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AIMIM to contest Maharashtra local body polls on large scale
Hyderabad:Riding on the back of its success in the Bihar assembly and the Maharashtra local body polls, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) is now focusing on contesting the municipal corporation elections in the western state on a larger scale. The elections are due to be held next year. The AIMIM released the list of 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 .
Three police inspectors suspended after inter-State drug seizure; journalist booked for extortion
The disciplinary action followed a high-profile operation led by the Maharashtra Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), in coordination with the Bengaluru Police and the Narcotics Control Department, which resulted in the seizure of a large drug consignment
Chinese raisin imports trigger price crash, Maharashtra growers seek govt action
Chinese raisins are exported to Dubai and then routed through Afghanistan into India
Iranna Kadadi meets Om Birla on behalf of Belagavi administration
Earlier, a Maharashtra MP complained to the Speaker against the Deputy Commissioner after a prohibitory order was passed against him
17-yr-olds attack man with sickles, record video of assault
Chennai: Police apprehended four minors on Sunday, December 28, for brutally attacking a 34-year-old man from Maharashtra with sickles and recording the video of the assault in Tamil Nadus Chennai. The incident took place on the evening of December 26 near the railway quarters close to the Tiruttani railway station. Acting on a public alert, 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 .
Pharma company making illegal psychotropic drugs busted in Rajasthan, three arrested
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has busted a major interstate narcotics racket in Rajasthans Bhiwadi, seizing 22 kg of illegal substances and arresting three key accused, marking the second big drug crackdown in a single month. The trail of the investigation led straight into a pharmaceutical factory hiding a narcotics assembly line in the neighbouring state. What looked like a routine industrial unit in Bhiwadis Rocco Eyal area was, in reality, a covert hub manufacturing banned psychotropic drugs for the black market. The operation began quietly, with a tip-off that the company APL Pharma was illegally producing drugs like Azazolam and feeding the supply chain through a key distributor, Sunny Yadav. The information appeared sensitive and explosive, an ATS officer said, so we cross-verified every detail using technical surveillance and human intelligence before moving in. Under the supervision of senior ATS officials and the leadership of the Deputy Superintendent of Police, a dedicated team meticulously mapped the network. Names emerged, links connected, and patterns repeated, pointing to a well-oiled racket rather than a one-off crime. On December 28, the ATS, along with a special unit of the Rajasthan Police, stormed the APL Pharma premises. Inside, officers found a fully functional illegal manufacturing unit. The seizure was massive and alarming -- 22 kilograms of psychotropic substances, including 5 kg of Alprazolam, 17 kg of a combination of Prozepam and Temazepam known for high abuse potential. Three men were taken into custody at the site -- Anshul Shastri (40) from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, Akhilesh Maurya (41) from Takora, Rajasthan, and Krishna Yadav (33), also from Takora. Investigators revealed that Anshul Shastri owned a firm supplying raw materials used to manufacture the illegal drug Azolamide. He allegedly partnered with Akhilesh Maurya to plan and execute large-scale production. This was not experimentation, an officer noted, adding, It was organised manufacturing with clear intent to supply. The drugs were produced at APL Pharma and allegedly sold across various regions, including parts of Maharashtra, through distributors like Sunny Yadav. Money trails, buyer networks, and additional collaborators are now under the scanner, with the ATS convinced that the racket has been operational for a long time. All three accused have been booked under Sections 8 and 22 of the NDPS Act at Vishwa Bhawan Phase-3, UIT Sector-3, Rajasthan. Officials say further arrests are likely as financial records and call data are analysed. Significantly, this is the ATSs second major narcotics bust in December. Earlier this month, a methamphetamine factory in Jodhpur was dismantled, leading to the arrest of six accused and the seizure of 40 kg of drugs and chemicals.
