj cannot be compared to anyone. But isn't there any other issue in the country pic.twitter.com/uRSD6T0V5y ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2026 Amid Tipu Sultan Controversy, BJP To Move Proposal To Rename Chowk In Mira Road Named After Mysuru Ruler In MBMC 1st Meeting: Report Speaking on Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal Shivaji Maharaj and Tipu Sultan comparison, the MP said, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj cannot be compared to anyone. But isn't there any other issue in the country and in Maharashtra? Farmers are committing suicide. Poor labourers, unemployed youth, and women's security are all issues. But no one will talk about it, Raut said while speaking to ANI . Pune Police Register Case Against Harshwardhan Sapkal For Alleged Objectionable Remarks On Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj After BJP Files Complaint All You Need To Know About Tipu Sultan Row The controversy erupted after a portrait of the 18th century Mysuru ruler was seen in the office of Malegaon Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed, which was opposed by Shiv Sena corporators and the BJP. However, the issue then escalated across the state when the Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal compared Tipu Sultan with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Harshvardhan Sapkal said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was known for his bravery and vision of Swarajya, and claimed that Tipu Sultan later followed a similar path by fighting against the British. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Pune: The partnership structure for the proposed Purandar International Airport has been finalised, as announced by officials on Sunday. According to the plan, the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) will hold the largest stake at 51%. The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) and the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) will each hold 15%, while the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) retains a 19% share. Land acquisition for the airport in Purandar tehsil of Pune District requires a fund of approximately Rs 6,000 crore. This amount will be raised through loans, a proposal that has recently received approval from the State Cabinet. The decision to form a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) or a joint venture was originally announced seven years ago, with the MADC appointed as the nodal agency. As per the directive, the CIDCO holds a 51% stake, while the MADC has been allotted a 19% stake and has approved a provision of Rs 760 crore based on its share. Cross Complaint Filed Against BJP, Congress City President And 5060 Workers Over Stone Pelting In Pune MIDC and the PMRDA each hold a 15% stake. With the finalisation of these shareholdings, the responsibility for loan repayment has also been clearly apportioned among the participating agencies. While the primary responsibility for land acquisition lies with the Pune District Collector, MIDC has been appointed as the nodal agency to implement the acquisition process. The leadership structure of the SPV has been announced as well. The Chairman of this SPV will be the Managing Director of CIDCO. The Vice Chairman will be the managing director of MADC. The board of directors will include the chief secretaries of states finance and industry departments, along with the CEOs of MIDC and PMRDA, the Pune District Collector and the executive director and chief financial officer of MADC.
Raj Thackeray Lashes Out At Pune Units Following Election Washout; Announces Weekly Oversight
Pune: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) Chief Raj Thackeray delivered a blistering critique to party workers and local leadership during a review meeting in Pune on Sunday. He expressed deep disappointment over the partys continued failure to secure seats in the districts local bodies. Following a string of electoral defeats, Thackeray announced a shift to a hands-on management style. He said that he will now conduct weekly review meetings for Pune District to personally oversee the partys revival. Valentines Day Shock In Pimpri-Chinchwad: 23-Year-Old Youth Found Dead By Suicide In Walhekarwadi During the high-stakes meeting, Thackeray reportedly scolded office bearers for the party's underwhelming performance in the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), as MNS got out on a duck. Despite the MNS fielding candidates across the district in recent cycles, the party remains at a zero-seat count in these crucial civic bodies. Sources present at the meeting described the MNS chief as visibly angry. Raj Thackeray allegedly questioned the ground-level work of activists who have failed to convert his personal popularity into electoral mandates. A Pattern of Decline The outburst comes at a sensitive time for the MNS, which has struggled to find its footing in the shifting sands of Maharashtra politics. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the MNS chose not to contest. The MNS Chief announced his binshart pathimba (unconditional support) for Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Pune Airports New Security Hold Area Likely To Be Operational By May End Following that, despite Thackeray himself entering the fray during the 2024 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Elections, the party failed to win a single seat statewide. Since the party's formation, the MNS has managed to win seats in the Pune district, an area where people are receptive to the partys sentiment. However, as the trend is evident across Maharashtra, the party has also seen a steady erosion of its local influence in Pune. The Road Ahead To get back in the game, Thackerays new weekly review mandate signals a move toward stricter accountability. Local leaders have been warned that non-performance will no longer be tolerated. Party insiders said that the MNS looks toward future local polls to salvage its political relevance in Maharashtra.
Mumbai: The Mumbai Police Crime Branch arrested six accused from Rajasthan in connection with the firing incident outside filmmaker Rohit Shettys residence, taking the total number of arrests in the case to eleven. The latest accused individuals are being brought to Mumbai for further investigation, police confirmed on Monday. Four shots were fired at the Bollywood filmmaker's house in Mumbai's Juhu on January 31. Earlier, on February 11, Mumbai Police invoked stringent provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against five accused already arrested in the case. All five were produced before a Special MCOCA Court, which remanded them to police custody till February 17 to enable a deeper probe into what cops describe as a larger organised crime conspiracy. During the court proceedings, the Crime Branch informed the court that the firing outside Shettys Juhu residence was not a random act but part of a planned attempt to spread fear in Mumbai. Police identified Shubham Lonkar as a key conspirator, alleging that he provided Rs 40,000 to the accused and remained in constant contact with them via the Signal messaging app. Police told the court that Lonkar instructed the accused that they had to 'do something big in Mumbai.' MCOCA Invoked Against Five Accused In Rohit Shetty Firing Case; Court Terms Attack 'Tip Of Iceberg' Police further said that Lonkars brother, Pravin Lonkar, currently lodged in jail in connection with the Baba Siddique case, is also suspected to have played a role in the conspiracy. According to cops, Pravin allegedly hid three firearms. Shubham Lonkar reportedly shared the locations of these weapons with accused Asaram Fasale and directed him to retrieve them and hand them over to Swapnil Sakat, one of the arrested accused. So far, police have recovered one firearm from Fasale, while two weapons are still missing. Investigators suspect that one of the unrecovered firearms may have been used in the firing incident outside Shettys residence. Mumbai Court Terms Attack 'Tip Of Iceberg' While granting police custody, the Special MCOCA Court observed that although the case may appear minor at first glance, it could be 'only the tip of the iceberg,' indicating the possible involvement of a wider criminal network. The court stressed the need for a detailed and thorough investigation. According to officials, Lonkar has multiple criminal cases registered against him, prompting the application of MCOCA. Police said the Rs 40,000 allegedly provided by Lonkar was used to bring a scooter and weapon from Pune to Mumbai, Rs 30,000 for purchasing the scooter and Rs 10,000 for transportation expenses. Based on a complaint alleging an attempt to kill the filmmaker, Juhu Police registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Maharashtra Police Act and the Arms Act. A forensic team recovered five empty cartridges from the spot, while CCTV footage showed the shooter fleeing on a scooter, which was later traced and seized in Vile Parle (West). To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Mumbai Housing Society Queries: 'Returning Officer Cannot Be From Outgoing Committee,' Says Expert
Our societys managing committee has decided that the property tax will be paid individually by all flat owners. We need to submit the Index 2 document for the same, however, none of the members have it as the society is 25 years old. How do we procure respective Index 2 documents? Shyam Gharpure, Thane To obtain a copy of Index 2, the sale agreement has to be registered. Index 2 is an official summary extract of a registered property document issued by the sub-registrars office. It contains key details, including names of buyer and seller, property description, registration number and date, type of document (sale deed, sale agreement, etc). Index 2 confirms that your property document was registered in government records. When a sale deed or registered sale agreement is executed, the registrars system automatically creates Index 2 to reflect the transaction in the official register. If its an older registration, Index 2 is already a part of historic records and can be retrieved later. You can procure Index 2 digitally via the IGR Maharashtra e-search/eregistration system through the official website https://igrmaharashtra.gov.in /Home. You have to enter the details like your district, subregistrars office under whose jurisdiction your society falls, registration year, document number, etc, to download your Index 2. You can also make a physical application to the sub-registrars office to obtain a copy of the same. The municipal authority will issue property tax bills in the name of individual members having conveyance in their names. Our society has only 16 members and we are planning to call a general body meeting to elect a new committee as the term of the previous one is coming to end. Is it compulsory to call the registrar to conduct elections or can we manage it if all members are agreeing? Sachin Edakalthoor, Chembur Your society falls under type E which covers societies having less than or up to 250 members. Hence, your society has to follow the provisions set out in Rule 76 of the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies (Election to Committee) Rules, 2014. It provides that a returning officer shall be appointed by the committee either from the panel approved by the state chief election authority available with the divisional joint registrar or from among the society members, who are not desirous of contesting the election. The appointment must be made before 60 days from the expiry of the tenure of the existing committee and the same must be communicated to the registrar. Returning officer cannot be the auditor, employee or any member of the outgoing committee. The returning officer should undergo a mandatory election training given by the housing federation or any other training institute notified by the state government. The questions are answered by Sharmila Ranade, a legal expert associated with Mumbai Grahak Panchayat. The questions, in brief, may be sent to mpanchayat@gmail.com To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Mumbai: Wing Commander (Retd) Rakesh Sharma and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will share a public stage for the first time during the inaugural edition of Mumbai Climate Week, scheduled to be held on February 17 at the Jio World Convention Centre. According to an official statement, the three-day climate-focused event is being organised by Project Mumbai with support from the Maharashtra government, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The platform aims to bring together astronauts, policymakers, business leaders, innovators and citizens to discuss actionable climate solutions. Special Session For Indian Astronauts A key highlight of the event will be a special session titled 'Saarey Jahaan Se Accha', a phrase immortalised by Rakesh Sharma during his space mission in 1984, where Sharma and Shukla will make a joint appearance. