A political debate has emerged in Maharashtra over comments made about the Warkari sect, a centuries-old spiritual movement dedicated to Lord Vitthal of Pandharpur. The row erupted after Sharad Pawar, in a magazine article, expressed concern that regressive elements had entered the tradition and that certain discourses were encouraging religious fanaticism. Responding to these remarks, Devendra Fadnavis strongly rejected the claims, stating that the article showed a lack of understanding of the sect’s values and history, reported PTI. Warkari sect The term ‘Warkari’ refers to devotees of Lord Vitthal who undertake an annual pilgrimage on foot to the temple town of Pandharpur in Maharashtra. The tradition is believed to be 800 to 900 years old and is deeply rooted in the Bhakti movement. It has inspired great saints and poets such as Tukaram and Namdev. The movement emphasises devotion, equality, humility and spiritual purity. Government’s stand on infiltration claims Addressing the issue, Fadnavis acknowledged that some individuals with alleged Urban Naxal links had tried to enter the Warkari movement in recent times. However, he stressed that such elements were not accepted by the community. He also mentioned that the government had taken note of such individuals and maintained records through relevant departments. According to him, the sect remains strong in its core values and rejects any attempts to distort its teachings, as per PTI. Philosophy of inclusiveness Fadnavis highlighted that the Warkari tradition promotes harmony, purification of the mind and unity with nature. He described it as a rich and inclusive movement that continues to bring people together regardless of social or economic background. He reiterated that the tradition stands for brotherhood and spiritual growth, rather than division or extremism. Debate on freedom of expression While criticising Pawar’s article as “completely incorrect,” Fadnavis also acknowledged that everyone has the right to express their views. He said that in literary forums, diverse opinions are often presented, and public figures may choose to share their perspectives, reported the news agency. He added that Pawar, being a senior political leader, has the prerogative to write and express his thoughts, even if others may disagree with them. (With PTI Inputs)
11 April,2026 11:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe government on Saturday hiked export duty, or windfall tax, on diesel to Rs 55.5 per litre and on aviation fuel ATF to Rs 42 a litre. The duty hikes would be applicable with immediate effect, the finance ministry said in a notification. The government had, on March 26, imposed an export duty of Rs 21.50 a litre on diesel, and Rs 29.5 per litre on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). The duties were levied to increase domestic availability of the fuel amid the war in West Asia. They were also aimed at not allowing exporters to take undue advantage due to price differences, as globally crude oil prices had risen since the beginning of the war. On February 28, the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran, triggering sweeping retaliation from Tehran. On April 8, Iran, the United States and Israel agreed on a two-week ceasefire in the war that tore across the Middle East and disrupted the global energy market.Export duty on petrol continues to remain nil. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
11 April,2026 08:07 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIGadchiroli Police in Maharashtra organised a free health camp at the newly established police outpost in Bangadi village, aiming to provide medical services to residents in remote and tribal areas. The initiative covered people from Bangadi and Gundnur villages, where a total of around 80 citizens underwent medical examination by a team of specialist doctors, officials said. The camp was conducted jointly by the Gadchiroli Police Hospital, District Hospital Gadchiroli, Zilla Parishad Gadchiroli and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The programme was held under the guidance of Superintendent of Police Nilotpal, with the aim of extending healthcare services to inaccessible regions. Specialist doctors examine residents According to an official statement, a team of doctors, including physicians, paediatricians and gynaecologists, carried out examinations. The doctors examined the patients thoroughly and gave necessary medical advises were given to those who visited the camp for check-ups. Medical professionals who participated in the camp included Dr Dhananjay Khandagale (Physician, District Hospital Gadchiroli), Dr Mukesh Atyalgade (Paediatrician, Women and Child Hospital Gadchiroli), Dr Pravin Kilnake (Medical Superintendent, Rural Hospital Chamorshi, Gynaecologist), Dr Roshni Kirange (Police Hospital Medical Officer) and Dr D. S. Mohan (CRPF Medical Officer, 09 Battalion). Patients were given free medicines and health advice, especially on nutrition and common illnesses. Referrals and further treatment Out of the 80 people examined, 10 patients were referred to higher medical centres for further treatment and detailed check-ups, officials said. Children were screened by paediatric specialists, while women, including pregnant mothers, received gynaecological consultations and guidance. Focus on awareness and welfare activities During the camp, awareness activities were also conducted using mobile exhibitions. These highlighted the sacrifices of martyred security personnel and the role of the police force in maintaining law and order, the police said. Officials said that such initiatives aim to build trust between security forces and local communities while improving access to healthcare. Ongoing welfare initiatives in Gadchiroli According to police records, since 2021, the force has conducted - - 191 health camps covering over 42,000 people - 5 blood donation drives collecting 4,361 units of blood - Eye screening under “Operation Roshan”, covering 9,971 people and 1,412 cataract surgeries
