The first non-air-conditioned (non-AC) automatic door-closing EMU local on Monday arrived at the Kurla car shed in Mumbai, marking a key step in the city’s suburban railway upgrade plan. The new train is part of efforts to improve safety and commuter experience on the city’s busy suburban network. The newly introduced EMU rake features a door-closing system aimed at reducing accidents caused by overcrowding and passengers travelling on open doorways. The system is designed to enhance safety during peak-hour travel, when Mumbai’s suburban trains are heavily crowded. Developed after the Mumbra incident The new rake, developed after the Mumbra incident, is aimed at improving passenger safety by preventing falls from open doors. The 12-car train is manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. Railway officials had earlier stated that the move is part of a broader policy shift to introduce closed-door systems across all future suburban trains, both AC and non-AC. Mid-day had earlier reported about the city soon to receive India’s first non-AC suburban local train with automatic door closure, marking a significant shift in the design of the city’s lifeline trains. Read more: Mumbai local gets automatic doors in first for non-AC suburban trains A first for Mumbai and Indian Railways This is the first time a non-AC local train with automatic doors has been developed for Mumbai’s suburban network and for Indian Railways. The rake has been designed following consultations between the Railway Board. Train design The train features a vestibule design, allowing movement across coaches within each unit and will have open windows with sliding panes. It creates a seamless layout, unlike traditional compartmentalised locals. The ladies coach is expected to be located at either end of the train. Trials before passenger service The train will undergo mandatory trials before it can be opened to passengers.These include the following- - Confirmatory oscillograph car run (COCR) at 110 kmph to assess safety and ride quality - Load trials using weighted material equivalent to passenger load - Passenger trials before final induction
13 April,2026 06:32 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarIndia Post’s Mumbai Region on Monday launched a special initiative to deliver Geographical Indication-tagged (GI-tagged) Ratnagiri Alphonso mangoes directly to households across the city. Direct market link for farmers The initiative seeks to create a direct market link between mango farmers in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri and urban consumers, helping eliminate middlemen and ensuring better returns for growers. It also aims to support small-scale sellers and agro-entrepreneurs by expanding their access to metropolitan markets. Seamless ordering and doorstep delivery Leveraging its extensive logistics network, India Post is facilitating seamless ordering through QR codes and WhatsApp, along with the convenience of cash-on-delivery (COD), enabling even small producers to participate without significant investment in infrastructure or marketing. Supporting rural livelihoods Postmaster General, India Post Mumbai Region, Kaiya Arora, said the initiative is designed to strengthen the connection between local farmers and city consumers while ensuring fair pricing and fresh produce. “This initiative leverages India Post’s vast network to connect Ratnagiri mango farmers with Mumbaikars. Doorstep delivery of GI-tagged mangoes supports rural economies while ensuring farmers receive a higher share of the final price,” she said. Next-day delivery now possible as India Post rolls out its ‘24 Speed Post’ in Mumbai, Delhi and 4 other cities Earlier in March, the Department of Posts launched a new premium express delivery service, ‘24 Speed Post’, offering guaranteed next-day delivery for urgent consignments across six major cities. According to news reports, the service was inaugurated by Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and Minister of State Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani at Rang Bhawan Auditorium, Akashwani Bhawan in New Delhi. In the first phase, the service will be available in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, as per the reports. Alongside this, the department has also introduced a ‘48 Speed Post’ option, ensuring a D plus 2 (two-day) delivery timeline through dedicated processing and priority air transmission. According to the India Post, the upgraded services come with features such as OTP-based secure delivery, end-to-end tracking with SMS alerts, and a Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) facility for business users. Bulk customers will benefit from free pickup, API integration and centralised billing, making the service more efficient for e-commerce and corporate clients. The department has also announced a money-back guarantee in case of delivery delays, aiming to strengthen its premium express delivery services.