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will felicitate the two during this session, marking a symbolic moment linking space exploration with Earths environmental responsibility. Speaking ahead of his Mumbai visit, Rakesh Sharma stressed the urgency of climate action. Climate events caused by unsustainable lifestyles demand urgent attention and collective responsibility. Space travel makes one realise how fragile Earth truly is and why protecting it cannot be delayed, he said, as quoted by News18 . About Mumbai Climate Week Mumbai Climate Week will host a wide range of discussions focusing on cities, energy transition, food systems and climate finance, with particular emphasis on solutions relevant to India and the Global South. Organisers said the event has been consciously designed to extend beyond closed-door expert panels and actively involve the public. A dedicated public speakers platform titled VaartaVaran will allow citizens to share stories, poems and ideas related to climate change. Students and young innovators will showcase projects under the Youth Green Innovation Challenge, while startups and organisations will exhibit practical, scalable climate solutions in a dedicated exhibition arena. The idea is to make climate action a peoples movement rather than a closed-door discussion among experts, said Shishir Joshi, CEO and founder of Project Mumbai. Hillary Clinton Likely To Attend Event The event is also expected to see participation from global and national leaders, including Hillary Clinton, Soumya Swaminathan, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and several Union ministers, positioning Mumbai Climate Week as a major platform for climate dialogue and action. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
IMC Launches MahaBharat International Trade Expo 2026 at MMRDA Grounds, BKC
IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IMC) on Saturday launched the MahaBharat International Trade Expo 2026 at the MMRDA Grounds, BKC, Mumbai , a major global trade convergence, marking the commencement of a 10-day international trade showcase. The Expo organised as a platform for cross-border collaboration is aimed at strengthening business linkages, promoting MSMEs and enhancing global trade engagement. Addressing the gathering as the esteemed Guest of Honour, Milind Deora, Honble Member of Parliament, underscored that IMCs initiatives such as the MahaBharat International Trade Expo will not only benefit large industries but also provide significant support to medium, small, and micro enterprises. He reiterated that the true strength of Indias economy lies in the inclusive participation of MSMEs and highlighted the importance of involving State Governments and small industries in trade negotiations and agreements to ensure that the benefits of trade reach rural areas and grassroots enterprises. Deora further emphasized the critical need to support MSMEs in order to maintain economic resilience. He reaffirmed his continued support to IMC for initiatives that strengthen MSME enterprises and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Indian economy. He further credited Indias economic strength, particularly its small and micro enterprises, for standing firm to support the Indian economy despite economic challenges related to tariffs pressures by other countries. R. K. Mishra, Additional Director General of Foreign Trade, Mumbai, delivered the Special Address and emphasized the importance of expanding Indias export ecosystem while empowering MSMEs to access international markets. Smt. Susieben Shah, Politician, Entrepreneur and Social Activist, appreciated IMCs sustained initiatives in supporting inclusive economic growth and entrepreneurial development through various initiatives, in her address at the inaugural session. Ms. Sunita Ramnathkar, President of IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated that through the MahaBharat International Trade Expo 2026, IMC continues to reinforce its position at the forefront of promoting trade and commerce in Mumbai. The active support extended by esteemed organizations such as National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), National Jute Board, and Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) among others, noting that their collaboration has significantly strengthened the Expos outreach and impact. The MahaBharat International Trade Expo 2026 has brought together participation from 20 Indian States and 5 Countries, presenting a diverse showcase of regional products, sectoral innovations, industrial capabilities, handicrafts, textiles, agro-based products and emerging enterprise offerings. The first day witnessed encouraging footfall from trade visitors, entrepreneurs, buyers and members of the public, reflecting strong interest in business networking and retail engagement opportunities. Open to visitors from 14th to 23rd February 2026 between 12:00 noon and 9:00 p.m. at MMRDA grounds, BKC, Mumbai. The Expo offers ten days of vibrant shopping, business interaction and direct support to MSMEs from across India and abroad. The event provides consumers an opportunity to explore authentic state pavilions and international exhibits while contributing to the growth of small and medium enterprises. Alongside the exhibition, a series of knowledge-focused seminars and industry interactions are being conducted, facilitating dialogue on trade policy, exports, innovation and sector-specific growth prospects. The Expo reflects IMCs ongoing commitment to nurturing a robust business ecosystem and supporting sustainable commercial development in Mumbai and beyond.
After 3 years, BMC revives Rs 220cr Mahim-Bandra East flyover plan
Bandra locals seek strict rules for promenades
Cab driver held outside Mumbai airport for duping passengers, app cab platform
In a surprising turn of events, Anas Ali, a cab driver, found himself behind bars thanks to the vigilant Sahar Police. His crafty brain conjured up a scam that duped both passengers and the Rapido app. With the clever use of two mobile devices, he orchestrated fake bookings, sneaking away with fares without ever giving a proper ride.
A Metro-4 viaduct collapse in Mulund tragically killed Ramdhan Yadav and severely injured two relatives, turning a family wedding into a funeral. The grieving family demands justice and adequate compensation, questioning the authority's accountability. Authorities have ordered a safety audit and arrested five individuals linked to the project.
Missing Indian student found dead in US, says Consulate
A 22-year-old Indian postgraduate student, Saketh Sreenivasaiah, who had gone missing earlier this week in the United States, has been found dead. Sreenivasaiah, a Master of Science student at the University of California, Berkeley, had been missing since Monday
UK, France, Germany, Sweden and Netherlands accuse Russia of poisoning Navalny
Five European countries the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands have accused Russia of poisoning and killing opposition leader Alexey Navalny with epibatidine, a rare toxin derived from South American poison dart frogs
Jamies Brick Jams creates functional electric motor with LEGO and basic parts
Jamie from the Jamies Brick Jams has successfully built a fully functional electric motor using mostly standard LEGO bricks along with simple electronic components. Using magnets, copper wire, a transistor, and a 9-volt battery, the project demonstrates the basic principles of electromagnetism without relying on advanced motor modules
Odisha: Toddler sold for Rs 1 lakh by father rescued by Police
Odisha Police have rescued a two-and-a-half-year-old boy who was allegedly sold by his father for Rs 1 lakh in Barisahi village under the Nilgiri Notified Area Council. The child was recovered from the Chiminibhati area and handed over to the Child Welfare Committee
PM Modi to inaugurate India AI Impact Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam today
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the India AI Impact Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam on Monday at 5 pm. Held from February 16-20 alongside the India AI Impact Summit, the event will showcase over 300 exhibitions and live demonstrations across themes of people, planet and progress
Asaduddin Owaisi: Govt attempting to snatch citizenship through SIR
Asaduddin Owaisi has alleged that the BJP-led Centre is attempting to snatch citizenship rights through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Hyderabad MP claimed that after Bihar, the exercise could be extended to Telangana and Maharashtra, and urged citizens to ensure genuine names are included
MHT CET 2026: Registration deadline extended for 5-year LLB course; check new dates
Maharashtra CET Cell has extended the MH CET Law 2026 registration for the 5-year LLB program to March 15. The entrance exam is scheduled for May 8, 2026. Applicants need an APAAR ID for registration and must pay a fee based on their category. Eligibility requires passing Class 12 with specific aggregate marks.
It is only through more taxpayer-funded trips abroad that our ministers can bring genuine change to India
Gujarat, Maharashtra, UP lead rooftop solar figures
25-year-old relative held for kidnapping, sexually assaulting toddler in Mumbai's Dahisar
A 25-year-old relative has been arrested within 24 hours for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a one-and-a-half-year-old girl in Dahisar. Rescued near a nullah, the child, who suffered serious injuries and underwent surgery, is recovering. Police have added stringent charges under BNS and POCSO Act. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is monitoring the case.
32 incidents of vehicle fires in Mumbai in 14 months, traffic affected
Mumbai witnessed 32 vehicle fires between January 2025 and mid-February 2026, with two recent incidents on the Western Express Highway causing traffic disruptions. Fire safety experts attribute these fires to electrical faults, often caused by rodents damaging wiring, and also mention issues with electric vehicle batteries as a significant concern.
Centre approves road projects worth over 11,000 crore in Maharashtra, Gujarat and Telangana
Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, these projects seek to improve freight movement, reduce travel time and enhance connectivity
Pune resident Subham Lonkar, a key associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, is reportedly in Portugal, while Zeeshan Akhtar, involved in Baba Siddique's murder, is allegedly under protection in Pakistan. The gang's operations have evolved, with overseas handlers guiding shooters and recruiting local youths through social media.
Most professors of practice hired in Tamil Nadu followed by Maharashtra, Gujarat: UGC Data
According to the data, 1,841 PoPs have been hired by 349 HEIs so far, the maximum of them being in Tamil Nadu (395); while 193 PoPs have been hired in Maharashtra (193), Gujarat and Karnataka have appointed 179 and 170 professionals, respectively
Maharashtra ATS conducts searches in two districts
Raids were conducted in Umarkhed and Pusad in Yavatmal over the suspicion that certain individuals were in contact with terrorist organisations, radic... Maharashtra ATS conducts searches in two districts
Windfall Doubles for Once Drought-Hit Rayalaseema as Funds Follow Water
Bananas from Anantapur and Kadapa have a huge demand in Dubai and north Indian states. Similarly, sweet oranges from the Rayalaseema region dominate the Nagpur market in Maharashtra.
A Ghatkopar businessman, Dhrumil Patel, has died from injuries sustained in a road accident. He was hit by a car allegedly driven by a 17-year-old boy. Patel's wife was also injured and is recovering. Police are investigating the incident. The minor driver and his father were arrested. Charges will be added to the FIR following Patel's death.
