Maha council polls: Mahayuti, MVA face off for 5 key seats
The ruling Mahayuti and opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi are set for a significant political contest in the Maharashtra Legislative Council elections. Polling for five seats - three Graduates' and two Teachers' constituencies - will be held on Friday, with 182 candidates in the fray. The results, crucial for both alliances, will be declared on October 27.
20-Year Jail Term For Man In Latur Child Assault Case
A special court in Latur, Maharashtra, has sentenced Chumbalya alias Ritesh Rajnand Kasbe to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl last year. The verdict was delivered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and POCSO Act, with the court also imposing a Rs 5,000 fine.
Maharashtra: 8,000+ Medical Interns Reportedly Threaten Strike From Nov 1 Over Stipend Hike
Demanding their monthly pay be raised from 18,000 to 30,000 to meet surging living costs, more than 8,000 government medical interns across Maharashtra have warned of a total withdrawal of clinical duties starting 1 November.
After Delhi Protests, SIR Rules Change State by State: What Voters Need to Know I TOI Special
Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is becoming more accessible in several states, with authorities easing documentation requirements and simplifying verification procedures. From Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh to Delhi and Maharashtra, voters are being offered alternatives to tracing family links in older electoral rolls. Booth-Level Officers are visiting homes, collecting documents, assisting applicants and identifying eligible voters left out during revision. Delhi has resolved around 25 lakh of its 33 lakh SIR notices as of October 16, while other states are conducting enrolment drives and special camps. However, eligibility checks remain in place, with Electoral Registration Officers scrutinising applications and supporting evidence before approving inclusion in the electoral rolls.
School holiday updates for October 23, 2026, vary across states as festive vacations end and heavy rainfall affects parts of Tamil Nadu. West Bengal schools following the Durga Puja calendar may remain closed, while Maharashtra's Diwali vacation is scheduled to begin on November 2. Schools in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR, Telangana and other states are expected to follow their respective reopening schedules. Parents should check official school notices and district orders for confirmed closures.
Maharashtra Scraps Four Women And Child Welfare Schemes, Three More To Be Phased Out
Maharashtra drought: Supriya Sule seeks Rs 1 lakh per hectare for farmers
Our intention is not to engage in hollow politics. We have maintained an attitude of cooperation because this is a time when humanity matters, Sule said
Reserve 50 pc of crop residues for cattle fodder: Nanded collector to industries
Nanded Collector issued the directions during an inspection of units in Nandeds Krishnur industrial area on Wednesday evening, according to a district administration release
Polling will take place for 5 seats in the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Friday, October 23, 2026, 3 from the Graduates' constituencies and 2 from the Teachers' constituencies. Voting will be held from 8:00 AM...
Adani Energy's 'smart' bet & Rs 29,519 cr play
Adani Energy Solutions has 24.6 million smart meters under implementation across 10 projects, carrying a revenue potential of over Rs 29,519 crore, as the company looks to unlock growth from its metering business alongside a sizeable transmission project pipeline and expanding energy supply operations.The company had installed 14.82 million smart meters cumulatively by the end of September 2026, compared with 7.4 million a year earlier.Also read: Adani Energy Q2 Results: Profit zooms 148% YoY to Rs 1,323 crore; revenue jumps 53%However, installations during the first half of FY27 stood at 3.5 million, against 4.2 million in the corresponding period last year. The pace of execution will be an important metric to watch as the company works through its existing pipeline.Rs 87,000 crore transmission pipelineAESL has 15 transmission projects worth approximately Rs 87,000 crore to execute, providing visibility into its project pipeline. The company also sees near-term transmission tendering opportunities of around Rs 1.4 lakh crore, creating scope to expand its order book through fresh project wins.During the September quarter, AESL secured two transmission projects, Vizag Power Transmission Ltd and Satara Power Transmission Ltd, adding to the projects it will need to execute. Its ability to convert upcoming tender opportunities into new orders and deliver existing projects will be important to growth in its transmission business.Transmission capital expenditure rose to Rs 5,542 crore in the first half of FY27 from Rs 3,343 crore in the year-earlier period, reflecting increased investment in the business.Expanding beyond transmission and distributionAESL has entered into a 25-year power purchase agreement with Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (MSEDCL) to