Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has asked states to prepare rabi crop plans based on water availability and soil moisture, with water-stressed areas prioritising less water-intensive crops. He also called for higher cultivation of pulses and oilseeds to reduce Indias import dependence, while flagging drought conditions in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
FDA now suspends licence of iconic Irani restaurant Kyani, 12 others
81-year-old gets advanced heart valve op at BMC-run KEM Hospital for half of private hospital cost
Maha drought worsens, cancels leave for 11 departments
The Maharashtra government has cancelled leaves for employees across 11 departments involved in drought management to assess widespread crop damage, particularly affecting soybean. This follows the declaration of drought in 265 talukas and the announcement of relief measures. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule is on an assessment tour, facing protests from Congress workers demanding immediate farmer relief.
Maha SIR: CEO announces weekend voter camps across 100,000 stations
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) In a major push to streamline the electoral roll under the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive, Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S. Chockalingam on Monday announced special camps at polling stations across the state to help citizens rectify discrepancies in their voter records. Addressing the low public response to fixing voter record errors, Chockalingam confirmed that weekend camps will be held at over 100,300 polling stations statewide, including 10,000 centres in Mumbai. Voters can visit these stations directly to submit applications to update names, addresses, or correct errors in draft rolls. The deadline to file claims and objections has been extended to October 12, and processing of notices, claims, and objections will conclude by November 10. The final voter list will be published on November 16. Notices were issued to 1.22 crore voters flagged for logical errors or missing document matches. Citizens no longer need to visit Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) in person; they can respond by sending notices and required documents via WhatsApp. Out of 1.51 crore voters omitted from draft rolls, only 3.9 lakh have resubmitted fresh registration forms over the past month. District Collectors have been instructed to conduct voter registration camps across all junior and senior colleges, with mandatory reporting on student enrolment numbers. Political controversy has erupted after the state government declared drought in 265 talukas without prior clearance from the Election Commission of India (ECI), despite the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) being in force for upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC) elections in Teachers and Graduates constituencies. The government is accused of violating MCC guidelines by extending 12 relief concessions without ECI approval. Sources said a proposal seeking clearance was submitted, but the executive order was issued while the application was pending. Earlier, the ECI announced operational measures including door-to-door document collection, exemption from mandatory physical attendance, relief in virtual hearings, family representation and creation of help desks for vulnerable groups. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will directly visit the homes of citizens flagged as Unmapped or with Logical Discrepancies to collect verification documents. Hearings, if unavoidable, will be conducted online, with any adult family member allowed to represent the voter, the CEOs office said. District Election Officers (DEOs) have been instructed to set up help desks and outreach camps for homeless citizens, migrant labourers, pavement dwellers and night shelter occupants to ensure inclusive enrolment. The current SIR campaign, launched earlier this year, is the first comprehensive door-to-door electoral roll overhaul in Maharashtra since 2002. Rapid urbanisation, migration, unrecorded deaths and duplicate entries over two decades necessitated full-scale verification. During the initial phase, BLOs cross-checked voters against historical rolls from 20022004 to establish eligibility cut-offs. However, heavy monsoon rains in Konkan and Mumbai, civic disruptions, and large numbers of unmapped voters created operational bottlenecks, prompting calls from political parties and civil society groups for more time.
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to visit Maharashtra to assess drought
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) With nearly two-thirds of Maharashtra grappling with severe drought conditions, the Union government has stepped in to assess the crisis first-hand. Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers' Welfare, and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday announced that Central teams alongside senior officials will deploy to assess crop and water damage, with Chouhan himself leading high-level inspection visits across affected regions in Western and Southern India. The Central team will first arrive in Karnataka on October 3 before heading to Maharashtra to perform ground-level assessments. Recognising the gravity of declining soil moisture and shrinking reservoir levels, the Union Agriculture Ministry has issued a comprehensive action plan for the upcoming Rabi cropping season. State and district administrations have been directed to map available irrigation supplies and soil moisture before finalising Rabi sowing plans. High-water-consuming crops are strictly discouraged in water-stressed pockets to avoid mid-season crop failure, the Agriculture department sources said. The Centre has ordered a major push toward low-water-requiring crops -- specifically gram, lentil, and mustard. Farmers are encouraged to utilise fallow paddy fields post-harvest for these drought-resilient varieties to boost national self-reliance in edible oils and pulses. State governments must set strict targets for pulse production and put procurement mechanisms in place early. To shield farmers from distress sales, central agencies NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India) and NCCF (National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India) will step in for direct on-farm procurement if state systems lag. Agricultural universities, ICAR institutions, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) have been tasked with supplying climate-suitable seed varieties. State administrations must prepare advance plans for the distribution and lifting of seeds and fertilisers. To reduce input costs and maintain soil health, the Centre is extending its balanced fertilisation drive into the Rabi cycle. Over-application of synthetic fertilisers will be countered through targeted scientific guidance. The Agriculture Ministry is fast-tracking the rollout of Farmer IDs, AgStack infrastructure, and expanded Kisan Credit Card (KCC) coverage to streamline direct benefit deliveries and credit access. To maintain real-time oversight, states will track weekly progress across crop sowing, seed germination, pest risks, and market price fluctuations. The strategy comes as Union Minister Chouhan prepares to host all State Agriculture Ministers on September 29, the second day of the National Agriculture Conference, to finalise an integrated execution plan for the Rabi season.