Jammu and Kashmir: Security, weather issues hit Vaishno Devi pilgrimage in 2025
Pilgrim footfall at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine fell sharply in 2025 due to security concerns and prolonged weather disruptions, officials said. The year saw multiple setbacks, with the Pahalgam terror attack in April that left 26 persons dead and prompted heightened security measures across the region
Himachal Pradesh: Manali sex racket busted, two arrested
Police arrested two men from Madhya Pradesh for allegedly running a sex racket in Manali and rescued four women during raids. The accused have been identified as Dharmindra Solanki and Nikki Parmar alias Yogi
North East integral to India: Nagaland minister on racial killing in Uttarakhand
The victim, Angel Chakma (24), a resident of Unakoti district in Tripura, was allegedly attacked on December 9 following an argument at Selakui market in Dehradun
Thick fog reduces visibility at Taj Mahal, grips several UP cities
Dense fog engulfed the Taj Mahal and several cities across Uttar Pradesh as cold wave conditions persisted, affecting visibility and air quality. The city`s air quality was poor this morning, reporting `moderate` conditions in pockets. The Manoharpur area reported an AQI of 234
Congress office in Kerala vandalised, cops launch probe
The incident is believed to have taken place around midnight on Sunday at the Gandhi Mandiram building in Karivellur, near Payyannur. The miscreants reportedly broke open the door, entered the office and caused extensive damage
Apex court stays Delhi HC order suspending Kuldeep Sengars life sentence
Staying the lower courts order, the CJI-led bench noted that the expelled BJP leader is already lodged in jail in connection with another case. The court made it clear that Sengar will not be released from prison
Simhashta Kumbh Mela 2027: Maharashtra govt starts 'Purohit-Kanishtha Sahayak Purohit' course
Maharashtra government is training junior assistant priests for the 2027 Simhashta Kumbh Mela in Nashik. The 21-day course teaches Vedic rituals and mantra chanting to individuals aged 12 to 45 from all communities. Upon completion, candidates receive a certificate to assist or conduct rituals.
AIMIM lists candidates for Thane, Vasai-Virar civic body polls
AIMIM on Monday announced its candidates for the Thane and Vasai-Virar municipal corporation elections as part of its strategy to strengthen its presence in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The party has finalised eight candidates so far, including professionals and doctors
Zomato, Swiggy and other delivery workers on strike on Dec 31: All you need to know
The delivery workers across major e-commerce platforms, including Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, Zepto and Amazon, have announced a nationwide strike on December 31, affecting the celebration on New Year's Eve. The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) will lead the strike, which is reportedly backed by multiple regional collectives, including platform worker unions from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Delhi-NCR, West Bengal and parts of Tamil Nadu.
Lalit Modi apologises after biggest fugitives video with Vijay Mallya
Fugitive businessman Lalit Modi issued an apology after his viral video with Vijay Mallya, in which he referred to both as Indias biggest fugitives, triggered widespread backlash online. The MEA reiterated Indias commitment to bringing back economic offenders
Rohit Pawar clarifies NCP (SP) alliance with Ajit Pawar-led NCP
Ahead of Maharashtra civic polls, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar said the decision to contest Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections jointly with the Ajit Pawar-led NCP was taken at the local level after detailed consultations with grassroots party workers, including MP Supriya Sule
Four juveniles held for attacking Maharashtra youth in Tamil Nadus Tiruvallur
The accused filmed the assault and uploaded the videos on social media platforms in an attempt to make them go viral
Thackeray brothers need Marathi vote consolidation, sizable Muslim and Dalit votes to win BMC polls
MUMBAI: If Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray eye to win the Asias largest civic body (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) polls, the leaders have to repeat Shiv Sena (UBT)'s 2024 Lok Sabha performance. It will help them to win as many as 113 seats out of 227 in the BMC polls. However, Shiv Sena (UBT) had won the three seats out of six Lok Sabha seats while it lost one seat, by 34 votes in Mumbai. Congress's vote base -- Muslim and Dalit -- and Sharad Pawars supporters from the western Maharashtra region who stay in Mumbai, helped to secure several seats. MVA was successful in restrictingthe BJP and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shindes Shiv Sena to one seat each only in the financial capital. In the BMC polls scheduled on January 15 of next year, Congress has refused to be part of the Thackeray brother alliance, over differences in decent space and number of seats. Also, Raj Thackeray's stand against North India is considered problematic for Congresss North Indian voters. Thackerays have joined hands after 20 years, but many challenges loom on the road to the BMC However, the silver lining for Uddhav Thackeray is, Raj Thackeray-led MNS has a seven per cent vote share in Mumbai, which will help them both to fill the gap caused by Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Congress, but that is not enough at all, as there is still a gap of six per cent. Thackerays has to go an extra mile by addressing as many rallies as possible, galvanising the ground network and utilising funds. Only then ther is a possiblity, that they will be able to swing the verdict in their favour. Despite Thackeray's alliance, the BJP is unfazed and is comfortable on the ground as it has 27 per cent vote share in Mumbai, and even DCM Eknath Shinde will pull in at least five per cent vote share. Most likely, the BJP and Shiv Sena will march towards a historic win in this closely contested BMC election. Shinde led Shiv Sena has won the six state assembly seats in Mumbai, while BJP had won 15, and DCM Ajit Pawar led NCP has won one seat; therefore, arithmetically, BJP and Shiv Sena are unperturbed. The split in Maha Vikas Aghadi has boosted the confidence of the BJP and its Gujarati, Marwari and North Indian vote bank in Mumbai remains unaffected. However, the opposition are getting divided into multiple forces. Meanwhile, if Muslim and Dalit votes get divided among the Thackerays, Congress, NCP SP, Samajwadi Party, MIM, then it will be difficult to repeat the Lok Sabhas template again in BMC polls. Congress, VBA seal alliance for BMC polls Uddhav Thackeray banks on his work during Covid-19, urges people to vote for Sena (UBT) in BMC election
