What appeared on social media as a feel-good story of wildlife rescue has taken a dark turn on the ground. Chhattisgarh Police on Friday busted a Rs 2.6 crore ganja trafficking racket under Operation Nishchay, allegedly led by a man who projected himself online as a snake rescuer and wildlife conservationist. Wildlife experts in Maharashtra have now demanded a thorough probe to determine whether the influencer, known as ‘Sarpamitra Akash Jadhav’, was also involved in the illegal capture, supply or trafficking of snakes and other wild animals in the state. Experts seek wider probe Advocate Pawan Sharma, founder and president of RAWW (Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare), told mid-day that the illegal exchange of snake species has been prevalent among certain “sarpamitras” and snake handlers for decades. “There has been information in the past about king cobras and other protected species being brought to Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai, according to Forest Department sources,” Sharma said. “It is no secret that wildlife trafficking has long been linked with other organised crimes such as narcotics, arms smuggling, hawala operations and underworld networks. These syndicates operate in a highly sophisticated and low-profile manner. There is an urgent need for a multi-jurisdictional task force with proper infrastructure and manpower to curb such crimes,” he added. Sharma said a detailed investigation across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region would likely reveal more links and individuals involved. Odisha angle flagged Mumbai-based wildlife enthusiast Anand Mohite also called for an in-depth probe into possible wildlife trafficking. “I have spoken to senior police officials in Chhattisgarh and requested them to examine the king cobra trafficking angle as well. The ganja seized in this case was allegedly routed from Odisha, and king cobras are also reportedly trafficked from the same region,” Mohite said. About the case Police seized 520 kg of ganja and arrested nine persons from Odisha and Maharashtra, uncovering a well-organised supply chain that used multiple routes and local contacts to transport drugs across state borders. The key accused, Akash Jadhav of Ahilyanagar district in Maharashtra, had built a large online following through snake rescue videos. Investigators allege that he played a central role in coordinating drug consignments being sent from Odisha to Maharashtra while maintaining a public image of wildlife conservation. The case surfaced following specific intelligence inputs about a major drug shipment headed for Maharashtra. Acting on the tip-off, teams from the Anti-Narcotics Task Force and Mahasamund district police intercepted the network, leading to the seizure of narcotics worth approximately Rs 2.6 crore. Police said the racket had been active for at least a year and had moved several consignments during this period. Further investigation is underway to identify additional links.
02 February,2026 07:32 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavWith Stds X and XII board examinations around the corner, the Maharashtra State Board has clarified administrative procedures for exam day. Earlier, the board had proposed a ‘centre exchange’ system, where invigilators from one school would oversee exams at another centre to ensure a copy-free environment. Now, exchanges will happen only at centres which currently don’t have the necessary CCTV surveillance. The decision follows concerns raised by teachers and principals’ association members, who said sending educators to unfamiliar schools for supervision could be impractical. Many also highlighted the strain of commuting, particularly when they have lectures to conduct after their board duties. Tanaji Mane, chairman of the Maharashtra Principals’ Association, said, “Nearly 90-95 per cent of exam centres already have CCTV cameras. The remaining schools couldn’t install them due to budget constraints, but should be fully equipped by next year. Exchanging centres for such a small number of schools is unnecessary.” As reported earlier by mid-day, the association had met board officials in January to voice concerns over centre exchanges, CCTV requirements, and added duties for custodians. Clarifying the same, the board officials wrote to division heads last week, stating: “Instead of replacing all employees at all examination centres, only those at centres without CCTV cameras should be replaced. Ensure appropriate planning for the February-March 2026 exams and submit a report of the action taken.” Speaking with mid-day, board chairman Trigun Kulkarni said, “As per reports, many more centres are gearing up with camera surveillance ahead of the exams; however, those who don't manage to do it this year won't be allocated as board exam centres for the next year. These centres are also to store the surveillance data from cameras and drones, and funds have been allocated to the district officers for the same. Examinations held for the five main subjects and sensitive board centres are to be monitored closely.” This year, the Std XII HSC examinations are to begin on February 10, while the Std X SSC exams are slated to commence on February 20.
