Linguistics over licences in Maharashtra
Maharashtras Transport Minister has made it mandatory for the States taxi and auto drivers to learn Marathi by August 15 or lose their licences.ChinmayR.Gaikwadreports on howRTOsare doubling as classrooms for migrant drivers who are struggling to learn the basics of a new language in just four days of classroom learning. He finds that some drivers are hopeful, while some others feel humiliated
34% of candidates for NEET-UG retest from just 3 states
A significant portion of NEET-UG re-exam candidates, over a third, hail from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. These three states alone account for 34.4% of registrations for the crucial medical entrance test. The Hindi-belt states collectively represent 44% of the applicant pool, highlighting regional concentration.
Maharashtra local authorities biennial election records 99.02% voter turnout
The highest turnout was recorded in Bhandara-cum-Gondia, where all 457 voters cast their ballots, achieving 100% polling.
Man dead, wife, 2 firemen injured in Bandra blaze
She has made a choice: Bombay HC permits termination of teens 27-week pregnancy
9 from Africa detained in combing operation across Navi Mumbai
Two company directors arrested over export of controlled substance to Czech Republic without NOC
GST inspector in Maharashtra held in Rs 10,000 graft case
Andheri police in Mumbai book youth for trespassing on Metro track, service delayed
Dombivli youth who lost his mother during Covid secures AIR 3 in CA final
Three booked for assaulting BMC team during unauthorised hawkers drive in Mumbai
Bombay High Court upholds 2007 sacking of driver over slur against Koli fisherwomen
Raut calls MPs g**du, claims Pawar support
PM Modi addresses diaspora in Paris; Israel vows to continue Lebanon operations
PM Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Paris and highlighted India's growth story, while Israel said it would continue military operations in southern Lebanon despite a US-Iran agreement
BEST employees on indefinite strike from today; bus and power services may be affected in Mumbai
Unions Announce Decision Despite Industrial Court Restraining Staffers From Protesting; Stir Could Impact Public Transport Day at Bandra-Kurla Complex
Sena turns 60 on Friday, rival camps set to take potshots at each other
Mumbai BEST bus services likely to be hit as employee unions announce indefinite strike
Mumbai's BEST undertaking faces an indefinite strike from midnight Thursday as employees demand merger of budgets, settlement of dues for retirees, and implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission. Power supply in South Mumbai and bus services are at risk. Key demands also include ending contractual work and private partnerships, alongside filling vacant posts and operating more owned buses.
Mumbai court receives hoax bomb threat email
LOreal buys majority stake in Innovist, its first India acquisition in 13 years
Maharashtra police provide protection to six MPs who defied Sena (UBT) whip
On cam, Mumbai man thrashed by group over old dispute, 8 arrested
Dahisar Police have arrested eight individuals following a brutal assault on a man named Bunty over an old dispute in Ovaripada. The incident, which occurred on June 15, resulted in serious injuries to the victim. A viral CCTV clip aided police in identifying 17 accused, with an attempt to murder case registered.
Mumbai police book youth for trespassing on metro tracks, service delayed
Metro services between Dahisar and Versova faced a 17-minute disruption after a youth, Abhinandan Sule, trespassed onto the tracks at Andheri station. A security guard apprehended Sule, who was found walking along the tracks, leading to the temporary suspension of services. Police have registered a case against the individual.