Mumbai: In a swift operation, the Kanjurmarg police have arrested 26-year-old Rohit Kachru Kharat for the brutal murder of a youth on February 14. The suspect, who had fled to rural Maharashtra after the crime, was tracked down and apprehended in the Badnapur area of Jalna district within 36 hours of the incident. Verbal spat escalated into fatal stabbing According to the FIR, the victim, Harsh Tushar Thakur, 23, a resident of Nahur East, was spending time with his friends Omkar Kadam and Nitin Magre near V.K. Krishna Menon College in Bhandup East in the early hours of Saturday. Between 1:15 AM and 1:45 AM, a minor verbal spat escalated into violence when the accused, Rohit Kharat, allegedly pulled out a sharp knife and stabbed Harsh repeatedly. Witnesses stated that Kharat threatened to kill anyone who tried to intervene before speeding away on his motorcycle. Harsh was rushed to Fortis Hospital, Mulund but was declared dead during treatment. Bhandup Murder Accused Akhtar Qureshi Still At Large 21 Days After Stabbing Victim 29 Times Phone was switched off to evade police Following a complaint by the victim's father, the Kanjurmarg police have registered a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The investigation faced an immediate hurdle as the accused switched off his mobile phone and moved between multiple hideouts to evade the police. Despite the suspect's attempts to stay off the grid, technical surveillance and local intelligence led investigators to Badnapur, Jalna. A specialized police team was dispatched immediately, successfully intercepting and arresting Kharat before he could move to another location. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Maharashtra ATS Conducts Raids In Ahilyanagar, Yavatmal Over Suspected Extremist Activity
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) conducted coordinated search operations in Ahilyanagar and Yavatmal districts early on Sunday morning, acting on specific intelligence inputs regarding suspected extremist activity and potential radicalisation networks, officials said. According to officials, ATS teams carried out searches at 12 locations in Ahilyanagar district.During the operation, around Rs 74 lakh in cash and sharp-edged weapons, including swords and knives, were seized. A case was registered at Bhingar Camp Police Station against two suspects for possession of sharp weapons. Several documents, mobile phones, electronic devices, and CCTV equipment were also taken into custody for forensic and technical scrutiny. In Yavatmal district, around 14 suspects from the Pusad and Umarkhed areas were brought in for sustained questioning.Sources said the probe is focused on their online activities, with investigators examining communication links, digital devices and documents. Officials added the material is being analysed for possible extremist propaganda or radical content, anti-establishment messaging, unlawful activities, financial trails, and links with individuals already under surveillance for suspicious online messaging or organisational contact. Officials emphasised that the operation followed specific intelligence suggesting that youths aged 18 to 27 in parts of the state had been influenced by extremist elements. They were reportedly drawn towards radical organisations through online propaganda, closed messaging groups, and local facilitators, and were allegedly engaged in suspicious activities. Sources said that a few months ago, during an investigation into online anti-national propaganda, security agencies had identified the alleged movement of a self-radicalised group of youths in Ahilyanagar and Yavatmal and began tracking their activities. The intelligence was shared with the ATS, its sister agency, which then intensified surveillance and monitoring of the group. Investigation reveal that the identified individuals were initially associated with an religious welfare organisation,believing its ideology partially aligned with their thinking. Though partially radicalised, the youths were well-educated, with some employed in respectable jobs. When the organisation allegedly failed to meet their objectives, they gradually distanced themselves and gravitated towards a self-radicalised wing. Within this online social network, the youths began interacting with each other and attracting individuals with similar mindsets. Discussions that initially focused on lectures by Islamic scholars reportedly shifted to alleged radical content, alleged anti-establishment sentiments, opposition to the central government, communal unrest, and alleged atrocities against Muslim over the past few months. Investigators said these conversations allegedly escalated to planning serious crimes, including potential lone-wolf attacks, highlighting the risk of larger unlawful activities. Mumbai Shocker: 35-Year-Old Man Molests 14-Year-Old Girl On Karjat-Bound Local Train; Arrested Also Watch: Howerver authorities described the operation as a preventive, intelligence-driven intervention, adding that no arrests had been made so far and the further action would depend on the outcome of questioning and the forensic and technical examination of seized material. Agency emphasised that the group had been monitored carefully due to its potential to radicalise other youths in the region. The aim is to intervene before any violent act occurs, said a senior official familiar with the probe, speaking on condition of anonymity. Through online propaganda and local facilitators, vulnerable youth were being targeted. This operation aims to prevent escalation. Investigators are continuing to analyse communication logs, social media interactions, and other digital footprints to map the network fully. The ATS is coordinating with other state and central agencies to identify facilitators, financial backers, and possible links to broader extremist outfits, officials said. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
India-UK free trade agreement likely to be implemented from April
The India-UK free trade agreement was signed between the two countries in July last year and has to be now approved by the UK Parliament for it to come into effect
Om Birla to represent India at swearing-in ceremony of new Bangladesh govt
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), under the leadership of its chairman, Tarique Rahman, registered a landslide victory in the Bangladesh parliamentary elections
Indias farmers betrayed in name of US trade deal: Rahul
Demanding that farmers must be protected from the impact, Rahul Gandhi asked that once this door opens, how do we prevent it from widening every year?
Maharashtra plans EduHub to put public univs on global map
Tipu Sultan row: FIR against Maharashtra Congress chief; stone throwing in Pune
The BJP protested in Pune as well as Mumbai by putting black ink on photographs of Congress leader Harshvardhan Sapkal and burning his effigies
21 locations in Maharashtra raided in probe into extremism
Raids were conducted in Umarkhed and Pusad in Yavatmal over the suspicion that certain individuals were in contact with terrorist organisations, radicalising youths
Maharashtra ATS Raids 21 Locations, Detains Over a Dozen in Terror Probe
Officials said the action was based on specific intelligence inputs regarding the alleged radicalisation of youths
Maharashtras Bid To Host 2028 Skill Competition Gets Positive Signal From Centre
The IndiaSkills competitions are being organised nationwide as preparation for the WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai later this year.
Sunetra Pawar to meet NCP MLAs in Mumbai on Tuesday, merger a likely agenda
Mira Bhayandar: As the Tipu Sultan controversy intensifies, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to bring a proposal to rename a chowk in Mira Road named after the 18th-century Mysuru ruler in the upcoming first general meeting of the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC). According to a report by Loksatta.com , the first meeting is expected to be held on February 18. The Tipu Sultan Chowk is located on the road leading to Naya Nagar in Mira Road and was built just a few years ago by the municipal corporation. During the Assembly election, MLA Naresh Mehta had also said he would change the name of Tipu Sultan Chowk if he came to power. Meanwhile, in the recently concluded MBMC elections, the BJP won 78 seats out of 95, with Shiv Sena winning 3 and Congress winning 13, while one seat was secured by an independent candidate. BJP's Dimple Mehta Elected Mayor Of Mira-Bhayandar Civic Body Amid Protests What is the Tipu Sultan controversy all about? The Tipu Sultan row started after a portrait of the Mysuru ruler was seen in the office of Malegaon Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed, which was opposed by Shiv Sena corporators and Hindu outfits. However, the issue then escalated across the state when the Congress President compared Tipu Sultan with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Harshvardhan Sapkal said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was known for his bravery and vision of Swarajya, and claimed that Tipu Sultan later followed a similar path by fighting against the British. Pune: TipuChhatrapati Shivaji Comment Triggers BJPCongress Clash, Stone Pelting Outside Congress Bhavan | PHOTOS Tipu Sultan became a warrior who showed bravery; he became a son of the soil and never embraced any poisonous, destructive ideas. As a sign of bravery, Tipu Sultan should be seen as equal to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Sapkal said, as quoted by Maharashtra Times. 'Should Be Ashamed': Devendra Fadnavis Slams Congress Harshvardhan Sapkal Over 'Tipu Sultan Equal To Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj' Remark Protests and clashes against Sapkal arose in Mumbai, Nashik, Nagpur, and Pune today, where BJP workers were seen protesting over the statement made by him. Earlier on Saturday, CM Devendra Fadnavis also strongly condemned Sapkal's remark and said he should be ashamed. Fadnavis said that Shivaji Maharaj established Swarajya and freed people from Mughal rule, while, on the other hand, Tipu Sultan killed thousands of Hindus. The CM said, He should be ashamed. We will not tolerate this comparison at all... To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
International Cyber Slavery Racket Busted: 520 Indians Rescued From Scam Centres In Cambodia
Mumbai: A sensational crackdown has exposed a large international racket that lured Indian youth abroad with promises of high salaries and a better future, only to push them into inhuman cyber slavery. 520 Indians rescued between 2023-2025 Between 2023 and 2025, at least 520 Indian nationals were safely rescued from illegal cyber scam centres operating in Cambodia. The massive rescue operation was carried out through coordinated efforts of the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Maharashtra Cyber. According to sources, sustained diplomatic pressure and international cooperation prompted Cambodian authorities to intensify action against cybercrime networks operating within their territory, leading to the busting of the racket. Passports snatched, victims confined Investigations revealed that victims were initially offered lucrative job opportunities in Thailand or other countries. However, upon arrival overseas, their passports were confiscated and they were confined to heavily guarded compounds. They were then forced to carry out online fraud operations, including honey-trap schemes, investment fraud, and cryptocurrency scams. The primary targets of these fraudulent operations were citizens of the United States and European countries. Senior officials from Maharashtra Cyber stated that several rescued victims recounted horrific torture. According to their testimonies, those who refused to work or failed to meet targets were subjected to electric shocks, sleep deprivation for days, and in some cases, even had their fingernails pulled out. Fake Indian Police Setups Used to Gain Trust: Investigators also discovered that some scam centres displayed fake signboards bearing the name of the Mumbai Police. Posters featuring Mahatma Gandhi and banners with the Ashoka Emblem were allegedly put up to create a false impression of legitimacy and trust among victims of fraud. Central Railway Earns 404.72 Crore From Scrap Disposal, Registers 2.81% Growth In Current Fiscal So far, action has been taken against nearly 200 cyber fraud hubs linked to the international racket, and 173 key accused persons have been arrested. KK Park demolitions in Myanmar KK Park Demolitions : KK Park, located along the Myanmar Thailand border, has long been considered a major hub for cyber fraud, where citizens from India and several other countries were allegedly held captive. In November 2025, Myanmars military reportedly demolished around 180 buildings in the area that were being used extensively for cybercrime operations. Investigations into the transnational cyber slavery racket are ongoing. Indian agencies are continuing to work closely with foreign governments to dismantle the remaining networks and bring those responsible to justice. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