02 February,2026 07:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Aditi AlurkarChief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday welcomed the Union budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, calling it positive and growth-oriented. However, the Opposition Congress and other parties criticised the BJP-led Union government, saying the budget has failed to provide any real relief to common citizens struggling with rising prices. Fadnavis claimed that Maharashtra will receive nearly Rs 1 lakh crore from the budget, calling it a strong step towards a developed India. The CM referred to the budget as a strong push towards a “Viksit Bharat”. Congratulating the BJP-led Union government for laying clear emphasis on planned urban development, higher investment, and employment generation, Fadnavis said, “Women-focused initiatives, construction of hostels for girls, strengthening of emergency healthcare facilities in districts, and proposed high-speed transport corridors are measures that would boost overall growth and development.” Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Shinde claimed that the budget will strengthen Mumbai and Maharashtra while accelerating development in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities through faster economic growth and better infrastructure. Welcoming the focus on urbanisation, Shinde said, “The measures will boost local economies and create more opportunities beyond major metros.” Congress Mumbai president and Member of Parliament Varsha Gaikwad, and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi slammed the Union budget. “Maharashtra is India’s highest taxpayer, but the state has not received anything from the budget,” Gaikwad said. Similarly, in a post on social media platform X, Chaturvedi said she had expected a “reformatory budget” as promised by the prime minister, but found it disappointing. “The budget failed to outline a clear long-term vision for India,” she said.
02 February,2026 07:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarThe Union Budget 2026-27 lays the foundation for realising a long-aspired commuter dream — reducing the length of railway journeys between Mumbai and Pune to less than an hour, a source close to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told mid-day. At present, the journey takes approximately three and a half hours. Backed by the substantial allocation of Rs 2,78,000 crore in the Union Budget, Railways is focusing its spending on high-speed connectivity, freight and safety, with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announcing new high-speed rail corridors on seven routes, including Mumbai-Pune and subsequently Hyderabad, in around an hour and 55 minutes, to boost connectivity between south and western India. These high-speed corridors will connect Mumbai and Pune, Hyderabad and Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai, Chennai and Bengaluru, Delhi and Varanasi, and Varanasi, and Siliguri, she said. Commuters at Churchgate station on Sunday. Indian Railways has been allocated Rs 2,78,000 crore in the Union Budget for the financial year 2026-27. PIC/SHADAB KHAN Calling them growth connectors, she said they will promote environmentally sustainable passenger systems. A source in Vaishnaw’s office told mid-day, “We are looking at reducing the travel time between Mumbai and Pune to about an hour.” Freight corridor The minister also announced a dedicated east-west national freight corridor between Dankuni in West Bengal and Surat in Gujarat. The budget also proposed the operationalisation of 22 new national waterways over the next five years to promote multimodal transport and reduce logistics costs for “sustainable cargo transportation”. Significance of high-speed corridors According to an official, the new high-speed corridors mean faster rail connectivity not only between two key cities of Maharashtra but also with southern India. “Right now, due to multiple limitations and restrictions of the Ghat sections, the rail traffic to southern India seems limited. The proposed high-speed corridors will offer a much-needed boost, opening up connectivity options," the official said. Voices Shailesh Goyal, former member, National Railway Users Consultative Committee‘The FM’s speech did not address the actual needs of commuters. Spending on a high-speed corridor is not wise. The government’s focus seems to be only on big things like high-speed corridors and bullet train projects, whereas there have been no announcements on passenger safety, new trains, and Mumbai suburban railway’ Rajiv Singal, member, Western Railway Mumbai’s Divisional Railway Users’ Consultative Committee‘Mumbai is the financial capital of India, and Pune is the industrial capital and an IT hub. The Mumbai-Pune high-speed corridor will boost industry. Pune-Hyderabad will be a high-speed corridor. It means Mumbai and Hyderabad will be better connected’ Siddhesh Desai, Mumbai Rail Pravasi Sangh‘I welcome the announcement of approximately Rs 1200 crore in additional funding for the expansion and modernisation of Mumbai’s suburban railway network. This will support important projects. However, unfortunately, commuter safety continues to be neglected. According to official data, 2287 commuters lost their lives in 2025. Although this reflects a seven per cent reduction compared to 2024, the figure remains unacceptably high’.
