Maha: PWD floats tender to appoint Consultant for first ropeway project in Mulund
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 9 (IANS) In a major step towards developing Mumbais first ropeway, the Maharashtra Public Works Department (PWD) has invited bids for the appointment of a consultant to prepare a comprehensive architectural design for the proposed ropeway connecting Mulunds foothills to Taramati Mata Temple inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). Mulund BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha, who had earlier demanded a ropeway connecting the foothills of Mulund to Taramati Mata Temple with the objective of boosting tourism in the area, on Monday confirmed the government's move. Welcoming the development, Kotecha said, During the 2024 election campaign, we had promised to develop a ropeway from the foothills of Mulund to Taramati Mata Temple, located atop the picturesque hills of Mulund, to promote tourism. It is heartening that the PWD has now floated a tender for the appointment of a consultant to prepare the architectural design of the project. This tender is not for a commercial ropeway from Mulund to Borivali. It is exclusively for a ropeway within Mulund, connecting the foothills to Taramati Mata Temple, which is located within the boundaries of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, he added. Dismissing misplaced speculation that the proposed ropeway would extend to Borivali, Kotecha clarified that the project would proceed only after the detailed design is finalised and all requisite clearances are obtained from the Centres forest and environment departments. Kotecha said the proposal also envisages an observatory at the hilltop, which would offer visitors panoramic views of Sanjay Gandhi National Park and the adjoining Tulsi Lake. We have proposed a beautiful observatory where tourists can seek the blessings of Taramati Mata Temple by taking the ropeway and also soak in the breathtaking views of Sanjay Gandhi National Park from the observatory. The entire proposal is aimed at boosting tourism not just in Mulund but across Mumbai. The city currently does not have a single ropeway, and this project will help promote tourism while showcasing the natural beauty of Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Tulsi Lake, he said. The scope of the tender includes identifying suitable ropeway alignments and locations, assessing land requirements, benchmarking international ropeway systems and conducting various engineering investigations. These will include topographical, geotechnical, geodetic, hydrographic and reconnaissance surveys. The appointed consultant will also be responsible for preparing the detailed ropeway alignment and system design, identifying the origin and destination stations, and estimating the overall project cost. The scope further includes assessing the project's social, environmental, forest and wildlife impacts, said the tender document.
Dont take extreme steps, Shiv Sena stands with you: Maha Dy CM assures drought-hit farmers
Digital Desk | Jalna, Nov 9 (IANS) Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief leader Eknath Shinde, to support and encourage farmers battling severe drought conditions, visited the residence of farmer Ambadas Tangade in Maujpuri village, Jalna district, on Monday and shared a meal with the family. Assuring the gathered farmers, he said, The crisis is severe, but do not lose heart or take any extreme steps; Shiv Sena stands firmly behind you. The visit was attended by Ministers Sanjay Shirsat and Uday Samant, MP Sandipan Bhumre, former Minister Arjun Khotkar, Marathwada Yuva Sena Secretary Abhimanyu Khotkar, Corporator Darshana Zole-Khotkar, former MP Anand Paranjpe, along with senior Shiv Sena office-bearers and party workers. Shinde had directed all Shiv Sena ministers to celebrate Diwali alongside farming families affected by the drought. In accordance with these instructions, Shiv Sena ministers spent the past two days visiting drought-hit districts across the state to connect with local farmers. Reaching Maujpuri village in Jalna district today, Shinde set aside ministerial protocols to sit on the floor inside Tangade's modest hut and dine with the family. During the interaction, he inquired about the well-being of Tangade's mother and children. Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted that the state government has announced a 12-point relief scheme to assist drought-affected farmers and deposited an advance aid of Rs 5,000 directly into their bank accounts. Additionally, Shiv Sena distributed Diwali ration kits to farmers in need. Shiv Sena has taken full responsibility for the higher education and marriage of Ambadas Tangade's daughter, he stated. He further announced that Shiv Sena will organise mass wedding ceremonies to bear the marriage expenses of daughters of farmers in drought-affected areas. He added that Shiv Sena has already distributed 25,000 sewing machines to farmers' wives and 25,000 bicycles to their daughters. Emphasising that Shiv Sena is always present wherever there is a crisis, he reassured farmers that both the state government and Shiv Sena will work at full capacity to manage drinking water, cattle fodder, and food grain supplies until the next monsoon season.