supply 2,500 MW of round-the-clock power.The company said its supply tie-ups include around 4.6 GW across solar and wind, along with 3.5 GWh of battery energy storage capacity. It expects this portfolio to cater to commercial and industrial customers, data centres and utilities through integrated renewable and round-the-clock energy solutions.The long-term power supply agreement adds another dimension to the company's growth outlook, alongside its transmission, distribution and smart metering operations.In its Mumbai distribution business, Adani Electricity Mumbai Ltd's regulated asset base stood at Rs 10,456 crore at the end of the first half of FY27, up 11% year-on-year. The company reported 99.99% supply reliability during the quarter.AESL also reported transmission system availability of more than 99.8% in the September quarter. It earned Rs 61 crore in incentive income during the first half, which it attributed to high network availability.Also read: Adani Total Gas appoints CEO Sanjay Pandita as executive director for 3 years; Suresh P Manglani retiresQ2 net profit rises 148% to Rs 1,323 croreAdani Energy Solutions reported a 148% year-on-year increase in consolidated net profit to Rs 1,323 crore in the September quarter, compared with Rs 534 crore in the year-ago period.Revenue from operations rose 53% to Rs 10,076 crore from Rs 6,596 crore a year earlier. Total income increased 51% to Rs 10,239 crore from Rs 6,767 crore.Sequentially, consolidated net profit rose 15% from Rs 1,149 crore in the June quarter, while revenue from operations increased nearly 4% from Rs 9,711 crore. Profit before tax climbed to Rs 1,767 crore from Rs 746 crore in the year-ago quarter.Total expenses increased 54% year-on-year to Rs 8,756 crore. The cost of power purchased more than doubled to Rs 3,244 crore from Rs 1,601 crore, while construction expenses relating to service concession arrangements rose to Rs 2,256 crore from Rs 1,625 crore.Finance costs increased 35% to Rs 1,180 crore from Rs 872 crore. Depreciation and amortisation expenses rose to Rs 601 crore from Rs 509 crore.For the first half of FY27, consolidated net profit increased 136% to Rs 2,472 crore from Rs 1,046 crore in the corresponding period last year. Revenue from operations rose 47% to Rs 19,787 crore from Rs 13,415 crore, while total income increased to Rs 20,092 crore from Rs 13,793 crore.Profit before tax for the six-month period climbed to Rs 3,208 crore from Rs 1,404 crore a year earlier.The company's total outstanding borrowings stood at Rs 51,520 crore at the end of September 2026, compared with Rs 48,898 crore at the end of March 2026.
Cops and judicial officials explore forensic clues, cybercrime trials at BPR&D
The event covers the procedural, investigative, forensic and judicial aspects of India's new criminal laws, with particular emphasis on the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), officials said
Three accused in Pilathara gold robbery case in Keralams Kannur arrested
In June 2026, the accused attacked a car carrying a family from Maharashtra and looted gold and around 55 lakh in cash
Three accused in Pilathara gold robbery case in Keralams Kannur arrested
In June 2026, the accused attacked a car carrying a family from Maharashtra and looted gold and around 55 lakh in cash
Maharashtra Govt Revamps Women And Child Welfare Schemes
As part of the wide-ranging exercise, nine scheme-related services will be removed from the Aaple Sarkar portal
PM Modi, Polish PM Donald Tusk discuss defence, AI and critical minerals
The two leaders agreed to work towards doubling bilateral trade by 2030 and underscored the importance of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Modi and Tusk also discussed regional and global developments
ED Raids 10 Premises In Maharashtra Over Illegal Human Egg Extraction Racket
The ED seized Rs 29 lakh, froze bank lockers and mutual fund holdings, and traced properties and investments linked to the alleged racket.
CJP leaders seek more time to appear before Delhi Police Crime Branch
Cockroach Janta Party leaders Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka and Ajinkya Shinde have sought more time to appear before the Delhi Police Crime Branch in the Jantar Mantar trespassing case. Police are expected to issue fresh summons after Das and Ranka were released from Tihar Jail
Singapore-India maritime exercise begins in Visakhapatnam
The Republic of Singapore Navy ship RSS Supreme arrived in Visakhapatnam on October 21 to take part in the exercise. The opening ceremony was held aboard Indian Navy ships INS Nilgiri and INS Kamorta
Indian national killed in Saudi Arabia airport attack, two others injured
The incident took place on Wednesday night. The embassy said Saudi authorities had informed it that two people were killed in the attack, including one Indian national, while two Indian nationals sustained injuries
eMudhra security breach explained: How weak cryptographic keys can be a threat
The explainer breaks down the eMudhra security incident, how weak cryptographic keys affected eight digital certificates, why Google and Mozilla took action, and what the flaw could mean for website authentication and online security