MUMBAI: Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has decided to bank on the Covid-19 period work during his tenure and unfold his party campaign around it for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election scheduled for January 15, 2026. The Shiv Sena (UBT) president released a 40-page booklet, named Mumbai Model, that highlights the then government's effort to contain the spread of Covid-19 in Dharavi, Asias largest slum, located in Mumbai. The Mumbai Model has mentioned the detailed work carried out by the BMC and the Maharashtra government during the pandemic. Thackeray also said that his decision to appoint Iqbal Chahal as commissioner of BMC was a game-changer as he had full authority to make decisions to contain the spread of thevirus. Chahal's book references were also given in this booklet. Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray cemented the alliance for the BMC elections, where the Shiv Sena (UBT) is likely to contest 150 seats, while Raj Thackeray-led MNS will contest 77 seats in Mumbai for the BMC polls. According to the booklet, Uddhav Thackeray has worked as a next-doorfamily member who sincerely put in all effort to save as many lives and contain Covid-19 from spreading in Mumbai and Maharashtra. It also has the anecdotes of prominent and renowned people, including senior journalist Kumar Ketkar, common citizens, and businessmen appreciating the work of the erstwhile government under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray. The Mumbai Model also mentioned that when everyone was afraid to come out of their houses, Uddhav Thackeray led the state by starting several Covid-19 treatment camps across the state, where apart from medical treatment, food and other facilities were provided free of cost. Besides, Thackeray also connected with each citizen of Maharashtra through his Facebook live and became a member of thousands of families. Thackeray also opened a war room, a dashboard to monitor the patients' treatments, occupancy, and availability of the beds in respective hospitals. He also ensured no patient should suffer due to the non-supply of oxygen, medicine, etc. The work during the pandemic was carried out as a mission under the banner of My Family My responsibility. The booklet also said that without any delay, erstwhile CM Uddhav Thackeray formed the health task force, where health experts were appointed as members to advise the chief minister with real-time information. The purpose of this task force was to save as many lives as possible and give confidence to the people who were in panic in a pandemic situation. The booklet has several photographs aimed at reminding people of Thackeray's work for BMC, urging them to cast their vote for his party in the upcoming election, which is seen as a close contest against the BJP and Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.
Man posing as ticket inspector nabbed on express train in Thane district
Thane: A 27-year-old man was arrested after he was caught masquerading as a railway ticket inspector onboard an express train in Maharashtras Thane district, the government railway police said on Monday. The incident occurred on the Tapovan Express plying between Manmad and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on December 26, an official said. Surendra Rajendra 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 .
Former Nepal PM Baburam Bhattarai critiqued South Asia's political economy at IIT Bombay, attributing poverty and instability to extractive institutions and weak democracies. He highlighted Nepal's lessons from its turbulent history, emphasizing the need for inclusive institutions and structural reforms for regional prosperity and cooperation.
Western Railway celebrated a remarkable 2025, achieving full Broad Gauge electrification and a 97% punctuality rate for Mail/Express services. Digital ticket checking reached 100%, and safety was bolstered by numerous bridge constructions and level crossing eliminations. The year also saw the inauguration of a major loco manufacturing facility and technological advancements in traction systems.
Congress warns real estate development will harm the Aravalli ecosystem
The Congress alleged that real estate development, apart from mining, being opened up by the double-engine government will cause further harm to the fragile Aravalli ecosystem. Congress general secretary and former environment minister Jairam Ramesh said this is being done against the recommendations of the Forest Survey of India
Flight cancellations and trains delayed due to poor visibility conditions
Severe fog led to the cancellation of 128 flights at Delhi airport and caused widespread delays in train services across several parts of the country. Visibility levels at the airport dropped sharply to around 125 metres, significantly impacting flight movements
A shocking domestic dispute in Palghar's Virar West led to the alleged murder of 35-year-old Kalpana Soni. Her husband, Mahesh Soni, and sister-in-law, Deepali Soni, were arrested after a heated argument over dowry turned violent. The victim was reportedly attacked with a sharp weapon, and despite initial claims of an accident, medical reports confirmed foul play.
