The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena corporator Hanumant Jagdale was elected as the Leader of the House during the general body meeting of the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) on Monday, reported the PTI. The meeting was chaired by Mayor Sharmila Pimplolkar. The announcement was made during the session attended by members of the 131-member civic body. During the same meeting, Shanu Pathan of Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) was declared the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the corporation, according to the PTI. The appointment of the Leader of the House and the Leader of the Opposition formally sets the stage for the functioning of the new general body. Thane civic poll results In the civic body elections held in January, the Shiv Sena secured a clear majority by winning 75 of the 131 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 28 seats, while the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) secured nine seats. The NCP (SP) won 12 seats and All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen won five seats. The Shiv Sena (UBT) secured one seat, and one independent candidate also emerged victorious. With a comfortable majority, Shiv Sena is expected to play a dominant role in the functioning of the Thane civic body. Thane mayor race: Shiv Sena bags top post, BJP gets deputy mayor Shiv Sena’s Sharmila Pimpalolkar was earlier elected the mayor of Thane, while BJP’s Krishna Patil was elected as the deputy mayor in an unopposed election held this month. The election was held under the chairmanship of the Presiding Officer and District Collector Dr Shrikrishnanath Panchal. The election was conducted during a special general body meeting convened at 11.30 am at the Bharat Ratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Auditorium of the Thane Municipal Corporation. Municipal Secretary Manish Joshi and senior civic officials were also present at the meeting. The official announcement of the results was made by Dr Panchal following the completion of the election process. After the declaration, Thane Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao congratulated the newly elected mayor and the deputy mayor. He welcomed them by presenting tulsi saplings.
23 February,2026 06:28 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentFormer Maharashtra Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday said he had never imagined that he and the late former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar would join hands, given that their parties were political rivals. Speaking during the condolence motion in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Thackeray praised Pawar’s administrative acumen and described him as a pillar of support during the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government. “I never imagined that Ajit Pawar and we would ever come together, as our parties were politically opposed. We witnessed two significant mornings — one that shocked everyone with Ajit Pawar’s decision, and another that left Maharashtra grieving,” he said. “We came together unexpectedly. Initially, I had reservations. I had no administrative experience when I became Chief Minister. I was surprised when it was decided that Ajit Pawar would be the Deputy Chief Minister. However, once we began working together, I realised I had gained an excellent and generous colleague and friend in Ajit Dada. He became my pillar of support in governance and administration. Whenever I did not understand something, I would consult him. He had the habit of studying every subject in depth,” Thackeray added. Highlighting Pawar’s political journey, Thackeray said, “Ajit Dada served as Deputy Chief Minister six times. What stands out is that he stepped out from the shadow of a massive tree to carve his own identity. While some remain in the shadow all their lives, Ajit Dada created his own path.” Recalling his visits to Baramati, Thackeray said that despite his own health concerns at the time, Pawar personally accompanied him and showcased the region’s transformation. Maharashtra Budget Session 2026: Baramati has become orphaned after Ajit Dada's death “I visited Baramati two or three times. I was dealing with health issues then, but Ajit Dada ensured he was with me. He showed me the transformation of Baramati — the roads, institutions, schools and overall development. It was astonishing. After his passing, I felt Baramati had become orphaned. A place once filled with energy suddenly felt desolate,” he said. Referring to the Covid-19 lockdown period, Thackeray said that when the state Secretariat (Mantralaya) was shut and economic activity appeared uncertain, Pawar ensured continuity. “During the lockdown, when Mantralaya was closed and it seemed the economic cycle might stall, Ajit Dada kept Maharashtra’s economy moving and ensured no scheme was shut. He demonstrated the skill required to run an administration,” he said. Thackeray also spoke about the allegations levelled against Pawar in recent years. “Recently, Ajit Pawar had remarked that he was in power with those who had once accused him of a Rs 70,000 crore scam. Why am I mentioning this? Because we must reflect on how much we defame