Maharashtra Government Affirms No Cut in OBC Quota for Maratha Reservation
Krishna Hegde clarifies the governments stance on Maratha reservation and OBC quotas while addressing various pressing issues. Maharashtra Government Affirms No Cut in OBC Quota for Maratha Reservation
Tata Trusts dispute: Who is Amogh Kaloti, the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner handling key cases?
One judge, multiple Tata Trusts cases and a dispute gripping corporate India meet Amogh Kaloti, the low-profile Maharashtra Charity Commissioner who now finds himself holding the gavel in a high-stakes Tata Trusts battle.
Govt Doing Needful, Says Maharashtra CM On Pawar's Letter On Drought
Devendra Fadnavis dubs Rahul Gandhi as 'anarchist'
Maha govt will stand with farmers in drought-hit areas: Dy CM Shinde
Digital Desk | Satara, Sep 18 (IANS) Visiting his native village Dare in Satara district for the Ganeshotsav festival, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday reviewed Maharashtras rainfall situation and reassured farmers facing severe crop damage due to dry spells. He said the government will not abandon the farming community and will provide full support in drought-like regions. His response follows senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawars demand that the state government declare a drought and distribute immediate relief aid. DCM Shinde acknowledged that dry spells have scorched standing crops in parts of Vidarbha and Marathwada. Crop loss assessments (panchnamas) are currently underway to distribute aid based on actual losses. He held a video conference with Osmanabad (Dharashiv) Guardian Minister Pratap Sarnaik, MP Omraje Nimbalkar, and the District Collector to review the crisis. District guardian ministers are actively touring affected areas, and he confirmed he will personally inspect drought-hit zones shortly to engage directly with farmers. Dismissing opposition criticism, DCM Shinde stated the Mahayuti government prefers letting its work speak rather than engaging in political verbal duels. Marking World Bamboo Day at his farm in Dare, where he has successfully experimented with cultivating imported crops like blueberries, along with camphor and asafoetida (hing), Shinde highlighted bamboo's versatile uses in producing ethanol, modern infrastructure, and everyday commercial goods. He urged large-scale bamboo cultivation alongside environmental conservation efforts during the festive season. DCM Shinde also took a sharp jab at his political rivals over their constant criticism of his visits to his hometown, Delhi, or London. Whenever I visit my home village, political rivals suffer from stomach aches. I will now have to look for a medicinal plant or prescribe Jamalgota (a traditional laxative) to cure their indigestion. I am a man of action and will answer criticism through my work, not words, he quipped. Earlier, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, in a detailed letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, highlighted the state's severe agrarian crisis due to erratic monsoon rains and demanded immediate intervention across nine key points. Pawars letter comes shortly after the Chief Minister expressed his resolve to make Marathwada drought-free on the occasion of Marathwada Liberation Day. Pointing out the stark ground reality, Pawar, who uploaded the letter on Friday on X, emphasised that deficient rainfall has severely impacted crops across Marathwada and other parts of the state, leaving farmers in deep distress. In his letter, Pawar raised urgent concerns regarding standing crops, drinking water shortages, and fodder scarcity for livestock. Due to the failure of rains across most parts of the state this year, the farming community is facing a massive crisis. Standing crops such as soybean, cotton, pearl millet (bajra), maize, pigeon pea (tur), green gram (moong), and black gram (udid) have withered, compounded by increased pest infestations. Consequently, the situation regarding agriculture, drinking water, and fodder supply is set to worsen, Pawar noted.
Weather tomorrow September 19: IMD has forecast active weather conditions across several parts of India from September 19, with significant rainfall expected over northwest, central, east, west and southern India. The southwest monsoon is also likely to begin withdrawing from some parts of West Rajasthan around September 19. Several regions may experience thunderstorms, lightning and strong gusty winds. The IMD has also issued a warning for fishermen due to rough sea conditions over parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.