BMC, MPCB Partner With The Ocean Cleanup For Plastic Control In Mumbai Waterways
Mumbai: Plastic-trapping barriers will be deployed at the Malad and Trombay waterways, which are expected to recover between 61 and 92 tonnes of plastic annually once fully operational. The first phase of deployment will be in monsoon 2026. The deployment is part of a collaboration between Netherlands-based non-profit The Ocean Cleanup, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). The initiative aims to prevent large volumes of plastic waste from entering the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, the PR department of the MPCB confirmed. This year, we are deploying Interceptors in Mumbai, India to stop an estimated 5 million kilograms of plastic waste from entering the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean every year. First deployment locations: Trombay and Malad waterways. pic.twitter.com/LNfNpZrkiy The Ocean Cleanup (@TheOceanCleanup) February 12, 2026 A research by The Ocean Cleanup indicates that nearly 80 per cent of marine litter along Indias coastline is made up of plastic. A survey conducted by the organisation estimates that Mumbai releases around 5 million kg of plastic waste into marine waters every year. This pollution impacts about 220 km of coastline, 152 sq km of mangroves, 107 protected species and nearly 1.9 million livelihoods dependent on coastal and marine ecosystems. Urban runoff, industrial discharge and inadequate waste management practices have been identified as the primary sources of plastic leakage. Mumbai will witness the deployment of barriers to stop the flow of plastic waste into the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. The first deployments will focus on the Trombay and Malad waterways, identified through a data-driven analysis as major contributors to ocean-bound plastic waste, the organisation said in a statement. With such a large proportion of plastic on Indias coasts, stopping waste before it reaches the ocean is crucial in safeguarding the ocean against plastic pollution, it said, adding that Mumbai has been identified as a priority intervention point under the organisations 30 Cities Programme. Mumbai Airport Taxi Scam: Cab Duo Arrested For Duping Wadala Couple Of 3,300 (1,000 Thai Baht) Also Watch: Research by The Ocean Cleanup shows that just 1,000 of the worlds nearly 3 million rivers account for about 80 per cent of plastic emissions into the ocean. Through the 30 Cities Programme, the organisation aims to cut one-third of global river-based plastic emissions by targeting the most polluting urban waterways worldwide, with Mumbai emerging as one of the key focus areas due to the scale of plastic leakage and its impact on local communities and ecosystems. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Nagaland State Lottery results for Dear Magic Sunday Night Lottery at 8 PM will be announced today, February 15, 2026. The top prize for the lottery is a whopping Rs 1 crore. We at FPJ are keeping track of the results. If you have bought a lottery ticket and want to know the winners, you can find the list here. You can view the results for the Dear Magic Sunday Weekly Lottery February 15, 2026, here: Official websites to check the lucky draw The users can also check the results on the official website of the Nagaland State Lottery on www.nagalandlotteries.com, www.lotterysambad.com and www.nagalandlotterysambad.com and follow the steps. Playing lottery is legal in only 13 states in India Lottery is legal in 13 states in the country. These states consist of Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, Nagaland and Mizoram. Among these states, the lotteries of West Bengal State Lottery and Nagaland State Lottery are highly reputed as the prize money in these state lotteries are high. The first prize in the Nagaland State Lottery and West Bengal State Lottery amounts to Rs 1 crore. The poor can also afford to buy the tickets of Sikkim State Lottery, Nagaland State Lottery and West Bengal State Lottery as the prize of the ticket is as low as Rs 6 and the winning prize is huge. The prizes of the Nagaland State Lottery are as follows: 1st Prize: Rs 1 Crore 2nd Prize: Rs 9,000 3rd Prize: Rs 450 4th Prize: Rs 250 5th Prize: Rs 120 Cons Prize: Rs 1,000 Nagaland State Lottery Result: February 15, 2026, 1 PM Live - Watch Streaming Of Winners List Of Dear Yamuna Sambad Morning Sunday Weekly Draw Disclaimer: FPJ does not support or encourage playing the lottery. It's important to be careful because playing lotteries too much can be addictive and this involves financial risk. The information provided here is just to share updates and should not be seen as advice or encouragement to play.
The Sikkim State Lottery results for the Dear Vixen Sunday Weekly Lottery at 6 PM will be announced today, February 15, 2026. The top prize for this lottery is a massive Rs 1 crore. We are keeping track of the results. If you have purchased a ticket and want to check if you are a winner, you can find the list here. Where to Check the Results? You can view the results for the Dear Vixen Sunday Weekly Lottery February 15, 2026, here: Participants can also check the official results on the Sikkim State Lottery websites: http://www.sikkimlotteries.com/# www.lotterysambad.com www.sikkimlotterysambad.com Lottery is Legal in 13 States in India Lotteries are legal in 13 states across the country. These states include Sikkim, Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram. Among these, West Bengal State Lottery, Sikkim State Lottery, and Nagaland State Lottery are highly reputed for their high prize amounts. The first prize in the Sikkim State Lottery, Nagaland State Lottery and West Bengal State Lottery is Rs 1 crore, while other weekly lotteries offer varying amounts. The ticket prices for these lotteries start as low as Rs 6, making them affordable for many. Sikkim State Lottery Prize Breakdown 1st Prize: Rs 1 crore 2nd Prize: Rs 9,000 3rd Prize: Rs 450 4th Prize: Rs 250 5th Prize: Rs 120 Cons Prize: Rs 1,000 Sikkim State Lottery Result: February 14, 2026, 6 PM Live - Watch Streaming Of Winners List Of Dear Elite Saturday Weekly Draw Disclaimer We do not encourage or promote lottery participation. Playing the lottery involves financial risks and can be addictive. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice to participate.
Pune: The political atmosphere in Maharashtra has heated up after Congress State President Harshwardhan Sapkal reportedly made a statement comparing Tipu Sultan to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. A protest erupted in Pune on Sunday, and Sapkal tweeted on X (formerly Twitter) reacting to this. He said it's a conspiracy by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to misrepresent facts. The political atmosphere in Maharashtra has heated up after Congress State President Harshwardhan Sapkal made a statement allegedly comparing Tipu Sultan to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Following Sapkals remarks, BJP workers have been protesting across the state. In line with this, BJP workers held a protest in Pune on Sunday in front of Congress Bhavan. A major clash broke out when BJP and Congress workers came face-to-face. , . Harshwardhan Sapkal (@INCHarshsapkal) February 15, 2026 BJP workers staged a protest and shouted slogans outside the Pune Congress Bhavan. Congress has alleged that stones and bottles were pelted during this protest, causing significant damage to several vehicles. It is also reported that a Congress worker was left bloodied after being hit by a stone. Following the incident, Harshwardhan Sapkal took to X (formerly Twitter) to launch a scathing attack on the BJP. He demanded, The BJP goons in Pune marched upon the Congress office; immediate cases must be registered against these BJP rioters, and they must be arrested. Valentines Day Shock In Pimpri-Chinchwad: 23-Year-Old Youth Found Dead By Suicide In Walhekarwadi I had stated that Devendra Fadnavis wants to incite riots in the state by distorting my statements and misrepresenting the facts -- and we saw proof of that in Pune today. BJP goons in Pune marched on the Pune Congress office and, in the presence of the police, pelted stones and launched a life-threatening attack on women Congress workers and female journalists, Sapkal said. We strongly condemn this hooliganism by the BJP. Pune Police must immediately register cases and arrest the BJP rioters along with Dheeraj Ghate and Mayor Manjusha Nagpure, who incited them, he added. Tensions increase in Pune BJP workers held a protest in Pune today to condemn Harshwardhan Sapkals statement. However, intense tension arose when BJP and Congress workers confronted each other. BJP workers gathered outside the Pune Congress Bhavan and shouted loud slogans. It is alleged that the protest took a violent turn. Pune: Jayant Patil Reveals 11 Rounds Of Merger Talks With Ajit Pawar's NCP, Says Initiative Came From Him Congress claimed that stones and bottles were thrown, resulting in shattered car windows and heavy damage to vehicles. Information has also surfaced that a Congress worker was severely injured and bleeding due to stone-pelting. The confrontation between the two groups led to chaos and tension in Pune for some time. Harshwardhan Sapkal had said on Saturday, After Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Tipu Sultan belongs to the same lineage of bravery. Tipu Sultan had declared war against the British. Tipu Sultan was a valiant warrior and the son of the soil of India. He never entertained poisonous or communal thoughts. As a symbol of bravery, we should view Tipu Sultan on par with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Nashik: A strong protest was staged by the Nashik City BJP Yuva Morcha under the leadership of MLA Devyani Pharande in front of the Congress Committee office against the statement comparing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan. The protesters strongly condemned the comparison of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan. They stated that remarks insulting Maharashtras revered icon and creating social discord would not be tolerated under any circumstances. A demand was made that Harshvardhan Sapkal should immediately issue an apology for the statement. The protesters warned that anger has spread across the state and that failure to apologise would result in strong public backlash. Pune Police Register Case Against Harshwardhan Sapkal For Alleged Objectionable Remarks On Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj After BJP Files Complaint They emphasised that safeguarding the honour of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and protecting Maharashtras pride is a collective responsibility. The protest conveyed a firm message that the people of Maharashtra will never tolerate politics that compromise Shivaji Maharajs legacy or attempt to create divisions in society. MLA Devyani Pharande stated that comparing Tipu Sultan to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, especially with Shiv Jayanti approaching, was unacceptable. Therefore, they gathered outside the City Congress Committee office to demand the resignation of Harshvardhan Sapkal and said the Congress should immediately seek his resignation.