Political Turmoil in Maharashtra: Majid Memon Warns Against Undermining Democracy
Mumbai, June 18: The political landscape in Maharashtra is heating up as several MPs from the Shiv Sena (UBT) are reportedly in contact with the Shinde faction. Senior advocate and former MP Majid Memon has described these developments as a serious warning for the democratic system. In a recent conversation, Memon stated, The events unfolding ... Read more Political Turmoil in Maharashtra: Majid Memon Warns Against Undermining Democracy
Maharashtra seeks six Gadchiroli iron ore mines to build green steel hub
The project is expected to attract investments worth Rs 3 lakh crore, generate lakhs of jobs, and help Maharashtra emerge as a leading steel-producing region by 2030
Over 10,000 tramadol capsules seized in joint raid by FDA and Pune cops
According to officials, the Pune Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) received confidential information that a man was allegedly selling prescription medicines without the required licences
Maharashtra crosses 1.5 crore smart power meter installations
Central Bank of India announces 4500 apprentice posts: Check how to apply from June 12
Central Bank of India is hiring 4,500 apprentices for 2026-27. Online applications open June 12 to June 22, 2026. An online test and local language proficiency will determine selection. Graduates aged 20-28 can apply. The apprenticeship lasts 12 months with a Rs 15,000 monthly stipend. Maharashtra has the most seats
India facing 41% rainfall deficit as southwest monsoon stalls over Maharashtra
India is experiencing a significant rainfall deficit. The southwest monsoon has stalled, impacting large parts of the country. Several meteorological factors are contributing to this slowdown. This situation poses challenges for kharif crops. Authorities are preparing contingency plans for farmers. Water conservation and alternative crop strategies are being emphasized.
Pune: Self-styled godman, 7 aides held after woman alleges sexual assault
According to police, the case came to light after a complaint was filed on June 16. An FIR was registered immediately, and all eight accused were taken into custody
PM Modi to release Rs 18,880 crore under PM-KISAN scheme on June 21
More than Rs 18,880 crore will be transferred directly into the bank accounts of over 9.44 crore farmers across the country, including more than 2.18 crore women beneficiaries. With this disbursement, the total amount released under the PM-KISAN scheme since its launch in 2019 will exceed Rs 4.46 lakh crore
Three held over petrol bomb attack on RSS office in Ranchi
Police are investigating possible links between the accused and terror organisations, including suspected connections with Pakistan-based networks, officials said
ICAI says examination records are safe, dismisses breach rumours
The institute clarified that the portal mentioned in the posts is used only for examiner training and is not connected to examination records
Maharashtra govt, Germanys JWC GmbH sign agreement to boost business events in State
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Maharashtra Convention Bureau (MCB) and JWC GmbH in this regard
Russian air defence shoots down 180 Ukrainian drones amid major attack on Moscow
Russian air defence systems shot down around 180 Ukrainian drones during a large-scale attack on Moscow, officials said. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin described it as the biggest drone assault on the Russian capital in two years
'Beaten for talking to neighbours': What drove Ambernath woman to suicide
A 26-year-old woman's death by suicide, just 45 days after her wedding, has led to the arrest of her doctor husband and in-laws. Her family alleges dowry harassment, physical abuse, and constant surveillance via CCTV cameras installed in the home. Police have registered a case of cruelty and abetment of suicide.
Palghar district unveils new measures to improve maternal and child health
To address geographical challenges in remote areas such as Jawhar, Mokhada, and Talasari, the administration has deployed a multi-tier Maternal and Child Control Room system
Gunfire erupts at airport in Niger capital, military launches security operation
The incident comes months after a major attack on the airport and adjoining military drone base claimed by the Islamic State in the Sahel
Jammu, June 18, 2026: In a significant boost for fruit growers in Jammu & Kashmir, Northern Railway's Jammu Division has achieved a record milestone in the transportation of perishable fruits during the 2026 harvest season, facilitating the dispatch of approximately 250 tonnes of cherries and 10 tonnes of litchis to major markets across the country. According to railway officials, around 250 tonnes of cherries were loaded from Jammu Tawi Railway Station and transported to key metropolitan markets including Mumbai, Vadodara and Surat. Additionally, nearly 10 tonnes of litchis were dispatched from Pathankot Cantt Railway Station to Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Surat. The initiative is aimed at providing fruit growers with faster, more economical, and reliable access to distant markets. Railway authorities stated that the use of dedicated parcel wagons and streamlined loading and unloading arrangements has helped ensure the timely movement of highly perishable produce. Agriculture and trade stakeholders note that improved rail connectivity