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Fadnavis Slams Row Over White Road Strips For Jain Monks

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday slammed political parties for fueling a controversy over white strips painted on Mumbai roads to assist barefoot Jain monks in the summer heat.

Deccan Chronicle 15 Jun 2026 12:33 am

Air India crash probe: Pilots federation flags discrepancies in turbine timing

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has called for fresh Boeing 787 simulator tests by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) to verify the timing of Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deployment in the Air India AI171 crash

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 11:38 pm

Anna Hazare: The Voice of Anti-Corruption Movement in India

New Delhi, June 14: Born on June 15, 1937, in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, farmer Baburao Hazare is widely known as Anna Hazare. He is a social activist who has successfully led numerous social reforms. His movements have played a crucial role in rural development, enhancing transparency in government operations, and closely monitoring corruption and ... Read more Anna Hazare: The Voice of Anti-Corruption Movement in India

Morningstar 14 Jun 2026 11:29 pm

Three years on, Maharashtra road safety meeting yet be held

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 11:14 pm

Eight killed as vehicle falls into well in Maharashtra

The vehicle is being pulled out of the well, and the injured people were being rushed to the hospital, the police say

The Hindu 14 Jun 2026 10:34 pm

FDA Seizes Misbranded Cosmetics Worth 5L in Mumbai

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 10:33 pm

Injured Cobra Undergoes Rare CT Scan in Mumbai

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 10:17 pm

Maharashtra Wins 2 Gold Awards At National E-Governance Awards

This national recognition underscores Maharashtras commitment to technology-driven, transparent, and citizen-centric governance, particularly in rural and underserved regions: Reports

Deccan Chronicle 14 Jun 2026 9:50 pm

Maharashtra: Jarange Backs Rohit Pawars Hunger Strike Over Farm Loan Waiver

Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil visited Pawar at the protest site in Pandharpur and expressed support for the agitation: Reports

Deccan Chronicle 14 Jun 2026 9:30 pm

Delay, when explained, not reason enough to quash MCOCA: HC

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 9:22 pm

Maharashtra: Amid Defection Buzz, 4 Sena (UBT) MPs Meet Uddhav; 5 Join Virtually

Four MPs were physically present at the meeting, while five participated through video conferencing: Mr. Raut

Deccan Chronicle 14 Jun 2026 9:16 pm

Tragic Road Accident in Solapur Claims Eight Lives

Solapur, June 14: A devastating road accident in Solapur district, Maharashtra, resulted in the loss of eight lives on Sunday. Among the deceased are four women and four children. The incident occurred near Tandulwadi village on the Mhaswad-Pandharpur road. Reports indicate that the victims were returning from visiting the Siddhanath Temple in Mhaswad when their ... Read more Tragic Road Accident in Solapur Claims Eight Lives

Morningstar 14 Jun 2026 9:00 pm

Maharashtra prioritises drinking water supply till August 31 amid low rainfall

Water Resources Minister instructed authorities to reserve adequate water to ensure an uninterrupted supply for nearly 8.5 million residents of the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad metropolitan regions until the end of August

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:57 pm

IRCTC website to be revamped by July 15 after student flags glitches

The decision was taken during an interactive session with students at the Malaviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT), Jaipur, where a student raised concerns about recurring glitches and delays on the railway ticketing platform

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:30 pm

MCOCA case: Delhi court sends alleged syndicate leader to 3-day police custody

A Delhi court on Sunday granted three days` police custody remand of Shabir Choudhary alias Shabir Ali in a Special Cell case under the MCOCA. The court observed that, considering the gravity of the allegations, it would not be proper to stall the investigation at this stage

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:27 pm

Nellore Artist Attempts Guinness Record With Rapid Handprint Painting

The current Guinness record is held by Dinesh Gupta of Kalyan, Maharashtra, who created 99 handprints in one minute on December 8, 2025: Reports

Deccan Chronicle 14 Jun 2026 8:15 pm

PM Modi addresses investors in France, pitches India as global innovation hub

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India`s emergence as a leading destination for investment and innovation at Bharat Innovates 2026 in Nice, France. Addressing investors and venture capital leaders, he said India`s growth is powered by talent, scale, stability and reforms

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 6:58 pm

Scorching heat by day, storms by evening as Vidarbha faces extreme weather

The region may see a rise in maximum temperatures by 23 degrees Celsius over the next 48 hours, followed by largely stable conditions thereafter