BEST opposes Adani bid for Dharavi power market, plans expansion of distribution in suburbs
Maha CM clears Rs 1,800 crore plan for ChakanHinjawadi
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday granted in-principle approval for an integrated infrastructure development plan to ease traffic congestion, improve road networks, and strengthen stormwater drainage systems in the Chakan and Hinjawadi industrial areas. Under the initiative, projects worth Rs 1,400 crore have been sanctioned for Chakan, alongside a dedicated Rs 426.54 crore framework for Hinjawadi. Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi said execution is scheduled to begin in December to ensure timely completion, with the primary goal of improving traffic flow and drainage capacity before the next monsoon season. CM Fadnavis directed the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), Public Works Department (PWD), Zilla Parishad and allied agencies to pool resources and work in synergy. The administration will consolidate funding and logistics to overhaul roads, public utilities and drainage infrastructure. Encroachments along 78 km of natural streams have restricted water flow. The plan includes clearing streams, constructing roadside drains, increasing culvert discharge capacity and setting up water retention facilities. With 7080 per cent of encroachments already removed, the remaining will be cleared in phases. The target is to restore all natural drainage routes by June 2027, alongside building 38 km of roadside stormwater drains. After analysing Chakans 498 km road network, the team selected 75 km of high-priority roads for immediate upgrading. These stretches will feature pedestrian walkways, improved drainage and safety infrastructure. Work will use existing right-of-way space by removing encroachments, avoiding fresh land acquisition. The project will also provide for underground utility ducts. To reduce accident risks, upgraded roads will include footpaths, safe crossing zones and traffic management systems. Pedestrian facilities will also be incorporated into the upcoming National Highway flyover. To curb congestion, 500 additional buses will be introduced along key commuter routes. Six major intersections will undergo scientific redesign and be equipped with AI-driven traffic signals, CCTV cameras, radars, ANPR systems, and a centralised command centre. MIDC has designated five parking facilities to tackle unauthorised roadside parking by heavy goods vehicles. Private sector participation and local industrial support will fund beautification of medians, public toilets, and bus shelters. The Chakan industrial water supply network is targeted for completion by 2027, with management shifting to the Maharashtra Jeevan Authority (MJP). A new 100 MVA power substation will break ground in December. A centralised waste processing facility will handle garbage from 14 villages and two municipal councils under PMRDA oversight. An AI-powered Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) and Command & Control Centre will oversee traffic regulation across Chakan, Talegaon and Hinjawadi. To support local traffic police, 100 personnel from the Maharashtra Security Force (MSF) will be deployed in Chakan starting October 1. For Hinjawadi, Rs 426 crore has been approved to mitigate severe traffic congestion. Six acres of land have been allocated to address power supply issues, and 100 MSF personnel will be deployed for traffic control. Waste management services will be streamlined through the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) or Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC).
Housing society in Navi Mumbai ordered to pay compensation to two members for lapse in service
In Navi Mumbai, residents seek separate lane for small vehicles to curb traffic jams and mishaps
FIR against two medical store owners in Navi Mumbai for illegally selling capsule
Maharashtra: 57.9 lakh ECGs, 34,000 heart attacks detected under STEMI project
The project follows a hub-and-spoke model connecting rural and district-level healthcare facilities with hospitals equipped to provide advanced cardiac treatment
Maharashtra: Accused arrested for sexual assault of 12-year old girl in Pune
Pune Police have arrested the accused in the alleged sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl, police said on Monday. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 4) Chilumula Rajnikant said that the case came to light on September 22, when a doctor alerted police. We received a call from a doctor on September 22. A woman had visited the doctor accompanied by her 12-year-old daughter. Upon examination, the doctor suspected a case of sexual assault. The police were immediately informed; we brought the mother and daughter to the station to gather details, he told ANI. After recording thier statements, police registered a case under Section 74 of the BNS and the POCSO Act. We arrested the accused the following morning and produced him before the court, he said. According to police, the court inquired whether an incident of sexual assault had occurred and directed that a medical examination be conducted. We immediately sent the victim for a medical checkup. Three days later, we received the medica...
Teachers shape future, throwing ink inexcusable: Mumbai court; 12 get six months RI
Maharashtra Public Service Commission postpones Mains exam scheduled for October 3 amid review demands, as reported by news agency PTI.
68-year-old Mumbai woman loses Rs 3cr in digital arrest fraud
MPSC exam row: State Services Main 2026 postponed, 2025 answer sheets to be re-evaluated
Maharashtra Public Service Commission postpones State Services Main Exam 2026 amid review demands
Maharashtra Public Service Commission has postponed the State Services Main Examination scheduled for October 3, 2026. This decision follows demands from aspirants and political groups regarding reforms in the examination process. Protests had erupted previously due to a paper leak in the MPSC Drug Inspector exam, leading to calls for the chairman's resignation. Political figures, including Cockroach Janta Party convenor Abhijeet Dipke, have highlighted the need for accountability.