can reduce dependence on intermediaries, potentially enabling growers to secure better market prices. Rail transportation is also considered a cost-effective alternative to road transport, helping lower logistics expenses and improve returns for producers. The faster transit time has emerged as another key advantage. By reducing travel duration, fruits can reach consumers while retaining freshness, thereby minimizing post-harvest losses and spoilage. Industry observers believe that improved access to markets in Maharashtra and Gujarat has contributed to growing demand for cherries and litchis originating from Jammu & Kashmir. Commenting on the achievement, Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, said that the division remains committed to supporting fruit growers through efficient freight services. We have arranged special parcel wagons and expedited handling facilities for perishable commodities such as cherries and litchis. Our objective is to ensure that the produce of Jammu & Kashmir reaches markets across the country in a timely and cost-effective manner. This initiative supports growers by reducing transportation costs and improving market access, he said. He further noted that rail transport can be significantly more economical than road transport while helping preserve the freshness of fruits during transit. Railway officials have assured growers that freight-related support and infrastructure facilitation will continue in the coming seasons to strengthen the region's horticulture supply chain and expand access to national markets. The achievement highlights the growing role of rail logistics in supporting agricultural commerce and enhancing market opportunities for fruit growers in Jammu & Kashmir.This version is written in a professional newspaper style suitable for publication in a national or regional daily, with balanced reporting, attribution of claims, and adherence to journalistic ethics.
Fire guts EV showroom, three shops in Surat; several electric vehicles damaged
A major fire broke out at an EV showroom in Surat's Adajan area on Thursday morning, spreading to three nearby shops and damaging several electric vehicles. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the blaze is under investigation
Shaina NC Criticizes Sanjay Raut, Urges Self-Reflection Amid Political Turmoil
Mumbai, June 18: Amidst the political turmoil and factional splits within the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), party leader Shaina NC has launched a sharp rebuttal against Sanjay Raut. She stated that Raut has lost his mental balance and that his responses do not align with Maharashtras cultural ethos. According to her, aggressive rhetoric and ... Read more Shaina NC Criticizes Sanjay Raut, Urges Self-Reflection Amid Political Turmoil
Maharashtra Police Provide Y-Plus Security To Six Rebel Sena (UBT) MPs
A letter signed by Shirish Jain, Commissioner of Intelligence, said Y Plus security should be provided to these MPs with immediate effect.
Mumbai's new voyage: Cruise tourism gives city's waterfront a fresh economic push
Mumbai handled just 36 cruise vessels carrying 32,060 passengers in 2013-14. By 2025-26, passenger traffic had surged to 2.4 lakh, with 95 cruise vessel calls, underlining the rapid expansion of sea-based leisure travel in India
Pakistan says US-Iran deal paves way for Hormuz reopening
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the US and Iran have electronically signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, paving the way for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to the 107-day conflict
Mumbai court rejects shipping bizmans plea to remove foreign travel restriction
A Mumbai court denied shipping businessman Aliasgar Merchant's request to lift a travel ban. Merchant, accused in an assault and extortion case, sought permission to travel abroad for his business. The court maintained the restriction, citing the need to ensure his presence for ongoing legal proceedings and the fact that the condition was imposed by a superior court.
Delhi Police bust inter-state child trafficking racket, 13 held
Delhi Police have dismantled an alleged inter-state child trafficking syndicate, arresting 13 accused, including traffickers, buyers, mediators and a hospital owner. Five infants were rescued during operations across Delhi, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and other states
Russia shows interest in BrahMos as India explores expanded production
Russia has expressed interest in inducting the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, with discussions underway on increasing production capacity to meet future requirements, according to BrahMos Aerospace Chief Jaiteerth Joshi
Iran says missile capabilities not up for negotiation after US deal
Iran has ruled out any future negotiations with the US over its missile programme, insisting that its defence capabilities are not open for discussion. The statement came after Washington and Tehran signed a framework agreement aimed at ending their war
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut alleged dissident MPs received Rs 10 crore each and were moved to Rajasthan amid a party split. Six of nine Lok Sabha MPs skipped a crucial meeting, prompting Raut to initiate action for whip violation. Maharashtra minister Sanjay Shirsat, however, blamed Raut for the unrest and denied his party's involvement in 'Operation Tiger'.