NCP merger was inevitable, planned for Feb 12: Yugendra Pawar
Digital Desk | Baramati, Nov 9 (IANS) Amid intense speculation in Maharashtra politics regarding the potential merger of the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the NCP SP youth leader Yugendra Pawar on Monday claimed that the merger was inevitable and that it was planned for February 12, 2026. The merger was bound to happen. This was not a sudden development; we have been hearing these discussions and news for several months, Yugendra Pawar stated. Ajit Dada had held a meeting regarding this. A meeting was also held here at Govind Bagh, where media personnel were present as well. Everything was finalised, and Ajit Dada himself was set to make the formal announcement around February 12. However, Dada unexpectedly passed away, leaving the matter put on hold. The merger was intended to happen, and it was Dada's wish to reunite with Pawar Saheb, he revealed. Yugendra Pawar's statement comes especially after the meeting between NCP working president Praful Patel and NCP SP chief Sharad Pawar last week. Patel indicated that formal discussions and clarity would follow upcoming scheduled meetings. Yugendra Pawar's statement is also important when leaders from both sides officially maintain that no formal merger discussions are currently taking place. Recent statements regarding a potential merger or reunification between the two Nationalist Congress Party factionsNCP and NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar)highlighted contrasting positions and mixed signals across party lines. NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) MLA Rohit Pawar questioned the renewed merger speculation and pointed out the contradictory claims coming from various leaders. He emphasised that the ongoing merger chatter remains speculative and unresolved. Another NCP SP leader and former minister Anil Deshmukh directly ruled out the possibility of a merger between the rival factions. NCP SP MP Amol Kolhe and party legislator Jitendra Awhad clarified to reporters after visiting Sharad Pawar that there was no discussion about any party merger. They stated that their meeting with Sharad Pawar following his hospital discharge was purely to inquire about his health. The NCP SP Maharashtra unit chief Shashikant Shinde welcomed individuals who wish to return or join the party fold, stating, If someone wants to join our party, they are welcome, while avoiding any commitment to a formal organisational merger between the two factions. The NCP Maharashtra unit president Sunil Tatkare stated that a reunification would likely have materialised earlier in the year had Ajit Pawar been alive, attributing current delays and uncertainty to leadership transitions following his passing. Reports indicate the faction maintains that any broader organisational decisions rest with Sunetra Pawar and senior party leaders, while officially pushing back against internal rift reports. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis noted that both NCP factions are independent entities and free to decide their own future. He stated it would be inappropriate to comment directly on their internal affairs, adding that if the factions take such steps, they will consult the alliance partners. The Shiv Sena Minister Sanjay Shirsat claimed that merger discussions appeared to be in their final stages and suggested that the specific roles of leaders from both sides would become clear very soon. Meanwhile, addressing the tragic aviation accident involving Ajit Pawar, Yugendra Pawar emphasised the need for a thorough investigation. Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash on January 28 in Baramati. I am not an aviation expert, a pilot, or someone who has studied the subject. However, our unanimous stance has always been that a full investigation must take place. On the day Dada passed away, we were sitting right there at the Baramati Police Station. Rohit Pawar has also been speaking on this issue for a long time. Everyone desires that an investigation be conducted rapidly, and the findings must be made public, he demanded.
NCP leaders dismiss merger speculation
Amid swirling rumours of a potential merger between the two Nationalist Congress Party factions, senior leaders are clarifying recent meetings, primarily citing health visits, while political observers debate the future of Maharashtra's political landscape.