a person while they are alive. How many allegations should be made? Should we try to destroy someone’s life? There must be a limit. He faced numerous allegations but confronted them all; he never broke down,” he said. Describing Pawar’s working style, Thackeray said officials were often wary of his commanding presence. “He had a powerful voice and spoke fearlessly. At times, his straightforwardness landed him in trouble, but there was never any malice in his heart,” he added. Thackeray further noted Pawar’s discipline and punctuality, linking it symbolically to his party’s ‘Clock’ emblem. “Ajit Dada handled the Finance Department. Despite my inexperience, he supported me. He had an unbreakable bond with time — perhaps that is why the ‘Clock’ was his symbol. If he was scheduled to arrive at a certain time, he would be there without fail. Even his desk was always neat and perfectly arranged. When a leader is disciplined, the entire administration functions with discipline,” he said. Concluding his tribute, Thackeray said Maharashtra had suffered a profound loss. “Maharashtra has lost a charismatic leader. The mountain of grief caused by Ajit Pawar’s passing has fallen not only on the Pawar family but on the entire state,” he said. (With IANS inputs)
23 February,2026 06:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA Mumbai court has ruled in favour of animal welfare, rejecting a man’s request to get back a horse seized by police on cruelty charges, news agency PTI reported. The horse had been used in traditional ceremonial rides and was taken to an Animal Welfare Board-recognised centre. Additional Sessions Judge Mujibodeen S Shaikh upheld a magistrate’s decision that emphasised the horse’s welfare over the owner’s livelihood. Owner claims right to livelihood The horse’s owner, Jagannath Kunjuprasad Rajbhar, runs a ceremonial horse rental business. He argued that he had provided the horse for marriage functions in the past and possessed the required documents. He claimed that a false FIR was filed against him based on a photograph from a May wedding. “Detention of the horse has caused unnecessary hardship to my business,” Rajbhar told the court, urging that the animal be returned to him as per PTI reports. Police and PETA oppose return The police opposed Rajbhar’s plea, citing a 2015 Bombay High Court ruling banning Victoria horse-drawn carriages in Mumbai due to animal cruelty and lack of licenses. PETA, the intervener in the case, requested that the horse be kept in the Animal Rahat Organisation, which is recognised by the Animal Welfare Board. The magistrate noted, “Prima Facie, it seems he is doing such business without any valid licence,” and handed the horse to PETA on a bond of Rs 2 lakh, with the condition it be returned only if directed by the court. Sessions Court rejects revision plea Rajbhar challenged the magistrate’s order in the sessions court, but it was rejected. The judge agreed with the submissions of the police and PETA, noting the appeal was against an interlocutory (interim) order. “After having considered the entire facts and circumstances, it becomes crystal clear the impugned order passed by the learned magistrate is an interlocutory order,” the sessions judge said as per PTI reports. The ruling reinforces the legal focus on animal welfare, confirming that claims for interim custody cannot override regulations protecting animals. (With PTI inputs)
23 February,2026 04:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) legislator Rohit Pawar on Monday said that if a superficial investigation is conducted into the death of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the “Marathi Manoos (the people of Maharashtra)” will show their strength, news agency IANS reported. He questioned the progress made in the probe over the past month and pointed out that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is already burdened with a large number of pending cases. Speaking to reporters at the Vidhan Bhavan, Rohit Pawar said that leaders such as Amol Mitkari, Rupali Thombare, and several grassroots workers have consistently raised questions regarding the circumstances surrounding Ajit Pawar’s death. Referring to the pilot involved in the crash, he said discussions had already taken place on the matter. “I desire a transparent investigation. While the case has been handed over to the CBI, what have the investigators already probed in the last month? Have they seized CCTV footage? Has the necessary criminal investigation been conducted? A deep inquiry is essential. So far, only two superficial reports have been submitted,” Rohit Pawar claimed. He further alleged that he possesses evidence regarding links between people in power and VSR, the aviation entity, including details of ministers’ associations with it. Ajit Pawar death: Maharashtra deserves to know what exactly transpired, says Rohit Pawar While welcoming the CBI probe, he expressed scepticism, noting that 7,075 cases of the agency remain unresolved. He likened the situation to “putting cases on ice” and stressed that a specific time frame must be set for the CBI to complete the investigation, IANS reported. Rohit Pawar said he has prepared a formal letter to the chief minister and will seek an appointment to submit