Only 3.9 lakh apply to be on voter list despite 1.5 crore exclusions in SIR
MSRTCs E-Lalpari by 2037; goal of 100% electric fleet
Two tigers found dead in MP; electrocution suspected in Ratapani
Two tigers were found dead in separate incidents in Madhya Pradesh on Monday. A decomposed carcass was recovered near Dahod Dam in Ratapani Tiger Reserve, where suspected electrocution is being investigated, while an 11-month-old female tiger in Kanha may have died after a territorial fight
Maha CM Fadnavis directs panel to draft roadmap for state financial reforms within six months
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) Highlighting the need to move beyond traditional revenue collection methods, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday called for innovative measures to mobilise resources and streamline the state's financial and administrative systems. Presiding over a high-level meeting of the newly constituted Maharashtra Sustainable Public Finance Committee led by former Finance Secretary Vijay Kelkar, the Chief Minister directed the panel to conduct a comprehensive review of fund raising, accounting, and efficient resource allocation, and to prepare an actionable roadmap within six months. Chief Minister Fadnavis pointed to a key economic mismatch in state agency funds. While around Rs 6,000 crore to Rs 7,000 crore belonging to various government bodies is currently invested at modest interest rates of around four per cent, the state government is forced to borrow money from the open market at much higher interest rates of eight to nine per cent, the Chief Minister said. This discrepancy must be resolved to ensure more effective utilisation of available funds. We must develop innovative financial instruments that protect the security and financial autonomy of state agencies while maximising the use of their capital, CM Fadnavis added. The Chief Minister stressed that project delays impair the economic multiplier effect of public investment. A complete review of state spending will be conducted to enhance expenditure efficiency, he said. Emphasising that the panel is not a mere formality, the Chief Minister confirmed that the state government will seriously implement its recommendations to overhaul current fiscal and administrative operations. Chief Minister Fadnavis' move to form a panel for recommending financial reforms is crucial as the state government is aggressively pursuing its ambitious target of becoming a trillion dollar economy by 2029-30 and five trillion dollar economy by 2047 while focusing on increasing its revenue from state's own tax and non-tax. Total revenue receipts for 2026-27 are estimated to be Rs 6,16,099 crore, an increase of two per cent over the revised estimate of 2025-26. Of this, Rs 4,51,626 crore (73 per cent) will be raised by the state through its own resources, and Rs 1,64,473 crore (27 per cent) will come from the Centre. Resources from the Centre will be in the form of state's share in Central taxes (16 per cent of revenue receipts) and grants (11 per cent of revenue receipts). Maharashtra's total own tax revenue is estimated to be Rs 4,15,498 crore in 2026-27, an increase of one per cent over the revised estimate of 2025-26. Own tax revenue as a percentage of GSDP is estimated at 7.7 per cent in 2026-27, lower than the revised estimates for 2025-26 (8 per cent). As per the actual figures for 2024-25, own tax revenue as a percentage of GSDP was 7.5 per cent.
Officials to face action for breach of privilege: Maharashtra govt issues revised guidelines
Mumbais historic Irani cafe Kyani & Co. has had its FSSAI licence suspended by the Maharashtra FDA after an inspection found rat droppings, live flies, dead cockroaches and other hygiene violations in its food preparation and storage areas. The action followed a statewide festive-season crackdown in which the FDA seized over 50 tonnes of food products and suspended licences of 30 establishments.