Man held with country-made pistol, live cartridge in Maharashtra's Nanded
MSRTC officials to be held responsible for dirty bus station toilets: Sarnaik
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Thursday warned MSRTC department controllers they will be held accountable for unclean toilets and orders regular inspections at bus stations
Russia and Ukraine trade overnight attacks, seven killed as peace talks continue
Russia and Ukraine exchanged overnight attacks, killing seven people in Ukraine and injuring others, including 15 in Kyiv. The strikes came after US envoy Steve Witkoff met Vladimir Putin. Moscow signalled openness to resuming trilateral talks with Washington and Kyiv in mid-November
Typhoon Champi approaches Taiwan, bringing heavy rain and strong winds
Typhoon Champi is approaching Taiwan, bringing winds of up to 213 kph, heavy rainfall and waves exceeding six metres. Over 150 flights were cancelled in Taiwan, while Japan cancelled more than 110. China has issued a flood emergency response as authorities prepare for torrential rain and flash flooding
Jharkhand's Shikhar Mohan To Join India A Team From Second Game Of New Zealand Tour
MA Chidambaram Stadium: Jharkhands left-handed batter Shikhar Mohan will link up with the India A side from the second four-day game of their tour of New Zealand. India A will open their three-match four-day series against New Zealand A in Lincoln on October 24. The second game will be played at the Hagley Oval before the tour wraps up in Lincoln on November 7. He will be there with the India A team from the second game onwards. Some changes are expected to be made to the India A team due to a few players being a part of the ODI series against New Zealand. So, for now Shikhar will be there with the India A side from the second game onwards, a source familiar with the development said to IANS on Thursday. KL Rahul and Anshul Kamboj, both part of the India A set-up, have been named for the first three ODIs. Meanwhile, Auqib Nabi and Kumar Kushagra have been picked for the last two games of the five-match series. Shikhars call-up to India A team caps a rapid rise for him since he made his senior debut barely a year ago. Mohan has been in prolific form for Jharkhand in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, hammering 143 against Kerala before following it up with scores of 27 and 127 against Maharashtra in Pune in the second round of the competition. He had also made a strong impression on his Duleep Trophy debut, scoring twin fifties for East Zone in the final against South Zone and playing a vital role in his side's title triumph at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Earlier this month, Shikhar struck 60 in the first innings for Rest of India in their Irani Cup win over Jammu and Kashmir in Srinagar. Born in Ranchi in May 2005, Mohan honed his skills at the Ranchi Cricket Academy and went on to represent Jharkhand at the Under-16, Under-19 and Under-23 levels before making his senior debut at 20, in a Ranji Trophy game against Tamil Nadu in Coimbatore in October last year. He had also made a strong impression on his Duleep Trophy debut, scoring twin fifties for East Zone in the final against South Zone and playing a vital role in his side's title triumph at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
The Bombay High Court on Thursday allowed a petitioner to withdraw his challenge to the constitutional validity of Maharashtras anti-conversion legislation after the Court questioned the absence of specific facts demonstrating how the law had adversely affected him. A Division Bench of Chief Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Advait Sethna was hearing a writ [] The post Bombay High Court permits withdrawal of challenge to Maharashtra Anti-Conversion Act; fresh petition allowed appeared first on India Legal .
Delhi Police deny permission for Diljit Dosanjhs Oct 30 concert at JLN stadium
Dosanjh, one of India's prominent singers and performers, has a large fan following, with his live shows attracting audiences across the country and abroad
Mahayuti, MVA face-off in Maharashtra Council polls; 182 candidates in fray for 5 seats
Maharashtra will hold elections for five Legislative Council seats, with 182 candidates competing on Friday. Polling will occur from 8 am to 4 pm, and the vote counting scheduled for October 27. The elections include three Graduates' and two Teachers' constituencies across the state. A total of 10,68,072 voters are registered at 2,419 polling stations. The election machinery is prepared to conduct the polls fairly and transparently.
Jodhpur-Hyderabad train halted for 2 hours over alleged assault
Hingoli: Passengers staged a protest at Maharashtras Hingoli railway station, halting a Jodhpur-Hyderabad train for more than two hours on Thursday, October 22, over allegations that RPF personnel assaulted a youth and misbehaved with his women co-travellers, officials said. The alleged incident occurred aboard the Bhagat Ki Kothi-Kacheguda Express (Train No. 17606) after it crossed 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 .
