Maharashtra Day 2026 falls on Friday, May 1st, coinciding with Labour Day and Buddha Purnima, creating a significant long weekend. Celebrations will highlight the state's formation in 1960, its cultural heritage, and regional identity with parades and cultural events across Maharashtra.
Maharashtra Governor inaugurates AIU 100th annual conference in Pune
The event brings together key academic leaders and policymakers to discuss critical issues such as internationalisation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and the role of emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing in higher education
Maharashtra Day 2026: Whats open, whats closed, and what travellers should know
Maharashtra Day on May 1st commemorates the state's formation in 1960. In 2026, it falls on a Friday, creating a long weekend. While government offices, banks, and liquor shops will be closed, tourist spots and public transport will operate. Visitors should anticipate crowds and potential traffic diversions in Mumbai due to parades and celebrations.
Invest India facilitated grounding of projects worth $6.1 billion in 2025-26: Govt.
Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh emerged as key hubs in 2025-26, it said
Kharat sent to judicial custody till May 12 in 8th sexual exploitation case
On April 29, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Nashik police filed an application seeking Kharats custody in the eighth case
Bouquets and brickbats: BJP welcomes ex-minister Kadu as ally
Bacchu Kadu joins Maharashtra's ruling alliance with Shiv Sena. The BJP welcomed him but pointed out his history of changing political sides. Kadu, who heads Prahar Janshakti Paksh, will contest the Legislative Council elections. His political journey has seen him align with various parties for electoral gains. He now joins the Mahayuti coalition.
Congress decides to not contest Maharashtra Legislative Council polls; to support MVA candidate
The Congress had said it would contest the polls, however, appears to have relented after a call between the partys Maharashtra in-charge Ramesh Chennithala and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray
The Maharashtra FDA faces delays in testing food samples linked to four suspected watermelon poisoning deaths. Investigators are further hindered by a sudden market shortage of watermelons, impacting crucial sampling efforts. Police await forensic and FDA reports as vendors avoid selling the fruit due to public panic and police questioning.
Bengaluru rain fury: Six-year-old among 10 killed in severe downpour
The downpour, coupled with a hailstorm and gusty winds, uprooted trees, flooded key stretches, and threw traffic out of gear. Large parts of the city witnessed sudden, intense rainfall for nearly an hour, bringing down trees and electric poles, crushing parked vehicles
Mumbai-Pune expressways biggest upgrade yet | Missing Link project explained | Pulse Maharashtra
The most-anticipated infrastructure project, the Mumbai-Pune Missing Link, reducing the travel time by half an hour, is all set to be inaugurated on May 1.
Madhya Pradesh: Six killed in Dhar road accident after SUV and pickup collide
At least 16 people were killed after a pickup van carrying 35 passengers overturned and collided with an SUV in Madhya Pradeshs Dhar. The condition of 8 to 10 patients remains extremely critical a doctor said, as authorities launched a probe into the tragedy
Direct rail link to Valley to start May 2, boosting tourism and connectivity
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar, with services set to begin on May 2. The all-weather rail link is expected to cut travel time, boost tourism, and improve connectivity to the Kashmir Valley
SC reserves verdict on Pawan Kheras plea against denial of anticipatory bail
The Supreme Court has reserved its verdict on Congress leader Pawan Kheras plea against the Gauhati High Courts denial of anticipatory bail in a case linked to alleged remarks against the Assam CMs wife. The hearing saw arguments over defamation, forgery claims, and the need for custodial interrogation
Jiya Jacob, 11th accused in suspected drug overdose case, sent to judicial custody
Jiya Jacob, the 11th accused in a drug overdose case that killed two MBA students, was remanded to judicial custody. Police are searching for her live-in partner, Mahesh Khemlani, who allegedly transferred Rs 14.95 lakh into Jacob's account, suspected to be drug proceeds. Jacob, a bar dancer, has been uncooperative.
CISF personnel, two others killed after truck overturns on autorickshaw in Bihar
The accident took place near Gauchhari village under the Maheshkhunt police station limits when the truck driver reportedly lost control, causing the vehicle to topple onto its side
Former MLA Bachchu Kadu joins Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena for Maharashtra MLC polls
Former MLA Bachchu Kadu has officially joined Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena, securing a nomination for the MLC polls. Kadu stated Shinde accepted his conditions, including farmer welfare and strengthening the Divyang ministry. His Prahar Janshakti Party will continue its social work, while political members will now support Sena.