After studying theatre in Harvard, Damini Chopra is now all set to showcase various shades of herself as an actor in the upcoming play Jigsaw, which is premiering in Mumbai on Sunday September 20. It is written and directed by Bharat Dabholkar, who is also her co-star. In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, Damini recalled the interesting events that led to her casting in the play. I had reached out to Bharat Dabholkar way back in 2019, she said. He is a theatre veteran, I was new to Bombay and I wanted to work with him. I had done theatre at Harvard. We met, it was a promising meeting but nothing came out of it. As an actor, you follow up a few times or few months and then when you dont get a positive response, you drop it. Hence, she wasnt in touch with Dabholkar for a few years. I kept doing my work. Randomly a few months back he called me and said that he is looking for a lead girl and I am just perfect for it. He said he remembered that I had once auditioned. I said that was so many years ago. So, thats how this happened, revealed Damini. The actor described the play saying, Jigsaw is a one-thrill a minute play. You will never guess whats going to happen in the next minute. You would think you have figured it out but then you will have to look again. Despite the play being serious in nature, Damini had good fun while rehearsing it. Dabholkar sir doesnt carry the weight of his seniority and that makes such a huge difference. He is a great director. He protects you a lot from a lot of hassles that happen on sets. He keeps you focused on your job. So, that really helps. What a lot of people dont know is that he is a really fun guy. Even though this is a thriller and a serious play, we were laughing half way through the rehearsals, she said. In suspense thrillers, there is a chance that spoilers can be revealed on social media. Touching upon this challenge, Damini said, As an actor, especially when you are doing a suspense and thriller, the challenge is not how much are you going to hide it. The challenge is that every time you watch me, you should enjoy it as much. There is very little you can do to stop spoilers on social media. But what I can do as an actor and what I aim for is that every time you watch me, you have to enjoy. To achieve this, Damini revealed that they have ensured that no two performances of Jigsaw would be the same. We have practiced various versions of the same scene, she said. You will watch one version. Then when you come for the next version, you will realize that I am doing it differently. Apart from the play, Damini is also excited for her next project, which is in the international zone. There is something very interesting on the horizon, which is westwards, she said. I have studied theatre in Harvard. So, I have a network there. I was just there and I have shot for something, which we would be able to talk about very soon. That is in a spy-thriller zone. I have seen so much of Rosamund Pike growing up that I am manifesting characters like her. I can also attribute that to my physical training. I am an aerial silk artist and gymnast. Along with acting, Damini Chopra is also involved in her NGO, which is working with the Government of Maharashtra to take AI to vernacular medium students studying in Hindi, Marathi and Urdu. Acting and NGO both are my dreams. I am just happy to live my dream and I am just going to continue doing that, she signed off.
From Maharashtra To ISRO: Eknath Vasant Chitnis, The Pioneer Who Helped Shape India
From helping establish Thumba to directing SITE across 2,400 villages, Eknath Vasant Chitnis helped turn Indias space ambitions into applications.
Bengaluru: Man strangles wife, pours hot oil in attempt to peel off her skin
A Bengaluru man has been arrested for allegedly strangling his wife to death after a quarrel and pouring hot oil on her body. Police said the accused, Ranjith Kumar Gupta, later fled the scene and allegedly attempted suicide
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 18: KIRA, the World's Largest Grower and Manufacturer of CVD Lab-grown Diamonds, has won Highest Employment on Company Rolls at the 52nd India Gem & Jewellery Awards (IGJA), the award for the largest direct workforce in India's gem and jewellery industry. At the same ceremony, the Lifetime Achievement Award, the industry's highest personal honour, was conferred on Kira's Founder - Shri Vallabhbhai Patel for 55 years in the diamond industry.
Marathi film 'Gondhal' is India's pick for Oscars 2027
Written and directed by Santosh Davakhar, the film is set in rural Maharashtra and plays out over a night of a traditional ritual centred around a newly-wed couple.
Philippines school shooting: Two students killed, at least seven injured
At least two students were killed and seven others injured in a shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, Philippines. Authorities said the situation was contained, while reports indicated two suspected shooters may have entered the campus
BJP MLA Ram Kadam slams Aaditya Thackeray for 'denying role' in Disha Salian case
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sept 18(IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Ram Kadam said on Friday that Shiv Sena-UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray waited six-and-a-half years to say that he has no connection to the Disha Salian case. Speaking to IANS, Kadam reacted to Disha Salian's father issuing a Rs 500 crore defamation notice to Shiv Sena-UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray. The BJP MLA said, It took Aaditya Thackeray six-and-a-half years to say that he has no connection with (Disha Salian case) it. Even if we assume he has no connection, what was there to fear? Why wasn't a proper investigation conducted? All these questions place them in the circle of suspicion. Even when Disha's father repeatedly asked for the case to be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), why wasn't it handed over? What was the reason behind it? They cannot deny all these points... Somewhere down the line, he (Aaditya Thackeray) put himself under speculation, because when in power, the police attempted to protect him, tampering with evidence these aspects should be taken into consideration. Why did the previous Uddhav Thackeray government not give justice to Disha's family? Who were they protecting? he asked. Speaking on Congress' concerns with the OBC quota within the Maratha reservation, Kadam said: It's nothing like that. The Maratha community of Maharashtra knows that respected Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ji was the one who gave the first reservation. Of the 13 demands, 12 demands were fulfilled. The 13th demand comes under the jurisdiction of the court. It won't hold in the court of law. Thus, it is not important what others are saying. The crucial thing here is that the people of Maharashtra understand that the current government stands with them. Reacting to actor Swara Bhaskar's texts to other actors after the Ram Janmbhoomi verdict, BJP MLA Ram Kadam said that there are individuals in the country who make absurd comments to stay in headlines, adding that such entities should not be entertained.