With over 2.62 lakh startups, India ranks among worlds top 3
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 9 (IANS) The National Entrepreneurship Day, observed on November 9, highlights the growing role of entrepreneurship in India as the country has become the worlds third-largest startup ecosystem with over 2.62 lakh government-recognised startups that are creating employment and expanding opportunities for youth, according to an official statement issued on Monday. The government has recognised over 55,200 startups during FY 2025-26- the highest number of startups recognised in a single year since 2016. The shift from job seekers to job creators reflects Indias growing entrepreneurial spirit, the statement said. Startups have been able to create more than 25 lakh jobs up to October 2026. The number of startups recognised increased by 51.6 per cent year-on-year in FY 2025-26 compared to FY 2024-25, while direct jobs created rose by 36.1 per cent during the same period, according to the statement. Besides, more than 1.07 lakh recognised startups have at least one woman director or partner, accounting for around 48 per cent of total recognised startups as on March 2026. Recognising the importance of entrepreneurship in Indias development journey, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship was established on November 9, 2014 and the day is observed as National Entrepreneurship Day. Government initiatives such as Startup India, Fund of Funds for Startups, CGSS, SISFS, Atal Innovation Mission, and the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) support innovation, access to finance, mentorship and enterprise creation. Nearly half of recognised startups originate from Tier-II and Tier-III cities, alongside expanding rural entrepreneurship, which reflects the inclusive economic growth that is taking place in the country. India has made significant strides in building a supportive environment for aspiring entrepreneurs. This progress holds particular significance for a nation where nearly 65 per cent of the population is under 35. Recognising the potential of this demographic dividend, the government has undertaken a range of initiatives to empower young Indians across fields including entrepreneurship. Notably, startups are present across all States and Union Territories. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Gujarat have emerged as leading regions in terms of the number of recognised startups and direct employment generation as on March 31, 2026. Through the governments policy support and innovation-focused initiatives, easier access to finance, and digital platforms, entrepreneurship continues to expand across India.
Maha: Shiv Sena demands probe into Sunil Tatkares role in Ajit Pawars crash
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 9 (IANS) A massive political storm has erupted in Maharashtra following serious allegations made by Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam against NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) leader and state president Sunil Tatkare. Kadam on Monday demanded a high-level inquiry into whether Tatkare had any hand in the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Ajit Pawar's flight took off from Mumbai to Baramati, but as the aircraft was landing at the Baramati airstrip, it met with a horrific accident resulting in his death. Following this tragic incident, political blame-shifting has intensified. Launching a scathing attack during the Diwali festival, Ramdas Kadam linked Sunil Tatkare directly to Ajit Pawar's fatal crash, demanding an investigation. Kadam went on to make explosive remarks about Tatkare's past and ambitions. Sunil Tatkare is a demonic person. He cannot be loyal to anyone. He used to be the Personal Assistant (PA) to A R Antulay saheb, and he finished him off too, he claimed. Whoever gets close to Tatkare, he works to destroy them. I have heard that he himself wanted to become the Deputy Chief Minister. Therefore, an investigation must be conducted from the angle of whether Tatkare had a hand in Ajit Pawar's fatal crash. His ambitions are monstrous, and he can do anything to fulfil them, alleged Kadam. Kadam also targeted Tatkare's political standing, stating, During the Khed-Dapoli elections, I worked shoulder to shoulder with Tatkare. At that time, people used to tell me not to work for him, as he is a traitor. Tatkare doesn't even have the standing to speak against me. However, Sunil Tatkare has vehemently rejected all the allegations made by Ramdas Kadam, calling them entirely baseless. He stated that he would address the media in a formal press conference to present his side. NCP national spokesperson Umesh Patil also responded to Kadams remarks, saying, Ramdas Kadam has made allegations against Tatkare in the past as well. Tatkare has been working in the Konkan region for the last 40 years, building the party against the Shiv Sena. Therefore, this should be viewed as a local-level political conflict. Patil said Kadam should have spoken with evidence and termed his charges baseless. The war of words between Shiv Sena and the NCP has brought the underlying tensions within the ruling Mahayuti alliance in Raigad district to a boiling point. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar has also jumped into the controversy, stating that since Ramdas Kadam has made such grave accusations against Tatkare, an inquiry should be initiated. The insults hurled by Kadam deeply offended Ajay Birvatkar, a Zilla Parishad member and Sunil Tatkares brother-in-law. Following a prior dispute regarding seating arrangements at a foundation-stone laying ceremony for the Poynar dam in Khed, Birvatkar took to social media to fire back. He posted, When a person's downfall begins, such frantic ranting follows. Even if one has the ambition to touch the sky, one's feet must remain on the ground. However, if self-respect is hurt, the market will be dismantled, issuing a sharp warning that signals an escalation of the feud between Tatkare and Ramdas Kadam.