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 6:54 pm

Indian crew evacuated from vessel off Oman coast after engine failure

Fourteen Indian crew members aboard the Indian-flagged merchant vessel Virat 1 were evacuated to a life raft after the ship suffered an engine failure off the Oman coast. The Indian Embassy in Muscat said rescue operations are underway under the coordination of Omani authorities

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 5:52 pm

Maharashtra Home Department orders detailed probe into social media content of Pranit More

The Maharashtra Home Department has ordered a probe into all videos of stand-up comedian Pranit More after his show sparked a major controversy. The Maharashtra Cyber Police registered an FIR against Pranit More, Himanshu Jangra and Sejal Pawar. Both Jangra and Pawar faced serious consequences, with Jangra losing his job and Pawar being put on compulsory leave.

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 4:46 pm

MPSC Group B answer key 2026 expected to be released soon at mpsc.gov.in: Direct link to download here

The Maharashtra Public Service Commission conducted the MPSC Group B Preliminary Examination 2026 on June 14 for recruitment to 552 posts, including State Tax Inspector, Assistant Section Officer and Police Sub-Inspector. Following the exam, question papers and answer keys were released, enabling candidates to assess their performance and estimate scores while preparing for the next stage of the selection process.

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 4:13 pm

Compromised PM listens like an obedient servant: Rahul Gandhi slams Modi

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the United States following the deaths of three Indian sailors in a US military strike on the tanker MT Settebello near Oman

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 4:13 pm

El Nino may push food prices higher, inflation seen at 5.2-5.5 per cent in FY27

The report noted that while current food supply conditions remain comfortable, weather-related risks and higher fuel costs could put upward pressure on prices during FY27

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 2:50 pm

Operation Tiger buzz in Maharashtra: Uddhav Thackeray holds meeting with Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs

Shiv Sena (UBT) asserted all nine MPs attended Uddhav Thackeray's meeting, with five joining virtually due to valid reasons like family illness or election duties. This gathering aimed to quell speculation of a significant party split, following recent meetings between some UBT MPs and leaders of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 2:32 pm

Nitin Gadkari approves 100 per cent ethanol fuel to reduce Indias oil imports

Gadkari said he had signed the necessary regulatory file on Saturday evening, paving the way for the legal use of 100 per cent ethanol as an automotive fuel in India

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 1:10 pm

Tides of trash: Elephanta Island battles mounting waste crisis as footfalls set to rise

Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, grapples with a mounting waste crisis from tourism. The Waste Matters Foundation is tackling this by formalizing waste management, collecting, sorting, and recycling over 150 kg of daily refuse. Initiatives aim to educate tourists and protect the island's unique biodiversity from pollution.

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 12:59 pm

Maharashtra: Four family members found dead in Washim village, probe underway

Sub-Inspector Imran Pathan of the Shirpur Police Station, speaking to reporters, said that police have launched an inquiry after recovering the bodies of the deceased from a well in Tivli village

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 12:52 pm

Rajasthan: 20 injured as UP roadways bus rams truck on Agra bypass in Dausa

According to officials, the accident occurred around 4:30 AM. Most passengers were fast asleep at the time. Eyewitnesses stated that there was a sudden, loud crash as the bus rammed into the truck ahead

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 12:51 pm

PM Modi begins France visit with focus on G7 Summit and innovation ties

In a social media post, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the visit will provide an opportunity to further strengthen India-France cooperation across key sectors

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 12:48 pm

Funeral for Iran`s late supreme leader to begin on July 4 in Tehran

According to the statement, the final funeral ceremony will be held in the northeastern city of Mashhad on July 9, following which the late leader will be laid to rest at the holy shrine of Imam Reza, the eighth Imam of Shiite Muslims, in the same city and on the same day

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 12:45 pm

India`s Russian oil imports rise in May as refiners boost purchases

Crude oil accounted for about 83 per cent of India`s imports from Russia during the month, valued at 4.8 billion euros, while oil products and coal imports stood at 550 million euros and 429 million euros, respectively

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 12:41 pm

Meri condition bohot worse hai...: Himanshu Jangra breaks silence on 'Rs 370 ki biryani' row during Pranit More show, says story was 'improvised'

Himanshu Jangra expressed regret over his viral crowd-work segment, admitting his story was exaggerated for entertainment and apologizing for inappropriate language. The controversy led to his job loss and distress for his family. Comedian Pranit More also apologized for not intervening during the offensive remarks, while Maharashtra Cyber has registered an FIR against multiple individuals.