India showcases small farmer-led agri revolution at Paris exhibition: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 22 (IANS) India showcased its agricultural revolution led by small farmers, which rests on diversity, resilience, sustainability and greater self-sufficiency, at 'SIAL Paris 2026' exhibition. These themes defined the India pavilion, which carried a simple title: Feeding Our Tomorrow, according to an article in Euronews. Chairman of the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), Jawed Ashraf, led Indias presence as Partner Country at the exhibition, held at Paris Nord Villepinte from October 17-21, 2026. He was Indias ambassador to France and Monaco from 2020 to 2024, according to the report. Ashraf described a shift towards more sustainable, climate-resilient farming, with less chemical use and better traceability. Drones, sensors, artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) help farmers manage water, fertilisers and crop protection more efficiently, a growing advantage as extreme weather puts pressure on food production. India already produces grains, fruit, vegetables, dairy, meat and seafood for roughly one sixth of humanity, and Ashraf sees that capacity, paired with more sustainable methods, as part of the answer. The UN has designated 2026 the 'International Year of the Woman Farmer', and Ashraf used the occasion to highlight the role women play in Indias agricultural transformation. Many farmer-producer organisations are founded and run by women, raising household incomes and giving women greater independence and influence in their communities. One of those women travelled to Paris. Priyanka Rhushikesh Mohite, from Nashik in Maharashtra, is a certified agricultural drone pilot. Her drone sprays nano fertilisers and spreads seeds. Watering an acre once took a full day and around 200 litres of water. With the drone, she says, it takes seven to eight minutes and 10 litres, the report mentioned. At SIAL, the emphasis was on Indias packaged, ready-to-eat and premium foods, backed by traceability and geographical indication tags for products tied to particular places, such as Naga chilli and Mithila makhana, the edible seeds of the fox nut plant. ITPO is also considering offices in several European cities, with Frankfurt, Paris, Milan and Rotterdam, among the options. For India, the challenge now is to turn that kind of progress into something more widespread, while building a stronger presence for its food producers in European markets, the article added. The EU-India free trade agreement (FTA) was concluded in January 2026 and is expected to be signed by the end of the year. It builds on Indias arrangements with the UK and the European Free Trade Association, which have opened further opportunities for Indian food products through zero or reduced tariffs. Ashraf believes the benefits could reach farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), provided they meet market requirements and reach European buyers.
Maharashtra Intern Doctors Demand Stipend Increase, Set Ultimatum for Government Action
Intern doctors in Maharashtra protest for stipend increase, demanding a rise from 18,000 to 30,000 by November 1. Maharashtra Intern Doctors Demand Stipend Increase, Set Ultimatum for Government Action
Water row turns violent at housing society, seven injured amidst water crisis
A dispute over vehicle washing amid water shortages left seven people injured at a housing society in Punes Charholi. An autorickshaw driver and residents filed cross-complaints, prompting Alandi police to register two cases as the investigation continues
Why is govt so scared? Cong questions removal of Raihan Vadras protest photos
The controversy erupted after Raihan alleged that the Bikaner House administration ordered the removal of more than 70 photographs from his solo exhibition, No Idea Is Final, hours before it opened on Wednesday
Rebels, factional feuds put Mahayuti, MVA on edge in Maha Council polls
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 22 (IANS) The upcoming Legislative Council elections for five Graduate and Teachers' constituencies, scheduled for Friday, have reached a high pitch of intense competition. Widespread rebellion, internal factionalism, and tactical political moves across key alliances -- the ruling Mahayuti and the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) -- are expected to heavily impact the final outcome. As the campaigning concluded on Wednesday evening, the Mahayuti and the MVA leaders have swung into action to meet registered voters and ensure victory of their respective nominees. Rebellion has broken out within the MVA in the Pune Graduate constituency. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP-SP) led by Sharad Pawar has fielded Harshada Deshmukh-Jadhav, daughter of retired IAS officer Prabhakar Deshmukh. Sunil Modi of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) -- a sitting nominated corporator in the Kolhapur Municipal Corporation and former city chief -- is also contesting. Although NCP (SP) leaders claim their campaigning is directed against the BJP, the lack of consensus within MVA has sparked concerns over a potential division of opposition votes. The BJP has fielded Dr Smita Jadhav, daughter-in-law of the founder of Marathi newspaper Pudhari from Kolhapur. BJP is taking no chances as the party has activated its poll machinery for her success. In the Pune Teachers' seat, a four-cornered contest has emerged. The BJP has nominated Kaustubh Gawde, while the sitting MLA Jayant Asgaonkar has been renominated by the Congress. Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), an ally of the BJP in Mahayuti, initially fielded Mangesh Chivate, a close confidant of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, but later withdrew his candidacy. Shinde subsequently declared support for independent candidate Sachin Sanap, causing concern within the BJP. Dattatray Sawant, a former MLA, is also in the fray representing the Rashtriya Samaj Paksha (RSP). The election in Amravati Teachers' Constituency has turned into a high-stakes prestige battle for the Mahayuti alliance amid cash-for-vote allegations and rebel candidates. Rebel candidates from both the BJP (three rebels) and the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction - one rebel) are contesting against official Mahayuti candidates. Major teacher organisations such as the Vidarbha Madhyamik Shikshak Sangh, 'Vijukta', and the Maharashtra Rajya Shikshak Parishad have extended support to BJP rebels. The NUTA organisation has extended support to Congress candidates, along with four other teacher candidates. The Shinde Sena has fielded sitting legislator Kiran Sarnaik, while Congress has nominated Aditi Pohre, Shiv Sena (UBT) Dattatray Lahane and Samajwadi Ganrajya Party Suresh Devkar. In addition, former legislator Shrikant Despande, Sangita Shinde, who is the sister of BJP MP Anil Bonde, Chandrashekhar Bhoyar and Sumit Pawar are also in the fray. Both Mahayuti and MVA are worried about vote division. The election in the Nagpur Graduate constituency has become a matter of prestige for both the BJP and Congress. Internal dissatisfaction and potential vote division present significant challenges. The primary battle is between Congress candidate Abhijit Wanjari and BJP candidate Sudhakar Kohale. Senior BJP leader Prof Anil Sole withdrew his nomination; however, his name remains on the ballot paper, raising questions about whether his supporters' votes will drift away from the official candidate. Three-time sitting MLC Satish Chavan has been fielded again by the Mahayuti alliance under the NCP banner in the Sambhajinagar Graduate constituency. On the MVA side, the Sharad Pawar-led NCP fielded Dr Pratap Singh Patil, while the Shiv Sena (UBT) fielded Dilip Ghorge, resulting in two MVA candidates competing in the same constituency. Voting for all five constituencies will take place on Friday via the preferential voting system. Candidates across party lines have been attempting to sway voters with last-minute promises, while strategic preference-voting management remains crucial for all contenders. (Sanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjay.j@ians.in)
Indian national injured, two killed in drone attack on Saudi Arabia oilfield
An Indian national was injured at Saudi Arabias Shaybah oilfield after air defences intercepted a drone targeting the facility. Falling shrapnel killed two residents and injured two others. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh is coordinating with Saudi authorities and providing assistance
Blue glow in Maharashtra's Arnala sea sparks speculation of bioluminescence
Maharashtra Businessman Duped Of Rs 1.2 Crore By Gurugram's 'Tesla'
The case dates to October 2021 when AP Enterprises entered into a partnership with Gurugram-based 'Tesla' to conduct business involving batteries, inverters, and solar panels across Maharashtra and Goa.
First NBA Store in India to Open in 2027 Through Expanded Merchandising Partnership With Suditi
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 22: The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Suditi Sports Apparel Ltd. (Suditi), a long-time leader in apparel exports, today announced a multiyear expansion of their longstanding merchandising collaboration in India that will see Suditi open the first NBA Store in the country, operate the league's official local online store at NBAStore.in, and launch the widest assortment of officially licensed NBA fanwear ever in the market.
Was Tiger Shroff the real target? | Pulse Maharashtra
A celebrity shootout in Mumbai has sent shockwaves through the financial capital and has spread fear in the Hindi film industry. This wasnt the first shootout in the city this year. And now, the industry is scared of the dark shadows of the past, when the underworld called the shots in Bollywood. And just like the past, this time too, the masterminds seem to be operating from foreign shores. But was Tiger Shroff the real target? Is this shootout related to incidents like the firing outside actor Salman Khans residence, the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, the shooting outside filmmaker Rohit Shettys residence and the reported threats to actors Ranveer Singh and Aamir Khan? In this weeks Pulse Maharashtra with Vinaya Deshpande, we take you through what we know so far and what the unanswered questions are. And how this attack leads to an old fear in the heart of an industry which is one of Indias greatest soft powers in the world Bollywood.
UP cop suspended for allegedly sharing obscene video in official WhatsApp group
A Bijnor SHO in Uttar Pradesh was suspended after allegedly posting an obscene video in an official police WhatsApp group. Superintendent of Police K K Bishnoi ordered an inquiry, and statements were recorded from police personnel. Departmental proceedings against the officer are underway
Delhis air quality remains poor for second day, AQI recorded at 226
Delhi recorded an AQI of 226 on Thursday, remaining in the poor category after reaching a seasonal high of 245 on Wednesday. GRAP Stage I measures were invoked across Delhi-NCR. The IMD forecast clear skies, with temperatures ranging from 19.7C to 32C
Stone-Pelting at Durga Immersion Procession Sparks Tension in Maharashtra's Washim
Police personnel deployed at the spot quickly brought the situation under control. Additional police force was deployed to maintain law and order
Pope Leo needs no further cancer treatment after surgery, Vatican says
Pope Leo will require no further cancer treatment after surgery to remove part of his right lung, the Vatican said. Tests confirmed that the adenocarcinoma was localised and had not spread, while doctors said there was no clinical reason to prevent his planned November trip to South America
Cybersecurity alert: eMudhra reports compromise of eight CA inter certificates
Indian certification authority eMudhra has reported the compromise of private keys linked to eight intermediate certificates, including six TLS and two code-signing certificates, according to CERT-In. The company said the incident affected a small part of its global TLS business
Priyanka Gandhi calls photo removal from son Raihan's exhibition 'ridiculous'
The controversy erupted after Raihan, an artist and photographer, alleged that the venue's administration removed several photographs documenting recent student-led protests in the national capital shortly before his solo exhibition, titled No Idea is Final, was scheduled to open