PM Modi to inaugurate NGT international conference in Delhi on Sept 18
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate an international conference on The Future of Environment and Climate Dynamics in Delhi on September 19. The two-day NGT conference will bring together judges and judicial representatives from 17 countries to discuss climate challenges
Coca-Cola India Brings Refreshment And Unique Festive Brand Experiences Across Maharashtra and other states
Juniper Green Energy fully commissions 75 MW Tata hybrid project in Maharashtra
The project was developed by Juniper Green Beam Eight Private Limited, a JGEL subsidiary, under a 75 MW Power Purchase Agreement with Tata Power
Five killed in lightning strikes as heavy rain hits Marathwada
As many as 31 revenue circles across five districts recorded more than 65 mm of rainfall in a single day on Thursday, according to a report from the Divisional Commissioner's office
Marathi film 'Gondhal' selected as India's official entry for the Oscars 2027
The Marathi film 'Gondhal' has been selected to represent India at the 99th Academy Awards. Set against the backdrop of a traditional ritual in rural Maharashtra, this film was chosen from a pool of thirty-three entries by the selection committee. Notably, it is the fourth Marathi film to earn an Oscar nomination, with the ceremony scheduled for March 14, 2027.
Mamata lost TMC symbol due to years of 'exploitative politics': Bawankule
Speaking to reporters, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed that Mamata Banerjee was no longer able to protect the party's political position
Bengaluru (Karnataka) / Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 18: Indeed today announced the return of FutureWorks to India in both Bengaluru and Mumbai. FutureWorks, brings together global HR leaders, recruiters, and talent acquisition professionals to discuss labour economics, workplace technology, and modern hiring strategies. The exclusive leadership forum will take place in Bengaluru on 2 December 2026, followed by Mumbai on 18 February 2027, featuring voices including Swiggy's Rohit Kapoor, World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand and actor and writer Kalki Koechlin.
TMC split: Mamata Banerjee faction gets football player symbol
The faction led by Banerjee has been allotted the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the Football Player symbol. It will be treated as a recognised political party in West Bengal, Meghalaya, and Tripura
Mega blood donation drive across Maharashtra draws fewer than 10 donors
Maharashtra Board 2027 HSC, SSC Dates Out: Exams From February 8, Check Complete Schedule Here
The Maharashtra Board has announced the HSC and SSC theory and practical exam dates. The HSC exam will begin from February 8, 2027 and SSC exam will start from February 15, 2027.
Allocation of Shiv Sena symbol to rebel faction a multi-crore scam, says Sanjay Raut
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS) In a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Centre, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Friday alleged that allocating the original 'Bow and Arrow' symbol to the rival faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, was a multi-hundred crore scam. Speaking to reporters, the Rajya Sabha MP accused the Election Commission of operating under political pressure and acting as a tool for the ruling NDA regime at the Centre. Raut claimed the Election Commission has functioned like a domestic servant of Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the past 1012 years, compromising its constitutional independence. He alleged that under political pressure, the Election Commission failed to deliver justice to the original Shiv Sena founded by Balasaheb Thackeray. Raut emphasised that the soul of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution is to preserve the identity of the original political partya spirit he claimed was completely ignored in this decision. Raut made scathing remarks against both serving and former Election Commissioners, accusing them of surrendering their autonomy to Home Minister Shah. Drawing parallels outside Maharashtra, Raut pointed out that similar tactics to trigger splits and undermine regional parties are being attempted elsewhere, such as in West Bengal's Trinamool Congress. The statement adds fresh momentum to the ongoing political war of words in Maharashtra between the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and the ruling coalition. Raut's move to target the poll panel comes a day after the Election Commission issued an interim order on Thursday freezing the official name 'Trinamool Congress' and its iconic 'Joda Ghash Phool (Twin Flowers in Grass)' election symbol. This decision follows claims staked by two rival factions within the party ahead of the forthcoming Assembly bypolls in Nandigram and Rejinagar. According to the Election Commission, neither group can use the 'Trinamool Congress' party name or its official symbol for the upcoming October 6 bypolls until a final decision is made. Both factions were directed to submit their newly-chosen temporary party names and preferred free symbols to the Election Commission. The Mamata Banerjee-led faction criticised the order as unconstitutional but indicated it would comply with procedural steps while pursuing further legal remedies, while representatives from the Ritabrata Banerjee-led faction welcomed the poll panel's decision.
Indian Railways boosts passenger capacity in Maharashtra, Telangana
New Delhi: In a bid to augment railway capacity and improving train operations, Indian Railways on Friday, September 18, said it has approved the doubling of the Chouk-Karjat railway section (10.86 km) of Central Railway at a cost of Rs 497 crore. Indian Railways also approved the construction of the 38.21 km new rail line 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 .