The Economic Times 14 Jun 2026 11:44 am

4 Members Of A Family Die By Suicide In Maharashtra Village, Probe Underway

Police launch inquiry after family of four found dead in Tivli village, Washim district.

NDTV 14 Jun 2026 8:53 am

Pope Leo XIV flies home on Spanish kings private jet after plane trouble

Leo took off more than three hours after he was originally due to leave

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:33 am

Indian-origin man sentenced to 34 years in UK for kidnap, torture and rape

He cannot be considered for parole until he has served at least 18 years, or two-thirds of the custodial term

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:31 am

Israel keeps up strikes despite growing momentum for Iran deal

Israel carries out air strikes on Lebanon as Iran claims a deal with the US is near

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:29 am

Assam to stop Aadhaar card issuance for applicants above 18, says Himanta Biswa

In exceptional cases, the district commissioner will have to send a proposal to the state government seeking permission for issuing the card

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:28 am

Six-month-old baby out of danger after mother dies by suicide in Hyderabad

The woman sent her husband to a shop before taking the extreme step, police said.

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:24 am

Sharjeel Imam, Umar Khalid file fresh bail pleas in Delhi riots conspiracy case

SC sought a response from the Delhi Police on Friday and listed the matter for hearing on July 4

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:20 am

Indian-origin doctor Dame Parveen Kumar receives UKs highest royal honour

The annual honours list, released to mark the Kings official birthday, recognises 1182 people across the UK for outstanding contributions to society

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:18 am

Everybody was Garba dancing

Or is it because they were dancing on the tarmac of an airfield? the Odissi enquired.

Mid Day 14 Jun 2026 8:01 am

Mumbai, Bengaluru or Indore? How your city can make you richer or poorer Check Indias most and least expensive cities

India's cost-of-living gap is widening, with Maharashtra's monthly expenses averaging 52,392, while Himachal Pradesh and Bihar remain affordable under 28,000. Economic opportunities vary significantly, influencing household budgets and lifestyle choices across states.

Livemint 14 Jun 2026 5:48 am

Maharashtra Restricts Bulk Consumers At Retail Pumps

The Food and Civil Supplies Department issued an order on Friday, saying the restrictions are intended to prevent hoarding, black marketing and diversion of fuel, while assuring that petrol and diesel stocks remain adequate across the state.

Deccan Chronicle 14 Jun 2026 2:11 am

Notified but dormant: What a new RTI-based report reveals about the state of Indias Anti-Human Trafficking Units