13 April,2026 06:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government on Monday unveiled a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at safeguarding outdoor informal workers in urban heat risk districts, as rising temperatures continue to pose serious health threats across the state, reported IANS. The guidelines, released under the direction of State Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan, focus on reducing heat exposure, improving workplace safety, and strengthening medical preparedness in high-risk urban areas. Work Timings Revised to Avoid Peak Heat Hours One of the key measures introduced in the SOPs is the rescheduling of outdoor work hours to cooler parts of the day. Workers are advised to operate between 6 am and 11 am and again from 4 pm to 8 pm during heat alerts, reported IANS. Additionally, mandatory rest breaks have been enforced between 12 pm and 4 pm during orange and red alerts. The government has also directed authorities to implement schedule shifts across sectors such as construction, industrial operations, and street vending, reported IANS. To ensure compliance, district administrations and urban local bodies will issue official circulars mandating these changes. Focus on Women’s Safety and Workplace Facilities The SOPs place special emphasis on ensuring safe working conditions for women. Authorities have been instructed to improve lighting, provide transport facilities, and ensure access to protective infrastructure at work sites, reported IANS. This move is seen as a step toward addressing gender-specific vulnerabilities faced by women working in outdoor and informal sectors, particularly during extreme weather conditions. High-Risk Districts Identified Across Regions The SOPs have been introduced in response to Maharashtra being ranked among the most heat-vulnerable regions in India. According to the State Heat Action Plan, 15 districts across Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Khandesh have been identified as highly susceptible to extreme heat, reported IANS. These include Latur, Amravati, Yavatmal, Washim, Akola, Buldhana, Nagpur, Wardha, Chandrapur, Gondia, Bhandara, Jalgaon, Nandurbar, Dhule, and Nanded. The guidelines apply to all municipal corporations, councils, and nagar panchayats in these high-risk zones, reported IANS. Water Access, Shade, and Cooling Infrastructure Boosted To combat heat stress, the SOPs mandate the installation of water booths at key informal work locations such as markets, traffic junctions, transit hubs, and vending areas. These booths will ensure regular access to drinking water with proper signage and maintenance. Authorities will also distribute Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and electrolyte sachets through primary health centres, ward offices, and non-governmental organisations, reported IANS. Public parks and gardens are to remain open during afternoon hours, while temporary shaded structures will be erected at labour hubs, vending zones, and high-traffic areas. Long-term measures include promoting tree plantation, reflective surfaces, and misting systems in urban planning, reported IANS. Strengthening Medical Preparedness and Emergency Response The SOPs also outline enhanced medical readiness to tackle heat-related illnesses. Primary and urban health centres will be stocked with ORS, intravenous fluids, and essential treatment kits. Healthcare workers, including ASHAs and ward-level staff, will be trained to identify and respond to heat-related conditions. Emergency services will be strengthened by pre-positioning ambulances in high-risk areas and closely monitoring response times during peak heat days, reported IANS. Disaster Management Centre Planned in Nagpur In a parallel initiative, the state government has announced plans to establish a dedicated disaster management training and research centre in Nagpur at an estimated cost of Rs 184 crore. The centre will focus on training personnel and conducting research on extreme heat conditions and sustainable cooling solutions, reinforcing the state’s long-term strategy to address climate-related challenges. (With inputs from IANS)
13 April,2026 06:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday paid tributes to the mortal remains of legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle at her residence in Mumbai’s Lower Parel area. Several dignitaries and admirers gathered to offer their final respects to one of India’s most iconic voices. In his tribute, Shinde described her passing as “Swar Samadhi,” emphasising that her legacy transcends mortality and will continue to resonate across generations. Calling her a “pride of Maharashtra” and a symbol of Marathi identity, he said her contribution to Indian music remains unparalleled. A Legacy Beyond Measure Shinde noted that Asha Bhosle’s extraordinary journey in music has left an indelible mark not only on Indian cinema but also on global audiences. “It is not her death, but that she has attained Swar Samadhi,” he said, underlining the eternal nature of her art and influence. He further added that her songs have become timeless treasures, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the country. Her voice, he said, carried emotions that connected with listeners across age groups and backgrounds. Voice That Transcended Languages and Generations Highlighting her versatility, Shinde said Asha Bhosle’s songs have served as an emotional companion for millions. “Even today, the thousands of songs she rendered feel as fresh as ever. As long as the sun and moon exist, her songs will remain immortal and continue to bring joy to music lovers,” he said. Over a career spanning more than seven decades, Asha Bhosle recorded songs in multiple languages and genres, earning admiration for her ability to adapt to changing musical styles while maintaining her unique identity. Honoured with Maharashtra Bhushan Reflecting on his personal association with the singer, Shinde said he felt privileged to confer upon her the prestigious Maharashtra Bhushan Award during his tenure as Chief Minister. He described the moment as one of the proudest in his public life, recognising her immense contribution to the state and the nation. Acknowledgement of Welfare Initiatives Recalling her public remarks, Shinde noted that Asha Bhosle had appreciated the state government’s Ladki Bahin Yojana. She had highlighted the importance of the Rs 1,500 financial assistance under the scheme, stating that such support would have been invaluable during her early years when her family faced financial hardships. Condolences and Final Tribute Expressing deep sorrow, Shinde extended his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for their strength during this difficult time. He also offered tributes on behalf of the Shiv Sena, honouring the life and legacy of the legendary singer. The 92-year-old singer passed away on Sunday due to multi-organ failure at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, marking the end of an extraordinary era in Indian music. Affectionately known as “Ashatai,” Asha Bhosle was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan and Maharashtra Bhushan awards. Renowned for her versatility, she gifted the world countless classics, including Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar, In Ankhon Ki Masti, Dil Cheez Kya Hai, Piya Tu Ab To Aaja, Duniya Mein Logon Ko, and Zara Sa Jhoom Loon Main - songs that continue to define generations of music lovers.