11 April,2026 07:52 PM IST | Gadchiroli | mid-day online correspondentThe Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has started a dedicated Safety Awareness Week focused on the proper use of lifts, escalators and travelators across its metro network. The campaign aims to reduce accidents caused due to careless or unsafe use and improve overall passenger awareness and discipline inside stations, reported ANI. At present, the Delhi Metro operates and maintains 965 lifts, 1,297 escalators and 42 travelators across its stations. The system plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth, fast and accessible travel for millions of commuters every day, including senior citizens, women, and persons with reduced mobility. Unique station record at Kashmere Gate One of the key highlights of the network is the Kashmere Gate Metro Station, which holds a world record for having the highest number of escalators in a metro station, with a total of 53 escalators. This makes it one of the busiest and most important interchange stations in the entire network, handling a very large volume of passengers daily and connecting multiple metro lines efficiently, as per the news agency. Activities during the awareness week As part of the campaign running from April 7 to 13, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has deployed scout and guide volunteers along with DMRC staff at several stations. These volunteers are stationed near lifts and escalators holding placards to guide passengers on safe usage and correct behaviour. In addition, street plays (nukkad nataks) are being performed at select high-footfall stations to spread awareness in an engaging and easy-to-understand manner. Informational leaflets are also being distributed among commuters, highlighting key safety tips and preventive measures. Focus on safety and accessibility The campaign is designed to educate passengers about best practices for using lifts and escalators safely, including standing properly, avoiding rushing, and supervising children. It also aims to promote preventive behaviour to reduce avoidable accidents during daily travel. Special attention is being given to elderly passengers and persons with disabilities, ensuring they receive proper assistance, priority access and guidance while using these facilities across stations, reported the news agency. Importance of passenger responsibility The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has stated that it gives high priority to the maintenance and smooth functioning of all lifts, escalators and travelators. However, officials noted that many accidents still occur due to lack of caution and unsafe behaviour by passengers. This awareness week has therefore been introduced to encourage responsible behaviour, improve discipline, and ensure safer and more comfortable journeys for all commuters across the metro network. (With ANI Inputs)
11 April,2026 07:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNearly seven years after Ladakh was carved out as a separate Union Territory in 2019, residents have finally received a key administrative update in their Aadhaar records, reported the PTI. Earlier, Aadhaar cards still showed “Jammu and Kashmir” in the state field, even though Ladakh had been officially separated. This mismatch continued for a long time and remained a matter of concern for many residents. This inconsistency created confusion and difficulties for residents while using Aadhaar for identity verification and accessing various government as well as private services. In several cases, it also led to delays in documentation and verification processes, causing inconvenience in day-to-day transactions. Government intervention and coordination with UIDAI The issue was taken up by the newly appointed Ladakh Lt Governor VK Saxena, after which the Union Territory administration approached UIDAI to resolve the matter on a priority basis. Following this, a centralised correction mechanism was developed. Instead of requiring individuals to visit Aadhaar centres one by one, the update was carried out using Ladakh-specific PIN codes. These were verified in coordination with the Department of Posts and then shared with UIDAI for system-wide correction. This approach ensured faster implementation and helped avoid inconvenience for thousands of residents across the region. Relief for residents of Ladakh The updated Aadhaar records now correctly reflect Ladakh as the “state” entry. Officials said this change removes long-standing procedural hurdles and improves ease of living for people in the region, as per the news agency. Residents no longer need to physically visit Aadhaar centers for corrections. They can now download updated e-Aadhaar copies directly from the official UIDAI portal. Those who prefer a physical version can also order a PVC Aadhaar card online by paying a nominal fee, making the process more accessible and convenient. Administrative significance of the move Officials said the correction is not just a technical update but also an important step in formally recognising Ladakh’s separate identity in official records. It improves accuracy in Aadhaar-linked databases and supports better service delivery across departments. According to the administration, the change reflects a broader effort toward responsive governance, administrative efficiency and smoother public service delivery in Ladakh, ensuring citizens face fewer bureaucratic hurdles in the future. (With PTI Inputs)