Passengers Halt Jodhpur-Hyderabad Train for 2 Hours in Maharashtra's Hingoli over Alleged Assault
The alleged incident occurred aboard the Bhagat Ki Kothi-Kacheguda Express (Train No. 17606) after it crossed Washim, located about 40 km from Hingoli, in the early hours of Thursday
'Rs 5,000 is not enough': Rohit Pawar demands bigger drought relief for farmers
Rohit Pawar also called for Reserve Bank of India intervention to address the burden of microfinance loans on women, alleging that coercive recovery practices had pushed some borrowers to the brink of suicide
Chakan industrial belt plans integrated development of 78 km road network
Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi has called for coordinated action to address infrastructure challenges in Chakans industrial belt. Plans include upgrading around 78 km of roads, improving traffic management and water supply, addressing drain encroachments, and more
Attack on Dammam airport in Saudi Arabia kills one, injures eight
An attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday killed one person and injured eight. Authorities are assessing property damage as regional tensions persist, while the US orders non-emergency government staff and their families to leave Saudi Arabia
Heavy rains pound Puducherry, roads waterlogged; schools closed
Heavy overnight rains battered Puducherry and its suburbs, flooding roads and disrupting traffic and daily wage workers' livelihoods. The region recorded 7 cm of rainfall in 24 hours. Schools in Puducherry and Karaikal were closed on Thursday, while authorities set up an emergency control room
Maharashtra gives Satish Waghole additional charge as MPSC chairperson
The Maharashtra government's General Administration Department issued a notification on October 16, appointing Waghole to hold the additional charge with effect from the same date
MMGPA Medical Officer Recruitment 2026
Maharashtra Medical Goods Procurement Authority, Mumbai (MMGPA) Recruitment 2026 for 2 Medical Officer posts will be conducted through a Walk-in Interview. Eligible candidates can attend the interview on 29 October 2026. Candidates should report at 11:00 AM. For complete details, candidates can visit mmgpa.maharashtra.gov.in.
Maharashtra State Transport staff issue notice for protest ahead of Diwali
The union will organise a procession in Mumbai on November 3, followed by a visit by a delegation to the Assembly in Nagpur on November 4. From November 5, members will stage sit-in protests outside MSRTC offices and departmental headquarters across the State
Tension erupted after an incident of stone-pelting was reported during a Durga Visarjan procession in Maharashtra's Washim, prompting police to register a First Information Report (FIR), officials said, adding that the situation in the area is currently peaceful and under control. According to the police, the incident was triggered by an argument between individuals over the throwing of 'gulal' (colored powder). The situation was quickly brought under control following timely police intervention, and an FIR has been registered in connection with the matter. Speaking to ANI, Station House Officer (SHO) Rajesh Kherde said, Yesterday, on October 21, around 8:30 to 9:00 PM, the Durga Visarjan procession reached Tipu Sultan Chowk in Malegaon. An argument broke out between a few individuals, reportedly over the throwing of 'gulal'. Following this, some stone-pelting took place. The police intervened immediately, brought the situation under control, and ensured the completion of the Durga...
CM Yogi Adityanath extends birthday wishes to Amit Shah, lauds his leadership
I pray to Lord Shri Ram for your excellent health, long life, and a glorious life, the UP Chief Minister added.
Indian sailors safe after Kuwait-flagged oil tanker comes under attack near Oman
According to Times Kuwait, the incident sparked a fire aboard the vessel, which was later extinguished
Financial content creator Harish dies by suicide
Identified as V Harish, the victim ran the popular social media brand Finance With Harish, and had amassed over 1.3 million followers
US declares 'cyber warfare' on scam centres as seniors lose USD 7.7 bn
The Trump administration has begun using offensive cyber capabilities to disrupt foreign scam centres, White House officials said. The announcement came as Homeland Security reported that Americans over 60 lost USD 7.7 billion to cybercrime in 2025
Delhi-NCR air quality deteriorates to poor category, CAQM invokes GRAP Stage 1
The Air Quality lndex (AQI) of Delhi which was observed 179 (Moderate category)on October 20, has exhibited a sharp rise with AQI of 244 at 2 pm on October 21 (Poor category), said the CAQM in a statement
Unacceptable, stupid: Macron hits back at Trump's remarks on France protests
French President Emmanuel Macron has accused foreign leaders, including those across the Atlantic, of exploiting unrest in France for political gain. He criticised Donald Trumps claims about immigration and Islamists, and warned that AI-generated images and misleading narratives were fuelling misinformation
PM Modi wishes Union Home Minister Amit Shah on his 62nd birthday
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma extended birthday wishes to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on his 62nd birthday on October 22. Modi praised his contribution to internal security and efforts against Maoism and drugs, while Sarma backed the Centres anti-drug mission by 2029
SBI investigates suspected dark web leak of 3,897 customer records
Flawed keys compromised eight eMudhra certificates, but its Indian digital signature and eSign businesses remain unaffected
Chinmay Sutar will now have to live up to expectations, but help will come in the form of father Rajesh
Tiger Shroff firing case: Shooters scoped Juhu, surveyed homes of Big B, Akshay and Aamir
Maharashtra: Washim tense after clashes during Durga immersion procession, police step up security
Clashes erupted between two groups in Maharashtra's Washim during a Durga idol immersion procession, but a timely intervention by police helped in controlling the situation and ensuring that things remain calm, officials said on Thursday. The...