SC gives monk 4 years to vacate part of Babulnath Temple in Mumbai
A bench of Justices Sanjay Karol and N Kotiswar Singh dismissed the appeal filed by Jagannath Giri, who challenged the High Courts order dated November 6 last year directing his eviction
Fit India Champion Pawan Mann: From the capital city to the peaceful landscapes of Dehradun and nearly all districts across the country, fitness enthusiasts participated in the 61st edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle (SOC) at close to 1000 locations. The FIT India Movement was launched on August 29, 2019, by the Honourable Prime Minister to make fitness a vital part of daily life. Its goal is to promote behavioural changes and encourage a more active lifestyle. Last year, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya introduced Fit India Sundays on Cycle to promote cycling as a fitness activity and to address key issues, including combating obesity and reducing pollution. Over the past year, the programme has reached the remotest areas of the country, transforming into a People's Movement led by the people, with the Fit India Mission of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports serving as a catalyst. This week was no exception, as thousands took to the streets to cycle across the nation. In Delhi, the popular Sunday event was relocated from the city center to Najafgarh, the hometown of legendary cricketer Virendra Sehwag, to broaden participation and attract more fitness enthusiasts. In Najafgarh, excitement was in the air as residents gathered early to experience a unique community fitness program. As 55-year-old Ratan Mittal registered for his cycle, he said, Initiatives like these motivate people of all age groups to step out together. This is not just a fitness movement, it is also a community bonding exercise. My son has come with me, I don't remember the last time we cycled together. This is a wonderful experience. Motivating people included Arjuna Award-winning kabaddi player Shakshi Punia, MMA fighter and Fit India Champion Pawan Mann, Fit India Champion Timsy Bector, and Fit India Ambassador Shivam Gahlot. Bector, who regularly visits SOCs, stated that relocating the event outside central Delhi is an excellent move to raise awareness about the importance of staying fit. Shakshi Punia added, We are delighted to be here. I didn't expect common citizens to show so much interest in a fitness event. Fitness is indeed the most important aspect of our lives and when we do that as a community we motivate each other and it becomes more enjoyable. Pawan Mann added, I think SOC is the largest community fitness movement in the world that happens every Sunday. I thank our Honourable Prime Minister for envisioning the Fit India Movement and our Union Sports Minister for thinking of SOC as a nationwide concept. Meanwhile, the nodal event of the 61st SOC occurred in Dehradun. Surrounded by the foggy hills and winter sunshine of Uttarakhand, the city hosted a lively celebration of fitness, culture, and community spirit as the 61st Fit India Sundays on Cycle took place at the historic Parade Ground on Sunday morning. Over 1000 cyclists set off against the misty hills, tall sal trees, and fresh mountain air; the Parade Ground in Doon Valley turned into a lively hub of movement, music, and enthusiasm, providing the city with a grand event that combined natural beauty with a strong message of healthy living. The event attracted a diverse group of participants, from experienced cyclists to beginners, including school students and senior citizens. As bikes moved through scenic, tree-lined routes, participants took moments to enjoy the picturesque scenery that enhances Dehraduns reputation as one of Indias most beautiful cities. I cycle often, but todays ride was special. The weather, the crowd, and the lively atmosphere made it feel like a festival celebrating fitness, shared Ankit Rawat, a local IT professional, shortly after finishing the rally. Senior dignitaries attended the event in Dehradun on Sunday, February 15, including Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari, the Honble former Governor of Maharashtra and Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, along with Khajan Das, the Hon'ble Vidayak. Also present were senior officials from the Sports Authority of India and the state administration, highlighting robust institutional backing for the movement. Indian boxings emerging heavyweight talent Nupur Sheoran, along with former India womens hockey goalkeeper and coach Yogita Bali, national triple jump champion Niharika Vashisht, and skilled fencer Rishika Khajuria, brought added sporting prominence to the morning by engaging with participants and emphasizing that fitness is a lifelong commitment. Also present was Indian mountaineer Tashi Malik, a Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award winner, who stressed the significance of endurance and discipline. Olympian race walker Manish Singh Rawat, a proud representative of Uttarakhand, participated in the celebrations alongside Arjuna Award-winning basketball legend Vishesh Bhriguvanshi, whose nearly two-decade-long career continues to inspire young athletes nationwide. The presence of Fit India influencers and community role models provided additional inspiration. The event highlighted various routes to health and resilience, featuring endurance enthusiasts like Tara and Sushila from Two Fit To Quit, as well as fitness advocates including Shanky Singh, Pratibha Thapliyal, Damini Chopra, and Vikram Jadav. Shri Koshiyari, aged 83, emphasized the importance of youth maintaining fitness. Regardless of whether you're a sportsman, you should embody a sportsman spirit. We must always uphold this attitude. It should be visible in all areas, he stated. Referring to the fitness mantra from Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he added, Our Hon'ble PM works 20 hours a day himself. It shows that if we have the determination and fitness, being fit is not impossible at all. We want every youth to remain fit. Let's use all of the seven days for cycling. Colleges and universities served as special partners for this edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle. A multiple-time gold medallist at the World Boxing Cup and a silver medallist at the World Championships medallist, Nupur Sheoran said, I wasn't expecting so many people to turn out this morning and it is really so amazing. I was having flashbacks of my childhood when I was cycling along with the group. It was a really exciting ride! Shri Koshiyari, aged 83, emphasized the importance of youth maintaining fitness. Regardless of whether you're a sportsman, you should embody a sportsman spirit. We must always uphold this attitude. It should be visible in all areas, he stated. Referring to the fitness mantra from Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he added, Our Hon'ble PM works 20 hours a day himself. It shows that if we have the determination and fitness, being fit is not impossible at all. We want every youth to remain fit. Let's use all of the seven days for cycling. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As the rally ended at the Parade Ground, the smiles, selfies, and shared stories showed the stronger impact of the initiative. The Dehradun edition once again demonstrated how Fit India Sundays on Cycle has grown beyond a simple weekly eventit has transformed into a peoples movement that promotes health, community spirit, and the enjoyment of movement. Article Source: IANS
Mumbai: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday met His Highness Dr. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saif Al-Nahyan, Chairman of Rotana Jet Aviation UAE, at his official residence in Mumbai to discuss potential investments in the states aviation sector. According to a post shared by the Chief Minister on X (Formally Twitter), the meeting focused on exploring opportunities to strengthen Maharashtras aviation infrastructure and attract global investment. The discussion also covered future-ready aviation solutions aimed at improving safety, reliability, capacity, and passenger comfort. It was a great pleasure to welcome His Highness Dr. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saif Al-Nahyan, Chairman of Rotana Jet Aviation UAE, at my official residence in Mumbai, today. We had a very productive discussion on investment opportunities in Maharashtra, future-ready aviation solutions pic.twitter.com/8jZqkQQRwe Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) February 15, 2026 Fadnavis highlighted Maharashtras ongoing infrastructure expansion and policy initiatives designed to make the state a preferred destination for international aviation players. He emphasised that the government is working towards building a modern, efficient, and globally connected aviation ecosystem. The Chief Minister noted that improved aviation connectivity would play a key role in boosting economic growth, enhancing tourism, and facilitating seamless global travel. He added that the state is committed to adopting forward-looking policies to support innovation and development in the aviation sector. Maharashtra, which houses some of the countrys busiest airports, including Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Pune, has been focusing on expanding air connectivity and strengthening regional infrastructure. Projects such as upgrades at existing airports are part of the states broader plan to handle rising passenger traffic and attract international carriers. Mulund Metro Collapse: CM Devendra Fadnavis Announces 5 Lakh Aid, Orders Inquiry As Opposition Slams 'Negligence' The discussions with global aviation stakeholders are part of the governments efforts to position Maharashtra as a major aviation hub in the region. The meeting with the Rotana Jet Chairman is being seen as another step in that direction, as the state looks to bring in investment, technology, and expertise from international partners. Fadnavis reiterated that Maharashtra remains committed to creating an aviation ecosystem that supports economic development while ensuring world-class standards in safety, comfort, and connectivity. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Car Carrying Doctor Couple Catches Fire In Maharashtras Beed, No Casualties
The car was badly damaged in the fire, which created panic in the area for a short time.
Police beef up security as devotees flock to Grishneshwar Temple in Maharashtra
A total of 450 personnel have been deployed in and around the temple premises. This includes 32 officers, 250 police personnel and 175 home guards, officials said
In a first, IITs to allow students to study across campuses from this academic year
For the first time, Indian Institutes of Technology will allow students to take courses and spend terms at other campuses. This move aims to break down the rigidity of the JEE-based system, enabling pan-IIT academic mobility. A structured mechanism for credit transfer is being developed, similar to international exchange programs, initially implemented in a controlled manner.