Drunk man arrested for flashing passersby, blocking road with car, threatening cops
7 grievously injured in chemical plant reactor blast in Mahad MIDC
US, Iran talks on Strait of Hormuz reopening expected to resume Monday
Mediators are working with the US and Iran on a proposal to end fighting and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to three officials cited by The Associated Press. The proposal could involve lifting the US blockade, easing sanctions and addressing Iran's nuclear programme
Air India CEO-designate Tewolde Gebremariam calls for stronger safety culture
Air India CEO and Managing Director-designate Tewolde Gebremariam has identified safety, operational reliability and sustainable profitability as key priorities. In his first company-wide townhall, he also highlighted network efficiency, customer service, cost discipline and sustainable growth
2,100 birds, 7 cages, 32-hour journey: Mumbai CSMT haul sparks animal cruelty probe
Mumbai: Lizards, cockroaches found at Sweet Mart in Colaba; FDA suspends licence
Maharashtra FDA, led by Tukaram Mundhe, suspended 30 food licences and seized 50,601.78 kg of food products worth Rs 1.19 crore between September 23 and 27. The statewide crackdown uncovered serious hygiene violations, including live lizards and cockroaches at Colaba Sweet Mart
Maha: Pune growth hub strategy targets $200 bn economy, 20 lakh jobs
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) A comprehensive master plan for the holistic development of the Pune Economic Region was presented to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday during a high-level meeting. Formulated under NITI Aayogs Growth Hub initiative, the plan sets an ambitious target to elevate Punes economy to $200220 billion by 2036. The blueprint outlines 58 priority projects, an estimated investment of Rs 910 lakh crore, and the creation of 1520 lakh additional jobs. The vision centres on enhancing public transit, providing affordable housing, and preserving the environment. Currently, Pune contributes 1112 per cent to Maharashtras overall income, with a real economic growth rate of 66.5 per cent. The strategy aims to accelerate this to 10 per cent annually. In alignment with the states vision to build a $5 trillion economy by 2047, the Pune Growth Hub proposes expanding the regions economy from $68 billion in FY 202526 to $200220 billion by FY 203536. The region is home to around 15 million residents. The framework focuses on sustainable, inclusive growth and positions Pune among Asias most liveable metropolitan areas. Six core sectors have been identified: manufacturing, electric vehicles (EV), engineering goods, defence, robotics/drones, electronics/semiconductors, and biotechnology. Key proposals include EV and mobility hubs, high-tech engineering parks, defence technology centres, and AI/Global Capability Centres (GCCs), expected to generate 4-5 lakh high-tech jobs. The plan also aims to expand the local startup count beyond 10,000 and upskill 1.5-2 lakh professionals in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Pune currently has 56 lakh jobs, with projections of 74-76 lakh jobs over the next decade, representing 12-20 lakh net additional opportunities across manufacturing, services, healthcare, education, tourism, agro-processing, and logistics. Tourism development will focus on six thematic circuits, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Fort Circuit (Shivneri, Lohagad, Rajgad, Sinhagad), Pawna and Bhatghar water tourism hubs, Junnar Leopard Safari, a 600 km Sahyadri trekking trail, health and wellness corridors, and entertainment centres. Public transit usage is targeted to rise from 13 per cent to 50 per cent of daily trips. Plans include extending the Pune Metro to 250 km, adding 12,00014,000 buses, developing six multimodal transport hubs, 11 rail projects, and 13 major road expansions. Housing plans involve relocating and rehabilitating 90 per cent of eligible slum dwellers by 2036 and constructing 45 lakh affordable homes, including 1 lakh hostel units for industrial workers. Policy updates will cover semiconductors, industrial housing, MSME development, and tourism. Three bodies will oversee execution: a Governing Council chaired by the Chief Minister, a State Steering Committee chaired by the Chief Secretary, and a Pune Growth Hub Steering Committee with PMRDAs Project Management Cell. The planning process began on August 1, 2025, under NITI Aayogs Growth Hub initiative. NITI Aayog, the Government of Maharashtra, and the Pune International Centre (PIC) jointly drafted it, covering jurisdictions under PMC, PCMC, and PMRDA.
Poland border village on edge as Russian drone threat sparks fresh fears
Residents in eastern Poland are facing growing anxiety as drone and missile alerts disrupt daily life near the Ukrainian border. Recent attacks have prompted stronger air defences, school safety measures and renewed calls for improved civil preparedness across vulnerable communities
Seoul accuses Ukraine of breaking confidentiality deal over North Korean POWs
South Korea demanded an official apology from Ukraine after President Zelenskyy disclosed the transfer of two North Korean POWs to Seoul. The dispute centers on an alleged confidentiality agreement, amid concerns over the soldiers' safety and North Korea's growing military ties with Russia
Russia-Ukraine war: 28 injured in Kharkiv strike, two killed in Kyiv region
At least 28 people, including nine children, were injured in a Russian strike on Kharkiv, Zelenskyy said. Two people were killed in the Kyiv region. Russia said it intercepted 254 Ukrainian drones, while both sides reported damage to infrastructure and other targets.
Maharashtra Government Clarifies Drought Relief Approach: Surveys First, Aid Later
Maharashtras government emphasizes thorough assessments before providing drought relief, ensuring no farmer is overlooked. Maharashtra Government Clarifies Drought Relief Approach: Surveys First, Aid Later
Pune's Chakan, Hinjewadi to get Rs 1,826 cr infrastructure push
Officials said work on several projects is expected to begin from December, with the administration aiming to improve traffic management and stormwater drainage in Chakan before the next monsoon
Bamboo Pitched as Green Gold for Rural India at Mumbai Summit
Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma addresses the inaugural session of the Bamboo Economy & Sustainability Summit 2026 at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake on Sunday. Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 28:
Vikram Solar secures 400 MW module supply order from renowned EPC customer
Vikram Solar has secured a 400 MW module supply order from a highly reputed EPC player for a portfolio of decentralised solar projects being developed across multiple locations in Maharashtra.
Israeli PM Netanyahu reportedly makes secret UAE visit over Iran issue
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly made a secret UAE visit for talks with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, with Iran among the key issues. Neither government confirmed the latest report, amid heightened West Asia tensions and conflicting accounts over an earlier reported visit
Asian Games Medallist Rudrankksh Patil Gets Grand Thane Reception
Indian sport shooter Rudrankksh Patil, a multiple medallist at the ongoing Asian Games, was given a grand civic reception in his hometown of Thane. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde praised his achievements, which include bronze and silver medals at the recent games, and highlighted his inspiring journey for young athletes. The article also notes his past and future successes, including a silver at the 2026 Asian Games.