Hospital help desks must not be allowed to go unstaffed
The manpower crunch had to be remedied by now.
Maharashtra registers 1.12 lakh vehicles during Navratri, Pune tops the list
They attributed the drop in the numbers to poor rainfall, drought and uncertainty in global financial conditions
Mumbai FDA suspends licences of four food outlets over unhygienic conditions
Wider action across Maharashtra leads to seizure of food stock worth Rs 3.11 crore
How a bullets twists and turns saved man shot during Tiger Shroff attack
Maharashtra pharmacy admissions 2026: Fourth allotment offers seats to 3,667 students
Ads on water: Billboards set to float off Juhu, Worli seafront; greens raise concerns
The United Nations designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The objective is to raise awareness about the role of women farmers. Generally, our higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir organize seminars, rallies, and other activities to mark important national and international days. However, to the best of my knowledge, no such celebrations have taken place so far in connection with this initiative. Chancellor of the universities Mr Manoj Sinha, has described campuses as hubs of ideas where every lecture becomes a doorway. Faculty members and students need to spend time in the countryside to experience the challenges and rewards of harvesting in Kashmir. Chairman Mao Zedong famously spoke of his education at the university of green forests. This article is a modest attempt to understand some of the issues concerning women farmers and their evolving identity. Definitional issues Women farmers are individuals engaged in agricultural activities such as crop cultivation, livestock management, horticulture, fisheries, food processing, and other farm-related operations. Their work extends from land preparation to harvesting, storage, processing, and marketing. The state of Maharashtra has taken a commendable step by introducing legislation that recognizes women farmers through an activity-based definition independent of land ownership. The Women Farmers Empowerment Bill, passed by Maharashtra in July 2026, grants women independent recognition as farmers irrespective of whether they own agricultural land. This legislation represents a significant shift from recognizing the owner of agricultural land to recognizing the person who actually cultivates it. Maharashtra has shown the way for other states in the Indian Union to follow. Earlier, the National Policy for Farmers, based on the recommendations of the National Commission on Farmers, had also broadened the definition of a farmer. The commission was chaired by the eminent agricultural scientist Dr. M. S. Swaminathan. The perception that only men can be farmers must therefore be abandoned. In 2025, agriculture employed approximately 110 million women and 127 million men, indicating that the gender gap in agricultural employment had narrowed considerably. There is an urgent need to remove loopholes in policymaking and institutional practices so that women are recognized as farmers in their own right. This would enable them to benefit from various welfare schemes offered by the Union and state governments in keeping with the spirit of the Indian Constitution. Founding mothers of the Indian republic In recent years, several noteworthy works on the Indian Constitution have questioned the use of the term Founding Fathers, a phrase rooted in the American tradition of recognizing a group of eminent men. These writings seek to bring greater visibility to the women who played noticeable roles in framing the Indian Constitution. A new book, Founding Mothers of the Indian Republic: Gender Politics of the Framing of the Constitution, by Achyut Chetan, sheds light on the contributions of Indian women who participated in the constitution-making process. It is heartening to note that Amrit Kaur, a member of the Constituent Assembly, emphasized the concept of constructive citizenship. Her approach sought to move beyond identifying and regulating women primarily as members of particular religious communities and instead recognize them as citizens of the new nation, enjoying equal legal status with men. Similarly, Dakshayani Velayudhan, the only Dalit woman in the Constituent Assembly, envisioned an educational role for the state in transforming a caste-ridden society into an independent and egalitarian Indian republic. Constitutional provisions Article 14 of the Indian Constitution guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws. In the context of gender equality, this principle supports womens claims to equal treatment, dignity, and protection against discrimination. Article 15 prohibits discrimination on specified grounds, including sex, while Articles 15(3) and 15(4) empower the state to make special provisions for women and children and for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes and other constitutionally specified groups. Article 19(1)(g) guarantees citizens the right to practise any profession or carry on any occupation, trade, or business, subject to reasonable restrictions permitted by the Constitution. Article 42 directs the state to make provisions for securing just and humane conditions of work and maternity relief, thereby laying an important foundation for a just and equitable social order. Various state governments and Union Territories have introduced measures intended to strengthen womens participation in national development. The constitutional framework provides important guarantees and protections for women across different sections of society. Women farmers in Indian states The newly enacted Maharashtra legislation broadens the definition of a woman farmer to include