Doctor arrested after newlywed wife's suicide; family alleges dowry abuse
Her family claimed that while everything appeared normal before the wedding, she allegedly began facing difficulties and harassment soon after moving into her matrimonial home
Bhiwandi excise officials intercepted a container truck on the Mumbai-Nashik Highway, uncovering an interstate liquor smuggling operation. The truck, disguised as carrying electronics, was found with 1,620 boxes of Goa-marked liquor worth Rs 1.63 crore, destined for Rajasthan. The seizure, totaling Rs 1.90 crore, marks a significant blow to smuggling networks.
Maharashtra Minister Claims Six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs Form Separate Faction
Mumbai, June 18: Amid ongoing discussions regarding Operation Tiger in Maharashtra, state government minister Sanjay Shirsat has made a significant claim. He stated that six MPs from the Shiv Sena (UBT), led by Uddhav Thackeray, have formed a separate faction and have officially informed Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in writing. In a conversation with ... Read more Maharashtra Minister Claims Six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs Form Separate Faction
A new video shows three medical students joking about dissecting female cadavers, following a similar controversy involving MBBS student Sejal Pawar. Pawar faced backlash for remarks about male cadavers and genitalia size during a comedy show. The college has placed her on compulsory leave pending an inquiry.
Former Reliance executive Gautam Doshi remanded in judicial custody in ED case
Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court has remanded former Reliance Communications executive Gautam Bhailal Doshi to judicial custody till July 1 in an alleged money laundering case being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate. The agency alleges his involvement in the group's financial operations
Comedy show row: Pranit, Sejal Pawar questioned for 8 hours
Comedian Pranit More and medical student Sejal Pawar were recently questioned for over eight hours by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell in connection with a controversial video from one of More's comedy shows.
MSBTE Result Summer 2026 declared at msbte.org; here's the direct link to check diploma scores
The Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education (MSBTE) has announced the Summer Diploma Examination Results for 2026. Students can now check their scores online by entering their enrollment or seat number on the official MSBTE website. The results cover examinations held from April to May, with practicals conducted earlier in April.
Sanjay Raut Issues Stern Warning Amid Speculations of Split in Shiv Sena (UBT)
New Delhi, June 18: Speculations of a potential rift within the Shiv Sena (UBT) have surfaced in Maharashtra. Amid these concerns, party leaders Sanjay Raut and Arvind Sawant held a joint press conference, issuing a stern warning to defectors. Both leaders emphasized that the party will not tolerate any form of betrayal. They stated that ... Read more Sanjay Raut Issues Stern Warning Amid Speculations of Split in Shiv Sena (UBT)
Nagpur, June 18: Voting for 11 seats in the Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC) is underway today. The Mahayuti alliance has already secured victory in six seats uncontested. Both the Maha Vikas Aghadi and Mahayuti are claiming wins for their respective candidates. Amidst this, Congress candidate Atul Londhe has made a notable statement regarding the elections. ... Read more Congress Makes Significant Changes Ahead of Maharashtra MLC Elections, Atul Londhe Claims Focus on Issues
The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell has announced the MHT CET 2026 PCB second attempt results on June 18. Candidates can now access their scorecards on the official websites cetcell.mahacet.org and mahacet.org by logging in with their roll number and password. The results include personal details, marks, percentile, and merit rank.
Ranchi RSS office attack: Police detain four, SIT begins investigation
Police have detained four people in connection with the petrol bomb attack on the RSS provincial office in Ranchi. A Special Investigation Team and the NIA are probing the incident, with CCTV footage and forensic evidence providing crucial leads
Echoes in a Parsi attic: How a box of keepsakes opens story of early Jamshedpur via Mumbai
Man files plaint in US as American tears nat'l flag
The 6 Rebels Who Could Break Uddhav Thackeray's Sena, Yet Again
Team Uddhav leader Sanjay Raut has alleged that the party MPs in Maharashtra are being offered up to Rs 15 crore each to switch sides and join the Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led faction.