ON MAY 20, 2026, Sanjog , a social impact organisation that works on anti-human trafficking, published an Anti-Human Trafficking Unit Watch Report tracing the functionality of Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) across all Indian states and Union Territories (UTs) between 2010 and 2025 across three phases. The report draws primarily on information received from states and UTs through RTI applications, along with inputs from lawyers, civil society organisations, and survivor testimonies. Anti-Human Trafficking Units were envisioned by the Ministry of Home Affairs as specialised units charged with preventing trafficking, conducting rescues, investigating cases, prosecuting traffickers, and aiding the rehabilitation of survivors. Their composition envisages trained law enforcement personnel working in structured coordination with Child Welfare Committees (CWCs), District Child Protection Units (DCPUs), legal aid authorities, and shelters. The report which opens with National Crime Records Bureaus (NCRB) Crime in India report reflects a rising trend in human trafficking up to 2016, when reported cases peaked at 8,132, followed by a subsequent decline. This decline, however, must be read against a troubling backdrop. The Supreme Court, while hearing a Special Leave Petition filed by a father whose eighteen-month-old daughter went missing in 2011 and remains untraced, noted that 47,000 children continue to remain untraced to date. The report cautions that the post-2016 decline in reported trafficking cases may reflect a failure of institutional documentation rather than any real reduction in the incidence of trafficking. The AHTU Watch Report assesses the functioning of Anti-Human Trafficking Units through six interdependent indicators. The reports findings across six indicators The AHTU Watch Report assesses the functioning of Anti-Human Trafficking Units through six interdependent indicators. These include: notification status, staffing and stability, budget and infrastructure, FIR autonomy, case progression, and outcomes. The research covers RTI filings and data analysis across all thirty-six states and UTs, interviews with Superintendents of Police and constables associated with AHTUs, inputs from civil society organisations, and structured consultations with survivor leaders and their collectives. At the outset, the report raises a pointed question about the apparent decline in trafficking cases after 2016 on whether it reflects an actual reduction in trafficking or merely a decline in reporting, documentation, and institutional disclosure, particularly in high-incidence states like Assam, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. Since the formation of AHTUs, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued twenty-two advisories and operational guidelines, including advisories on treating human trafficking as organised crime and on trafficking of foreign nationals, the implementation of which, the report finds, remains fragmented across the country. On notification, relatively less densely populated UTs like Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Ladakh have a hundred percent rate of notified and functional AHTUs, while Uttar Pradesh has only thirty-five functional units out of seventy-five notified. The report underscores that notification as a separate entity, and distinct from a local police station, makes AHTUs more accessible to survivors and reduces their hesitancy in approaching the unit. On staffing and stability, AHTU personnel across states carry the additional burden of general policing duties, significantly undermining their functioning as specialised investigative units. A survivor quoted in the report noted that AHTU officials were overburdened with general policing responsibilities and often unavailable for trafficking cases. Uttar Pradesh, notably, saw a complete reversal between phases from nearly all AHTU members carrying additional charges to none doing so by Phase 3. On budget and infrastructure, the data is fractured. Some states and UTs have no dedicated funds and rely entirely on general police budgets, while others like Arunachal Pradesh received sanctioned funds but showed inconsistent utilisation across phases. The report notes that the absence of a dedicated budget is a reflection of governmental callousness toward the seriousness of trafficking offences, and it pushes the financial burden of legal follow-ups and travel onto survivors themselves. On training and capacity building, the pattern is one of persistent inconsistency. Training remains exclusively police-centric, overlooking social workers, legal aid authorities, and rehabilitation stakeholders. Content is largely confined to general legal awareness, missing crucial areas like labour trafficking identification and trauma-informed investigation. The lack of specialised training in handling trafficking, according to the survivor testimonies in the report, also leads to misdirected insensitive questions, poor documentation, lack of clarity on survivor rights and an erroneous classification of trafficking cases as ordinary labour disputes or kidnapping cases. In order to strengthen the training and capacity building of the AHTU personnels, the report recommends the development of a continuous training framework with a standardized and uniform training syllabus involving various stakeholders. On FIR autonomy and case progression, the data reveals heavy reliance on local police with minimal transfer of cases to AHTUs and even fewer investigations conducted by them. Delhi transferred thirty-one cases to its AHTU in Phase 3 but recorded zero investigations. The conviction rate across states is abysmal as states and UTs like Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and the Andamans reported zero convictions. Telangana stands out, with 980 chargesheets filed as a result of AHTU investigations. The conviction rate across states is abysmal as states and UTs like Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and the Andamans reported zero convictions. On coordination, the report finds the multi-stakeholder architecture structurally fragile across all phases. Coordination with the Crime Multi Agency Centre, launched in 2020 to facilitate interstate information sharing on trafficking, remains weak. Victim compensation, the report notes therefore, is contingent on the quality of documentation and offence classification by law enforcement, which is itself premised on inter-agency coordination that largely does not exist. The consolidated national findings reflect a system afflicted by overburdened personnel, fluctuating FIR autonomy, inconsistent training, and an almost inconsequential rate of trafficker conviction. Telangana and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are identified as having relatively strong institutional practices. Uttar Pradesh and Delhi fall into the category of moderate but uneven functionality. Meghalaya and Rajasthans Bikaner district are identified as structurally fragile but evidence-documented contexts. The reports findings echo the Supreme Courts directions in G. Ganesh v. State of Tamil Nadu (2026), in which while dealing with missing children and child trafficking, the Court directed the Union and state governments to eliminate the dormancy functioning of the AHTUs and ensure the immediate restoration of trafficked children. The malignancy of human trafficking networks, the report concludes, can only be combated by an Anti-Human Trafficking Unit whose functioning is equally systematic, and equally committed to dismantling those networks.

theleaflet 14 Jun 2026 2:00 am

Mom feeds kids poison, dies; 2 minors dead, 2 critical

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 2:00 am

Funeral procession blocked for toll; irate kin break lock

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 1:36 am

Amid rebellion buzz, Uddhav summons MPs for meet today

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 1:09 am

Historic Steps for the Upliftment of Marginalized Communities: Ramdas Athawale

Satara, June 14: On the occasion of the completion of 12 years of the Modi government, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale addressed the media in Maharashtras Satara and Sangli, highlighting the achievements of the central government. Athawale stated that since 2014, the government has taken historic steps for the upliftment of marginalized, disadvantaged, and poor communities, ... Read more Historic Steps for the Upliftment of Marginalized Communities: Ramdas Athawale

Morningstar 14 Jun 2026 1:04 am

Maharashtra FDA bars hospitals from forcing patients to buy medicines in-house

Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration has issued a significant directive. Hospitals and medical practitioners must now allow patients to purchase medicines from any licensed pharmacy. Patients will receive their prescriptions directly. This move aims to prevent unfair trade practices and protect patient consumer rights.