Nithari killings accused Surendra Koli dies by suicide in Haridwar
Surendra Koli, an accused in the Nithari killings case, has died by suicide, police said. His body was found at a tea stall in Haridwars Bhupatwala area. Police have begun investigating the case. Koli had been released by the Supreme Court after it allowed his curative petition last year
Apple iPhone 18 Pro hits stores: Mumbais BKC outlet flooded with buyers
iPhone enthusiasts gather at Apples BKC store in Mumbai as sales of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max begin in India, with customers waiting for their first-day purchases
Maharashtra Board 2027 Exam Dates Are Out: Plan Your HSC and SSC Success Now
MSBSHSE has released the Maharashtra Board 2027 exam dates for HSC and SSC. Get the full breakdown of exam windows, practical schedules, and essential planning tips to ace your upcoming board examinations with confidence.
Maharashtra Board Exam Schedule for 2027 Released
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has announced the tentative dates for the 2027 HSC and SSC examinations. Class 12 exams will run from February 8 to March 16, while Class 10 exams are scheduled from February 15 to March 11. Early release of these dates aims to help students and schools prepare effectively, reducing exam-related stress. Practical assessments for both classes will occur prior to the written exams, starting in late January. Stay informed about these crucial dates to ensure a well-organized study plan.
Watch: Salman Khan stops to make little boys happy amid fan mob
Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Salman Khan was mobbed by fans and photographers as he stepped out after attending Ganpati darshan at Maharashtra minister Ashish Shelars residence in Mumbai on Thursday night. Amid the frenzy, the actor made sure to acknowledge young fans who were waiting eagerly to meet him. Videos captured from the occasion show Salman 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 .
'iPhone launch is like a festival'
Apple's latest flagship smartphones, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, have gone on sale across India, drawing massive queues and creating a 'festival' atmosphere among eager buyers at Apple Stores in Noida, Bengaluru, and Maharashtra.
Maharashtra Board 10th, 12th Exam date 2027 out: Check complete schedule
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has issued the 'tentative' exam datesheet for the Maharashtra HSC and SSC Board Exams 2027
ISI alleged to push funding networks as Pakistan tightens austerity measures
An official said that austerity measures like major cuts to fuel usage and foreign travel and a ban on the procurement of new government vehicles have been announced for government officials, while the people have also been directed to follow strict austerity measures in the wake of a mounting economic crisis
Bank of Maharashtra's first-ever overseas bond issuance of $500 mn gets 3 times subscription
Issuance comprises five-year US dollar-denominated Senior Unsecured Notes, issued through Bank of Maharashtras IFSC banking unit under its $500 million medium-term note programme
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India --- Business Wire India
SNAP 2026 Mock Test Registrations Open - Apply by 22nd September
Pune (Maharashtra) [India], September 18: Symbiosis International (Deemed University) has announced the Official SNAP 2026 Mock Test, designed to give MBA aspirants an authentic, first-hand experience of the Symbiosis National Aptitude (SNAP) Test format ahead of the actual examination. The initiative is aimed at helping candidates familiarise themselves with the test structure, question pattern, and time management required to perform well on test day.
Buyers Queue Up as iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max Sale Begins in India
Apples iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max went on sale across India on Friday, drawing eager customers to Apple Stores in Noida, Bengaluru and Maharashtra as buyers lined up to get their hands on the latest devices
Standing MRI lets those with back pain, phobia skip the tube
Rohit Pawar Urges Maharashtra CM to Release Anil Deshmukh Inquiry Report
NCP leader Rohit Pawar calls for the public release of the inquiry report on former Home Minister Anil Deshmukhs alleged corruption. Rohit Pawar Urges Maharashtra CM to Release Anil Deshmukh Inquiry Report
Maharashtra FDA Suspends Licences of Nair Hospital Canteen, Olympia in Colaba
The FDA also suspended licences of four restaurants in Pune and two in Nagpur
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Long queues and enthusiastic customers marked the first sale of Apple's iPhone 18 series in India on Friday with buyers turning up early at Apple stores in the national capital, Maharashtra and Karnataka to get their hands on the latest series. Sales of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max began at 8 am with a large number of customers arriving at Apple stores, including the outlets at Mumbai's BKC and Delhi's Select Citywalk. Speaking to IANS, excited buyers said they had pre-booked the devices and arrived at the stores according to their allotted slots. I have already booked online. We have a 9 am slot and have booked two phones, a customer waiting outside an Apple store told IANS. At a Delhi store, one customer said he was buying the iPhone 18 Pro and had been using Apple's smartphones for years. I am very excited and am buying the iPhone 18 Pro. I buy a new iPhone every year. I have been using iPhones since 2009, starting with the iPhone 4, and have used all the variants so far, he said. Another Delhi customer said he was buying the iPhone 18 Pro Max 512 GB for his daughter, who was unaware of the purchase. I have been using iPhones since 2008, starting with the iPhone 3G. This will be her first iPhone, and she is very excited. She does not know that I am buying it for her, so I think she will be surprised, he said. The first sale also drew buyers who travelled long distances to Mumbai. One customer said he travelled from Gujarat and reached the store at around 6 am after visiting Lalbaugcha Raja. I have booked the iPhone 18 Pro. It costs around Rs 1.64 lakh, he said, while highlighting features including a new camera shutter, a smaller Dynamic Island and the A20 processor. He also mentioned the new Cherry Red colour. Another buyer travelled from Surat and purchased both the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. I have come all the way from Surat. I bought both