El Nino threatens rabi crops in rainfed areas, may hit output: Agri Secy
Minister Chouhan says teams to visit Maharashtra & Karnataka soon to assess the drought impact
CBDT extends ITR filing deadline for audit taxpayers to November 21
The CBDT has extended the income-tax return filing deadline for taxpayers covered under audit provisions for AY 2026-27 from October 31 to November 21. The deadline for furnishing tax audit reports has also been extended from September 30 to October 21
Drought: Farmers to get financial aid after crop loss reports, says Bawankule
Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said farmers in the drought-affected areas will not receive immediate financial assistance. He said aid will be released after detailed crop loss panchnamas are completed to ensure accurate assessment and compensation for eligible farmers
Five arrested near RAF Fairford in suspected Iran-linked plot
Five men were arrested near RAF Fairford after suspicious vans and suspected explosives were found, prompting a counter-terror investigation into a possible Iran link. Authorities evacuated nearby residents while examining the vehicles and assessing the potential threat
MPSC State Services Mains Exam Date 2026 - Check Schedule PDF at mpsc.gov.in
MPSC State Services Mains Exam Date 2026: Maharashtra Public Service Commission has announced the Rajyaseva Main Examination 2026 schedule for 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 17, 18, 31 October and 1 November 2026. Check the Question Cum Answer Booklet format, On Screen Marking process, exam dates and important instructions.
No relief for farmers till assessment reports are finalised: Maha Minister
Digital Desk | Yavatmal, Sep 28 (IANS) Despite the state government declaring drought across 75 per cent of Maharashtra, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday clarified that farmers will not receive immediate financial aid. He said disbursements would take place only after complete loss assessment reports (panchnamas) are finalised to ensure no affected farmer is excluded or unfairly compensated. Bawankule, who heads the newly appointed Cabinet Sub-Committee on Drought Relief, explained that premature financial aid without thorough ground reports would ultimately harm farmers. Our goal is to ensure that not a single eligible farmer is excluded. Different crops, such as cotton, soybean, turmeric, sugarcane, horticulture and orange orchards, have distinct damage parameters. Releasing funds today without ground assessments would lead to inaccurate compensation. Comprehensive reports are necessary, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will formally announce the financial package once these are finalised, he said. To streamline the process, the Cabinet Sub-Committee will meet every Tuesday to review the evolving situation across affected districts. Bawankule emphasised that precise ground verification is critical for securing funds under National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) guidelines. He also directed MSEDCL to ensure 12 hours of uninterrupted power supply to agricultural feeders, with power availability issues to be reviewed weekly. Responding to letters from opposition leaders, including NCP chief Sharad Pawar, demanding urgent drought relief, Bawankule said the government had received over 2,000 such letters. Opposition leaders are merely performing their duty by writing letters, but our government is not acting solely because of them, he remarked. He added that the Chief Minister had personally visited farm bunds to assess the situation. Talukas omitted from the drought list would also be evaluated after thorough study. He urged political parties to avoid politicising the crisis and contribute to relief efforts. On protests regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Bawankule accused the Opposition of spreading negativity. After raising baseless doubts about EVMs, they are now targeting the SIR process. What is wrong with ensuring accurate voter lists? he asked, alleging that opposition parties fail to work at the booth level and instead rely on false narratives. He added that voters had rejected misinformation during recent elections, resulting in strong public support for the ruling alliance.