02 February,2026 07:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarPerusing the Union Budget 2026 is akin to gazing through a kaleidoscope, in which the usual factors, such as agriculture, healthcare, rural, and urban development — along with taxation and compliance — and newer aspects like Artificial Intelligence, space research, and sustainable green energy co-exist in a colourful collage — unitedly embodying the visionary ‘Make in India’ mantra, as India eyes a five-trillion-dollar economy by 2030. To gain insights into the budget and take stock of hits and misses that would ultimately reflect on the Viksit Bharat’s economy, which is eyeing the top three slots globally despite US sanctions and a volatile situation looming large over the sub-continent, mid-day spoke to members of a family in the western suburbs, who shed light on its impact on the average Mumbaikar. (From left) Arjun Taula, Lt Col Satpal Singh (Retd), Bharthi Singh, Vardan Singh, Divakar Kulkarni, Sharada Kulkarni, Mohan Grover, Jyothi Taula, Arthi Grover, and Arun Taula at their residence on January 26. PIC/SAYYED SAMEER ABEDI ‘The government has shown its intent to ease the hassles faced by taxpayers by simplifying norms and language, but at the same time, as per estimates, only a tiny percentage of the population pays taxes, though everyone wants good infrastructure and amenities. This is an alarming trend and, hopefully, with the proposed changes, the figures will improve. As a freshman in the corporate world, I would personally want to see more startups that meet global standards, both in technology and skilled manpower.’ Arjun Taula, corporate firm employee ‘Veterans who actively engage with MSME schemes, reskilling programmes and infrastructure projects will benefit. The increased defence allocation outlays better pension security and sustained welfare schemes. It emphasises defence modernisation and manufacturing, along with skill development and entrepreneurship support, which can open jobs for veterans. This budget honours our service while fuelling second careers —truly a Viksit Bharat win! Jai Hind!’ Lt Col Satpal Singh (retd) corporate firm employee ‘The 2026 Budget left me smiling! Digital training hubs and women’s skilling programmes mean sharper IT skills and career growth. This budget boosts families like ours. The finance minister, in her speech, rightly pointed out that tier 2 and 3 cities, as well as religious sites, are the key drivers of India’s economic growth and the proposal for seven high-speed rail corridors and twenty national waterways will not only boost connectivity, but also bridge the urban-rural gap. I only hope that the environmental factors are not ignored.’ Bharthi Singh, corporate firm employee ‘The Budget’s AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) labs in 15,000 schools are a game-changer for me. The students can now learn game design and Esports hands-on, blending it with business skills like starting an indie gaming startup via youth funds. This budget fuels my dream career… I can’t wait to dive in and build the next big Indian game!’ Vardan Singh, Std IX student ‘No government can offer instant development on a platter, but it is evident that the government is keen to see the country become a global artificial intelligence hub. For this, our basic education system has to be analysed and made futuristic. A lot has changed from the time when I was active in the education sector, but I would like to see a quantum shift in the field, which is not restricted to schools in modern cities but also to rural India, which should also concentrate on incorporating new technologies in the field of agriculture and animal husbandry.’ Divakar Kulkarni, retired headmaster ‘No government can offer instant development on a platter, but it is evident that the government is keen to see the country become a global artificial intelligence hub. For this, our basic education system has to be analysed and made futuristic. A lot has changed from the time when I was active in the education sector, but I would like to see a quantum shift in the field, which is not restricted to schools in modern cities but also to rural India, which should also concentrate on incorporating new technologies in the field of agriculture and animal husbandry.’ Divakar Kulkarni, retired headmaster ‘As an avid traveller, I am happy that international tour packages will be more pocket-friendly. There has been a great improvement in the hospitality industry, which is not only creating jobs for locals but also witnessing an inflow of skilled workers from as far as the North East region. More tourist destinations have to be created with the help of professionals from the field, both at the national and state levels.’ Mohan Grover, Std X student ‘A general sentiment shared by the majority of the taxpayers is that they are not getting enough in return. Even for a vibrant city like Mumbai, which is referred to as the financial capital, it took ages to get a Metro, which is still not fully functional but has already changed the way we travel. I would like to see newer, well-planned megacities with the best infrastructure so that the youth of the country do not aspire to work and settle abroad. The lesser the brain drain, the better our domestic skilled workforce in the fields of medicine, computers, technology, and AI.’ Jyothi Taula, financial planner ‘The allocation of Rs 5000 crore over five years for the development of urban infrastructure and amenities, if utilised correctly, will be a game-changer, potentially developing a whole new ecosystem. New jobs in diverse fields will mean that the skilled and unskilled youth from smaller townships need not leave their families and move into cities that are already struggling with their own set of challenges, not to mention the high cost of living and mental stress.’ Arthi Grover, interior designer ‘With zero increase in personal tax, take-home income has been unaffected. This is a big relief for the salaried class, who are already burdened with rising day-to-day expenses, house rent, kids’ education, and more. Steady domestic consumption and manufacturing are just the right mix for the creation of high-skill jobs, which will, in the long run, not only prove beneficial for the youth but also boost imports. But for this to happen, the authorities must ensure single-ticket windows are opened for all sectors to cut red tape and reduce difficulties in obtaining the requisite permissions.’ Arun Taula, proprietor/financial planner What the budget says on Income Tax >> More time to revise tax returns, for a fee, of course>> People with ITR-1 and ITR-2 forms can file returns till July 31>> People can update returns even after completion of reassessment proceedings Cheaper >> Cancer drugs>> Footwear>> Leather goods>> Microwave ovens >> TV equipment>> Cameras>> Overseas tour packages>> Foreign education Costlier >> Coffee and vending machines>> Income tax misreporting>> Non-disclosure of movable assets>> Stock options and futures trading
02 February,2026 07:04 AM IST | Mumbai | Shailesh BhatiaSmoke on the water A thick haze descends on the Coastal Road at Haji Ali as Mumbai experienced AQI in ‘severe’ and unhealthy categories last week A festival of voices A performance by Lifafa at an earlier edition of the festival. Pic Courtesy/Spoken Fest Mumbaikars can look forward to a homecoming of words. The 10th edition of Spoken Fest will kick off on February 21 and 22 at Jio World Garden, BKC. From Kommune’s stable, the festival brings together poetry, storytelling, performance, music, and conversation, with voices such as Sheeba Chaddha, Swanand Kirkire, Raj Arjun, and Waseem Barelvi. Roshan Abbas Co-founder of Kommune, Roshan Abbas told this diarist, “The milestone edition marks a homecoming that celebrates language and shared listening. Spoken Fest exists to remind you that your voice is not background music, but the entire song.” A take on philosophy Mumbai’s followers of philosophical thought have a chance to listen to Sharad Baviskar, assistant professor, Centre for French and Francophone Studies, JNU, who will take the stage as the keynote speaker at the annual programme of the Dr Aroon Tikekar Centre for Advanced Studies at the Asiatic Society of Mumbai today. With the subject titled Philosophy of Non-Philosophers, Baviskar is certain to plant some seeds of thought in this city. Readers who might be interested can log on to asiaticsociety.org for more details. Jazz notes return to Gaylord Rajesh Punjabi (left) and D Wood (right) in performance. Pic Courtesy/@gaylordrestaurantmumbai Music rolled back the years within the vintage-soaked walls of Churchgate’s iconic Gaylord Restaurant on Friday, January 30. For the first time since the late 1960s, the restaurant welcomed the Bombay Jazz Club led by Rajesh Punjabi and D Wood for a performance. “Gaylord used to be one of the original homes of jazz in the city. It was once the hub along the line from Colaba to Churchgate where artistes would drop in and perform,” shared Punjabi. In September 2025, Gaylord celebrated its 70th year with a new look and an upgraded menu. A view of the refurbished interiors. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi A first concert within the restaurant seems to be the next step to its evolution. “We were delighted when the restaurant reached out to us to ask if we would be available. A large part of what we do as a collective is to rekindle the love for jazz and its complexities among audiences. It felt only right [to accept] considering the legacy of the restaurant and its connection to the genre of music,” the veteran composer Punjabi added. Ashley Perez, restaurant manager, revealed to this diarist that the concert is the beginning of more to come. “We are looking to host more such experiences at the restaurant,” he shared, adding that the next event might be scheduled this month. “It is a chance to roll back the years of Bombay jazz,” Punjabi summed up. A man of his time Kekoo Gandhy. Pic Courtesy/Ram Rahman Were he around, late gallerist Kekoo Gandhy (inset) might have a thing to say about the rising AQI in the city limits. “He would not recognise the Mumbai of today,” shared daughter Behroze Gandhy, whose short film, Kekee Manzil: The House of Art will be screened this weekend by the Brief Encounters Film Club in Bandra. Incidentally, today (February 2) marks the 106th birth anniversary of the gallerist. “It is a fascinating film about a person who encapsulated the lofty ideas of his time,” shared Aparajita Sinha, founder, Brief Encounters Film Club. A touch of Sindh Monica Mahendru On February 6, theatremaker Nikhil Katara will bring history, personal and cultural memories to life with the production Paanjo Kirdaar, at the ongoing Kala Ghoda Arts Festival. Staging at the Horniman Circle Garden, the production is a collaboration with author Saaz Aggarwal, and her research on the people of Sindh. “It examines Sindhi culture through the stories of five incredible people told through monologues,” he shared.
02 February,2026 06:35 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayDo you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for February 2. Aries March 21 – April 20Be focused, not distracted to make the most of today. Get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Be honest with yourself if there’s a need to make life changes, or find yourself in a challenging situation. TaurusApril 21 – May 20Enjoy the journey while working hard, knowing putting in your best will bring results when the time is right. Drink enough water.Cosmic tip: Stand firm in values. Those who bend easily lose quickly. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Simplifying life helps use the advantage of auspicious planetary positions. Focus on maintaining a healthy diet, exercising as advised. Cosmic tip: Be selective about friends (you’ve been let down so many times). Cancer June 22 – July 23Some singles have found true love, where all habits and personality traits tick the right boxes. Cosmic tip: Approach a reconciliation with your spouse happily, as you want to end a misunderstanding. Leo July 24 - Aug 23You enjoy working through a challenging assignment where the brain has to work on all cylinders. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Enjoy life, living it to the fullest. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Career enters a karmic cycle of forward movement with some changes. A delayed payment is received with apologies. Get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Keep the home tidy and also get rid of clutter regularly. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Some may buy/ sell property. You feel healthier and happier as karmas draw in positive times. Receiving a phone call makes you feel good.Cosmic tip: Accept appreciation with a calm mindset. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Tread carefully when tempted to give suggestions at work. An important career milestone is reached.Cosmic tip: Be careful with money, documents and other valuables while travelling. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Opt for further studies if that brings happiness; never mind what people say about this decision. Eat home cooked food.Cosmic tip: Re-read some books you’ve read earlier some years ago. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20A relocation is a conscious decision made; but don’t do it to escape problems. A project close to your heart begins.Cosmic tip: Look ahead to the future with optimism and faith in God. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Spending time alone helps understand exactly where you went wrong and what needs to be done to right it.Cosmic tip: Be careful about what you say, controlling spontaneous remarks that may do more harm. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Those seeking employment receive some replies. Focus on a long-term goal.Cosmic tip: Plan an assignment with a calm mind, knowing exactly what angle to pursue.