Navi Mumbai airport to launch international flights, cargo ops from July 15
Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is set to commence international passenger flight operations from July 15, with cargo freighter services also scheduled to begin on the same date, NMIA Chairman Captain BVJK Sharma said on Wednesday.
Shiv Sena MLC Chandrakant Raghuvanshi claimed six MPs from Uddhav Thackeray's faction have joined Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena, calling it 'Operation Tiger'. He welcomed the move, suggesting leaders seeking to work for people should align with the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance. Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav stated the matter of MPs' internal letters rests with the Lok Sabha Speaker.
Act firmly against pranksters causing alarm
Following the alert, there was a detailed search of the train and all its coaches.
Series in England yet to be completed, 10,000-run mark imminent, and only 35. Yet, New Zealand great Williamson decides to put a full stop to international cricket
Donald Trump says Iran deal will help push global oil prices lower
At a press conference after the G7 summit in France, Trump said energy markets had reacted positively to the agreement and the easing of tensions in the Gulf
Donald Trump thanks Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin for staying neutral on Iran
At a press conference after the G7 summit in France, Trump said he personally urged Xi not to provide military assistance to Tehran during the conflict and expressed appreciation for Beijing's response
Donald Trump leaves door open for Irans civilian nuclear programme
At a press conference after the G7 summit in France, Trump reiterated that Iran would never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon but suggested there could be room for discussion on nuclear activities intended for civilian purposes
Donald Trump unveils Iran deal, pushes for broader Middle East peace pact
Trump said the agreement would end the current conflict and launch negotiations towards a comprehensive settlement while preserving the option of renewed military action if Iran failed to comply
MPs Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve wins Best Wildlife Destination award
The Editors Choice Award Best Wildlife Destination category was presented to the BTR for its remarkable work in wildlife conservation, excellent tourism management, providing a high-quality tourist experience, and biodiversity conservation
Six killed, 20 injured as bus crashes into truck in Gujarat
The truck had been parked on the roadside as its driver was checking tyre pressure when the speeding bus hit it from behind, police said
Southwest Monsoon advance over Maharashtra stalled due to unfavourable conditions: IMD
The Southwest Monsoon's progress over Maharashtra has stalled. Unfavorable weather patterns are preventing further advancement. Rainfall activity is expected to remain isolated for the next few days. An increase in rain is anticipated over the Konkan region around June 24-25. Officials are monitoring conditions for any changes.
CJI Surya Kant takes serious view of Supreme Court file going missing
The lawyer said they wrote to the registrar about it but the case has not been listed before the court as the file appeared to have been misplaced by the registry
Eight arrested after mob allegedly tries to free jailed TMC leader
Investigators claimed that the demonstrators intended to forcibly secure Khans release and create unrest in the area; police claimed that Khans wife had been mobilising supporters. An FIR has been registered against her in connection with the incident
Former Bengal minister Udayan Guha arrested in PMAY irregularities case
The complainant alleged that Guha has been siphoning money meant for the scheme since 2016, the officer said; Guha was arrested from a flat in the Phoolbagan area
On this day in 1985: Saudi prince became the first Arab in space
And because he was a prince in the House of Saud, he became the first member of a royal family to go to space; he was 28 years old at the time and holds the record for being the youngest person to fly on the space shuttle
US-Iran deal may include USD 300 billion investment fund, says report
Meanwhile, at least three tankers carrying Iranian oil have sailed through the US naval blockade this week, with a fourth, an empty vessel, heading towards the Gulf of Oman, as per reports
BEST staff seek BMC parity as strike threat looms over Mumbai
BEST has invoked the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act after 12 employee unions threatened an indefinite strike from June 18. Workers are demanding clearance of Rs 1,410 crore in dues, a pay hike, 8th Pay Commission benefits and an end to the wet lease model
Genesis AI unveils Eno, a humanoid robot built to adapt to any workplace