13 April,2026 05:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Bombay High Court has referred an important legal question to a larger bench to decide whether the state can deny furlough to prisoners convicted under special laws such as the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), reported PTI. The court also observed that such blanket restrictions may violate fundamental rights and go against the reformative purpose of prison laws. The order was passed on April 10 by the Nagpur bench of Justices Anil Pansare and Nivedita Mehta on a petition filed by Rohit Tangappa Joseph, an aide of gangster Chhota Rajan, who is convicted in the killing of journalist J Dey. Joseph approached the court after prison authorities in Amravati rejected his furlough request. Authorities had relied on a December 2024 amendment to prison rules that imposed a blanket ban on furlough for prisoners convicted under certain special laws or serious offences. State rule under scrutiny The Maharashtra government had amended the Maharashtra Prisons (Furlough and Parole) Rules to restrict furlough for inmates convicted under laws like MCOCA, POCSO and other serious offences. Joseph, who is serving life imprisonment, had sought 28 days of furlough to meet his family due to an emergency. Is the blanket ban fair? The bench noted that denying furlough only on the basis of the offence may defeat the purpose of the system. It observed that furlough is meant to help prisoners maintain family ties and adjust better to life. The court said, "The objective of furlough is to enable prisoners to remain in touch with their families and deal with family matters, to provide relief from the detrimental impact of continuous captivity in prison and to enable prisoners to remain hopeful about their future and have an active interest in life," as per PTI. It further added that assuming prisoners convicted under special laws do not need such relief may not be justified. The judges also pointed out that restricting furlough purely based on the law under which a person is convicted could violate fundamental rights and contradict the reformative approach of the justice system. Equality and reformative justice The court observed that in organised crime cases, individuals may play different roles, and treating all convicts equally for furlough eligibility may be unfair. It said this creates “a class within a class,” which may not be justified. It also remarked, "We do not find any rational as to why should prisoners, irrespective of the fact that they are convicted under a particular Act, be not permitted to remain in touch with their families, and/or remain hopeful about their life and future," a per the news agency. The division bench noted conflicting earlier judgments on the issue and referred the matter to the Chief Justice for constitution of a larger bench to settle the legal question. What is the case all about? Joseph was convicted of murder and criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code and provisions of MCOCA. He is among eight others, including Chhota Rajan, convicted in the case related to the killing of journalist J Dey in Mumbai’s Powai area on June 11, 2011. According to prosecution, Rajan ordered the killing after being unhappy with Dey’s writings. (With PTI Inputs)
13 April,2026 05:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAt least eleven people were killed and two others seriously injured after a van collided with a cement mixer in Maharashtra’s Thane district on Monday, police said, reported the PTI. The accident took place at around 11:30 am on Raita bridge in Govili village of Murbad area in Thane. According to officials, the van crashed into a cement mixer coming from the opposite direction, leading to a severe impact. Casualties and injuries Police said that 11 occupants of the van died in the accident. Two others sustained critical injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, the news agency reported. Their condition is reported to be serious. The officials said that the rescue teams, medical staff and local police reached the spot soon after the incident. Efforts were made to assist the injured and clear the wreckage from the bridge, according to the PTI. The officials said that more details about the victims and the cause of the crash are awaited. An investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances leading to the accident. Eight men, three women among those dead At least 11 occupants