Bombay HC quashes sexual assault FIR in online matrimony case after settlement
The Bombay High Court quashed a sexual assault FIR under Section 69 of the BNS after parties settled amicably. The case involved a woman alleging a physical relationship induced by a marriage promise via a matrimonial website. The complainant later stated the dispute was resolved, leading the court to halt proceedings as they served no useful purpose.
Bengaluru Police, Maharashtra Task Force Seize Mephedrone Worth 1.2 Cr
The seizure was made with the support of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB)
Mumbai tops education department digitisation drive at 60%, several districts below 1%
Mumbai leads Maharashtra in digitizing education department employee records, uploading nearly 60% of data to the Shalarth portal. This statewide initiative aims to consolidate scattered legacy records for staff appointed before 2016, addressing past irregularities and improving administrative efficiency. However, progress is uneven, with several districts showing minimal compliance.
Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena faction accused the Congress of ackstabbing by allying with the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi for the BMC polls. Leader Anand Dubey warned of a Congress-mukt Mumbai and invoked the Mahabharata to describe the unity of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, vowing to defeat dissenters.
Ajit Pawar Announces NCP Alliance With Sharad Faction | Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Polls
| Ajit Pawar announced an alliance between his NCP and the Sharad Pawar-led faction for the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation polls, saying the Pawar 'parivar' has reunited.In a major political development ahead of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) polls, Ajit Pawar has announced an alliance between his Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP faction, declaring that the Pawar parivar has reunited. The announcement signals a dramatic shift in Maharashtras political landscape, especially in the crucial urban civic battleground of Pimpri-Chinchwad.The reunion comes after months of political uncertainty and factional rivalry within the NCP, raising key questions about seat-sharing, leadership equations, and the impact on rival parties ahead of the civic elections. Political observers say this alliance could significantly alter vote dynamics in one of Maharashtras most politically influential municipal corporations. n18oc_indiaNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Delhi chokes under `severe` air quality, thick layer of smog engulfs city
The national capital was blanketed in thick smog on Monday morning, with the overall AQI recorded at 402 at 7 a.m., placing it firmly in the severe category
Jacuzzis, juice bars and Gen Z: Inside India's new-age luxury student housing boom
Student housing in India is undergoing a significant transformation, moving beyond basic hostels to offer luxury amenities like rooftop pools and concierge services. Driven by Gen Z's evolving expectations and a growing student population, professionally managed residences are booming, attracting substantial investor interest and bridging the gap in on-campus accommodation.
Parivar together: Ajit Pawar announces alliance with NCP(SP) for Pimpri-Chinchwad civic polls
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday announced an alliance between his NCP faction and the NCP (SP) led by his uncle Sharad Pawar for the Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections, saying the parivar (family) has come together. Speaking at a campaign event in Pimpri-Chinchwad ahead of the January 15 polls, Ajit Pawar said, For the sake of these municipal elections, the clock and the tutari (trumpet) have come together. The parivar has united. He urged party workers to focus on development work and avoid making controversial statements during rallies. We are the ones working for progress. We will ensure those who tried to burden the municipal corporation with debt are pushed out, he added. Meanwhile, talks are ongoing between the two NCP factions for a potential tie-up for the Pune Municipal Corporation polls. Earlier on Sunday, the Pawar family was in Baramati, where industrialist Gautam Adani inaugurated the Sharadchandra Pawar Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence. Elections to 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, including Pimpri-Chinchwad and Pune, are scheduled for January 15, with counting set for the following day. The last date to file nominations is December 30.
Shiv Sena (UBT) and Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) will contest the Jalgaon Municipal Corporation elections together. The alliance has finalized seat distribution for the upcoming polls. Discussions are also underway with Congress and other like-minded parties. This move signals shifting alliances in Maharashtra's local body elections.
One dead after two helicopters collide midair in New Jersey
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the aircraft, an Enstrom F-28A and an Enstrom 280C, collided in mid-air at about 11:25 a.m. Only the pilots were on board the helicopters when they struck each other. Both helicopters came down in an open field in Hammonton
Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed, Trump says after talks with Zelenskyy
Trump had a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin just before talks with Zelenskyy, which he later called very productive
One killed as Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express train catches fire in Andhra Pradesh
The deceased was identified as Chandrsekhar Sundaram. The two damaged coaches were detached from the train, which proceeded towards Ernakulam
North Korea says it tested long-range strategic cruise missiles
The official Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim expressed great satisfaction over Sunday`s launches, which occurred off the country`s west coast
'Parivar Together': Pawars Reunite For Pimpri-Chinchwad Civic Polls
Elections to 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, including the Pimpri-Chinchwad and Pune civic bodies, will be held on January 15.