From Honey Singh to Badshah and Nora Fatehi: Are objectionable songs influencing youth behaviour?
Authorities across India are taking action against songs and content deemed vulgar and glorifying crime, leading to takedowns and FIRs. This crackdown, involving police, courts, and regulatory bodies, sparks debate on balancing creative freedom with social responsibility, particularly concerning youth influence.
May 2026 offers numerous holidays and long weekends across India, featuring religious festivals like Buddha Purnima and Id-ul-Zuha, alongside state-specific observances like Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day. Many schools will also be closed for summer vacations during the month due to rising temperatures.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi slams Haj airfare hike, seeks rollback of circular
He pointed out that the additional charge is being imposed after Rs 90,844 per pilgrim has already been collected from those departing from Mumbai, raising concerns over the financial burden on those undertaking the pilgrimage
No more fake paneer on your plate: Maharashtra mandates full disclosure from May 1
Mumbai diners will soon know if their paneer is dairy-based or a vegetable oil substitute. Maharashtra's FDA mandates eateries to clearly label analogue paneer or cheese analogue from May 1. This move aims to boost transparency, protect consumers from misleading descriptions, and empower informed choices about what they eat.
'Missing Link' to reshape MMR realty map; KarjatLonavala emerge as Mumbai 3.0 hotspots
Mumbai's real estate is set for a major shift as the new Mumbai-Pune Expressway bypass, the Missing Link, promises to slash travel times. This development is expected to boost areas like Karjat and Lonavala, attracting buyers with improved connectivity, affordability, and a better quality of life. The project, alongside other infrastructure upgrades, is driving decentralisation and creating new growth corridors.
West Asia tension clouds Indias FY27 growth outlook, says Finance Ministry
Indias FY27 growth outlook (77.4 pc) is under pressure from the West Asia conflict, which may drive inflation, raise costs and slow demand, though domestic fundamentals remain supportive
Exit polls: BJP to win Assam, has edge in Bengal; DMK to return in Tamil Nadu
Exit polls on Wednesday predicted a thumping victory for the BJP in Assam and a clear edge for the party over the ruling TMC in West Bengal. The polls also project a return of the DMK government in Tamil Nadu and a likely comeback for the Congress-led UDF in Kerala after 10 years
Vietnam President To Lam to visit India on PM Modis invite
Vietnam President To Lam will visit India from May 5 to 7 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit, marking 10 years of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, will include high-level talks, ceremonial events, and visits to key locations like Bodh Gaya and Mumbai
Twenty-five injured as truck hits Char Dham Yatra bus in Madhya Pradesh
Around 25 passengers were injured after a truck rammed into a bus carrying Char Dham Yatra pilgrims in Madhya Pradeshs Shajapur district. The injured were rushed to hospital, while the truck driver and cleaner fled the scene
IMD predicts moderate to heavy rain across Western Ghats, South TN
The IMD has predicted moderate to heavy rainfall across parts of Tamil Nadu, especially in Western Ghats districts and southern coastal regions, due to a low-pressure trough. Heavy showers are expected in Nilgiris and Coimbatore, with several other districts likely to see rain over the coming days
MSBSHSE HSC Class 12 result 2026 DigiLocker: Are the results of Maharashtra HSC coming soon? A fresh update from DigiLocker has sparked buzz among students as DigiLocker posted on X that the Maharashtra Board Class XII Result 2026 is coming soon. The results can be accessed on mahresult.nic.in and mahahsscboard.in.
Passengers raise slogans against SpiceJet at Mumbai airport amid flight delays
Eyewitness accounts and videos shared widely on social media captured the chaos. One affected flight, reportedly SpiceJet SG 631, along with several others heading to Bengaluru, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Gorakhpur, faced initial delays of three to four hours
West Bengal polls see record turnout in first two phases
West Bengal has recorded a historic polling average of 92.85 per cent across the first two phases of Assembly elections, with the second phase reaching 92.47 per cent till midnight on April 29. While officials said the figures are not final, the turnout has already surpassed previous records and drawn praise from the Election Commission
Inquiry into antisemitic shooting recommends stricter gun laws, buyback scheme
A government inquiry into the antisemitic mass shooting in Sydney that killed 15 people has recommended stricter gun laws, including limits on ownership and a national buyback scheme. The report also flagged rising antisemitism in Australia and called for stronger safety measures for Jewish communities
'What the hell is wrong?': Chaos at Mumbai airport due to inordinate SpiceJet flight cancellations
SpiceJet flights from Mumbai experienced significant disruptions, with multiple flights to Bangalore, Delhi, and Ahmedabad facing lengthy delays and cancellations. Passengers endured sleepless nights at the airport due to these issues. This follows a trend of poor on-time performance for SpiceJet, which recorded the lowest OTP among Indian carriers in March.