Bharat AI: A Vision For Sustainable Growth And Public Welfare
The recent SaaSpocalypsea market shift that saw nearly 2 lakh crore in Indian IT valuation impacted by new AI automation toolsis a significant moment for reflection. As India moves to the front lines of the global AI race through the IndiaAI Mission, we have a unique opportunity to define a model of Bharat AI that harmonizes rapid innovation with our foundational commitment to a welfare state. While tech visionaries like Elon Musk suggest that AI may eventually lead to a Universal High Income, where the need for traditional work disappears, this transition carries a different weight for a nation of 1.4 billion. For India, the path forward can be one that ensures the benefits of AI are not concentrated among a few but are shared across the social fabric. By treating Bharat AI as a public utilitymuch like our world-leading Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)we can ensure that technology serves as a pillar for national resilience rather than just an engine for private wealth. To be truly sustainable, Bharat AI must find its greatest application in the heart of the Indian economy: the rural agricultural sector. While predictive AI tools already exist in pockets of Indian agriculture, they often operate as isolated islands of innovation. For our 1.4 billion people, AI cannot remain a luxury for the few. The sustainable Bharat AI model must transition from fragmented private tools to a unified National Predictive Shield. By controlling the underlying data architecture, the state can ensure these tools are deployed as a form of Careproviding every small-holder farmer with a sovereign, multilingual advisor that protects their crops from pests and their families from debt. This is how we can use our AI initiative to empower every Indian to participate in our national progress. This balanced approach can also extend to our environmental goals. It is well documented that large-scale AI is resource-intensive; a single 100-megawatt data center can consume as much water daily as 6,500 households. In India, aligning our digital ambitions with our climate goals presents a leadership opportunity. By encouraging the use of renewable energy and advanced water-recycling technologies, we can protect our local ecosystems and the Air Quality Index (AQI). In this vision, Bharat AI becomes a catalyst for a cleaner environment, proving that high-tech growth and ecological health can go hand in hand. Is Gen Z Over-Relying On AI And Influencers For Skincare? Also Watch: Our Constitution envisions an economy where resources subserve the common good. Instead of the disruptive labor models seen elsewhere, Bharat AI can be designed as a National Co-pilot. Policy frameworks that encourage AI to augment our diverse workforce will support long-term stability. The IndiaAI Impact Summit is the perfect stage to showcase this vision. By prioritizing a welfare-first approach, India can lead a global shift toward AI that is not only powerful but also sustainable, equitable, and firmly anchored in the public interest. (Sanjay Pandey is a former Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, and DGP, Maharashtra, an IIT Kanpur engineer and Harvard Kennedy School alumnus.)
Owaisis big charge on Centre over SIR, says BJP using EC to snatch citizenship
Asaduddin Owaisi alleged the BJP-led government is trying to snatch citizenship rights through the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, claiming it will be conducted in Telangana and Maharashtra. He also condemned the alleged harassment of a Muslim bun vendor by YouTubers, demanding action against them.
Whats behind Maharashtras growing appetite for industry professors?
Indias universities are increasingly appointing industry veterans as Professors of Practice under UGC guidelines issued in 2022. While Tamil Nadu leads in such hires, Maharashtra ranks close behind, drawing on its strong industrial base. With 1,841 appointments nationwide, the scheme aims to blend academic learning with real-world expertise, though central universities remain slow to adopt it.
Maharashtra ATS Conducts Statewide Raids Across 21 Locations Over Suspected Terror Links
Mumbai: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Sunday conducted raids at 21 locations across the state after receiving inputs about attempts to radicalise and recruit youths through contact with terrorist organisations. Maharashtra | ATS conducts major operations across the state. Raids were conducted on 14 locations in Pusad and Umarkhed in Yavatmal, and 7 locations in Ahilyanagar (Ahmednagar). ATS launched a search operation after discovering activities to activate several youth by contacting ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2026 According to ANI , searches were carried out at 14 locations in Pusad and Umarkhed in Yavatmal district, and at seven locations in Ahilyanagar (formerly Ahmednagar). The operation began in the morning after suspicious activities were detected. Multiple ATS teams were deployed to conduct simultaneous searches and collect evidence. The action is part of an ongoing investigation to verify possible links between the targeted individuals and extremist groups. Further details are expected once the searches are completed. ATS & ED Conduct Raids Across Over Suspected Terror-funding In Decemeber The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on 12th of December carried out a coordinated search operation in Borivali village near Padgha in Thane district, with assistance from the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), officials said. The operation, which began in the early hours of Thursday, extended to multiple residential premises as ED officials probed suspected terror funding and related financial transactions. ATS personnel provided on-ground support to coordinate the ED searches. ED, ATS Conduct Raids Across Maharashtra & Delhi Over Suspected Terror-Funding The searches were conducted at nearly 40 locations across Maharashtra including Padgha, Pune, and Malegaon as well as in Delhi. The searches are linked to suspected financial transactions associated with terror-related activities. The ED had also registered an ECIR linked to the NIAs ISIS terror module case involving Saquib Nachan, as well as the Pune ISIS module case. While ATS is simultaneously investigating the same modules, it is assisting the ED by sharing intelligence, leads, and field updates, helping ensure that the ongoing search operations are thorough, coordinated, and synchronised. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Tamil Nadu Tops In Hiring Professors Of Practice, Followed By Maharashtra & Gujarat: UGC
New Delhi: Tamil Nadu is leading the way in hiring industry experts as professors of practice in its Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to impart real-world experiences in the classroom. The state is followed by Maharashtra and Gujarat, according to UGC data. The University Grants Commission (UGC) in 2022 released guidelines to hire professors of practice (PoP) at HEIs to inject professional acumen into classroom environments, in order to bridge the gap between academia and industry. The position is strictly temporary and does not displace sanctioned posts. Eligibility demands a minimum of 15 years of relevant experience - ideally in senior positions. According to the data, 1,841 PoPs have been hired by 349 HEIs so far, the maximum of them being in Tamil Nadu (395). US: 22-Year-Old IIT Madras Alumnus Saketh Sreenivasaiah Found Dead 6 Days After Going Missing In California While 193 PoPs have been hired in Maharashtra (193), Gujarat and Karnataka have appointed 179 and 170 professionals, respectively. Leading the way in hiring industry professionals in the academic workforce are private universities, while the central universities have hired only 15 PoPs so far. In contrast, deemed-to-be universities have made 699 appointments, private universities have reached 715, state universities added 212 PoPs, and colleges have employed 200 PoPs. India's higher education landscape includes 56 central, 460 state, 128 deemed-to-be, and 510 private universities, together with more than 45,000 colleges, signalling the limited diffusion of PoP appointments at central universities. Engineering Meets Devotion: NIT Warangal Hostel Students Unite for Weekly Hanuman Chalisa In order to bring in distinguished experts from various fields of engineering, science, technology, entrepreneurship, etc., and to develop courses and curriculum to meet the industry and societal needs and to enable the HEls to work with industry experts on joint research project, concept of professor of practice has been adopted, and thereby provide exposure and mentorship to students by domain experts, a senior UGC official said. The maximum duration of service of a professor of practice at a given institution should not exceed three years and is extendable by one year in exceptional cases, and the total service should not exceed four years under any circumstances, he added. The official explained that the PoP scheme provides an opportunity for those in leadership positions in different fields to come on an honorary basis so as to give back to society and contribute towards nation-building. (Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
US, UK universities open offshore campuses in Mumbai; programmes, fees, intake explained
International universities are launching offshore campuses in Mumbai, accepting applications for their inaugural batches. Offering sought-after courses like AI and computer science, these institutions aim to attract students with annual fees ranging from Rs 12-20 lakh. This move provides a practical alternative to overseas education amidst evolving immigration policies, with campuses set to open for the 2026 fall intake.
Maharashtra ATS raids 21 locations in Yavatmal, Ahilyanagar over extremist links
Maharashtra ATS launched a massive search operation across 21 locations in Yavatmal and Ahilyanagar districts based on intelligence about extremist activities. This follows previous actions, including an arrest in January related to a religious conversion racket and searches in October concerning a Pune ISIS module.
French President Emmanuel Macron to visit Mumbai, meet PM Modi on February 17
During the Mumbai visit, Prime Minister Modi and President Macron are scheduled to exchange memorandums of understanding (MOUs), followed by a joint press statement
The government is thoroughly studying flight operations by non-scheduled operators and uncontrolled airfields. This comes after a fatal LearJet 45 crash that killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has initiated a special safety audit of non-scheduled operators. The ministry is also looking at boosting airlines with smaller operations.
LoP Rahul Gandhi Seeks Answers On GM Imports In Proposed US Trade Pact
New Delhi: Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Sunday raised a series of pointed questions over the proposed India-US trade deal, alleging that it could harm Indian farmers and compromise the countrys agricultural self-reliance. In a post on X, Gandhi said that under the guise of a US trade deal, India may be witnessing a betrayal of its farmers. He sought answers from the Prime Minister on key aspects of the agreement, particularly relating to agricultural imports and genetically modified (GM) products. US trade deal : 1. DDG import ? GM distillers grain ? Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) February 15, 2026 Gandhi questioned the implications of importing Distillers Dried Grains (DDG), asking whether it would mean Indian cattle being fed GM American maize-based feed. He further asked if such a move would make Indias dairy sector indirectly dependent on the US agricultural industry. The Congress leader also expressed concern over the potential import of GM soybean oil. He warned that farmers in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and other soybean-producing states could face another price shock if cheaper imports flood the market. 'No Understanding Of Economics': Piyush Goyal Slams Rahul Gandhi Over Tariff Provisions In India-US Interim Trade Agreement Remarks Seeking clarity on references to additional products in the trade negotiations, Gandhi asked whether this signalled future pressure to open up pulses and other crops to US imports. He also demanded an explanation of what removing non-trade barriers would entail. According to him, there are fears that India could be pressured to dilute its stance on GM crops, weaken procurement systems, or reduce Minimum Support Price (MSP) and bonuses. Once this door is opened, how will we prevent it from opening wider every year? Gandhi asked, adding that farmers deserve transparent answers as the issue concerns not just the present but the long-term control of Indias agricultural sector. The government has not yet responded to the concerns raised in the post.