Bengaluru becoming drug den as cops in slumber: BJP
BENGALURU: The BJP has publicly commented on the recent drug seizures, particularly the Maharashtra Anti-Narcotics Task Forces busting of three illegal mephedrone a narcotic drug manufacturing units in Bengaluru on Saturday and Sunday and seizing contraband expected to be worth about Rs 56 crore, as well as on the broader drug menace in the state. BJP president BY Vijayendra said, Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, now being described as a drug hub is not just alarming, but a testimony to the collapse of law and order. After Mysuru, the Maharashtra police have now detected three drug factories in Bengaluru itself. Does this mean our states intelligence department and police machinery are sleeping? Do you have even the slightest concern for our children and youth? Vijayendra added, Our police system must act immediately, without allowing any political interference. I urge the state government to take immediate action. Former DCM and senior BJP MLA CN Ashwath Narayan and Leader of Opposition in the Assembly R Ashoka said it was a failure of the Congress government that Maharashtra police had to expose functional narcotic factories in Bengaluru, while the states own police and intelligence were unaware of their existence.
Organ donation pledges go up, but Kerala far behind top states
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Organ donation pledges in Kerala rose in 2025, crossing the 10,000-mark with around 6,000 new commitments in the year. The whopping 161% surge also improved the states national ranking from 13 to 10. However, Kerala remains far behind states such as Maharashtra and Rajasthan, which registered nearly one lakh pledges each, underscoring a gap between its reputation as a health pioneer and actual performance. Experts caution that the improvement is built on a low baseline; for a state that has long projected itself as a leader in public health, the numbers remain modest. They argue that sustained awareness campaigns, particularly among youth organisations, are essential if Kerala is to match its stature in the national health index. The revival of pledges comes after years of stagnation and controversy surrounding the cadaver donation programme. In 2024, Kerala recorded just 11 donations, a six-year low, while only 3,000 individuals registered through the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) platform by December. This year, pledges have coincided with a rise in donations. The state recorded 22 cadaver donations, highest in nine years. Officials at the Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (K-SOTTO) said pledging of organs picked up pace in the last 3-4 months, with Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kollam leading Aadhaar-based registrations. The increase in organ donation pledges is a reflection of the change in public attitude towards the programme, said Dr Noble Gracious, the K-SOTTO executive director. He noted that pledges were made from people across the state. And while the 30-45 age group led in 2024, this year the 18-30 age group took the lead. Families, once hesitant, have also begun honouring pledges as was seen in the case of A R Aneesh, a 38-year-old assistant prison officer from Thiruvananthapuram, whose family donated nine organs, including his heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas, hand and corneas, in October.
Insider track | NIA boss wanted, CVs welcome
The race to find the next National Investigation Agency chief has picked up pace after DG Sadanand Vasant Date was sent back to his home cadre. The 1990-batch officer, feted for his role during 26/11, is now widely tipped to take over as Maharashtra DGP. Names are now being tossed around in closed-door meetings for his successor. Intelligence Bureau chief Tapan Kumar Dekas name did surface, despite him already enjoying two extensions till June 2026. But the mood in government circles favours a 1994-batch officer with solid anti-terror credentials. Several Special DGs in paramilitary forces exist on paper, but none seem to have made the cut. R&AW officers are also being kept out, with continuity preferred amid a fast-changing geopolitical backdrop. Spotlight on Bengals new variable As West Bengal heads toward the 2026 Assembly elections, political attention is turning to Humayun Kabir. The suspended TMC leader, now leading his Janata Unnayana Party, is drawing crowds, particularly among Muslim voters, and plans to contest every Muslim-majority seatincluding TMC strongholds like Ballygunge. Delhi circles are debating whether Kabir could play a role similar to AIMIM in Bihar, splitting the opposition vote and indirectly helping the BJP. While the saffron party remains publicly quiet, opposition leaders worry that Kabirs rise could chip away at the TMCs support more than challenge the BJP. With a new political dynamic emerging, his presence is set to reshape the electoral landscape and make several closely fought constituencies more unpredictable in 2026. Pay panel without a pay office The 8th Central Pay Commission has been announced, named, and chaired, but it