it along with the evidence. “Reports have already been sent to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the DGCA. Seventy per cent of the information is still being withheld by them. We do not want to play politics; we only demand that the investigation be conducted properly,” he said. He also claimed to have evidence regarding the extent of damage to the Black Box and reiterated that the Marathi people would not remain silent if the probe turned out to be a mere formality. On the Rajya Sabha Elections, Rohit Pawar referred to granduncle Sharad Pawar’s six-decade political career, saying his experience benefits both Maharashtra and the country. He added that even Ajit Pawar had previously expressed such a desire, and that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders, including Sanjay Raut, have voiced similar views about Sharad Pawar entering the Rajya Sabha. “A final decision will be made after Sharad Pawar arrives in Mumbai and discusses the matter with MVA leaders,” he said. Paying tribute to the late leader, Rohit Pawar said he would continue to fight to uncover the truth. “Maharashtra deserves to know what exactly transpired. Ajit Dada used to tease me with his witty remarks. He was a leader who carried himself with great style. He was always the first to arrive at Assembly sessions and the last to leave. We have lost a disciplined, experienced Marathi leader. No matter what happens, we will keep fighting and raising the issues of the people,” he added. (With IANS inputs)
23 February,2026 04:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a major infrastructure push for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Deputy Chief Minister (CM) Eknath Shinde on Thursday announced a Rs 48,000-crore transformation plan for Thane and Kalyan, positioning the two cities as key growth engines of the region. Chairing a meeting of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Shinde approved a massive outlay aimed at addressing rapid urbanisation and strengthening connectivity. Thane will be developed as a ‘mobility hub’, with Rs 12,000–13,000 crore earmarked for major infrastructure works. The ambitious 12-km Thane-Borivali twin tunnel project has received administrative approval worth Rs 18,838 crore, with Rs 3,000 crore allocated for 2026-27. Metro connectivity will get a boost with the extension of Metro-4 (Wadala–Kasarvadavali), Metro-4A (up to Gaimukh) and Metro-6 (Swami Samarth Nagar–Vikhroli). In addition, Rs 1,025 crore has been allocated for the first phase of the Thane Coastal Road and Rs 880 crore for the Anand Nagar–Saket elevated road. Funds have also been set aside for the beautification of Railadevi and Masunda lakes and Rs 214 crore for the Kolshet–Kalher creek bridge. Massive push for Kalyan-Dombivli Meanwhile, Kalyan-Dombivli has been allocated Rs 2,500–3,500 crore to transform it into a ‘future-ready advanced urban centre’. A total of Rs 600 crore has been sanctioned for the Kalyan Ring Road project. Metro-5 (Bhiwandi–Kalyan), Metro-5A (Ulhasnagar extension) and Metro-14 (Kanjurmarg–Badlapur) are expected to strengthen its role as a transit hub. The Rs 584-crore Airoli–Katai Naka road will enhance connectivity with Navi Mumbai. Shinde also directed officials to fast-track the Poshir and Shilar dam projects to tackle water scarcity. Across MMR, an integrated mobility plan featuring a 337-km metro network, pod taxis, boat taxis, flyovers, and underground roads is being rolled out to ease congestion. Mumbai Climate Week: MMRDA signs strategic MoUs to accelerate low-carbon urban transformation MMRDA on Wednesday participated in Mumbai Climate Week 2026, India’s first global forum bringing together multiple stakeholders to accelerate climate action and sustainable urban development. During the event, MMRDA signed several strategic agreements with leading national and international organisations to boost climate resilience, low-carbon urban transformation, and sustainable metropolitan planning across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Key partnerships include United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): A strategic letter of intent to advance metropolitan climate action, with focus on heat mitigation, urban cooling, nature-based solutions, and resilience, alongside development of a Climate Action Vision and Metropolitan Climate Action Plan. Urban Land Institute (ULI): Strategic MoU establishing a long-term global knowledge partnership on land use planning, real estate development, and infrastructure-led metropolitan growth. C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group: Partnership to accelerate climate action, resilience building, and low-carbon urban transformation across MMR. World Resources Institute India (WRI India): Knowledge partnership to support evidence-based, climate-resilient, sustainable, and inclusive metropolitan planning. ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability: Strategic MoU to strengthen governance frameworks, climate action planning, and sustainable urban transformation. On the occasion, a commemorative stamp marking Mumbai Climate Week was also released, underscoring the city’s focus on climate-conscious development and collaborative urban sustainability initiatives.