The Economic Times 14 Jun 2026 12:13 am

Mumbai biker booked after 21-year-old pedestrian dies

The Times of India 14 Jun 2026 12:00 am

INS Tarkash arrives in Seychelles on strategic maritime cooperation

The visit reflects the strong maritime partnership between India and Seychelles and highlights the growing cooperation between the two countries in the field of maritime security and defence

Mid Day 13 Jun 2026 11:14 pm

Mumbai railway push: 350 slum demolished, clearing half land for AiroliKalwa corridor

Demolition of 350 slum structures in Bhola Nagar has cleared nearly half the land for the delayed Airoli-Kalwa elevated rail corridor. This progress, following the relocation of affected families, brings the 476-crore project closer to execution after years of rehabilitation hurdles. However, 436 households in Shivaji Nagar still oppose relocation, delaying the project further.

The Times of India 13 Jun 2026 11:06 pm

Maharashtra clears mangrove land diversion for Mumbai Metro 4 depot access

Maharashtra government greenlit the diversion of nearly 4,000 sq m of mangrove land in Thane for an approach road and spur line. This crucial infrastructure will connect the Mogharpada metro car depot for Lines 4 and 4A, overcoming a significant regulatory hurdle. The approval follows central government clearances, paving the way for the depot's functionality and the metro project's progress.

The Times of India 13 Jun 2026 11:00 pm

Tunnel hoods to be used for first time on Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project

India's first bullet train project, Mumbai-Ahmedabad, will now feature tunnel hood technology at mountain tunnel entrances. This innovative system manages air pressure and noise, crucial for trains exceeding 300 kmph. Designed to ease air transition, these hoods promise enhanced safety, passenger comfort, and reduced environmental impact for communities near the tracks.

The Times of India 13 Jun 2026 9:54 pm

Sena (UBT) MPs summoned to Mumbai, Uddhav meet on Sunday

The Times of India 13 Jun 2026 7:56 pm

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth appointed Chief of Army Staff, will take charge on June 30

Lt Gen Seth is currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff and brings nearly four decades of military experience to the top post.

Mid Day 13 Jun 2026 7:28 pm

No Merger Proposal Received or Sent: Supriya Sule

Nagpur, June 13: As Maharashtra gears up for the upcoming assembly elections, speculation about a potential merger of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) with the Indian National Congress has intensified. In response to these rumors, Supriya Sule, the senior executive president of NCP and Lok Sabha MP, categorically denied any such developments. She stated that ... Read more No Merger Proposal Received or Sent: Supriya Sule

Morningstar 13 Jun 2026 6:15 pm

MAH BED CET result released at cetcell.mahacet.org: Direct link to download scorecards here

The Maharashtra CET Cell has announced the MAH B.Ed CET 2026 results, allowing candidates to access their scorecards online. With the examination phase now over, attention shifts to the upcoming counselling and admission process. Aspirants are advised to keep required documents ready and regularly check official updates regarding CAP registration, verification and seat allotment schedules.

The Times of India 13 Jun 2026 6:13 pm

Maharashtra govt. considering 'single parent child' category in college admission forms: Minister

Citing the lack of a separate mechanism for recording children of single mothers in higher education, Chandrakant Patil said instructions have been issued to establish a proper and accurate system at the college level

The Hindu 13 Jun 2026 5:04 pm

'Continuously cried during inquiry': Sejal Pawar advised to undergo counselling to prevent depression

During an investigation into a controversial viral video, Sejal Pawar, a medical student at KEM Hospital, shared her heartfelt remorse, visibly shaken by the situation. The administration has decided to suspend her from campus for 15 days and suggested she seek counseling to cope with the emotional strain.