Maximum professors of practice hired in Tamil Nadu followed by Maharashtra, Gujarat: UGC Data
Tamil Nadu has emerged as the top state in appointing professors of practice in higher education institutions, followed by Maharashtra and Gujarat, according to University Grants Commission data. The initiative aims to bring industry experts into classrooms to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical experience.
Maharashtra ATS conducts raids in two districts over suspected terror activities
The ATS combed more than 20 locations in the two districts in the raids launched around midnight and has rounded up over a dozen suspects, they said.
The Nagaland State Lottery results for the Dear Yamuna Sunday Morning Lottery at 1 PM will be announced today, February 15, 2026. The top prize for the lottery is a whopping Rs 1 crore. We at FPJ are keeping track of the results. If you have bought a lottery ticket and want to know the winners, you can find the list here. You can view the results for the Dear Yamuna Sunday Weekly Lottery February 15, 2026, here: Official websites to check the lucky draw The users can also check the results on the official website of the Nagaland State Lottery on www.nagalandlotteries.com , www.lotterysambad.com and www.nagalandlotterysambad.com and follow the steps. Playing lottery is legal in only 13 states in India Lottery is legal in 13 states in the country. These states consist of Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, Nagaland and Mizoram. Among these states, the lotteries of West Bengal State Lottery and Nagaland State Lottery are highly reputed as the prize money in these state lotteries are high. The first prize in the Nagaland State Lottery and West Bengal State Lottery amounts to Rs 1 crore. The poor can also afford to buy the tickets of Sikkim State Lottery, Nagaland State Lottery and West Bengal State Lottery as the prize of the ticket is as low as Rs 6 and the winning prize is huge. The prizes of the Nagaland State Lottery are as follows: 1st Prize: Rs 1 Crore 2nd Prize: Rs 9,000 3rd Prize: Rs 450 4th Prize: Rs 250 5th Prize: Rs 120 Cons Prize: Rs 1,000 Nagaland State Lottery Result: February 14, 2026, 8 PM Live - Watch Streaming Of Winners List Of Dear Lucky Sambad Night Saturday Weekly Draw Disclaimer: FPJ does not support or encourage playing the lottery. It's important to be careful because playing lotteries too much can be addictive and this involves financial risk. The information provided here is just to share updates and should not be seen as advice or encouragement to play.
Rising Intervention, Not Rising Crime: Maharashtra Battles Child Marriage
Good news rarely arrives with a label that says good. One must peel back the surface of headlines to see what the numbers truly mean. The same careful reading is required when we confront disturbing statistics. When reports revealed that authorities in Maharashtra stopped 6,428 child marriages in seven years, many reacted with alarm. Commentators spoke of a spike. Some suggested the state was sliding backward while India aims to eliminate child marriage by 2030. The assumption was simple: more cases stopped must mean more child marriages occurring. But that conclusion mistakes visibility for growth. A rise in interventions does not automatically indicate a rise in crime. Child marriage has long existed in silence, shielded by social acceptance and underreporting. When cases surface and are prevented, it often signals that communities are speaking up and systems are responding. Earlier data underscores the depth of the challenge. Drawing from Census 2011, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, in 2017, identified 70 districts across 13 states with high child marriage prevalence. Sixteen of those districts were in Maharashtra. The burden was real. What changed was not the existence of the problem, but the response to it. At the national level, awareness campaigns such as Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat brought conversations about girls education, legal consequences, and early marriage into communities once beyond the reach of policy messaging. Over time, child marriage began to be viewed less as tradition and more as a violation. At the state level, enforcement strengthened. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 provided a firm legal foundation, and Maharashtra reinforced it through the Maharashtra Prohibition of Child Marriage Rules, 2022. These rules introduced accountability at the grassroots. Schools must report prolonged absences. Child Marriage Prohibition Officers monitor dropouts and coordinate with gram sabhas. District initiatives further shifted the landscape. Campaigns led by local police in Solapur demonstrated how law enforcement can prevent rather than merely react. By tracking vulnerable cases and directly engaging families, authorities disrupted marriages before they occurred and signalled that child marriage is not a private affair immune from scrutiny. For instance, 17 NGO partners of Just Rights for Children are working in 30 vulnerable districts of Maharashtra and have stopped 10,556 child marriages in the last one year. Just Rights for Children is the countrys largest network with over 250 partner NGOs working across the country for child protection. Working on the 3P model of Prevention, Protection and Prosecution, the NGOs work in tandem with administration and law enforcement agencies to end child marriage by 2030. In a recently conducted research, Tipping Point to Zero: Evidence towards a Child Marriage Free India, by Centre for Legal Action and Behavioural Change for Children (C-LAB), an initiative by India Child Protection, clearly shows that local authorities such as panchayats and gram sabhas, and NGOs have a huge role to play in this shift in Maharashtra. The report showed that 100% respondents were aware of the laws about child marriage and they credited NGOs (81%) and local authorities (73%) as the top sources of their information on child marriage laws. Higher reporting, then, is not evidence of decline. It signals accountability. Each prevented marriage represents a child protected. The more urgent question is not why numbers are rising, but how many cases still remain unseen. The writer is president, Mahatma Phule Samaj Seva Mandal, Karmala District, Solapur
Maharashtra Congress Chief Booked For Calling Tipu Sultan Symbol Of Bravery Like Shivaji
After Sapkals statement comparing Tipu Sultan with Shivaji, leaders of the BJP in Ahilyanagar announced a Rs 10 lakh reward for anyone who would cut off his tongue.
Pune: Pune City Police have registered a case against Harshwardhan Sapkal, the Maharashtra Congress State President, following a complaint by Dhiraj Ghate, Pune BJP City President, for allegedly making objectionable remarks about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and comparing him with Tipu Sultan. According to Dhiraj Ghate, BJP Pune City President, the case has been registered at Parvati Police Station against Harshwardhan Sapkal for comparing Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan. Ghate said, He hurt the sentiments of Hindus who believe in and consider Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as God. I don't understand by making such a statement, which hurts the sentiments, what point Harshwardhan Sapkal wants to prove. This is why we are here at Parvati Police, who made the complaint against him, and a case has been registered against Harshwardhan Sapkal. Maharashtra | Pune City Police have registered a case against Harshwardhan Sapkal, the Maharashtra Congress State President, following a complaint by Dhiraj Ghate, Pune BJP City President, for allegedly making remarks comparing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan. Case pic.twitter.com/BdG7KZW9Dm ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2026 Earlier on Saturday, speaking to reporters on the controversy surrounding a portrait of Tipu Sultan displayed in the office of Malegaon Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed, which was opposed by the Shiv Sena and other groups, Sapkal said in Marathi that the Mysore ruler had followed Shivaji Maharaj's ideals. The kind of bravery that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj possessed and the concept of 'Swarajya' (self-rule) that he introduced... much later, following in that very tradition and taking inspiration from his ideals, Tipu Sultan waged war against the British, Sapkal said. In that sense, Tipu Sultan was a great warrior who displayed immense bravery and was a true son of India. He never allowed any poisonous or communal ideas to sway him. As a symbol of bravery, we should view Tipu Sultan as equivalent to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he added. 'We Always Felt There Was A Gap Between Metal And Softer Music' Pune-Based Rock Band Nemophilis The case against Harshwardhan Sapkal is registered under sections 192, 196(1), 196(2), 352 and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The complaint alleges that Sapkal's remarks hurt the sentiments of Hindus and followers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and had the potential to disturb communal harmony. Police said further investigation into the matter is underway. (Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
Delhi weather update: City`s AQI dips to poor at 221, CPCB data shows
The air quality in Delhi deteriorated to the poor category on Sunday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 221 around 7 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This marks a marginal decline from Saturdays AQI of 197
Pune: 44th Fruit, Flower And Vegetable Exhibition Begins At Chhatrapati Sambhajiraje Udyan
Pune: The 44th Fruit, Flower and Vegetable Exhibition and Garden and Tree Conservation Competition, organised by the Parks Department and Tree Authority of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), began on Saturday at Chhatrapati Sambhajiraje Udyan on Junglee Maharaj Road, Shivajinagar. The two-day exhibition is being conducted under the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act, 1975, and will remain open to the public on February 14 and 15, 2026, until 9 pm. Entry is free for all citizens. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Parshuram Wadekar, Leader of the House Ganesh Bidkar, Group Leader Sopan (Kaka) Chavan, Corporator Neha Malvade and Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram. Senior civic officials including Additional Municipal Commissioners Prithviraj B.P. and Omprakash Divate, Joint Municipal Commissioner Dr Ashok D. Ghorpade, and officers and staff of the Garden Department were also present. 'We Always Felt There Was A Gap Between Metal And Softer Music' Pune-Based Rock Band Nemophilis A special rangoli tribute has been created in memory of the late Ajit Ashatai Anantrao Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Participants in the exhibition include the Department of Botany of Savitribai Phule Pune University, Tilak Ayurveda College, Friends of Bonsai, Brahma Kumaris Vishwa Vidyalaya, Nisarga Sevak, Pushkarni, the Solid Waste Department of PMC and several environmental organisations. The exhibition features bonsai displays, theme-based gardens, floral arrangements and creative installations made from recycled materials such as waste tyres and plastic bottles. Attractions include a flamingo garden, Zen garden, constellation garden, waterfall feature garden, backyard and fruit house concepts, and a floral artwork of Bharat Mata marking the 150th anniversary of the song Vande Mataram. A total of 266 sections have been arranged, covering ornamental flower pots, medicinal plants, roses, seasonal flowers, vegetables, fruit carvings, salad decorations, garlands, bouquets, baskets and processed food products prepared by womens self-help groups. Separate sections have also been set up for nature and environment-based photography. Flowers such as dahlia, orchid, anthurium, gerbera, rose and carnation are among the main highlights. Replicas of various garden concepts have also been created for visitors. As part of the competition, around 1,100 participants have submitted 2,480 entries across different categories. PMC has appealed to citizens to visit the exhibition in large numbers and take advantage of this annual celebration of horticulture and environmental conservation.