11 April,2026 05:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThree prison personnel, including a deputy jailor, have been suspended following the death of an inmate under suspicious circumstances at the district jail in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh, officials said on Saturday, reported the PTI. The incident occurred on Friday when an inmate sustained severe burn injuries inside the jail premises. He later died, raising concerns about safety and supervision within the prison. District Jail Superintendent Rishabh Dwivedi identified the deceased as Deepak alias Rahul, an undertrial prisoner from Unnao. Background of the case The inmate had been lodged in jail since November 1, 2025 following orders of a special POCSO court. He was facing charges related to rape and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, according to the PTI. The case had been registered at Kandhai police station in Pratapgarh. Officials Suspended, probe ordered The suspended personnel include Deputy jailor Dhruv Narayan Srivastava, Chief warder Akhilesh Singh and a staff member identified as Prasad, the news agency reported. The officials have directed the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Prisons to carry out a departmental inquiry into the incident. Suicide suspected, investigation ongoing According to Rishabh Dwivedi, the incident appears to be a case of suicide at first glance. However, he said the exact sequence of events will only be confirmed after a detailed investigation. The body has been sent for postmortem examination. A forensic team is also investigating the circumstances surrounding the death to determine what exactly happened inside the prison. Life convict attacks jail staff in Maharashtra's Thane, booked Meanwhile, in an another incident, a life convict has been booked for allegedly assaulting and threatening a jail constable in Maharashtra’s Thane district after being denied an unauthorised meeting with his brother, police said last week, reported the PTI. The incident took place on April 2, when the convict was being escorted back to prison following a court appearance. The accused, Avinash Jadhav, is currently serving a life sentence at Thane Central Jail, the news agency reported. According to police, he became enraged after a constable prevented his brother from approaching him inside the sessions court premises in Mumbai. The constable had reportedly stopped the brother from handing over an item and instructed him to maintain distance. Officials said that upon returning to the jail, Jadhav confronted the constable at the prison entrance. He allegedly assaulted the officer, shouted at jail staff, and issued threats, creating a disturbance and intimidating on-duty personnel. The victim, a 42-year-old constable, was supervising a group of undertrials and convicts at the time of the incident, as per the PTI. Case registered under BNS Police have registered a case against Jadhav under Section 132 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from duty) and other relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Further investigation into the matter is currently underway. (with PTI inputs)
11 April,2026 04:50 PM IST | Pratapgarh (UP) | mid-day online correspondentAs many as 149 leopards have died in Madhya Pradesh in the last 14 months, according to information obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) application filed by wildlife activist Ajay Dubey. It stated that the leopard deaths were reported between January 2025 and March 2026. The figures have raised serious concerns about wildlife safety and infrastructure planning. Road accidents identified as leading cause Data shows that road and highway accidents are the biggest cause of deaths, accounting for around 31 per cent of fatalities. Approximately 46 leopards were killed in vehicle collisions, including 19 deaths on highways alone. Wildlife experts say that increasing road networks passing through forest areas have significantly contributed to these incidents. Other causes of leopard deaths in MP Apart from accidents, several other factors have contributed to the deaths - - Natural causes such as disease and old age: 24 per cent (36 deaths) - Intraspecies conflict (territorial fights): 21 per cent (31 deaths) - Poaching and retaliatory killings: 14 per cent (21 deaths) - Undetermined causes: 9 per cent (13 deaths) - Electrocution: around 1 per cent (8 deaths) Some deaths were also linked to traps and snares allegedly set by poachers. Concerns over infra, habitat loss Experts have pointed out that many deaths occurred near highways and other infrastructure projects cutting through important forest corridors. These “linear infrastructure” developments often disrupt animal movement and increase the risk of accidents. Leopards are also increasingly found near human settlements, which raises the chances of conflict, vehicle collisions and accidental electrocution. Activist raises alarm Ajay Dubey described the situation as alarming, stating that such a high number of deaths reflects poor implementation of wildlife protection measures. He said that while the state is known for its strong wildlife reputation, the rising number of leopard deaths highlights gaps in safety planning and enforcement of conservation guidelines. Dubey said, “The staggering loss of 149 leopards in just 14 months reveals a grim reality for Madhya Pradesh. While the state takes pride in its ‘Tiger State’ status, it has inadvertently become a graveyard for leopards. The fact that nearly one-third of these deaths are caused by road accidents underscores a systemic failure to implement safe corridors and hold linear infrastructure projects accountable to NTCA protocols. We are not just losing animals; we are losing the balance of our ecosystem to negligence.”