the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max. My travel took around five to six hours. After reaching here, I waited for another six hours and spent around two and a half hours in the queue, he said. For the buyer, the first-day purchase was as much about the experience as the device itself. I have been emotionally connected with the iPhone for a long time. All iPhone users know that whether there is something new in the phone or not, getting the new phone on the first day matters, he said. I am very happy, absolutely happy, and 100 per cent satisfied. I have been waiting since 10 pm, he added. Moreover, actor Vicky Kaushal was also at the Apple Store in BKC as sales of the iPhone 18 series began in India. Similarly, in Bengaluru, customers also arrived early for the first sale. One Bengaluru buyer, who had been waiting since around 5:30 am, said improvements to the camera and AI features were among the reasons for his excitement. The camera quality is better... The AI feature is also new, and Siri is also better this time. So, I'm eagerly waiting to use it, he said. However, ahead of the opening of stores, long queues were also seen outside Apple's Select Citywalk store in Saket. One customer waiting to purchase the device said he needed several phones and had pre-ordered the iPhone 18 Pro Max. I need to buy 5-7 phones. I have come here to purchase the iPhone 18 Pro Max that I pre-ordered, he said. Another buyer from Karnataka said he reached the store around 6 am and was excited to discover that he was the first customer to open the new phone. I don't upgrade every year. I upgrade only when I feel it's worth it. I was using the iPhone 11, then the 13. Now I thought, after five years, it's definitely worth the upgrade, the customer said.
Sharad Pawar urges CM Fadnavis to declare drought in Maharashtra, seeks relief package for farmers
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS) Nationalist Congress Party-SP (NCP-SP) chief Sharad Pawar has raised the severe agrarian crisis in Maharashtra due to erratic monsoon rains with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and demanded immediate intervention on nine key points. His letter to the Chief Minister comes shortly after Fadnavis expressed his resolve to make Marathwada drought-free on the occasion of Marathwada Liberation Day. Citing the stark ground reality, Pawar, who uploaded the letter on Friday on X, emphasised that deficient rainfall has severely impacted crops across Marathwada and other parts of the state, leaving farmers in deep distress, and raised urgent concerns regarding standing crops, drinking water shortages, and fodder scarcity for livestock. Due to the failure of rains across most parts of the state this year, the farming community is facing a massive crisis. Standing crops such as soybean, cotton, pearl millet (bajra), maize, pigeon pea (tur), green gram (moong), and black gram (urad) have withered away, compounded by an increase in pest infestations. Consequently, the situation regarding agriculture, drinking water, and fodder supply is set to worsen, he warned. The former Union Minister has demanded immediate declaration of drought bypassing formal procedural norms, identifying worst-hit talukas as drought-affected and implementing relief measures without delay, providing financial aid of at least Rs 50,000 per hectare to affected farmers and a special assistance package of Rs 25,000 to landless farm-labour households and implementing a farm loan waiver immediately to ensure fresh crop credit. He has also emphasised the need to increase the incentive subsidy for farmers who pay loans regularly from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000, and extend loan waiver benefits to farmers whose crop loans from 202526 have defaulted due to current conditions, and implement the Re 1 crop insurance scheme retroactively to ensure coverage for affected farmers. Additionally, he sought release of the previously announced crop insurance compensation of Rs 17,000 per hectare for damage caused by unseasonal rains last year. Pawar has also demanded the launch of dedicated initiatives under the rural employment guarantee scheme (MGNREGS) for water conservation and agricultural works in affected talukas, supplying water tankers to safeguard fruit orchards, conducting rapid surveys in water-scarce villages to deploy government tankers, establishing fodder camps for livestock based on local demand and starting a special campaign via the Energy Department to repair faulty power transformers on time to counter load-shedding issues during the drought. Further, Pawar has urged the state government to set up state-level and district-level control rooms to monitor daily rainfall, crop conditions, water scarcity, fodder availability, and livestock health and grant a complete educational fee waiver -- rather than just an examination fee exemption -- for students studying in schools, colleges, and educational institutes across drought-affected talukas. Considering the gravity of this serious situation arising for farmers, farm labourers, livestock, and rural life, it is expected that the Chief Minister will take positive decisions on the above demands and implement necessary remedial measures immediately, said Pawar in his post on X. CM Fadnavis has not yet issued an official response to the demands. Pawar's communication to the CM comes after the state cabinet on Tuesday reviewed the monsoon situation. The Revenue and Agriculture Departments have informed that 83 talukas across 19 districts have gone without rain for over 20 days. CM Fadnavis and several ministers expressed deep concern over the situation. Although no immediate relief package was announced, CM Fadnavis instructed state administrative machinery to stay on high alert. Following the Cabinet discussion, the government clarified that a formal drought declaration cannot be made immediately. Under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) guidelines and Central Drought Management norms, official crop-damage surveys (Panchnamas) and ground verification must be conducted after October 5 to qualify for financial relief. Premature surveys would risk disqualifying farmers from central aid packages. Conducting assessments prior to that date would disqualify the affected farmers from official relief aid and result in an inaccurate estimation of damage. The government is currently preparing a comprehensive list of relief measures for farmers, and officials have been urged to coordinate effectively, said the Agriculture Department in its presentation.