02 February,2026 06:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseMaharashtra CM Fadnavis on Sunday said that if talks about the merger of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions were at an advanced stage, the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar would have informed him, reported the PTI. Speaking to reporters, CM Fadnavis said that Ajit Pawar, who died in a plane crash in Baramati in Pune district in Maharashtra on January 28, shared all important political matters with him. He said he had no information about any proposed merger date. His statement came a day after NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar claimed that February 12 had been finalised to announce a merger between the two NCP factions. Sharad Pawar also said the process could now face hurdles following Ajit Pawar’s death. A video of a meeting between Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar held on January 17 has since gone viral on social media. ‘No Merger Without BJP’s Knowledge’ CM Fadnavis said he was unaware of any such discussions or dates. “Can merger talks be finalised without our knowledge? We have no information about February 12 being the announcement date,” he said. He added that while the NCP is an independent party, it is part of the BJP-led alliance and is expected to consult allies before taking such major decisions. Responding to reports that the BJP opposed the merger, CM Fadnavis said his party had not opposed anyone. “If Ajit Pawar was working on a merger, would he have done so without taking the BJP into confidence? Would he have prepared to leave the NDA when he was politically stable? He shared everything with me,” the Chief Minister said, the news agency reported. Finance portfolio to stay with me till state budget: Fadnavis Days after Ajit Pawar's death, CM Fadnavis on Sunday stated that state the finance ministry, a portfolio earlier handled by late NCP chief, would now be with him until the budget, reported the PTI. On Saturday, Ajit Pawar’s wife Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, becoming the first woman to hold the post. She was given charge of excise, sports, minority development and Aukaf departments, but not the finance and planning portfolio earlier handled by her husband. CM Fadnavis, who now has finance portfolio, said “I will present the state budget. Preparing a budget is not just about delivering a speech; it requires multiple departmental meetings. It was not possible to immediately hand over this responsibility to Sunetra Pawar. We will take a decision on the finance portfolio after the budget session," according to the PTI. Sunetra Pawar’s oath-taking Addressing criticism over the speed of Sunetra Pawar’s oath-taking, CM Fadnavis said that the NCP would respond to it. He added that political decisions are often shaped by circumstances, citing the example of Rajiv Gandhi being sworn in as Prime Minister in 1984 even before Indira Gandhi’s cremation. The Chief Minister also said he will not campaign for the February 7 Zilla Parishad elections in the state following Ajit Pawar’s death, as per the PTI. He explained that public meetings often lead to political statements, which should be avoided during this period. Meanwhile, on the firing incident outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s home in Mumbai earlier on Sunday, CM Fadnavis said that the scooter used by the assailants has been recovered and the person involved has been identified. (with PTI inputs)
01 February,2026 10:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Union Budget 2026 is a clear and forward-looking roadmap for building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Dr Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman of NAREDCO and the Hiranandani Group said on Sunday. He said the budget places strong emphasis on infrastructure development, regional growth and the empowerment of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which will drive India’s next phase of economic expansion. Dr Hiranandani highlighted the government’s proposal to increase public capital expenditure to Rs 12.2 lakh crore, describing it as a decisive step that will create strong multiplier effects across key sectors such as real estate, construction, logistics and allied industries. He noted that the focus on better execution and policy certainty will improve investor confidence and support long-term, sustainable development. Shift towards regional economic growth One of the most important features of the Budget, according to Dr Hiranandani, is the move away from a metro-centric growth model. The introduction of City Economic Regions (CERs) aims to integrate Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, temple towns and surrounding rural areas into unified economic zones. Each CER will receive Rs 5,000 crore through a challenge-based funding model. Dr Hiranandani said this approach will improve connectivity, competitiveness and liveability, and create balanced regional growth across the country. Infra investments to create new growth corridors The budget’s focus on logistics, warehousing and data centre infrastructure will help India strengthen its position as