Mumbai bans aerial firecrackers after Diwali fires, 6 dead
Diwali celebrations in Maharashtra were marred by a series of fires, including a tragic incident in Dharashiv where six family members died from suffocation, and nearly 140 fire incidents in Mumbai, leading the Mumbai Disaster Management Authority to ban aerial firecrackers until November 25.
School Holiday Schedule for November 2026: Key Dates and Updates
November 2026 brings significant school holidays across India, with various states observing closures for festivals like Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. This article outlines the holiday schedules in states such as Bihar, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, highlighting when schools will reopen and the differences in holiday durations. Parents and students can find essential information on upcoming holidays and school schedules to plan accordingly.
Trump says fresh strikes on Iran unlikely, Tehran warns of military retaliation
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has warned the United States of severe military retaliation if Washington rejects Tehran's two-day proposal to end hostilities on all fronts. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said further military action against Iran was highly unlikely if negotiations over Tehran's nuclear programme
CJP activist Abhijeet Dipke on Monday accused Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of attempting a hostile takeover of the Gokul Milk Cooperative after the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Mahayuti lost the cooperative's election, as thousands of people took part in a protest march in Kolhapur against the state government's move to appoint additional directors with voting rights. In a post on X, Dipke alleged that the state government was using its power to overturn the people's mandate instead of accepting the election results. The Chief Minister calls others anarchists, but after losing an election to a milk cooperative himself, he tries to use his power to stage a
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis accused of hostile takeover attempt of Gokul cooperative
The News Mill
Thousands of people participated in a march in Kolhapur to protest against changes to Gokul Milk Cooperative voting rules. The Congress accused the BJP-led Maharashtra government of trying to take control following recent elections. Following a dispute over voting rights, the BJP's strength in the cooperative increased from 12 to 16 seats. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the decision, claiming it was necessary to address quorum issues.
6 of family killed in fire at house-cum-grocery store in Maharashtra's Dharashiv
Six members of a family, including two children and two elderly persons, died after a massive fire broke out at their house-cum-shop in Yedshi village of Maharashtra's Dharashiv district in the early hours of Monday, November 9. One person from the family survived and is currently stable, police said.
Dhananjay Pathade Residence by Sunil Patil and Associates in India
Project SpecificationDetailsProject NameDhananjay Pathade ResidenceArchitectural FirmSunil Patil and Associates (Principal Architect: Ar. Sunil Patil)LocationKolhapur, Maharashtra, IndiaSite Area4,116 sq ftBuilt-up Area2,913 sq ftPhotographySunil Patil and Associates Dhananjay Pathade Residence by Sunil Patil and AssociatesWe observe how the home balances
NCP Merger Buzz Grows: Conflicting Signals From Rival Factions
Speculation over a possible reunion of the Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar-led NCP factions is gathering momentum in Maharashtra. While Shiv Sena leader and minister Sanjay Shirsat claims the merger process is nearing its final stage, leaders from the Ajit Pawar camp have dismissed reports of any ongoing talks. With Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis maintaining that both factions remain separate political parties, conflicting claims are only adding to the intrigue surrounding the future of the NCP.