Ktaka BJP demands Shivakumars apology over farmers concerns
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 28 (IANS) Former MLA and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Kisan Morcha State President A.S. Patil Nadahalli on Monday accused the Karnataka government, including Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and ministers, of failing to take the drought situation seriously. He demanded that the Chief Minister apologise to the people for his alleged remarks about farmers during the special Assembly session. Addressing the media at the BJP state office, Jagannath Bhavan in Bengaluru, Nadahalli said the special session convened to discuss the drought was held merely as a formality. He alleged that neither the Chief Minister nor most legislators took the discussion seriously. He said the state was facing a severe drought, with monsoon crops affected by deficient rainfall and the situation likely to worsen without adequate post-monsoon rains. Nadahalli alleged that neither the Revenue Minister nor the Chief Minister provided clear guidance to farmers on measures to deal with the crisis. Only eight to ten MLAs, including Aland MLA B.R. Patil, spoke seriously about the drought. When farmers are facing severe distress, legislators did not participate in the discussion with the seriousness required, he said. Nadahalli stressed that legislators should have discussed the drought on a non-partisan basis, highlighting its varying impact across coastal Karnataka, Malnad, Mysuru-Karnataka and Kittur-Karnataka regions. He alleged that the government failed to discuss preventive measures suited to different regions. This years drought is different and severe. It is a hydrological drought. Earlier droughts were largely confined to agriculture. The legislators have failed to understand the seriousness of the current situation. Lakes have dried up, and groundwater levels have depleted, while water is being stored and used for livestock, he said. On the governments drought relief announcement, Nadahalli criticised the Rs 2,500 assistance announced for farmers. He said when the media asked whether Rs 2,500 was too little, the response was dismissive. They said rice had been provided. But Prime Minister Narendra Modi provided it. They said electricity was being supplied. Farmers are not using that electricity to sleep in air-conditioned rooms. Even electricity is not supplied on time. It is often supplied at 2 or 3 a.m., forcing farmers to go to their fields despite the risk to their lives, he remarked. Nadahalli alleged that the Chief Ministers speech during the session lacked concern for farmers and claimed Shivakumar spoke more about Bengaluru than rural distress. He also accused him of showing a stepmotherly attitude towards North Karnataka, alleging irrigation projects had stalled since Shivakumar became Water Resources Minister. On water resources, Nadahalli said the government should resolve pending legal issues related to land acquisition and alleged that water from the Krishna River could also be supplied to Kolar. He further alleged that Maharashtra was using water through projects on the Bhima and Krishna rivers, affecting Karnatakas share. He questioned the governments expenditure on Cabinet functioning while providing only Rs 2,500 to farmers. The government spends crores on the Cabinet, but gives farmers only Rs 2,500 as relief. When people are suffering, why should ministers and the Chief Minister use government cars? he asked. Nadahalli said the government should have passed a resolution to allocate 10 per cent of its revenue expenditure for farmers, which could have enabled compensation of Rs 50,000 to each affected farmer. He also referred to the Centres Kisan Samman scheme, noting that the central government provides Rs 10,000 annually to farmers. He recalled that during B.S. Yediyurappas tenure as Chief Minister, funds were released from the revenue account during floods, and assistance was provided for irrigation and horticultural crops. Nadahalli demanded that Chief Minister Shivakumar apologise to the people for what he described as derogatory remarks about farmers. BJP Kisan Morcha state general secretary H.C. Kalmurudappa, state vice-presidents Bharati Mallikarjun and Gurulinganagowda, and state secretary R. Rajesh were present.
Maha Congress stages agitation against Gyanesh Kumar
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) on Monday launched massive demonstrations across all district collectorates, demanding the dismissal and arrest of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The party accused him of undermining democratic institutions and manipulating voter rolls to benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Congress leaders described Gyanesh Kumar as a stain on democracy and submitted memorandums outlining grievances to district collectors. The protests featured creative forms of dissent: in Amravati, protesters paraded an effigy of the CEC on a donkey before destroying it; in Thane, demonstrators forced an effigy to do sit-ups (uthak-baithak) as punishment. Large rallies were also held in Pune, Kolhapur, Solapur, Nashik, Nagpur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Chandrapur, Nanded, Latur, Beed, and across the Konkan and North Maharashtra regions. Senior Congress leaders led protests in several districts: Satej Patil in Kolhapur, Praniti Shinde in Solapur, Yashomati Thakur and Balwant Wankhede in Amravati, Kalyan Kale in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Pratibha Dhanorkar in Chandrapur, Ravindra Chavan in Nanded, Shivaji Kalge in Latur, and Kumar Ketkar in Thane. Addressing gatherings, the Congress reiterated allegations earlier raised by Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, about vote theft. The party claimed that over 13 crore voters nationwide, including more than 3 crore in Maharashtra, were arbitrarily removed from electoral rolls under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. It further alleged that 47 lakh untraceable voters were added to Maharashtras rolls ahead of the 2024 assembly polls. Congress spokespersons highlighted reported written dissent from two Election Commissioners over procedural deviations by the CEC, saying it validated their charges of bias. Leaders warned that the agitation would escalate into a national movement unless action were taken against Gyanesh Kumar.
NCP (SP) Warns of Highway Blockade Over Drought Relief Delays in Maharashtra
NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar criticizes Maharashtras government for failing drought relief, threatening to block the expressway if action isnt taken. NCP (SP) Warns of Highway Blockade Over Drought Relief Delays in Maharashtra
Maharashtra AYUSH Admissions 2026 CAP Round 1 selection list is released for 15% AIQ seats in BAMS, BHMS and BUMS. Check allotment details and joining deadline of October 1.
Vikram Solar secures 400 MW module supply order for agri-solar projects in Maharashtra
Vikram Solar has secured a pivotal contract to deliver 400 MW of solar modules to an EPC player, initiating shipments in October 2026 for decentralized solar installations across Maharashtra. This contract underscores the company's commitment to innovation, buoyed by its cutting-edge N-Type TOPCon technology and robust manufacturing skills. As a prominent player in the photovoltaic sector, Vikram Solar's initiative emphasizes solar energy's role in supporting sustainable development for agricultural communities.