still doesnt know where to sit. More than a month after its constitution under former Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, the commission has not been allotted office space. This is despite a looming deadline, as the 7th Pay Commission expires on December 31, 2025, with revised salaries due from January 1, 2026. Though the panel has an 18-month window to submit recommendations, it hasnt formally begun work. Whispers in bureaucratic corridors suggest the delay is tactical: a pay award announcement closer to the 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections, followed by payouts with arrears nearer the 2029 Lok Sabha polls, could be politically convenient. Extension denied, contract supplied The Centre may have said no, but UPs Yogi Adityanath government has proved that administrative detours are always available. After the Union Home Ministry rejected the proposal to extend Prashant Kumars tenure as DGP, the state quietly brought him back on a three-year contract. The 1990-batch retired IPS officer is the new chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Education Service Selection Commission, which handles recruitment for secondary and higher education teachers. The timing is telling, with the state keeping a close watch on the 2027 Assembly elections. The UPESSC itself is a relatively new creation, formed in 2024 by merging two education recruitment bodies. The message from Lucknow is unmistakable: denial in Delhi does not always mean retirement at home. CWC meets, pens nearly fly The Congress Working Committee meeting had more sparks than planned, and not all of them came from Digvijay Singhs comments on the RSS and BJP. A pointed exchange between Shashi Tharoor and party spokesperson Pawan Khera also raised eyebrows. Tharoor reportedly pressed Khera to detail his public allegations about goings-on in the Prime Ministers Office, linked to claims involving former IAS officer Navneet Sehgal. Khera is said to have explained his position during the meeting, but his parting quip Why dont you also write about it? didnt go unnoticed. Some leaders saw it as a swipe at Tharoors prolific writing and social media posts praising Prime Minister Modi, which have made sections of the party visibly uncomfortable.
Make sure to enjoy New Years Eve on a safe note
Police patrols are a must. What we need is a change in mindset, where women are respected in all spaces
Tackling one problem at a time
Now that India is the worlds fourth-largest economy, we can soon start hoping for running water in this city
Tourists rush to Kashmir after heavy snowfall
SRINAGAR: Fresh snowfall across higher reaches and key tourist destinations in Kashmir has revived the Valleys tourism sector, which had suffered a major setback following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. North Kashmirs ski resort Gulmarg has emerged as the biggest beneficiary, with hotels reporting full occupancy for the New Year period. Blanketed in thick snow after last weeks heavy spell, the first major snowfall of the winter season, Gulmarg has witnessed a sharp surge in tourist arrivals, far exceeding industry expectations. The snowfall has had a very positive and significant impact on winter tourism. All hotels in Gulmarg are sold out. We were not expecting such a rush, but tourist inflow has surpassed our expectations, Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) president Farooq Ahmad Kuthoo said. He added that the snowfall has prompted travellers to reconsider their winter plans, resulting in a noticeable increase in enquiries for January and February as well. These are encouraging signs for the tourism industry, Kuthoo added. Echoing similar sentiments, Mukhtar Ahmad Shah, a hotelier in Gulmarg, said tourist sentiment has improved significantly after the snowfall. Earlier, people were hesitant to visit, but snowfall has changed the mood of travellers. With another spell of snowfall forecast around New Years Eve, Shah said prospects for the rest of the winter look promising. Tourists visiting Gulmarg described the experience as unforgettable. A group from Hyderabad said the snow-covered meadows and peaks offered a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This truly feels like paradise on earth. The hospitality of the people makes the visit even more special, they said. TAAK secretary general and tour operator Sajad Kralyari said bookings have risen sharply after the snowfall. Tourist footfall in the Valley has increased from around 20 per cent to nearly 4045 per cent, and Gulmarg is witnessing near-total occupancy, he said. Tourists from south Indian states, Maharashtra and Gujarat are arriving in large numbers to enjoy snowfall and winter sports such as skiing. Sajad added that visitors from Malaysia, Vietnam and other foreign countries have also reached Kashmir, and foreign tourist inflow could rise further if snowfall conditions remain favourable for skiing. Tourism stakeholders said sustained snowfall could help the sector recover steadily after months of uncertainty. More snow could strengthen the winter season and pave the way for a better summer ahead, they said.