23 February,2026 03:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTraffic movement on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway was briefly disrupted on Monday morning after a propylene gas tanker crashed into a roadside barrier near the Amrutanjan Bridge. According to Highway Police, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle—suspected to be due to brake failure-while descending a slope, causing the tanker to veer off course and collide with the crash barrier before coming to a halt. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported and there was no gas leakage, averting a potentially serious situation. Police and traffic officials rushed to the spot and promptly shifted the tanker to clear the affected stretch. Though congestion was reported across three lanes, the situation was brought under control within approximately 30 minutes. The incident occurred around 10:30 am on the Mumbai-bound carriageway, leading to temporary disruption in traffic flow. Sources from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) told Mid-Day that highway police and safety patrol teams responded immediately after receiving the alert, ensuring swift clearance of the road. The incident comes close on the heels of a major disruption earlier this month, when an overturned propylene tanker near the Adoshi tunnel in the Khandala ghat led to a 32-hour shutdown of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. The operation to safely transfer the gas and remove the tanker took over a day, leaving commuters stranded and marking one of the longest traffic snarls in the history of the 94.5-km corridor. 33-hour Mumbai-Pune Expressway disruption: 1 lakh motorists to get Rs 5.16 cr toll refund, says MSRDC Meanwhile, more than one lakh motorists who were caught up in a massive traffic gridlock on Mumbai-Pune Expressway earlier this month after a gas tanker mishap will get toll refund cumulatively valued at Rs 5.16 crore, a senior Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation official said on Sunday. On February 3, a gas tanker turned turtle on the Khopoli stretch of the Expressway, leading to a 33-hour disruption which saw traffic come to a standstill for several kilometres, leaving many motorists and passengers facing shortage of water, food and other basic amenities. Following the accident, the administration had ordered an immediate suspension of toll collection. However, by then, toll charges had already been deducted from the FASTag accounts of several motorists.
23 February,2026 02:23 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavIn his joint address to both the Houses of the Maharashtra Legislature on Day 1 of the Budget Session on Monday, Governor Acharya Devvrat began his speech in Marathi. He assured citizens that the government is firmly committed to resolving the long-standing Maharashtra–Karnataka border dispute. The Maharashtra Budget Session will continue till March 25. The border row is an old and unresolved issue that dates back to when state boundaries in India were reorganised mainly based on language. After the reorganisation, some areas with a large Marathi-speaking population, including Belgaum and its nearby regions, were included in Karnataka. Maharashtra has been demanding that these areas be merged with it on the grounds that the people in these regions speak Marathi and share cultural ties with the state. Karnataka, however, maintains that the boundaries were decided legally and should not be changed. The issue has remained a sensitive political matter for decades. Further, appreciating the steps taken by the government in the economic front, he said that Maharashtra is moving steadily towards its goal of becoming a five-trillion-dollar economy by 2047 under the vision of ‘Viksit Maharashtra’. The governor also highlighted the Maharashtra government's plans to develop Gadchiroli as a steel hub and establish an East Vidarbha steel corridor, expressing confidence in the government’s roadmap for the state’s overall growth. Maharashtra Budget Session 2026: CM Devendra Fadnavis to present state budget on March 6 In his speech, the governor highlighted the government’s achievements, including high investments from Davos and plans to improve road infrastructure. He spoke about extending the Samruddhi Express highway connectivity to Vadhvan Port in Palghar district and further to East Vidarbha, which would create job opportunities. He also mentioned the 'Lakhpati Didi' programme, a government initiative that helps rural women earn a steady income and become financially independent; under the scheme, a woman from a self-help group (SHG) must have a household income of at least Rs 1 lakh per year. Additionally, the governor referred to preparations for Kumbh Mela 2027 in Nashik and highlighted that Maharashtra contributes 13 per cent of India’s total GDP. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will present the state budget for 2026–27 on March 6. Fadnavis is currently handling the finance portfolio after the death of former Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar, who passed away in a plane crash near Baramati on January 28. The upcoming budget is expected to outline the government’s financial plans and development roadmap for the next year.