WATCH: iPhone 18 Pro fever grips India amid 5 am queues, first buys and a 10-hour wait
Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max officially went on sale across India on Friday. Eager customers lined up at Apple Stores in Noida, Bengaluru, and Maharashtra for the latest devices. Some buyers arrived early, with one customer waiting since 5 AM to purchase the new phone.
Why Katrina Kaif is greater than Sydney Sweeney
Give me a lush Katrina Kaif over a naked Sydney Sweeney any day. As a woman in her forties, I feel its time we came together to change the body and beauty standard
How does looting happen in treatment, and how can you avoid it?
A recent Maharashtra FDA investigation revealed how private hospitals fleece the common man in the name of treatment. Learn how the common man can avoid this exploitation.How does looting happen in treatment?People typically believe they are paying only for hospital bills and medic...
Maharashtra FDA conducted statewide action seizing banned gutkha and pan masala. Milk and milk products worth over seven lakh rupees were also confiscated. Other food items including supari and namkeen were seized across various divisions. Several establishments faced license suspensions and improvement notices for hygiene lapses. The enforcement drive targeted food safety and proper storage regulations statewide.
NIA case: Nine convicted, including eight Bangladeshis, get life imprisonment
According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the special court, in its order passed on September 17, also imposed a total fine of Rs 1,37,000 on the convicted accused. It further awarded three months of simple imprisonment in default of payment of the fine
Maharashtra FDA seizes banned gutkha and adulterated food worth over Rs 20 lakh
The News Mill
Bihar Army soldier dies of burn injuries, villagers protest demanding action
The protesters also raised questions over the police handling of the case
Mumbai cafe where Nolan stopped for chai loses licence
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of several food establishments in Mumbai, including the Nair Hospital canteen and Olympia Coffee House, due to serious violations of food safety and hygiene standards. Inspections revealed issues like unsanitary conditions, improper food handling, pest infestations, and lack of trained staff. The FDA also cancelled licences of other businesses and seized unhygienic milk products as part of a festive season campaign.
Amid stock market volatility, investors have an opportunity to earn additional income from their investments, as Maharashtra Scooters Limited (MSL), a subsidiary of Bajaj Holdings and Investment, has announced a dividend for its shareholders. The company announced an interim dividend of Rs 160 per share with a face value of Rs 10 each for the financial year ending March 31, 2027. A dividend of Rs 160 per share with a face value of Rs 10 represents 1600 per cent of the face value.
NTA releases final answer keys for UGC-NET June 2026 exam
The agency had earlier issued a notice on August 16, 2026, regarding the conduct of the test.
UNGA allows Palestine president to address high-level meet via video link
This will be the second time that Abbas speaks by video at the Assembly, which he did last year after a visa refusal
Delhi court seeks NIA response on US national Matthew Van Dykes bail plea
They said that the agency has to file its reply by September 18
Students deserve spacious accommodation
There are fears too that the Haji Ali building will overshoot its deadline.
Russia, Ukraine swap fallen soldiers bodies, amid strikes
Near-border strikes prompted neighbouring Poland to scramble fighter jets and suspend flights
Houthis say Saudi launched 40 airstrikes across Yemen
Neither Aramco nor Saudi officials have commented on the claims
Canada welcomes EU associate membership proposal; Trump calls it laughable
While Carney clarified the alliance is not intended to rival major global powers, US President Donald Trump called the concept laughable, warning it could be considered a hostile act and threatening heavy tariffs on Europe
US President Donald Trump lauds Indias crackdown on opium
Trump said he looks forward to continued cooperation through the United States-India Drug Policy Framework
External chajjas are common areas, Maharashtra co-op court rules
Nepean Sea Road owner loses appeal against societys repair work; court says external chajjas are common areas
'May Be Stars. To Me, They're Violators Of Law': Tukaram Mundhe On Actors In Surrogate Ads
In an interview with NDTV, Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commissioner Tukaram Mundhe says two of the three actors have replied to the show-cause notices
Dollar bonds to lose some lustre as US yields surge
Overseas bond sales may moderate as the US Federal Reserve increases interest rates. Bank of Maharashtra priced its debut bond at a higher yield than Union Bank of India. Indian companies have raised over $20 billion in dollar bonds this year. Higher US treasury yields increase the all-in cost for Indian issuers. Issuers may frontload fundraising before rates potentially rise further.