President Droupadi Murmu undertakes submarine sortie onboard INS Vaghsheer
Murmu is the second President to undertake a submarine sortie. In February 2006, APJ Abdul Kalam, the former president of India, experienced a submarine sortie onboard INS Sindhu Raksha
Protesters clash with police in Chhattisgarhs Raigarh, vehicles torched
The mob also stormed into the coal handling plant of Jindal Power Limited, and torched a conveyor belt, two tractors and other vehicles, besides vandalising the office premises on Saturday, the officials informed
Brigitte Bardot, French film icon and animal rights activist, passes away at 90
French actor-turned animal activist Brigitte Bardot passes away at 91 in southern France; no cause of death provided by her foundation
Extinct flat-headed cat reappears in Thailand after 30 years
Notably, the sighting involved more than a single individual. The last recorded sighting of this pescatarian, house-cat-sized feline near the Thailand-Malaysia border occurred in 1995
Bangladesh: Hadi murder suspects fled to India, claim police
Hadi, 32, was shot in the head on December 12 during an election campaign in Dhaka. He was airlifted to Singapore for advanced treatment but died of his injuries on December 18.
Maharashtra's anti-drug unit, in a joint operation with Bengaluru police, seized raw materials worth Rs 1.2 crore intended for drug manufacturing. Four individuals were arrested in Maharashtra, Belagavi, and Bengaluru following the apprehension of a key peddler in Mumbai. Karnataka's Home Minister clarified the seized items were precursors, not finished drugs, emphasizing intensified anti-drug efforts.
J&K Tennis Ball Cricket trials on Jan 4, 5
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 28: The J&K Tennis Ball Cricket Association will conduct two-day selection trials for the 36th Senior National Tennis Ball Cricket Championship (Men & Women) at MA Stadium, Jammu, on January 4 and 5. The trials aim to select J&K UT senior teams for the championship scheduled in Nagpur, Maharashtra, from January 19 to 22, 2026. Interested players must report on 4th January at 10:30 am in proper kit to Gulshan Rattan (Incharge, Selection Trials, Mob. [] The post J&K Tennis Ball Cricket trials on Jan 4, 5 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Veteran Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan gives away hampers to fans at his residence Jalsa
Veteran Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan gives away hampers to fans at his residence Jalsa, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, on Sunday. (PTI)
Mumbai: NCP Unveils 37 BMC Candidates, Malik Kin Get Tickets
Maharashtra Public Service Commission exam changes to be applied from March 1, 2026
Mumbai man booked after teen nephew rams car into scooter
Vulture released in Pench reserve flies 750 km in 17 days to reach Nashik
Mumbai: A long-billed vulture named J132 that was released in Maharashtras Pench Tiger Reserve earlier this month has travelled nearly 750 km in 17 days and reached close to Anjaneri hills near Trimbakeshwar in Nashik district, officials said on Sunday. The vulture was released on December 11 as part of a conservation programme jointly run [] The post Vulture released in Pench reserve flies 750 km in 17 days to reach Nashik appeared first on The Navhind Times .
Navi Mumbai: Labourer arrested for sexually assaulting 9-year-old neighbour
Driver crushes sleeping woman with bulldozer in Mumbai, booked for negligence
Mumbais election staffers assaulted, FIR filed
Congress, VBA seal alliance for BMC polls
MUMBAI: The Congress party and Dalit leader Prakash Ambedkar-led Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) on Sunday cemented the alliance for Brihanmumbai Municipal corporation (BMC) elections in Mumbai. According to the alliance agreement, out of total 227 seats of BMC, the VBA will contest the 62 Seats while remaining 165 seats will be contested by the Congress party. The alliance between Congress and VBA was agreed in the presence of Maharashtra Congress President Harshvardhan Sapkal and VBA State Vice President Dr Dhairyavardhan Pundkar. Maharashtra Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal called this alliance as a new Chapter in state politics. Sapkal said Congress and the VBA had agreed to an alliance for the BMC, while decisions on the remaining 28 municipal corporations in the state would be taken at the local level. He said the announcement, made on the Congress partys foundation day, was significant for the alliance. The alliance between the Congress and the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi is a natural one. Both parties share the same ideological foundation. Both are committed to constitutional values and to building an India envisioned by the Constitution. Their stance on equality, fraternity, and social justice is identical, and neither party is willing to compromise on constitutional principles, he added. He further said that both the parties allied in 1998 and 1999 elections. Now, after 25 years, we have come together once again. While the process took some time, a new chapter begins from today, Sapkal added. This is not a game of numbers, but a meeting of ideas. Meanwhile, Pundkar said that both parties have come together to stop the divisive and destructive politics of the BJP. He noted that Harshvardhan Sapkal took the first step towards the alliance and maintained a positive approach from the very beginning. Pundkar also said that the party will contest 62 seats in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation. VBA Vice President Siddharth Mokale said that discussions on seat-sharing in any alliance are rarely fully satisfactory, but a consensus must be reached at some point. He stated that positive discussions took place from both sides for the alliance. While the alliance for the Mumbai Municipal Corporation has been announced today, decisions regarding other municipal corporations will be taken positively by the local leadership of both parties, Mokale said.