According to the company, the robot is designed to perform complex tasks, adapt to changing environments and complete objectives with minimal human intervention
Sanskritik YatraSindhu Darshan festival celebrates Indias cultural diversity
Srinagar, Jun 17: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), in collaboration with the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala and All J&K Christian Sabha, organized the vibrant Sanskritik Yatra 2026Sindhu Darshan Festival at Tagore Hall, Srinagar. MLA Lal Chowk, Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed Pardesi, graced the occasion as the chief guest while MLA Ramnagar, Dr. Sunil Bhardwaj, attended as the guest of honour. Principal Secretary, Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma, was the special guest on the occasion. The programme was attended by the artists, religious leaders, students, cultural enthusiasts and citizens in a unique celebration of Indias rich cultural heritage and collective commitment towards a drug-free society. Secretary JKAACL Harvinder Kour highlighted the importance of cultural exchange programmes in strengthening the national integration and preserving Indias rich artistic traditions. She said that such initiatives provide an ideal platform for the artists from different regions to interact, learn from one another and celebrate the spirit of Unity in Diversity. Addressing the gathering, Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed Pardesi lauded JKAACL, NZCC and All J&K Christian Sabha for organizing a programme that combined cultural celebration with a powerful social message. He observed that art, culture and languages are invaluable assets of every society and serve as bridges connecting people across regions, faiths and communities. He said that in an era marked by social and ideological divisions, cultural initiatives have an important role in promoting mutual respect, harmony and national integration. Referring to the theme of the programme, Pardesi expressed concern over the growing menace of drug abuse among the youth and emphasized that society must collectively address this challenge. He urged the young people to channel their energies towards education, sports, creativity and community service. Stressing that the future of the nation rests in the hands of its youth, he said that every stakeholder including parents, teachers, religious institutions and civil society organizations must work together to protect young minds from the dangers of addiction. He described drug abuse as a social challenge that can only be overcome through awareness, compassion, guidance and sustained community participation. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Ramnagar Dr. Sunil Bhardwaj, described the programme as a meaningful initiative that successfully integrated cultural exchange with social awareness. He said that the theme Unity of Religions Against Drug Abuse carries immense significance in the present times and demonstrates how cultural and religious institutions can contribute positively towards nation-building. Referring to the ongoing 100-Day Nasha Mukt Abhiyan in Jammu and Kashmir, he said that the campaign reflects the government's commitment to eliminate the scourge of drugs and creating a healthier society. Dr. Bhardwaj emphasized that art and culture are powerful mediums for educating and sensitizing youth about social issues. He stated that the vision of a Viksit Bharat can only be realised through a healthy, educated and empowered youth population. Various interfaith leaders, including representatives of different religious communities, also addressed the gathering and emphasized the collective responsibility of society in combating the drug abuse. They highlighted the crucial role of parents and families in sensitizing the children about the harmful consequences of addiction and promoting ethical and moral values from an early age. The audience was enthralled by a series of mesmerizing cultural performances representing the rich cultural ethos of different states of the country. Artists from Manipur presented the graceful Lai Harobba, Gujarat showcased the energetic Dandia Raas, Maharashtra presented the vibrant lavni while artists from Kashmir captivated the audience with an enthralling Dhamali folk dance. Odishas traditional Goti Pua, Rajasthans world-famous Kalbelia, and Punjabs energetic Bhangra added colour and vibrancy to the festival. Renowned folk and Sufi singer Manak Ali further enthralled the audience with soulful renditions blending spirituality and folk traditions.
Mumbai CHS loses appeal in Rs 17.26 lakh maintenance billing row
The Maharashtra State Co-operative Appellate Court has dismissed a Santacruz housing society's appeal in a Rs 17.26 lakh maintenance dispute, questioning unexplained arrears of Rs 15.33 lakh and directing that charges comply with government norms