Hyderabad: Over 70 suffer eye injuries, firecrackers trigger multiple fires
Several fire accidents were also reported across the city, causing extensive damage to property, although no casualties were reported in the blazes, officials said
Six of family die after fire breaks out at residence-cum-cloth shop in Dharashiv
The fire broke out when members of the family were asleep on the first floor of the building, which also housed a cloth shop on the premises, police said
Two-day plan could ease regional tensions if US meets Tehran's demands: Iran
Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei on Monday said Tehran's two-day proposal to resolve the ongoing conflict remains on the table, claiming that security in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz could be restored within 48 hours if the United States meets Iran's demands.
BMC bans rockets, aerial firecrackers across Mumbai till November 25 after spate of fire incidents
12 migrants found dead off Crete as cargo ship rescues 18 others
Greek authorities recovered 12 bodies from a migrant boat south of Crete, while a Moroccan-flagged cargo ship rescued 18 survivors. Two other migrant boats carrying around 87 people were also intercepted by Frontex, highlighting the continuing dangers of Mediterranean crossings
Delhi Fire Services receive 214 fire calls, AIIMS treats 42 burn cases
Delhi Fire Services received 214 fire-related calls during Diwali celebrations on November 8, including 24 incidents linked to firecrackers. Meanwhile, AIIMS New Delhi reported 42 Diwali-related burn injury cases till 11 am on Monday. Of these, 11 patients suffered major burns, including four admitted to the ICU and seven to the ward.
Gaikwad, Shaw Headline Maharashtras Squad For Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Right-handed batters Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw are the major names in the 18-member Maharashtra squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The side will play all of its group stage matches in Mohali and New Chandigarh from November 14 to 26. Interestingly, the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) has not named a captain in the squad, though IANS understands that the announcement of the sides captain is expected to arrive in the next few days. It is to be noted that Gaikwad is currently with the Indian team for the ODI series against New Zealand, which ends on November 15 in Mount Maunganui. Apart from Gaikwad and Shaw, other batters include Rahul Tripathi, Sahil Parakh and Siddhesh Veer and batting all-rounder Arshin Kulkarni. Left-arm pacer Mukesh Choudhary, who was selected in India A team for the ongoing red-ball series against New Zealand, is expected to lead the seam attack, while left-arm spinner Vicky Ostwal will play a vital role in the middle overs. The squad also includes Suraj Shinde, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Tanay Sanghvi, Kiran Chormale, Ranjit Nikam, Pradeep Dadhe, Rushikesh Sonavne, Vivek Shelar, Hitesh Walunj and Prashant Solanki. Seam-bowling all-rounder Ghosh is in line for a return to competitive cricket after a foot fracture cut short his time with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026. Placed in Elite Group C, Maharashtra will begin their campaign against Puducherry in Mohali on November 14, before meeting Kerala in New Chandigarh on November 16. Maharashtra will then take on Himachal Pradesh in New Chandigarh on November 18, before facing Assam on November 20. Maharashtra will then take on Madhya Pradesh on November 22, before facing Tripura on November 24 and Andhra on November 26. Seam-bowling all-rounder Ghosh is in line for a return to competitive cricket after a foot fracture cut short his time with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026. Placed in Elite Group C, Maharashtra will begin their campaign against Puducherry in Mohali on November 14, before meeting Kerala in New Chandigarh on November 16. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Delhi AQI row: AAP's Saurabh Bhardwaj alleges pollution data manipulation
The AAP leader further claimed that AQI levels had crossed 3,000 in several areas of the city. This figure was his allegation and was not reflected in the official CPCB monitoring figures
Anti-cancer drug prices revised, consumers to save Rs 3,540 crore annually
The government has announced that revised prices of 1,364 anti-cancer drug formulations have come into effect from November 9, following the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority's (NPPA) decision to cap trade margins on 137 anti-cancer medicines.