Mumbai: Woman dies and two remain critical after fire breaks out in Andheri East chawl
Fire erupts in commerical building in Santacruz East, no injuries reported
Forest department increases vigilance after fresh leopard sighting near Thane-Mulund fringes
Newlywed Bengaluru Couple Dies By Suicide 2 Days And 1,000 km Apart
A man travelled from Bengaluru to a hotel more than a thousand kilometres away in Maharashtra's Nagpur, where he died by suicide on Saturday. His mother, who accompanied him on the journey, also attempted suicide and remains in critical condition.
Khopoli murder case: Ninth accused held, 5 more accused, including two assailants are at large
Indian-American Sanjay Mehrotra recognised among worlds top executives of 2025
Sanjay Mehrotra, the Indian-American CEO of Micron Technology, has been recognised among the worlds top-performing executives of 2025 by The Economist for steering the company through global challenges and AI-driven opportunities
AQI Worsens Even as Mumbai Enjoys Cooler Temperatures
Fadnavis kicks off Maha Marathon 2025 on concluding day of Gadchiroli Festival
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attended the concluding day of the Gadchiroli Festival and flagged off the Maha Marathon 2025, which saw over 14,000 participants competing in races from 3 km to 21 km, alongside cultural events and sports competitions
Aam Aadmi Party announces third list of candidates for Mumbai civic polls
Maharashtra police bust three illegal drug manufacturing units in Bengaluru
Four accused held; synthetic drugs worth crores seized
Spot the Lake contest highlights Powai hyacinth crisis and civic inaction
Books over screen time: A 7 pm siren is changing habits in Maharashtras Beed
Beed: Nagapur village in Parli tehsil of Beed district in Maharashtra has launched a unique initiative to inculcate the habit of study among students hooked to gadgets and television. Under the Siren Blows for Study Campaign, students across the village drop their gadgets and pick up their books for two hours of dedicated study every 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 .
13k duplicate voters found and verified in Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections
Pharma firms finance president steps down, cites Delhi pollution for decision
Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Ltd has informed the NSE and BSE that its PresidentFinance and senior management personnel, Rajkumar Bafna, has resigned with effect from December 31, citing personal reasons in the regulatory filing
Mumbai civic polls: Shiv Sena, BJP seat sharing talks in final stages, says minister
Mumbai: Seat-sharing talks between the Shiv Sena and the BJP for the January 15 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections are in the final stages, Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant has said. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Sawant said it is certain that the polls will be contested by the ruling parties as Mahayuti, and exuded confidence that 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 .
Seeds of tomorrow will be sown in algorithms: Gautam Adani at AI centre launch in Baramati
Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani inaugurated the Sharadchandra Pawar Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence in Baramati, Maharashtra. The Adani Group has partnered with Vidya Pratishthan to enhance AI collaboration, emphasizing the transformative potential of AI for India's progress and capability building.
Senior cops' weekly check-ins at police stations boost case detection, cut pendency in Maharashtra
Senior police officers in Maharashtra are now visiting police stations weekly. This initiative is helping solve old cases and reduce pending investigations. The program ensures that case files are reviewed regularly. This has led to increased detection rates and more professional police work. Citizens can also meet officers with their grievances during these visits.
Mumbai chawl fire: Woman dies after blaze in Andheri East, 2 others critical
A 45-year-old woman has died from injuries sustained in a chawl fire in Andheri East last week. The blaze, which broke out on December 21, was confined to a single room. Two other residents remain in critical condition in the ICU.
Dense smog engulfs Delhi as air quality remains in severe category
Thick smog combined with fog trapped pollutants near the surface, reducing visibility and disrupting daily life as residents woke up to chilly conditions
ICAI reschedules CA Intermediate exam Paper 5 for 2026: Check revised date and official notice here
ICAI has rescheduled the CA Intermediate Group II, Paper 5 (Auditing and Ethics) exam from January 15, 2026, to January 19, 2026. This change is due to Maharashtra Municipal Corporation elections. All other exam dates remain unchanged, and existing admit cards will be valid. Candidates should check the official ICAI website for updates.
How Maharashtras natural farming can make India global leader in medicinal, aromatic plants
With strategic policy support, sustainable practices, and robust farmermarket linkages, Maharashtra can help India emerge a trusted global supplier