The Times of India 13 Jun 2026 4:31 pm

Tragic Bus Collision Claims Lives of Three Family Members in Dhule

Dhule, June 13: A tragic incident in Dhule district, Maharashtra, has once again highlighted the dangers of speeding vehicles. A high-speed bus collided with a motorcycle, resulting in the heartbreaking deaths of three family members. This accident has left the entire region in shock. The incident occurred early Saturday morning on Parola Road in Dhule, ... Read more Tragic Bus Collision Claims Lives of Three Family Members in Dhule

Morningstar 13 Jun 2026 4:24 pm

Five IAF personnel killed as AN-32 transport aircraft crashes at Assam`s Jorhat

Five Indian Air Force personnel were killed after an AN-32 transport aircraft crashed while landing at Jorhat airbase in Assam and burst into flames. The IAF confirmed the tragedy, expressed condolences and said crash site management and preliminary enquiries are underway

Mid Day 13 Jun 2026 4:20 pm

APD Launches Policy Research Fellowship and Highlights Citizen-Led Accessibility Monitoring at Circle of Collaborations, Bengaluru

Yes to Access (YTA) platform at the Bengaluru edition of Circle of Collaborations, held at the Saanchi Gallery, Bengaluru International Centre.   APD’s Circle of Collaboration, Bengaluru Edition, sparked dialogue on accessibility, public accountability, government participation, and data-driven inclusion   The event brought together stakeholders from government, industry, civil society, and the disability community to advance evidence-based action on accessibility and inclusion. It follows a series of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2026 initiatives by APD, including a policy dialogue on embedding disability inclusion within ESG frameworks, the development of a Digital Accessibility Indicator, a multi-stakeholder panel discussion and a public exhibition that debuted in New Delhi before travelling to Bengaluru.   As India marks a decade of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, the event focused on generating evidence for policy and mobilising communities to map public spaces. The discussions were particularly timely following the recent Karnataka High Court guidelines on improving accessibility in public and private buildings, highlighting the need for better data, stronger implementation, and community participation. Through the Yes to Access platform, citizens report local accessibility data to help persons with disabilities, caregivers, and allies identify navigable locations. To recognise districts that have actively contributed to expanding this accessibility database, the organisation honoured the top five-performing districts on the platform. Meanwhile, the newly launched Policy Research Fellowship will support data-driven research to improve institutional accountability and policy implementation.   The event was inaugurated by Dr Suman Kumar , Director of the Ali Yavar Jung Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities. Delivering the Special Address, Dr Manik Gursal I.A.S. , Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of Maharashtra, reflected on the evolving disability-inclusion landscape in India, stating, " The true measure of inclusion lies in whether persons with disabilities can participate fully in everyday life with dignity and independence. Building such an environment requires a long-term commitment to equity, opportunity, and shared responsibility across society. " An interactive exhibition showcased the journey of the Yes to Access initiative. Two panel discussions explored how technology and inclusive design can improve infrastructure planning, as well as the role of families and volunteers in building more inclusive communities.   Speaking at the event, Sukanto Aich, CEO, APD , said, " As we mark a decade of the RPwD Act, we must shift the focus from intent to impact. Accessibility demands policy, evidence, meaningful community participation, and sustained collective action. Through the Policy Research Fellowship and Yes to Access, APD advances this agenda by combining research with citizen-led engagement to drive systemic change ."   The event concluded with a collective commitment to turning accessibility from policy intent into lived reality through sustained collaboration, evidence-based action, and community leadership.   About The Association of People with Disability The Association of People with Disability (APD) is a Bengaluru-based non-profit organisation working towards empowering persons with disabilities through inclusive education, livelihoods, skill development, community-based rehabilitation, policy advocacy, and accessibility initiatives. Through collaborative programmes and partnerships, APD works to build equitable and inclusive systems that enable persons with disabilities to participate fully in society.

News Voir 13 Jun 2026 3:59 pm

President Murmu lauds women cadets at IMA Passing Out Parade in Dehradun

President Droupadi Murmu reviewed the IMA Passing Out Parade and described the participation of women cadets as a landmark moment in the academy`s history

Mid Day 13 Jun 2026 3:25 pm

1st action against Sejal Pawar in male corpse private parts joke row: MBBS student barred from entering college, sent on 15-day forced leave

KEM Hospital suspended MBBS student Sejal Pawar for 15 days following a controversial stand-up comedy video. An FIR has been filed against her and others for allegedly circulating objectionable content. The college cited her safety and well-being amid public backlash, recommending counseling and a detailed probe by a five-member committee.

The Times of India 13 Jun 2026 3:19 pm