of the van have died, and two injured have been shifted to the central hospital at Ulhasnagar, Murbad tehsildar Abhijit Deshmukh said. Six of the victims have been identified, and the process of identifying the others is underway, a senior police official said. The deceased included eight men and three women, he said. Following the accident, traffic was affected on the road from Kalyan to Ahilyanagar for a few hours. The stretch has now been cleared, he said. Shinde expresses grief Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde expressed grief. In a post on X, he wrote, "at least 11 people were killed in a tragic road accident on the Kalyan-Ahilyanagar National Highway." He conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for peace to the departed souls. Shinde wrote that an investigation into the accident has been initiated and the incident will be properly probed. Speeding truck kills seven pilgrims on Lakhtar-Viramgam highway in Gujarat Meanwhile, in an another incident, seven members of a pilgrim group from the Bharwad community were killed while several others suffered injuries after a speeding truck ran over them on the Lakhtar-Viramgam Highway in Gujarat's Surendranagar district in the early hours of Monday. The accident took place between Chharad and Bhaskarpara villages near Lakhtar around 1.20 am when a group of foot pilgrims, travelling from Gadhka village in Rajkot towards Viramgam for temple darshan and a flag-hoisting ritual, was hit from behind by a dumper truck. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident. "The mishap in Surendranagar district, Gujarat, is deeply distressing. Heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured," the PM's office posted on X. The victims belonged to the Mundhva family and were part of a larger group of around 700 devotees undertaking the pilgrimage. Seven people, including five women and two men, died on the spot. The deceased were identified as Masabhai Mundhva, Jaluben Mundhva, Raniben Lambariya and Vajiben Mundhva, among others. (with PTI inputs)
13 April,2026 04:31 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government will take forward plans to establish a music institute envisioned by legendary singer Asha Bhosle, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Monday. The decision comes a day after the iconic singer passed away at the age of 92 due to multi-organ failure at Breach Candy Hospital, marking the end of a remarkable musical journey that spanned over seven decades. Government to Fulfil Bhosle’s Vision Addressing the state cabinet, Fadnavis said that the proposal for a dedicated music institution was originally put forward by Bhosle herself. He assured that the government would take concrete steps to bring her vision to fruition. “The proposal for the music institute was mooted by Asha Bhosle, and the state government will take it forward,” the Chief Minister said, according to an official statement. Condolence Resolution Passed in Cabinet Meeting The Maharashtra cabinet paid heartfelt tributes to the late singer during its meeting. A condolence resolution was read out by Chief Secretary Rajesh Agarwal in honour of Bhosle’s immense contribution to Indian music. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar and other cabinet ministers were present at the meeting. Bhosle, one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, leaves behind an unparalleled legacy, having enthralled generations with her timeless voice across multiple languages and genres. On Saturday evening, after her body was brought home from the hospital, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and state minister Ashish Shelar paid floral tributes. Asha Bhosle Career With a career spanning over eight decades, Asha Bhosle was known for her versatility and has sung many memorable melodies, from romantic songs to ghazals to peppy numbers. Born in 1933, Asha Bhosle began her musical journey at a young age and rose to prominence in the 1950s. Over her career spanning decades, she recorded thousands of songs across multiple Indian languages, ranging from classical and ghazals to cabaret, pop, and folk. Some of her most popular songs were "Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar", "In Ankhon Ki Masti", "Dil Cheez Kya Hai", "Piya Tu Ab to Aaja", "Duniya Mein Logon Ko", and "Zaara Se Jhoom Loon Main". Bhosle was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, Dadasaheb Phalke award and Maharashtra Bhushan awards.