23 February,2026 02:02 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarDescribing late Ajit Pawar as "the best Chief Minister Maharashtra never had," Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis paid an emotional tribute to the veteran leader in the state Assembly on Monday. While moving a condolence resolution, Fadnavis said that Pawar, fondly known as "Dada" among party workers, supporters, and even across the political fraternity, had all the qualities needed to lead Maharashtra as Chief Minister. He said Pawar possessed strong administrative skills, sharp decision-making ability, and a deep understanding of governance. Recalls Ajit Pawar’s leadership qualities and legacy Recalling lighter moments, Fadnavis shared that Pawar would often joke about becoming Chief Minister one day, but would immediately add with a smile that he would always remain Deputy Chief Minister. The remark drew emotional smiles in the House. Ajit Pawar, who died in a plane crash in Baramati on January 28, leaves behind a significant political legacy. He served as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister six times, a rare record in state politics. He also presented the state Budget 11 times, the second-highest by any leader in Maharashtra’s history, underlining his long and influential role in shaping the state’s finances. 2019 episode recalled: ‘Ajit Pawar stood by his word’ Further, during his speech, Fadnavis recalled a moment in 2019, when he took the oath as Chief Minister and Ajit Pawar was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister. Fadnavis stated that everything was decided to form a government, but at the last moment, some senior leaders in the undivided NCP altered the plans. "There was uncertainty. But Ajit Pawar stood by his words. That was Ajit Dada," Fadnavis said, explaining that Ajit Pawar believed in keeping promises rather than being politically correct. ‘Man who worked like a clock’, says CM Known for his strict discipline and respect for time, Pawar was often called a man who worked like a clock. "But when everyone expected him to play a very long innings in public life, fate played its own game, and he missed the timing," Fadnavis said emotionally. "The Maharashtra CM further mentioned that only two leaders will always be remembered as ‘Dada’ — Vasantdada and Ajit Dada," he said, referring to Vasantdada Patil. Fadnavis called Ajit Pawar “Baramati cha Aparajit Neta” (Baramati’s undefeated leader), who remained deeply connected to his people. Leaders across parties recall Ajit Pawar’s style Meanwhile, in the state Legislative Council, speaking during the condolence motion, former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray maintained that Ajit Pawar was very punctual and a leader known for his distinct style of functioning. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Thackeray recalled his memories of working with Ajit Pawar during the MVA government in Maharashtra.