Maharashtra Board Exam 2027: HSC and SSC Timetable Released
The Maharashtra State Board has released the 2027 HSC and SSC exam timetable. HSC written papers begin February 8, while SSC starts February 15. Check the full schedule, practical dates, and exam guidelines here.
Ukraine targets Russias Kinef oil refinery in overnight drone attack
Ukrainian drones reportedly struck Russia's Kinef oil refinery in the Leningrad region, triggering explosions and fires. Moscow claimed its air defences intercepted 81 UAVs. The attack comes amid escalating strikes on energy infrastructure and ahead of US-mediated Russia-Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi
Delhi AQI nears severe category as Congress flags govt's denial on air pollution
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has urged stricter PM2.5 and ozone standards, citing a FICCI-EY report linking nearly 2 million deaths in India to air pollution in 2023. His remarks come as Delhi's post-Diwali AQI approaches the severe category, raising fresh concerns over air quality
Man Kills Son Over Property Share In Latur
A 58-year-old man in Latur, Maharashtra, allegedly strangled his seven-year-old son to death, fearing the child from his second marriage would claim a share in his property. The decomposed body was found in a drain on Sunday, and the father confessed after being confronted with CCTV evidence.
Maharashtra AYUSH Admission 2026: Special CAP Round 4 schedule announced for BAMS, BHMS and BUMS
16-year-old boy stabbed to death during alleged robbery attempt in Delhi
A 16-year-old boy was allegedly stabbed to death in North Delhi's Wazirabad while buying Diwali firecrackers. His family claims he was attacked after resisting a snatching attempt. Police have arrested the brother of an alleged attacker, while the main accused remains at large
Priest Mandar Ranade murdered in Karnataka for solemnising intercaste marriage: All you need to know
The victim,Mandar Ranade, resided in the Ichalkaranji area under the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. Being a priest, Ranade had solemnised an intercaste marriage. This did not sit well with the girl's father.
Beyond kennels: pet parents seek personalised care for Diwali getaways
Maharashtra relaxes borewell restrictions till December 15 to help farmers save trees amid drought
The announcement came during an interaction with village sarpanches and local representatives at Lohari Sawanga in Nagpur districts Narkhed taluka, where the Chief Minister had stayed overnight on November 7 to celebrate Deepavali with a farmers family
Festive splurges fuel borrowing as buyers turn to EMIs, instant credit
Designer looks without the price tag: Rental wear gains traction
Eknath Shinde to visit drought-hit farmers in Jalna today, share Diwali meal with them
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday will visit drought-affected farming families in Moujpuri in Jalna district on Monday, where he will speak with them and share Diwali snacks and a meal. In a post on X, Shinde highlighted the role of farmers in the state's economic push and emphasised the state governemnt's dedication towards them. Farmers are the backbone of the state's economy. We have always stood firmly by farmers in every crisis. In that spirit, I will visit drought-affected farming families in Moujpuri in Jalna district today and speak with them. I will also share Diwali snacks and a meal with them, joining in the festive joy. We are always committed to ensuring that the lamp of contentment shines in every farmer's home! he said. The visit comes a day after Shinde, speaking in Mumbai, announced that Maharashtra ministers would celebrate Diwali with farmers facing crisis and drought conditions on Monday. They should not have a dark Diwali but should celeb...
17-Year-Old Shourya Ambure Overcomes ACL Injury To Win Historic Youth Olympics Bronze
After ACL surgery in January, the 17-year-old Maharashtra hurdler clocked a personal best of 13.59 seconds to secure India's historic Youth Olympics track medal.
Diwali Tragedy In Maharashtra: 6 Die Of Suffocation In Midnight House Fire In Dharashiv, One Rescued
A fire in a Maharashtra house during Diwali killed six family members by suffocation; one person was rescued safely.
Delhi pollution worsens after Diwali, Burari records highest AQI of 441
In Uttar Pradesh, a thick layer of smog blanketed Lucknow as several parts of the city woke up to hazy conditions.