US military claims 42 vessels intercepted in ongoing blockade of Iranina ports
The US military said it has intercepted 42 vessels enforcing a blockade on Iranian ports, aiming to curb oil exports and revenue. Iran has condemned the move as piracy and warned of possible military retaliation if the blockade continues
Uttar Pradesh: Severe storm disrupts power, destroys 50 transformers, 7 dead
A powerful storm killed seven people and injured 21, causing widespread damage to power infrastructure. A very powerful storm struck, said the District Magistrate, adding that restoration and compensation efforts are underway with teams working round the clock
Christchurch attacker in New Zealand loses appeal
A New Zealand court rejected Brenton Tarrants appeal against his conviction for the 2019 mosque attacks, calling it utterly devoid of merit. Families of victims expressed huge relief, saying it spares them the trauma of reliving the tragedy
Hammer-wielding man attacks Tokyo teenagers: reports
A man armed with a hammer injured five people, including two teenagers, in Tokyo before fleeing. Suspect on the run, reports said, as three police officers were also hurt while responding. Authorities have launched a manhunt in the rare violent incident
US-Venezuela flights to resume in new sign of thaw
The first direct USVenezuela flight in seven years has resumed, marking a new sign of thaw in relations. American Airlines restarted the MiamiCaracas route, reconnecting families and businesses as diplomatic ties ease after years of tensions
Fracking starts in Amazon rainforest as Ecuador boosts energy output
Ecuador has begun fracking in the Amazon for the first time, calling it a new horizon for oil production. The move aims to tackle energy shortages but has raised environmental concerns due to water use, contamination risks and potential seismic activity
Mumbai Metro One commuters face delays, overcrowding as post-maintenance speed limits slow trains
Mumbai Metro One commuters experienced delays and overcrowding on Thursday due to temporary speed restrictions. The operator implemented these curbs following essential rail grinding work, a collaborative effort with Bangalore Metro to enhance track quality and ride safety. These necessary measures, aimed at ensuring commuter safety, are expected to be in place for a limited duration.
Rare flamingo sighting in Nashik as sanctuary turns pink in April heat
In a rare summer sighting, flamingos arrived at Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary in Nashik, surprising birdwatchers. Officials called it a rare opportunity and credited excellent habitat management for attracting the birds despite the April heat
Brent crude crosses USD 120 as Trump vows to keep Hormuz blockade
Global oil prices jumped over USD 120 after US President Donald Trump announced the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz will stay in place, raising fears of higher fuel costs and inflation in India amid West Asia conflict
Oil prices surge as Trump warns Iran they are choking like a stuffed pig
Brent crude surged above USD 120 after Donald Trump said the Strait of Hormuz blockade would continue, calling it more effective than bombing. Economist Jeffrey Sachs warned, The world economy will suffer a terrible crisis if supply disruptions persist
Riteish reveals Salman INSISTED on role in 'Raja Shivaji'
Riteish Deshmukh's historical epic 'Raja Shivaji' is set for a grand Maharashtra Day release, boasting strong advance bookings. The film features an ensemble cast, with Salman Khan making a special appearance. Deshmukh revealed Khan's insistence on being part of the project, highlighting their strong bond. 'Raja Shivaji' faces a box office clash with other major releases.