23 February,2026 01:39 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarMaharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has assured a comprehensive investigation into an alleged egg-donation racket in Thane district that reportedly exploited economically vulnerable women. He warned that stringent action would be taken against all those found guilty, including officials or agencies involved in the illegal activity, reported news agency PTI. Women lured with money, subjected to repeated procedures The racket, recently busted by the police, involved luring women with payments ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000 per cycle and repeatedly subjecting them to egg donation procedures. According to officials, the victims were taken to IVF centres where eggs were surgically extracted and later sold for significantly higher amounts, raising serious concerns about exploitation and medical ethics violations. Three arrested; racket operated from Badlapur locations So far, three women have been arrested in connection with the case. The illegal operation was reportedly being run from a residential apartment and a sonography centre located in the Joveli area of Badlapur East. Authorities believe the racket may have wider links, and further investigations are underway to uncover the full extent of the network. Preliminary report in 2–3 days; strict action warned Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event on Saturday night, Abitkar said that the state government has taken serious note of the incident. He confirmed that the Director of Health Services has been instructed to conduct a detailed, fact-based inquiry in coordination with law enforcement agencies, reported PTI. “A preliminary report is expected within the next two to three days. If any official or outsourced agency is found involved, strict action will be taken, including blacklisting and other legal measures,” the minister said, reported PTI. Focus on regulation gaps, hospital upgrade in Thane Reiterating the government’s stance, Abitkar emphasised that Maharashtra follows a zero-tolerance policy towards such serious offences, particularly those involving exploitation under the guise of medical procedures. The case has once again highlighted concerns over the regulation of assisted reproductive technologies and the vulnerability of economically disadvantaged women to such illegal practices. Meanwhile, the minister also provided an update on healthcare infrastructure in the region. He said that the reconstruction of Thane Civil Hospital is nearing completion and that the facility is set to become the largest hospital under the state health department, reported PTI. Once operational, the upgraded hospital will have a capacity of 900 beds and will include specialised departments for cardiology, oncology, and maternity care, significantly enhancing healthcare services in the district. Abitkar was speaking after attending an event organised by Swatantra Veer Seva Pratishthan, where veteran Bollywood actor Jeetendra was honoured with a lifetime achievement award. (With inputs from PTI)
23 February,2026 12:46 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra Legislature’s Budget Session is set to commence on Monday, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressing confidence that the upcoming financial plan will strike a balance between public welfare and fiscal prudence. The state government has announced that at least 15 Bills will be introduced during the session. Ajit Pawar’s groundwork to shape Budget proposals According to an official release, the Maharashtra Budget 2026 will incorporate key proposals and priorities envisioned by late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who had undertaken extensive groundwork before his untimely demise. The government reiterated its commitment to providing relief to citizens while maintaining strict financial discipline and, if required, adopting corrective measures to ensure fiscal stability. Budget to be presented on March 6, says Fadnavis Fadnavis confirmed that the Maharashtra Budget 2026 will be presented on March 6. “Ajit Pawar had made detailed preparations and was set to present a comprehensive Budget. He always adhered to financial discipline, and we will continue in the same direction,” he said, reported ANI. Centre’s allocations, infra push to boost state economy Highlighting recent financial developments, the Chief Minister noted that Maharashtra has received an additional allocation of Rs 2,000 crore in the Union Budget. The state is also expected to receive Rs 98,306 crore through tax devolution. He added that several demands raised by the state government have been accepted by the Centre, which will significantly benefit Maharashtra’s development trajectory. Among key infrastructure announcements, Fadnavis said two high-speed corridors have been approved for the state, while the Railway Budget has earmarked Rs 23,000 crore for Maharashtra. He also pointed out that increased allocation under employment schemes would boost the state’s resources. Under the VB G Ram G scheme, Maharashtra’s demand for additional manpower has been accepted, increasing the allocation from 1,300 lakh man-days to 1,600 lakh man-days, bringing an estimated additional Rs 1,400 crore. Focus on jobs, infrastructure, agriculture and AI initiatives Describing the session as one of the longest legislative sittings in the country, the Chief Minister said it would prioritise issues concerning the poor and common citizens. He also announced that details of the Rs 30 lakh crore investment agreements signed at Davos will be presented in the Assembly to address misconceptions and provide clarity. Fadnavis emphasised Maharashtra’s push in emerging technologies, particularly in agriculture. He noted that a provision of Rs 500 crore had been made for the AI Mission in the earlier Budget, leading to the development of the ‘Mahavistar’ app. Currently used by nearly 30 lakh farmers, the platform provides information on weather, crop conditions, and market prices, and now includes support for the tribal Bhili language. The state aims to leverage artificial intelligence to reduce agricultural production costs by 25 to 40 per cent. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the investment agreements signed at the World Economic Forum in Davos are expected to generate 40 to 50 lakh jobs. He added that infrastructure projects worth nearly Rs 1 lakh crore are underway, with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) approving a budget of Rs 46,000 crore. To address traffic congestion in Mumbai, key projects such as the BKC-Kurla Tunnel, Borivali-Thane Tunnel, and Mulund Tunnel are progressing. Shinde also informed that strict action has been taken in the recent MMRDA accident case, including suspension of officials, financial penalties, and arrests, along with compensation for affected families, reported ANI. In the irrigation sector, 125 projects have received revised administrative approval amounting to around Rs 90,000 crore. The government is also taking measures to tackle drought conditions in Marathwada and improve water supply in Vidarbha. Funding has been sanctioned for key dam projects, including Poshir, Shilar, and Kalu. Additionally, a Rs 32,000 crore package has been announced for farmers, with revised norms under the National Disaster Response Fund increasing compensation eligibility from two hectares to three hectares. The government has also assured daytime electricity supply for agricultural needs. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar highlighted that the traditional pre-session tea meeting serves as a platform for constructive dialogue on development issues. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to public trust and noted Ajit Pawar’s legacy of presenting 11 Budgets, which significantly contributed to the state’s economic growth. Expressing confidence in the upcoming financial plan, she said the Budget presented this year would further accelerate inclusive development and ensure equitable progress across all sections of society. (With inputs from ANI)
23 February,2026 11:58 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Shiv Sena (UBT) on Monday launched a sharp attack on the ruling Mahayuti alliance, accusing it of undermining democratic principles and functioning with excessive political arrogance. In a strongly worded editorial published in the party’s mouthpiece Saamana, the Thackeray camp likened the conduct of the state leadership to that of Duryodhana from the Mahabharata, warning of an eventual downfall driven by ego, reported news agency IANS. Budget session begins without Leader of Opposition The editorial, titled “Duryodhana’s Ego: No Need for a Leader of the Opposition!”, coincides with the commencement of the Maharashtra Legislature’s Budget Session, which has begun without the appointment of a Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in both the Assembly and the Legislative Council. Analogy to Mahabharata highlights ‘erosion of democracy’ Drawing a historical analogy, the piece states that just as Duryodhana refused to grant even “a needlepoint of land” to the Pandavas, the present dispensation is unwilling to provide constitutional space to the opposition. It describes this approach as the “height of ego” and alleges that democratic values are being eroded by individual-centric governance. The Saamana editorial further questions the sanctity of the legislature, suggesting that it risks being reduced to a “private enterprise of the ruling class” rather than functioning as a temple of democracy. It emphasises that the role of the LoP is not merely symbolic but crucial in representing public concerns and ensuring accountability of the government, reported IANS. Opposition unity, transparency concerns raised The Shiv Sena (UBT) also referred to recent political developments at the national level, including tensions involving the Lok Sabha Speaker and opposition efforts to move a no-confidence motion. It alleged that attempts are being made to weaken opposition unity, particularly by isolating the Congress and creating divisions within the INDIA bloc, reported IANS. At the state level, the editorial accused the Mahayuti government of evading scrutiny by sidelining the opposition. It raised concerns over what it described as “clean chits” given in certain political cases and questioned the transparency surrounding key issues, including infrastructure projects and the functioning of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). According to the party, the absence of a strong LoP allows such matters to go unchecked, reported IANS. Delay in local polls, boycott of tea meet criticised The piece also criticised the delay in conducting local body elections and the continued appointment of administrators to run municipal corporations, alleging that these moves signal a drift towards authoritarian governance. Reiterating its political stand, the editorial justified the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s (MVA) decision to boycott the customary tea meeting hosted by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ahead of the session. It stated that raising a voice against alleged irregularities was more important than participating in symbolic gestures. Concluding on a cautionary note, the editorial warned that “ego is the root of destruction,” invoking the fate of Duryodhana as a reminder. It asserted that operating a legislature without a Leader of the Opposition amounts to a serious blow to democratic functioning and accountability, reported IANS. (With inputs from IANS)
23 February,2026 11:56 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1771507994049_d.png "Plea for custody of ceremonial horse gets rejected by court. Representational Image")