13 April,2026 04:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA devastating road accident in Kalyan has claimed 11 lives after two more injured victims died in hospital, officials said on Monday. The accident occurred around 11 a.m. near Rayta Bridge on the Kalyan-Murbad road, as per IANS. According to preliminary information, a car travelling from Kalyan collided head-on with a dumper or mixer truck. The impact of the collision was severe, leading to multiple casualties on the spot. Casualties and rescue efforts Police said that 12 passengers were travelling in the car at the time of the accident. Eight people died instantly, while one more died during treatment at the hospital. Later, two additional injured victims succumbed to their injuries, taking the total death toll to 11. Local residents rushed to the accident site and tried to help the victims before emergency services arrived. Soon after receiving information, a team from the Titwala Police Station reached the spot and began rescue and relief operations. The injured were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem examination. Investigation underway Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident. Officials said the exact cause of the accident is yet to be confirmed, but initial reports suggest that over-speeding or loss of control may have led to the crash. Titwala Deputy SP Anil Laad said, “The process of identifying the deceased is currently underway, while the injured are receiving medical treatment at a nearby hospital.” He also added that authorities will examine the role of concerned government departments in the incident, reported the news agency. Earlier, Thane Superintendent of Police D.S. Swami had confirmed nine deaths before the toll increased. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. More details are expected as the probe progresses. Traffic disruption and official response The collision caused a major traffic jam along the Titwala-Kalyan stretch, disrupting vehicular movement for several hours near Rayta Bridge. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. In a statement, he said, “The incident in which 11 people lost their lives… is extremely tragic. I pay my heartfelt tribute to them. We share in the grief of these families.” राष्ट्रीय महामार्ग 61 वर कल्याणजवळ दोन वाहनांची धडक होऊन झालेल्या भीषण अपघातात 11 जणांचा मृत्यू झाल्याची घटना अतिशय दुर्दैवी आहे. मी त्यांना भावपूर्ण श्रद्धांजली अर्पण करतो. या कुटुंबियांच्या दुःखात आम्ही सहभागी आहोत. स्थानिक प्रशासनाशी आम्ही संपर्कात आहोत. — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) April 13, 2026 He also said that the government is in touch with local authorities to monitor the situation. (With IANS Inputs)
13 April,2026 04:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and former chief ministers Sushilkumar Shinde and Uddhav Thackeray paid tribute to the mortal remains of singing legend Asha Bhosle at her residence in Mumbai on Monday. The 92-year-old singer, who mesmerised generations with her unforgettable melodies across seven decades, died on Sunday following a multi-organ failure, at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. The singer's final journey is set to take place later in the day. Governor Varma laid a wreath at Bhosle's mortal remains, which were draped in the national flag and placed in the lobby of her Casa Grand residence in Lower Parel. Bhosle’s timeless songs played softly in the background, adding to the solemn atmosphere as he conveyed condolences to the grieving family. Uddhav Thackeray pays tribute to Asha Bhosle Meanwhile, Shinde and Thackeray offered their condolences to Bhosle's family members, including her son Anand and granddaughter Zanai. Thackeray's wife Rashmi was also present at Bhosle's residence. Several other Maharashtra leaders, including ministers Ashish Shelar and Mangal Prabhat Lodha, NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule, and NCP leader Praful Patel also paid respects to the late singer. Asha Bhosle to be cremated with state honours Bhosle’s funeral will be held at Shivaji Park in Dadar at 4 pm with state honours. Affectionately known as Ashatai, the legendary singer was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan and Maharashtra Bhushan awards. Renowned for her versatility, she gifted the world countless classics, including "Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar", "In Ankhon Ki Masti" ", Dil Cheez Kya Hai", "Piya Tu Ab to Aaja", "Duniya Mein Logon Ko", and "Zaara Se Jhoom Loon Main". BMC and Mumbai Police prepare for Asha Bhosle's funeral The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mumbai Police are making preparations for the funeral of Asha Bhosle. Crowd-control measures by the authorities will ensure visitors who want to pay homage to the singer can do so. If required, separate access corridors will be made for the public and for VIPs and family members. Vinayak Vispute, assistant commissioner of the G North ward, confirmed that the last rites will be held at the Shivaji Park crematorium. Meanwhile, in a statement to mid-day on Sunday evening, a BMC official said, “The civic administration has recent references of the preparations that were required for the last rites of Lata Mangeshkar and Ratan Tata, in terms of on-ground implementation and coordination required to facilitate a large influx of crowd. The BMC is coordinating with the police to ensure law and order preparations, also.” (With inputs from PTI)