PM Modis 25 years in public life marked by welfare for poor, foundation for Indias growth: Amit Shah
Vadnagar, Sep 17: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said Prime Minister Narendra Modis 25 years in public life should be seen as a period of welfare for the poor and foundation-laying for Indias prosperity. He was speaking after inaugurating the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan in Vadnagar and flagging off a bike rally to Varanasi to mark Modis birthday. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were also present. Born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar in Gujarats Mehsana district, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. He completes 25 uninterrupted years in public office on October 7, having first taken the oath as Gujarat chief minister in 2001 before becoming prime minister in 2014. Addressing a gathering, Shah said the 25 years of Modis public life will have to be written in golden letters in history as the years of poor welfare. He said the period under Modis leadership had laid the foundation for Indias prosperity, made the country more secure and started the process of making India a global leader in infrastructure and digital public infrastructure. Shah said Modis tenure as PM would be remembered as a period of welfare for poor people and claimed that 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty during this period. He said generations of people had waited for basic necessities such as houses, toilets, tap water, electricity, food and medical treatment. His 12-year tenure as prime minister will be known as a golden era for the 80 crore poor people of the country, Shah said, listing houses, electricity, tap water, five kg of free grain per person per month, health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh, toilets and gas cylinders among the benefits delivered by the Modi government. Shah said Modi had personally experienced poverty after being born in a poor village and had, despite his circumstances, put before the country a vision of equitable and inclusive development. He said Modis 25-year public life was also marked by sustained personal work and service to the poor, backward classes, Dalits and tribals. Shah said he had worked with Modi during his organisational years in Gujarat and later when he became the CM and PM. The Union minister also praised Modis simplicity and said he had connected BJP workers across the country with the Nation First slogan. He said Modi had treated the entire country as his family. Referring to Modis years as Gujarat CM, Shah listed initiatives including water management, the Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana, Sagarkhedu Kalyan Yojana, industrial development, Vibrant Gujarat, an education hub and 24-hour electricity supply to villages. He said the state recorded an agricultural growth of more than eight per cent when Modi was the CM. The Gujarat model was subsequently taken to the national level after Modi took charge of the nation in 2014, he said. Shah credited the Modi government with introducing what he described as clear policies after a period of policy paralysis and cited GST, the JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) trinity, Direct Benefit Transfer, banking reforms, FDI and PLI (Production Linked Incentive) as measures that had contributed to economic development. He also referred to expansion of roads, railways, airports, ports and digital infrastructure, saying the number of airports in the country had increased from 75 to 150. He mentioned PM Gati Shakti, Digital India and Startup India as initiatives that had opened opportunities for the youth. On national security, Shah cited the governments decisions on Article 370, the Citizenship Amendment Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, peace accords in the Northeast and military operations. He also referred to measures relating to women, tribal welfare, defence production and space programmes, including Chandrayaan and Aditya L1. Shah said Modis public life could be summed up in two words -- India First. Earlier, CM Patel said the bike rally from Vadnagar to Varanasi was not merely a journey but a pledge-driven mission dedicated to serving the nation. He said Vadnagars soil had inspired Modi with patriotism, simplicity and a spirit of service and that his 25 years of public life had contributed to the countrys transformation. Patel said India had emerged as a major opportunity for youth and highlighted developments in digital payments, space technology, artificial intelligence and semiconductors. He said the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan should take Modis message of public service to every household and called for building a Viksit Gujarat as part of the vision of a Viksit Bharat. A simultaneous rally was flagged off from Varanasi, PMs Lok Sabha constituency, with the two journeys planned to conclude on October 7, the day Modi completes 25 years as CM of Gujarat and Indias PM. According to the BJP, the two rallies will together cover about 40,000 km through 193 districts and around 1,159 villages across 10 states. Around 1,000 youths will participate, it said. At Vadnagar, Shah, Patel and other leaders first performed Maha-aarti at Sharmishtha Lake and then walked to the ancient Hatkeshwar temple of Lord Shiva. Shah prayed for Modis long life and good health before flagging off the rally, said officials. Shah said the BJP and its allies had launched the campaign to take the message of Modis 25 years of public service to people across the country and inspire younger generations to work towards the goal of a developed India by 2047.