Shiv Sena UBT targets EC over SIR, alleges voter disenfranchisement
The editorial criticised Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and alleged that the Election Commission's neutrality had been compromised. It claimed that 13 crore voters in Maharashtra, West Bengal and Bihar were systematically disenfranchised as part of an attempt to influence electoral outcomes
Marathi reality show star held for assaulting ex-hospital chief over Rs 5 lakh demand
Bengaluru: 60-year-old man killed in suspected wild elephant attack
A 60-year-old man was killed in a suspected wild elephant attack near Kengeri in Bengaluru while on a morning walk. Forest officials launched a search after CCTV captured an elephant nearby. His family and locals protested, seeking compensation and action from authorities
Delhi winter pollution plan: Construction curbs, 50 per cent WFH from Nov 1
Delhi Environment Minister announced that dust-generating demolition and outdoor civil construction activities will be prohibited from November 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027, while a complete ban on construction and demolition activities will be imposed from December 10, 2026, to January 20, 2027
Efforts on to discredit me during 90-day period: Jarange
Maratha community would oppose attempts to target him and people associated with the reservation movement, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange said on Monday
Sanjay Raut Accuses Maharashtra Ministers of 900 Crore Land Scam in Konkan
Sanjay Raut claims a 900 crore land scam in Konkan, alleging illegal transfers to non-farmers and calling for transparency from the Maharashtra government. Sanjay Raut Accuses Maharashtra Ministers of 900 Crore Land Scam in Konkan
Latur farmers protest over drought relief, seek more crop-loss aid
The protesters demanded immediate financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh per hectare for crop losses caused by prolonged dry spells and deficient rainfall in the drought-prone Marathwada district
SpaceX Starship Flight 14 to attempt first orbital mission, deploy Starlink V3
According to SpaceX, Flight 14 will also mark the first deployment of Starlink V3 satellites into the constellation. The company says the next-generation satellites will deliver a payload designed to dramatically expand connectivity speeds and reliability around the world
What Fuels Rise In Heart Disease, Cancer? Maharashtra Food Commissioner Explains
Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe shared some insights into his way of working that has grabbed the attention of people and the press
Mumbai weather: IMD forecasts light rain, thundershowers on Monday and Tuesday
Mumbai is likely to receive light rain or thundershowers on Monday and Tuesday, the IMD said. No alert has been issued for the city, while Raigad and several parts of Maharashtra are under a yellow watch for thunderstorms and gusty winds
Rohit Pawar calls Maharashtra drought worse than 1972, seeks farmer relief
NCP MLA Rohit Pawar claimed that Maharashtra was facing agricultural losses of more than Rs 77,000 crore. He described the situation as worse than the historic drought of 1972, citing a rainfall deficit and widespread crop damage
When you cannot convince people, confuse them: Fadnavis hits out at Rahul over SIR
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis accused Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and the Congress of attempting to erode public confidence in constitutional institutions; Opposition parties accepted ECI when they won elections but questioned it after defeats, said Mr. Fadnavis
How To Protect Passwords? What Top Maharashtra Cybersecurity Official Told NDTV
The top official underlined that it is ot the length of the password that matters, but its complexity and robustness.
Water-starved for 25 years, Tulshi shows its anger through 'Village for Sale' poster
Lighthouse Learning Expands Footprint Through Strategic Partnership with The Khaitan School
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Business Wire India
Bombay high court allows release of 200kg Ketamine worth Rs 72 lakh seized from pharma firm
Bangkok floods persist despite easing rain; residents moved to temporary shelter
Thailand's Meteorological Department said moderate to heavy rain was still expected Sunday in several parts of the country, but conditions were expected to improve by Monday. The city set up more than 200 temporary shelters, and about 3,000 people remained in them as of Sunday
Centre to send teams to assess drought in Karnataka, Maharashtra: Shivraj Singh Chouhan
We will send a central team to Karnataka on October 3 to assess the drought situation. I have spoken with the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, who is concerned as well, and we will send a central team there too. I, along with my team, will personally visit the States facing this crisis, Mr. Chouhan said
Maharashtra drought: Sharad Pawar submits 17-point demands to CM Fadnavis
Sharad Pawar sought a waiver of land revenue and agricultural electricity bills, along with the provision of 25 kg of free foodgrains per family and direct financial assistance for affected people
SRIT India Limited IPO Opens on September 28, 2026
Left To Right: Mr. Anuj Killa; Choice Capital Advisors Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Nambiar Raghavan Madhusoodan, SRIT India Limited. Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 28: SRIT India Limited, a Bengaluru-headquartered Information Technology
Dove Soft Limited Sets IPO Price Band at Rs 104 111; Issue to Open on September 30
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 28: Dove Soft Limited is poised for its initial public offering (IPO), with plans to raise Rs 73.26 crores through the issue, which is a combination
Volumes jump at Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Ltd counter
Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Ltd saw volume of 691.36 lakh shares by 14:14 IST on NSE, a 40.56 fold spurt over two-week average daily volume of 17.05 lakh shares
Dipke announces Jail Bharo Andolan on October 2 in Mumbai
Mumbai: Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder and national convenor Abhijeet Dipke on Monday, September 28, said the organisation will hold a Jail Bharo Andolan on October 2 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The development comes as the Mumbai Police denied the CJP permission for a larger protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the Election Commission 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 .