13 April,2026 03:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA court in Maharashtra’s Nashik on Monday remanded self-styled godman Ashok Kharat to seven-day judicial custody until April 20 in connection with a third rape case, where he is accused of sexually exploiting a pregnant woman, reported news agency PTI. SIT seeks custody after police remand ends The Special Investigation Team (SIT) produced Kharat before the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate B. N. Ichpurani through a virtual hearing, as his police custody in the case concluded earlier in the day. After reviewing the remand report submitted by the SIT, the court granted the request for judicial custody, reported PTI. Kharat, a former merchant navy officer who later gained notoriety as a self-styled spiritual figure, was first arrested in mid-March following multiple complaints of sexual misconduct. Allegations involving pregnant woman surface According to investigators, the latest case involves the alleged sexual exploitation of a seven-month pregnant woman, who is the wife of one of Kharat’s office staff members. The complaint filed by the victim’s husband states that the accused assaulted the woman multiple times over a span of more than two years, reported PTI. The alleged incidents reportedly took place between November 2023 and December 2025, including at Kharat’s office premises in Nashik. Authorities also stated that the accused conducted a ritual involving the woman at a temple located in Mirgaon village in Sinnar taluka. Husband’s suspicion leads to key evidence The case took a crucial turn when the victim’s husband, who initially did not believe his wife’s allegations, began to suspect wrongdoing after hearing similar complaints from other women. In an attempt to verify the claims, he secretly installed a spy camera in Kharat’s office, reported PTI. The footage allegedly captured objectionable acts, which were later handed over to the police in the form of a pen drive. Investigators have described the digital evidence as significant in strengthening the case against the accused, reported PTI. Multiple cases filed against accused Kharat is currently facing nearly a dozen criminal cases, of which at least eight are related to sexual assault allegations. The SIT has been actively consolidating evidence across multiple complaints to build a comprehensive case against him. SIT moves for custody in another case Meanwhile, the SIT has also approached the court seeking custody of Kharat in yet another case. The court has granted the necessary permission, and officials are expected to take him into custody from Nashik Road Central Jail. Kharat is scheduled to be produced before the court again on Tuesday in connection with a fourth case, as investigations continue to unfold. (With inputs from PTI)
13 April,2026 03:53 PM IST | Nashik | mid-day online correspondentThe state cabinet chaired by CM Devendra Fadnavis on Monday approved Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) expansion and a new skill university in Mumbai, an official statement said. It said that the Maharashtra cabinet also approved major reforms in the recruitment process for government jobs. The move is aligned with the “Developed Maharashtra 2047” vision. The number of service categories under the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) will increase from 53 to 153. New services will also be added to the combined examination system, making recruitment simpler and more streamlined, the statement said. A new initiative called ‘Nipun Setu’ will be launched through the MahaJobs portal, inspired by the model followed by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Land allocated for power substation in Badlapur The cabinet has approved a change in land reservation in Kulgaon-Badlapur to allow the construction of a power substation. Around four acres of land will be transferred to Tata Power to support infrastructure development in the area. New skill university to come up in Mumbai A new private, self-financed skill university, IES Skill Tech University, will be established in Mumbai, the official statement said. It said that the university aims to boost skill development and create a trained workforce to meet industry demands. Boost for fishermen in coastal districts Under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), the government has approved Rs 61.24 crore to improve basic facilities for fishermen in coastal districts. This move is expected to strengthen the fishing community and improve livelihoods. Major funding for healthcare sector The state will receive financial assistance of Rs 3,708 crore from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The funds will be used to strengthen medical education, nursing services and healthcare delivery systems across Maharashtra. Expansion of district programme According to the official statement, six more districts—Hingoli, Jalna, Palghar, Beed, Dhule and Parbhani—have been added to the NITI Aayog Aspirational District Programme. With this, development schemes will now cover a total of 177 talukas, aiming for balanced and faster growth. Amendments in Maharashtra Medical Council The cabinet has also approved amendments to the law governing the Maharashtra Medical Council. As per the new proposal, members of the council will be nominated by the government instead of being elected, based on recommendations from a high-level committee.
13 April,2026 02:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1776078861790_d.png "Bombay High Court. File Pic")
-1776076498956_d.png "11 dead in Kalyan road accident after two more victims succumb. Representational Image")