a global supply chain and digital hub. Investments in multimodal logistics parks and cold chains are expected to reduce costs and wastage, directly benefiting manufacturers and exporters. Dr Hiranandani said simplified customs processes and safe-harbour norms will further improve ease of doing business. The extension of tax holidays for data centres till 2047, along with incentives for green and sustainable infrastructure, will attract foreign investment and support India’s fast-growing digital economy. Boost to Real Estate, Tourism and Urban Economies The Budget also recognises hospitality and tourism as major growth drivers. Improved connectivity and rising domestic travel are likely to increase demand for hotels, mixed-use developments and destination-based real estate, creating jobs and boosting local economies. Commercial real estate is expected to benefit from expanding urban centres, better mobility and increased demand from MSMEs, service industries and global capability centres. In addition, public sector enterprises will be allowed to unlock the value of government-owned land and buildings through Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). This move will help recycle capital and fund new infrastructure projects. Logistics, warehousing and data centres get support A dedicated investment of Rs 75,000 crore for logistics and warehousing will support the development of modern warehouses, cold storage facilities and multimodal transport hubs. Safe-harbour norms for bonded warehouses will lower compliance costs and improve efficiency for exporters. The extended tax benefits and incentives for foreign data centre and cloud service providers will position India as a leading global data hub, driving innovation and long-term investment. Infra risk guarantee fund to reduce project risks To address execution and financing risks in infrastructure projects, the Budget proposes the creation of an Infrastructure Risk Guarantee Fund. This fund will provide partial guarantees to lenders, reduce borrowing costs and encourage private sector participation in large infrastructure projects. Continued focus on affordable housing The government has reaffirmed its commitment to affordable housing by continuing the PM Awas Yojana, with an allocation of Rs 79,000 crore. Hiranandani said this sustained support will improve housing access while boosting construction and allied sectors, making housing a key pillar of inclusive urban growth. A future-ready vision for India Dr Hiranandani said the Union Budget 2026 presents a pragmatic and future-ready framework for building competitive cities and strong economic regions. With its focus on regional integration, infrastructure investment, affordable housing and policy stability, the budget is expected to unlock new growth opportunities beyond major cities and strengthen India’s global economic position.
01 February,2026 09:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) in Maharashtra will launch a massive deep clean drive in Kopri area of the city on Monday, officials said, adding that the initiative will focus on roads and public spaces. An official statement said that the civic body will carry out a comprehensive deep clean drive in the Kopri area on Monday, February 2, 2026, starting at 7 am. It said that the cleanliness campaign will be organised under the leadership of proposed Thane Mayor Sharmila Pimpalolkar and is inspired by the vision of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The drive will be conducted under the Naupada Ward and will cover several localities in the Kopri area. Preparations for the campaign were reviewed during a meeting held at the municipal headquarters on Sunday, chaired by Sharmila Pimpalolkar, officials said. Meeting at TMC HQ According to the officials, a high-level meeting was held at the Thane Municipal Corporation headquarters attended by Additional Municipal Commissioner Sandeep Malvi, Health Officer Dr Rani Shinde, corporator Bharat Chavan. Several other senior civic officials were also present during the meeting. The officials discussed the scope of work and coordination required to ensure the smooth execution of the cleanliness drive. Areas to be covered The special deep clean drive starting on Monday will begin from Ashtavinayak Chowk in Kopri and will cover the areas in Kopri including Kopri village, Kanhaiya Nagar, Siddharth Nagar, Bara Bangla area and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Chowk and surrounding localities, the statement said. Focus on hygiene, sanitation As part of the campaign, roads and public spaces will be thoroughly cleaned, garbage will be collected, and roads will be washed with water. Public toilets in the area will also be cleaned and disinfected to improve hygiene and sanitation standards. Tree plantation to promote environmental awareness In addition to cleanliness activities, the campaign will also include tree plantation to spread the message of environmental conservation. Municipal officials and staff will actively participate in the drive. The Thane Municipal Corporation said the initiative aims to improve public health, enhance cleanliness, and encourage citizens to maintain a clean and green city.