Donald Trump warns Iran: No more Mr Nice Guy
US President Donald Trump has warned Iran of a tougher approach if nuclear negotiations fail to progress, expressing frustration over delays. In response, Irans IRGC Navy said it is ready with surprise tactics if tensions escalate, highlighting rising strain between the two sides
New Delhi: BJPs Pravesh Wahi elected MCD mayor
BJP councillor Pravesh Wahi has been elected as the new mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi after securing 156 votes, with support from Indraprastha Vikas Party councillors. Congress candidate Hazi Zaraf managed nine votes in the election
Chhattisgarh cops detained in Assam over bribery charge
Four Chhattisgarh Police personnel, including an inspector, were detained by Guwahati Police for allegedly demanding and accepting bribes from three cybercrime accused. The incident has raised serious concerns over misconduct within law enforcement
Endangered mountain bongos return to Kenya
Four critically endangered mountain bongos have been brought back to Kenya from a zoo in the Czech Republic as part of conservation efforts. With fewer than 100 left in the wild, the return of these rare, striped antelopes aims to support breeding and restore their population in native forests
Six women killed as bus rams van on Gujarat highway
Six women lost their lives and eight others were injured after a private bus rammed into a van from behind on National Highway 48 in Gujarats Sabarkantha district. Police said the bus was speeding at the time of the accident
US clears trial for wireless brain implant to treat depression
Motif Neurotech has received US FDA clearance to begin clinical trials of its wireless brain implant designed to treat depression. The device, which sits in the skull without penetrating brain tissue, delivers targeted electrical stimulation to regulate mood-related circuits
Israel says 3 Hezbollah fighters killed in Lebanon strikes
Israel said its forces killed three Hezbollah fighters and struck multiple infrastructure sites in southern Lebanon as part of a broader military offensive. The strikes extended beyond the designated Yellow Line, with the army also reporting a lightly wounded soldier during operations
Heavy rain forces school shutdown across Mizoram
All schools across several Mizoram districts, including Aizawl, Serchhip, and Lunglei, remained shut for a second day as heavy rain and gusty winds continued to lash the state. Southern districts also joined the closure as torrential rainfall since Monday caused widespread disruption and damage
Humanoid robots to handle cargo at Japan airport
Japan Airlines will begin a two-year trial of humanoid robots for cargo and baggage handling at Tokyos Haneda Airport, aiming to ease labour shortages and reduce physical strain on workers. The airline plans to expand the robots role to cabin cleaning by 2028, though current models operate for limited hours between charges
Scorpions reinforce their stingers for added strength
A new study reveals that scorpions reinforce their stingers and pincers with metals like zinc, manganese, and iron to improve strength and sharpness. Researchers found that metal distribution varies across species, depending on whether they rely more on stinging or claw-based hunting and defence
Build-ups to international debuts make for fascinating stories just like in the case of Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, and even Sir Garry Sobers; Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on the brink
Officialdom could do with lessons in compassion
His sister held an account at a bank. She died two months ago. Her husband and only child died earlier, leaving her brother as her sole surviving relative.
Central Railway razes 45 encroachments to fast-track Vande Bharat facility
In a significant step toward enhancing railway services, Central Railway has successfully removed 45 unauthorized huts near Wadi Bunder, paving the way for a vital Vande Bharat maintenance depot. This decisive action, in accordance with judicial directives, will speed up the build-out of essential facilities, including stabling lines and an expansive covered shed.