Pune: Senior Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SP) leader and former Maharashtra Home Minister Jayant Patil clarified on Saturday (14th February) that exactly 11 rounds of discussions and meetings had taken place with Ajit Pawar regarding the merger of both factions of NCP. These talks were initiated by Ajit Pawar himself, Jayant Patil clarified. However, since Ajit Pawar is no longer with us, I do not feel like commenting on it further. I came to Pune on Saturday to enquire about the health of Sharad Pawar Saheb. No political discussions took place with him, Patil told the media. Jayant Patil added that it was his wish for a merger to happen and that Ajit Pawar was also positive about it, noting, If we come together, our party will move forward with even greater vigour. 'We Always Felt There Was A Gap Between Metal And Softer Music' Pune-Based Rock Band Nemophilis Senior leader Sharad Pawar was admitted to the hospital due to ill health and was discharged on Saturday. Jayant Patil arrived in Pune late at night to visit him. Regarding the merger, Jayant Patil stated that top state leaders of his party, including NCP-SPs state president Shashikant Shinde and Baramati MP Supriya Sule, will take the final call. Whatever decision they make will be acceptable to us, and our future steps will be taken accordingly, he said. Patil mentioned that the partys work is ongoing and it maintains its independent identity. Although he had previously discussed the details, he felt it was not the right time to disclose them now. Valentines Day Shock In Pimpri-Chinchwad: 23-Year-Old Youth Found Dead By Suicide In Walhekarwadi Ajit Dada is not with us today. Therefore, one cannot say what will happen next in politics. But there are many issues in Maharashtra that we need to work on, and our party will focus on those. I dont wish to comment on the party merger for now, said Jayant Patil. Patil also mentioned meeting Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, stating that they assured her of their support if she faced any difficulties or required any assistance.
JSMM objects to Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir at Munich conference
Members of the JSMM protested outside the venue, highlighting the human rights violations in Pakistan.
Massive Munich protest seeks tougher global pressure on Tehran
At a news conference, the crown prince warned of more deaths in Iran if democracies stand by and watch following Iran`s deadly crackdown on protesters last month
Myanmar jolted by twin 3.2 magnitude tremors early Sunday
Earlier on Friday, an earthquake of magnitude 2.8 occurred in Myanmar at a depth of 35 kilometres
Spa Used For Prostitution Racket Busted In Rajasthan's Bidar, 5 Women Rescued
Police rescued five women at the premises including two from Maharashtra and one each from Assam, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh, who were allegedly being exploited.
US-Iran likely to hold nuclear deal talks on Feb 17 in Geneva
According to CNN, US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to attend the meetings.
Feds open criminal probe into ICE officers testimony about Minneapolis shooting
Those included the fatal Minneapolis shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, where bystander video quickly raised questions about how they were initially described.
China: Three-foot humanoid robots rehearse lion dance for Lunar New Year
This year, the number of our robots has increased a lot, said Qiu Feng, a member of the organising committee.
BMC demolishes unauthorised portions of Mumbais HR College in Churchgate
BMC's A ward demolished unauthorized structures at HR College in Churchgate on Saturday after the management failed to provide valid permissions or approved building plans. Despite being given ample time, the college's attempts to regularize the constructions were rejected, leading to the civic body's action.
Trump vows executive order on voter ID ahead of midterm elections
Ahead of US midterm elections, President Trump seeks to impose voter ID requirements whether approved by Congress or not
Devendra Fadnavis Emphasises Prevention And Early Diagnosis To Combat Rising Cancer Cases
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday emphasised the need to focus not only on treatment but also on prevention and early diagnosis to effectively tackle cancer.
Political leaders across the country extended their greetings to citizens on the occasion of Mahashivratri, offering prayers for peace, prosperity, and well-being. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his wishes to people across the nation, praying for the blessings of Lord Mahadev on every household. In his message, the Prime Minister said he prayed that Adidev Mahadevs grace remains upon everyone and that, through His blessings, citizens are blessed with well-being. He also expressed hope that the nation continues to progress and remain at the peak of prosperity, concluding his message with the chant, Har Har Mahadev. ! Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 15, 2026 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended his heartiest greetings on the auspicious occasion. He prayed that the divine power of Lord Shiva bless everyone with strength, peace, and unwavering faith. His message emphasised spiritual strength and harmony among citizens as devotees observe the sacred festival. Har Har Mahadev Heartiest greetings to all on the auspicious occasion of MahaShivaRatri. May the divine power bless us all with strength, peace, and unwavering faith. : ! - , pic.twitter.com/UZQsSegZOc Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) February 15, 2026 Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde shared a devotional verse dedicated to Lord Shiva and offered his heartfelt wishes to the people. In his message, he prayed at the feet of Lord Bholenath for the fulfillment of everyones sincere wishes and relief from lifes hardships, highlighting the spiritual essence of the festival. , ... : ... # pic.twitter.com/LyiHmcKvNH Eknath Shinde - (@mieknathshinde) February 15, 2026 Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray also greeted devotees, praying that Lord Mahadev bless everyone with a prosperous, affluent, and healthy life. , ... : ... # pic.twitter.com/LyiHmcKvNH Eknath Shinde - (@mieknathshinde) February 15, 2026 Mahashivratri, one of the most important festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, is observed with fasting, prayers, and night-long vigils at temples across the country. Maha Shivartri 2026: Visit These Revered Bholenath Temple In Mumbai On The Occasion Of 'Lord Shiva Great Night' Devotees visit Shiva temples to offer milk, water, and bel leaves, seeking the deitys blessings for health, happiness, and spiritual growth. In Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra, large numbers of devotees thronged prominent temples from the early hours of the day to mark the occasion. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
'1 Lakh Crore Allocation To Accelerate Maharashtras Growth,' Says Union Minister Piyush Goyal
Mumbai: Claiming that Maharashtra will be among the top beneficiaries of the Union budget 2026-27, Union commerce minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said financial allocations for infrastructure, railways and industry have nearly doubled, which will accelerate the state's growth. Goyal, who represents Mumbai North Lok Sabha seat, said the budgets focus on data centres in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai where sub-sea cables land will attract significant foreign direct investment, ultimately benefiting Maharashtra. The initiative is also expected to generate employment, he added. The Union budget has also emphasised infrastructure growth, with a provision of Rs24,000 crore for railways. He noted that Maharashtra will receive Rs1 lakh crore under the state component of the budget for 202627. Goyal claimed this allocation is nearly 20 times higher than the average annual financial assistance of Rs 1,170 crore provided during the UPA government between 2009 and 2014. 'No Understanding Of Economics': Piyush Goyal Slams Rahul Gandhi Over Tariff Provisions In India-US Interim Trade Agreement Remarks He further said the announcement of a content creator lab in Mumbai will help place the city on the global map, given the sectors vast market potential. Tourism potential is also expected to increase with the beautification of forts from Chhatrapati Shivajis era. Projects such as Vadhawan Port, the proposed third airport nearby, and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway will significantly benefit the state by boosting economic growth and reducing logistics costs, the minister said. Goyal said three chemical parks linked to seaports, textile parks, and safe harbour rules are set to attract foreign investors. High-speed railway projects announced in the budget to connect Mumbai and Pune, Pune and Hyderabad, along with the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, are expected to further accelerate growth. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
NHAI Seeks Forest Clearance For 14.89 Km Autram Ghat Tunnel Project In Maharashtra
The National Highways Authority of India has applied for forest clearance for the proposed Autram Ghat Tunnel project in Maharashtra. The project is planned between Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Dhule and is expected to significantly alter road connectivity in the region. The application for forest approval marks an important procedural step for the project, which involves construction through a ghat section surrounded by forest land. . NHAI has applied for forest clearance for the proposed Autram Ghat Tunnel in Maharashtra between Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Dhule. The total length of this 4-lane access-controlled greenfield pic.twitter.com/J3BWxkzbro Infra News India (INI) (@TheINIofficial) February 15, 2026 Four Lane Greenfield Alignment Planned According to details submitted, the total length of the proposed four lane access controlled greenfield alignment will be 14.89 kilometres. Of this, the main tunnel structure will stretch for 5.5 kilometres, forming the core component of the project. In addition to the tunnel, the alignment will include a 3.28 kilometre long viaduct. The combination of tunnel and elevated structure is intended to create a smoother and more direct passage through the hilly terrain. The alignment has been designed as access controlled, indicating limited entry and exit points along the corridor. Complete Bypass Of Existing Ghat Section The project aims to completely bypass the existing Autram Ghat, also known as Kannad Ghat. The present ghat section is a key route connecting Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar with Dhule, passing through a mountainous stretch. Once completed, the new alignment is expected to replace the need to travel through the existing ghat road. The proposed infrastructure would offer an alternative route cutting across the terrain through the planned tunnel and viaduct. The proposal is currently at the stage of seeking forest clearance. Further approvals and processes will determine the timeline for construction and execution of the Autram Ghat Tunnel project in Maharashtra.