women residents engaged in agriculture for at least one agricultural season in a year, irrespective of the nature of their landholding. The proposed Women Farmer Certificate explicitly recognizes categories such as landless cultivators, landless livestock rearers, agricultural labourers, plantation workers, and pastoralists. In principle, this creates a pathway through which women who do not own land can gain access to government welfare schemes and agricultural credit. In Kerala, women farmers play an important role in the agricultural economy and environmental sustainability through grassroots collectives. The Kudumbashree collective farming initiative organizes neighbourhood groups into Joint Liability Groups to cultivate fallow land. Meghalaya offers another interesting example. Approximately 48 per cent of women reportedly own land, a proportion higher than the national average. In some communities, the inheritance of family property by the youngest daughter reflects the states distinctive matrilineal traditions. These examples demonstrate that institutional recognition, collective organization, and property rights can strengthen womens participation in agriculture. The J&K Experience In May 2018, the then Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, announced a zero-stamp-duty policy for properties registered in the names of female family members. The initiative reflected the progressive spirit of the 1944 Naya Kashmir programme. However, the measure was short-lived and was revoked in 2019. It is worth noting that asset ownership in Jammu and Kashmir remains largely dominated by men. In terms of land ownership, only 23 per cent of women in the region reportedly hold property in their names, compared with 73 per cent of men. Despite these constraints, women farmers in Jammu and Kashmir are increasingly demonstrating their capabilities and emerging as a distinct and important category of agricultural entrepreneurs. Zainab Wani, a Kashmir-based freelance journalist, has brought several success stories to public attention under the theme Farm Heroines of Kashmir. She writes about how Kashmiri women such as Shaziya, Gulshana, and Tahira are transforming the Valleys agricultural landscape through determination, innovation, and a willingness to create employment opportunities where few previously existed. Shaziya, who holds LLB and LLM degrees and comes from a village in the Shopian area, oversees a dynamic agro-enterprise that functions more like an integrated ecosystem than a conventional farm. Her model emphasizes sustainability and avoids the use of fertilizers. Her work has been recognized by a zonal body of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. Similarly, Gulshana, from Pulwama, has established a dairy farm and demonstrated how dedication and hard work can provide a model for others to emulate. She reportedly supplies more than 150,000 litres of milk annually. She has benefited from the National Livestock Mission, which, among other objectives, seeks to improve feed and breed quality across India. In Kulgam, Tahira, a young woman without land of her own, has demonstrated that even a small shed-sized space can become an important source of income through mushroom cultivation, potentially providing employment throughout the year. These encouraging stories demonstrate the potential of women farmers to transform local economies. The Jammu and Kashmir government must build on this momentum by taking further measures to support and empower them. The Way Forward The Jammu and Kashmir government should consider enacting a Women Farmers Empowerment Act along the lines of Maharashtras initiative. Globally, women continue to face substantial legal and institutional barriers to land ownership and inheritance. In India, women constitute a significant proportion of the agricultural workforce and self-employed agricultural workers, yet their ownership of agricultural land has historically remained disproportionately low. Anil Agarwal, chairman of Vedanta Limited, has argued that economies grow faster when women are empowered. The Jammu and Kashmir government could draw inspiration from Gujarats experience with women-operated Amul milk parlours in villages, adapting the model to local conditions and opportunities. Block Development Officers, working in partnership with Gram Sabhas and other local institutions, could invite women recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization as Women Heroes in Agrifood to share their experiences. Such interactions could inspire local women farmers and help disseminate effective agricultural practices. More than a hundred women around the world have received recognition through initiatives celebrating their pioneering contributions to agrifood systems. Women farmers should also receive childcare support to reduce their unpaid care burden and enable them to devote more time and energy to agricultural work. Through initiatives such as the Namo Drone Didi programme, women can be trained in drone operations, precision agriculture, and smart irrigation. Such skills could help improve productivity, reduce costs, and create new employment opportunities in rural areas. Jammu and Kashmir also faces an administrative challenge: its government machinery has relatively limited staffing in some critical service-delivery roles, while several institutions lack the technical expertise needed to implement complex development programmes effectively. The government must therefore rethink the role of the developmental state, ensuring that effective public services and ease of doing business extend to the village level. The author is a Kashmir-based political scientist.
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