Faculty, alumni oppose move to shed ICTs deemed-to-be university status
Mira Rd attacker a loner separated from family
Debris from bldg sites being passed off as Mithi silt
Viral image of unstable Metro 4 parapet wall at Thanes Ghodbunder highway raises concern
Maharashtra Clears 10,000 Cr AI Policy
The Maharashtra AI policy will be implemented on the lines of the India AI Mission ', by promoting research, innovation and responsible governance
WR, Harbour line to get more AC trips from May 1
Extradited Dawood aide brought to Mumbai by NCB
Maharashtra DGP seeks report on pastors false claims in video
J&K among 6 worst-performing states, UTs in water quality index
Srinagar, Apr 29:J&K figures among the six worst-performing states and UTs in India on a widely circulated water quality index, ranking 31st out of 36. With a score of 62 percent, J&Ks water quality appears to be dipping, signaling an ecological crisis for a region located in water-rich Himalayan landscape. The finding is concerning, as the map, shared by a social media new outlet, shows only Ladakh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi with a lower score. The low ranking reflects the deeper stress in water bodies, flagged many a times by monitoring agencies. The scores and percentages of the states and UTs are based on the data of the Central Pollution Control Board. Mizoram tops the list with a percentage of 92.5, the higher percentage indicating the better water quality. All north-Eastern states have scored high on water quality, while Uttrakhand and Himachal Pradesh, the other two Himalayan states, also have a fair score of 82 percent and 83 percent. J&K is home to some of Indias most significant freshwater assets. Its low ranking suggests that the challenge is no longer just safe supply, but whether the ecosystems feeding that supply are themselves being degraded. The map titled Who has the cleanest water in India has been shared by filtercoffeeHQ on its X handle. CPCB has identified eight polluted water bodies in J&K, including polluted stretches of the Jhelum. Chuntkol in Srinagar has Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) of 11.2, while a Jhelum stretch has recorded 7.8, both indicating serious pollution pressure. BoD is a marker of organic pollution: BOD of 3mg/L and less is acceptable for bathing quality surface water, while drinking water must score less than 2mg/L. Sewage polluting the water bodies remains the major crisis. According to official assessments, 163 million litres per day (MLD) of sewage is generated in Srinagar, while treatment capacity stood at just 60 MLD. This leaves roughly 63 percent untreated, with waste flowing into the Jhelum and Dal Lake. A shocking 103 MLD of sewage enters water bodies without treatment as per the figures furnished to National Green Tribunal in 2025. J&K government has acknowledged untreated wastewater from drains in parts of south Kashmir enters streams feeding the Jhelum. This raises concern over contamination of a river that is the main source of drinking water supply in the Valley. Even as raw water sources remain stressed, official monitoring shows the administration has sharply expanded testing. In 2024-25, 2.66 lakh water samples were tested across 6,122 villages. Of these, 78 contaminated samples were detected. In 2025-26, laboratory-tested samples reportedly rose to 3.07 lakh. J&K has 98 testing laboratories, including 2 UT-level, 20 district-level and 76 sub-divisional facilities. However, despite large-scale testing and surveillance, J&K still appears in the countrys bottom six on water quality. That contradiction could be due to difference in testing, taking place at drinking water sources at supply points and the deteriorating condition of rivers, lakes and source waters.
Man posing as ex-Gujarat MP's son booked for cheating investors through share market scam
Wants to stay in India: Bombay HC rejects fathers plea to return child to UK
Navi Mumbai flyover murder case: Police identify victim, nab second accused
Labourer falls to death from 27th floor of redevelopment building in Vashi
Thackeray opts out of Legislative Council poll, Congress signals rival candidate, MVA unity tested
Uddhav Thackeray will not contest the Maharashtra Legislative Council elections. His party has nominated Ambadas Danve instead. This decision has created friction within the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance. The Congress party has indicated it may field its own candidate. This move tests the unity of the MVA bloc. The Congress feels the decision was made unilaterally.
Maharashtra: One year jail, fine for Bangladeshi nationals living illegally in India
Maharashtra: Mayor seeks report on Kopri sewage project
Woman waiting to cross NH killed by car, son hurt
Maharashtra cabinet approves MAGESTIC scheme to boost renewable energy and storage by 2030
Ambedkar chair to be set up at LSE
Maharashtra govt to set up Ambedkar chair at LSE
60-year-old man killed while trying to rescue son from mob attack in Dombivli
Telangana CM orders fast-track of Tummidihetti Barrage, to seek Maharashtra nod
Hyderabad:Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Wednesday, April 29, directed officials to expedite work on the Tummidihetti Barrage project and initiate talks with the Maharashtra government over the proposed height of the structure, a key variable that will determine how much water the state can draw from it. The directions came at a high-level 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 .
Officials Need Not Stand For Tainted Netas In Maharashtra Offices
Maharashtra government officials will no longer be required to stand or greet legislators or Members of Parliament who are convicted: Reports
West Bengal Assembly polls 2026: States sees massive voter turnout of 92.47 pc
Addressing a press conference, the CEO said that polling was conducted across 142 Assembly seats in eight districts: Kolkata South, Kolkata North, South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia, and Purba Bardhaman
Truck kills woman, driver arrested
Man stabs GF, her mom to death, tries to end his life
Byndoor police arrest three alleged robbers from Maharashtra
Mumbai civic chief directs administration to implement innovative ideas to keep city clean
Mumbai Corporator demands barricading of one lane at Marine Drive to create safe space for citizens
Mumbai social media influencer booked for sexual assault, harassment