Leaders across political spectrum greet PM
New Delhi, Sep 17:Leaders across the political spectrum greeted Prime Minister NarendraModi on his 76th birthday on Thursday, highlighting his 25 years in public office. While President Droupadi Murmu hailed his record on governance, Home Minister Amit Shah recalled Modi's journey from an ordinary BJP volunteer to the nation's highest political office. Vice President C P Radhakrishnan credited Modi with presiding over India's emergence as one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, while Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said his journey from Gujarat chief minister to prime minister had given a new momentum to India's growth story. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also wished Modi a long and healthy life. Born on September 17, 1950, in Gujarat's Vadnagar, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. He completes 25 uninterrupted years in public office on October 7, having first taken the oath as Gujarat chief minister in 2001 before becoming prime minister in 2014. In her birthday message, Murmu said Modi had set numerous new benchmarks for good governance during his tenures as chief minister and prime minister and given unprecedented momentum and a new direction to inclusive development. Advancing on the path of modern progress while upholding a sense of cultural pride, our fellow citizens are realising the harmonious blend of heritage and development, the president said on X. She prayed for Modi's good health and long life so that he could continue his mission of public service and nation-building. Radhakrishnan said under Modi's leadership, India was shining as a bright spot in the world and among the fastest-growing major economies. He cited the country's progress in areas ranging from digital technology and space to healthcare, infrastructure and manufacturing, and said more than 25 crore Indians had come out of extreme poverty in recent years. Radhakrishnan said Modi's references to backward districts as aspirational districts, border villages as vibrant and first villages, and the northeast as ashtalakshmi reflected an approach aimed at transforming geographical marginalisation into empowerment. Over the past year, as I travelled across the states and Union territories, I witnessed firsthand how these transformative changes are reaching even the remotest parts of our country, he said. LokSabha Speaker Om Birla said India was forging a new identity on the global stage under Modi's leadership and making progress in development, self-reliance, innovation, digital technology, infrastructure and public welfare. Your public life, spanning over 25 years, has proven immensely fruitful for the strengthening of democratic values and for the upliftment of the nation's vulnerable and underprivileged sections, Birla said. N Chandrababu Naidu, the TDP chief and a key BJP ally, hailed Modi's journey from Gujarat chief minister to prime minister. Marking 25 exemplary years of public service, from leading Gujarat as a transformational CM to guiding the nation as a revolutionary PM, you have given a new momentum to India's growth story, he said. Your vision of 'seva, sankalp and sushasan' continues to inspire 140 crore citizens across the nation, Naidu said, praying to Lord Venkateswara for Modi's long and healthy life. JD(U) chief and former Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar also extended his greetings, wishing Modi a healthy and long life. BJP president Nitin Nabin described Modi as the embodiment of dedication and service to the nation. He said his journey, driven by the resolve of Nation First, was an inspiring saga of service, good governance, and public welfare. Under your guidance, India is scaling new heights of development and self-reliance, steadily advancing on the global stage with a renewed identity and enhanced strength, he said. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde described Modi as the embodiment of India's progress and the aspirations of its people. Modi embodies the story of India's progress. He resonates in the hearts of every citizen. He stands as a symbol of welfare for the poor. He represents the youthful spirit of this young nation. He is the source of courage amidst every challenge. He is a thunderous force against adversaries. He embodies the soul of 1.4 billion dreams. He is the hallmark of a New India, Shinde said. Former prime minister and JD(S) chief H D Deve Gowda conveyed his wishes to Modi in a letter. May you be blessed with a long and healthy life. May you continue to lead our nation with dedication and wisdom. May you help our nation realise its enormous potential and further strengthen its exalted place in the world, he said. DMK president and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin wished Modi good health, happiness and a long life. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and TVK chief Vijay also conveyed his heartfelt birthday wishes to Modi, whom he described as working with dedication towards building a strong India, and wished him a long and healthy life. NCP (SP) chief SharadPawar extended heartfelt birthday wishes to Modi and wished him good health and a long life. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren conveyed his johar (greetings) to Modi. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also wished Modi a happy birthday, good health and a long life. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio extended birthday greetings to Modi on behalf of the state government, the political parties in the ruling alliance and the people of Nagaland, saying India was fortunate to have a leader dedicated to serving the nation. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said Modi's 25 years in public service had been marked by dedicated leadership and a steadfast commitment to the growth and development of our nation. Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma wished Modi good health and continued strength. May you be blessed with wisdom and success in your service to the nation, he said. Kharge, Rahul greet PM Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and former party chief Rahul Gandhi on Thursday wished Prime Minister NarendraModi good health and long life on his 76th birthday. Born on September 17, 1950, in Gujarat's Vadnagar, Modi turned 76 on Thursday. In a post on X, Kharge said, Best wishes to Prime Minister Shri NarendraModiJi on his birthday. May he be blessed with good health and long life. Wishing the prime minister, Gandhi said, Happy birthday to PM Narendra Modiji. Wishing you good health and a long life.
Nilesh Kakade, the Leader of the Opposition Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) party in the Malegaon Municipal Corporation, complained about the particular portrait of Tipu Sultan in the office building of the corporation, the petition states
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