Sanjay Raut alleges Rs 900 crore land scam in Konkan, trains guns at Maha ministers
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 28 (IANS) The Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Maharashtra government, alleging a massive Rs 900 crore illegal land scam in the Konkan region. Addressing a press conference here, Raut claimed that prime agricultural and forest land in the Sindhudurg district has been illegally transferred to wealthy non-agricultural investors from Bengaluru, Delhi, and Hyderabad in violation of land protection laws. Raut alleged that fertile agricultural land across the Vengurla, Sawantwadi, and Dodamarg talukas of Sindhudurg district has been systematically transferred to non-farmers. Under Maharashtra's Prevention of Fragmentation and Consolidation of Holdings Act (Tukde Bandi Act), selling fragmented agricultural land to non-agriculturalists without statutory permissions is prohibited. Raut implicated cabinet ministers and local MLAs representing the Konkan region, accusing them of partnering with outsiders and acting as real estate brokers. A prominent 'Hindutva' cabinet minister from Konkan is acting as an estate agent to hand over local farmers' land to non-locals, he charged, demanding to know the exact commission earned from the deals. He, however, did not mention any names of either the Cabinet Minister or local MLAs. Beyond the Rs 900 crore recorded on paper, substantial unregistered black money changed hands, he alleged, adding that illegal deforestation is underway across the acquired plots while buyers have already seized physical possession. Raut highlighted that Nationalist Congress Party (SP) leader Jayant Patil had previously raised the issue, yet the transactions continued unabated. He accused the state Revenue Department of conducting a sham investigation over the past three years without taking enforcement action. Issuing a direct challenge to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Raut demanded the immediate publication of all land transfer records in Sindhudurg. He urged the government to disclose the names of all buyers, the key facilitators behind the deals, and the ministers or MLAs driving the operations. Raut announced plans to lead a delegation of local Shiv Sena (UBT) workers to inspect the disputed sites in Sindhudurg and expose the extent of the environmental and legal violations on the ground.
Sanjay Raut Alleges Corruption in FDA Operations, Calls for Investigation
Sanjay Raut raises concerns over corruption in the Maharashtra FDA, alleging extortion practices against local businesses. Sanjay Raut Alleges Corruption in FDA Operations, Calls for Investigation
Pune techie dies by suicide months after marriage; husband, in-laws held over 'dowry demand'
Serbia President Aleksandar Vucic resigns to run for PM in October election
Vucic's second presidential term would otherwise end in May next year. He is banned by the Serbian Constitution from seeking a third term and said he was resigning to lead his right-wing Serbian Progressive Party in the October 25 ballot
SC Agrees to Examine Plea against Acquittal of 22 Accused in Sohrabuddin Shaikh Encounter Case
According to the prosecution case, Sohrabuddin, his wife and Prajapati were travelling by bus from Hyderabad to Sangli in Maharashtra when they were allegedly taken into custody by a police team on the night of November 22-23, 2005
FDA officials extorting lakhs from eateries, quick-commerce firms, alleges Raut; seeks probe
Sanjay Raut has accused Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration officials of engaging in extortion against local businesses. He claims that officials are bypassing legal procedures to extract money from hotel and quick-commerce operators. According to Raut, complaints lead to inspections that may not be genuine. He is demanding an independent inquiry and disciplinary action against errant officials. Raut believes that the system's improvement cannot happen without control over FDA officials.
Nepal avalanche: 14-member rescue team searches for 12 missing workers
A 14-member rescue team has begun searching for 12 Nepalese workers and guides who went missing after an avalanche buried a tent at Himlung Himal base camp in Nepals Manang district. Bad weather is hampering the operation
Immediate session with counsellor suggested in exam violation cases
Delhi-NCR rape cases underline law enforcement failure, says Supreme Court
A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and K Vinod Chandran said one cannot help but draw painful parallels o the Nirbhaya incident of 2012.
Medical community can't be attacked: SC cancels Shiv Sena corporator's bail
Asserting that the medical fraternity cannot be touched, the Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Bombay High Court order granting bail to Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre who was accused of assaulting doctors at a municipal hospital in Thane district. The corporator was directed to surrender within three days A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta admitted the Maharashtra government's order appeal for hearing. The message should go out loud and clear that the medical fraternity cannot be touched. They serve people and cannot be attacked in this manner, it said. There was a similar incident involving the same party after the Mhatre episode, the apex court noted. Senior advocate Siddharth Dave, appearing for Mhatre, said two witnesses had already been examined. The complainant, a woman doctor, is to be examined on October 3, the trial has started and there is no obstruction, he said. The bench said the Mhatre incident also shows that he was involved in 19 criminal case
Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Ltd leads gainers in 'A' group
KPI Green Energy Ltd, Elecon Engineering Company Ltd, Mangalore Refinery And Petrochemicals Ltd and Aegis Vopak Terminals Ltd are among the other gainers in the BSE's 'A' group today, 28 September 2026.