Srisailam: Maharashtra Tourist Bus Rams Into Five Cars After Brake Failure
The bus rammed into five cars near the closing gate of a Temple in Srisailam, causing damage to all five vehicles.
Fire near Virar damages railway signals; Mumbai-bound local and long-distance trains face delays
Trump says Iran wants a deal as US keeps military strike options open
'Most likely it will not be necessary,' Trump reiterated. 'They want to make a deal so badly.'
Marco Rubio backs Trump's Iran war decision amid Republican election setback
Rubio's comments also put him at odds with Vance amid speculation of both of their 2028 presidential ambitions.
Egypt train collision: Death toll rises to seven, 112 injured in Giza accident
Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar ordered health facilities in both governorates to raise readiness and provide all necessary medical and emergency support to the injured, according to the statement.
Iran warns Strait of Hormuz will remain closed after oil tanker hits naval mines
It warned that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed to vessels unless all threats are lifted, Xinhua news agency reported
Nature Health study highlights life-saving potential of potassium-enriched salt
While it effectively lowers blood pressure, experts note that individuals with severe kidney disease should exercise caution
Scientists discover how fruit fly pupae survive extreme heat and dehydration
They identified a specialised internal lipid barrier composed of hyper-long hydrocarbons synthesised in advance by larval cells.
Palolem Beach in Goa ranked sixth globally, emerges as Asia's top beach
Palolem is also the only Asian beach to feature in the global top 25 list, marking an international recognition for Goas coastline, it said.
Tamil Nadu minister accuses previous DMK government of 'India's first AI scam'
The opposition DMK vehemently denied the charges against its government for the alleged scam and demanded the TVK-led government release relevant records for the purchase.
Sonia Gandhi breaks silence on memoir row, says Penguin got cold feet
While she was disappointed that the publisher did not go ahead with the book, she was not surprised.
'Notebandi' and 'Votebandi' are PM Modi's contributions, says Congress
In his post, Ramesh said, Notebandi devastated the economy. Votebandi is destroying the polity. Both are the contributions of the PM.In his post, Ramesh said, Notebandi devastated the economy. Votebandi is destroying the polity. Both are the contributions of the PM.
Maoists eliminated, but ideological threat remains, says PM Modi
Celebrating Diwali with CRPF personnel in Bastar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says armed Maoists have been eliminated but ideological supporters have infiltrated political parties and organisations
Maharashtra Board Exam Timetable for 2027 Released
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has unveiled the examination timetable for the 10th and 12th grades for 2027. The 12th-grade exams will commence on February 8 and conclude on March 11, while the 10th-grade exams will run from February 15 to March 15. Students are advised to check their specific subject schedules and prepare accordingly. The exams will be conducted in two shifts, and students can access the complete timetable on the official board website. Stay updated for any changes or additional instructions.
Better than New York or London
If you thought this was already a world-class city that couldnt get any cleaner, the BMC intends to surprise you soon
Kudos to PMC for acting firmly to protect trees
The Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) has approved a graded penalty system for those found damaging trees, with fines going up to Rs 5000 and a criminal case possible for a fourth offence.
Candidates who have a PhD as per UGC's regulations are exempt from the NET, SET or SLET requirement while applying for Assistant Professor jobs.