01 February,2026 09:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Union Budget 2026 has recorded a modest rise in allocations for children, indicating incremental progress rather than a major shift in fiscal priorities, according to an analysis by CRY – Child Rights and You. An official statement issued by CRY on Sunday said that a review of the Expenditure Budget Statement No. 12 shows that total child-related allocations have increased to Rs 1,32,296.85 crore in 2026–27 (Budget Estimates), up from Rs 1,16,132.5 crore in 2025–26. This marks an absolute increase of Rs 16,164.35 crore. Compared to the previous year, the share of the Child Budget in the overall Union Budget has risen from 2.29 per cent to 2.47 per cent. As a percentage of GDP, allocations have increased marginally from 0.33 per cent to 0.34 per cent. Puja Marwaha, CEO of CRY – Child Rights and You, said that while the increase reflects positive intent, the overall scale of investment remains limited given India’s population and the growing developmental needs of children. “Incremental increases in health, nutrition and education are welcome, but inclusive and sustainable growth will require stronger prioritisation of children, with more equitable investments that go beyond marginal year-on-year gains,” she said. Higher spending on child health and nutrition Allocations for the Flexible Pool for Reproductive and Child Health (RCH), Health System Strengthening, the National Health Programme and the National Urban Health Mission have increased by Rs 261.15 crore, taking the total to Rs 4,591.58 crore, the statement said. It said that the Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 scheme has seen a 5.19 per cent rise, with allocations increasing by Rs 969 crore to Rs 19,635 crore. The Poshan 2.0 programme aims to address malnutrition among children, adolescent girls, and pregnant and lactating women. The PM Poshan Shakti Nirman scheme has received a 2 per cent increase, with funding rising to Rs 12,749.99 crore. Notably, the Jal Jeevan Mission has been reintroduced into the Child Budget after 2024–25, with an allocation of Rs 6,736.36 crore, highlighting the importance of safe drinking water for child health. Education, development and child protection The Mission Vatsalya scheme has seen a marginal increase of 3.33 per cent, with allocations reaching Rs 1,550 crore. The Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan has been allocated Rs 42,100 crore, marking a 2.06 per cent increase over the previous year. Funding for Eklavya Model Residential Schools has risen sharply by over 20 per cent to Rs 7,200 crore, indicating a stronger focus on education for tribal children. Allocations for Navodaya Vidyalayas and Kendriya Vidyalayas have also increased. The budget has set aside Rs 3,200 crore for Atal Tinkering Labs in 2026–27, signalling renewed emphasis on innovation and scientific learning in government schools. The inclusion of the Skill India Programme in the Child Budget also aligns with the National Education Policy’s focus on early vocational education. Concerns over equity-focused schemes Despite these increases, several scholarship schemes for marginalised children have remained largely unchanged. Allocations for pre- and post-matric scholarships for Scheduled Castes have seen no increase, while scholarships for OBCs, EBCs, DNTs, and children with disabilities have recorded only marginal rises. While the Programme for Development of Scheduled Tribes (PM Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana) has seen a substantial increase, CRY noted that overall attention to equity-focused interventions remains uneven. Call for stronger focus on children CRY said that the budget 2026-27 reflects incremental gains rather than transformative investment. The organisation stressed that future budgets must place children more firmly at the centre of fiscal planning, backed by adequate scale, equity and a long-term vision to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth.
01 February,2026 08:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