Mumbai AQI 30% better than last Diwali's, but plunges at night
Maharashtra government mandates daily hearing records in tribunals
Following a 14-year pending case, govt issues sweeping mandate requiring judicial authorities to log attendance, filings, hearing dates in Roznama
Diwali lights up J&K with warmth, spirit of brotherhood
Srinagar, Nov 8:The festival of lights, Diwali, was celebrated across Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday with religious fervour, warmth, and a spirit of communal harmony as temples echoed with prayers and city centres came alive with colourful lights, earthen lamps, and festive gatherings. As the autumn evening turned chilly, the glow of thousands of diyas illuminated homes, temples, and marketplaces, creating a vibrant atmosphere across the Valley. The celebrations were particularly visible in Srinagar's LalChowk, where the GhantaGhar became the centre of festivities. The landmark was adorned with strings of decorative lights, while rows of earthen diyas and flower arrangements surrounded the clock tower, drawing large crowds of locals and tourists. Displays of deities installed near the GhantaGhar gave a unique vibe to the whole setup. We are delighted to witness priests performing special pujas and devotees joining prayers seeking peace, prosperity, and well-being, a group of devotees at GhantaGhar said. Many Muslims also joined to greet their Hindu neighbours and friends, sharing sweets and spending time together, reflecting Kashmir's age-old tradition of communal brotherhood. Across the Valley, special Lakshmi and Ganesh pujas were held in temples, with devotees offering prayers and lighting lamps. Temples in Srinagar and other districts witnessed a steady flow of worshippers throughout the day. LalChowk and adjoining markets remained busy for the past several days as people purchased sweets, decorative lights, candles, flowers, and festive items. Sweet shops witnessed heavy footfall since morning, with families buying traditional delicacies to mark the occasion. Many commercial establishments and shops in the city centre were illuminated with colourful decorative lights, adding to the festive charm. The festival also brought seasonal business to local potters, many of whom spent weeks preparing traditional earthen diyas. It is one of the busiest times of the year for us. We start making diyas well before Diwali and people still prefer clay lamps because they carry tradition with them. This festival helps us earn a good livelihood, said Arif Ahmad, a potter from Srinagars Nishat area. Tourists visiting Kashmir also joined the celebrations, many describing the atmosphere as unique and memorable. Several visitors gathered around GhantaGhar, clicking photographs and watching the illuminated square as devotional songs played in the background. It is wonderful to celebrate Diwali here. The atmosphere is peaceful and beautiful. Seeing people from different communities celebrating together makes this experience even more special, said Ritesh, a tourist from Maharashtra. Students studying in Srinagar, including many from Jammu and other parts of the country, also took part in the celebrations. The celebrations here are filled with warmth. What impressed me most was seeing people from different communities coming together. It truly reflects the spirit of brotherhood that Kashmir is known for, said a student pursuing higher studies in Srinagar. Security personnel deployed across the city also exchanged greetings with people and were seen interacting with visitors near LalChowk as elaborate security and traffic arrangements ensured smooth celebrations. Diwali, one of the most important festivals in Hinduism, symbolises the victory of good over evil and hope over despair. It is traditionally associated with the return of lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over Ravana. The festival is also dedicated to goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, with devotees offering special prayers and lighting earthen lamps to seek her blessings. M M Parvaiz reports from Ramban The festival of lights, Diwali, was celebrated with traditional fervour and enthusiasm across Ramban, Doda, and Kishtwar districts on Sunday, with people participating in religious rituals and festivities. A large number of devotees visited temples, offered prayers and performed special pujas to mark the occasion. Temples across the region were beautifully decorated with flowers, colourful lights and traditional buntings, while special religious ceremonies were organised throughout the day. In the evening, people illuminated their homes with earthen lamps, candles, and decorative electric lights, creating a festive atmosphere. Children, dressed in new clothes, were seen exchanging sweets and greetings, while families celebrated together and burst firecrackers at various places. Markets across the districts witnessed considerable festive activity, with shops selling sweets, dry fruits, decorative items, garments, jewellery and other festive goods attracting large numbers of customers. Firecrackers were also available at designated shops and market areas, while shopkeepers offered special discounts to attract shoppers. A local shopkeeper, Subash Sharma, said that the festival was being celebrated with increasing enthusiasm in the town every year, reflecting the growing festive spirit among people. Pandit Sham Lal Sharma said that Diwali festivities begin with Dhanteras, an auspicious occasion on which many business communities traditionally purchase valuables and worship wealth and prosperity. Similar reports of Diwali celebrations were received from different parts of Doda and Kishtwar districts, including remote and far-flung areas, where people celebrated the festival with religious devotion and traditional enthusiasm.
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