11 April,2026 04:22 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavThe prototype of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train—being developed by a joint venture led by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited—is expected to be launched for testing within the next year. This update was shared by Satish Kumar, Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board, during the company’s 21st annual day celebrations, reported the PTI. "After that, they have to supply 120 trains," Kumar said, lauding several landmark projects completed by the company in the recent past. One of them is the new Pamban Bridge, which is the country's first vertical-lift sea bridge. Describing the sleeper version as a flagship initiative, Kumar highlighted that once the prototype clears trials, the joint venture will proceed with delivering 120 trainsets. The manufacturing is being undertaken by Kinet Railway Solutions, a collaboration between RVNL and Transmashholding. Timeline uncertainty around prototype launch While earlier indications from Saleem Ahmad suggested a possible unveiling in June 2026, officials now believe the testing phase could be pushed into 2027 due to ongoing development work, according to the PTI. Broader manufacturing programme According to Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Vande Bharat Sleeper programme is being executed in stages—covering prototype development, trials, and full-scale production, the news agency reported. A total of 260 trainsets are planned - - 120 by Kinet Railway Solutions - 80 by the BHEL–Titagarh consortium - 50 by Integral Coach Factory - Remaining units by BEML Limited with ICF’s support - Recent Developments and Design Progress The Kinet Railway Solutions recently revealed a mock-up of the First AC sleeper compartment at the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory in Latur, showcasing modern design concepts aimed at improving passenger comfort, as per the PTI. Earlier launch and future expansion India’s first operational pair of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains was flagged off by Narendra Modi on 17 January, running between Kamakhya and Howrah. However, further rollout schedules for additional routes remain unconfirmed by the Railway Ministry, the news agency reported. Notable infra achievement During the event, Kumar also praised RVNL’s role in delivering landmark infrastructure projects, including the country’s first vertical-lift sea bridge—the new Pamban Bridge, according to the PTI. (with PTI inputs)
11 April,2026 04:04 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIndia is expected to remain one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world, even as global growth slows down due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. According to the latest economic update by the World Bank, India is likely to grow at around 6.6 per cent in FY27, IANS reported. However, rising energy prices caused by the Middle East conflict and disruptions in global supply chains are expected to weigh on economic activity. These external pressures could impact growth, but India’s overall outlook remains relatively strong. Economic resilience supported by strong fundamentals The report highlights that India’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals provide a cushion against global uncertainties. Key factors supporting resilience include high foreign exchange reserves, low inflation, and a stable financial system. Additionally, most of India’s public debt is denominated in the local currency, reducing vulnerability to external shocks. Efforts to diversify trade partners have also helped the country better manage global risks. These factors together act as a buffer, allowing India to maintain steady growth even in a challenging global environment. Importance of private sector-led growth The World Bank emphasised the need to strengthen private sector participation to sustain long-term growth. According to Paul Procee, boosting private investment will be key to creating jobs and improving economic resilience. A stable and predictable business environment will play a crucial role in attracting investments. This will also help generate employment opportunities, especially for young people entering the workforce. What sectors to focus on, to achieve a “Viksit Bharat”? To achieve the vision of a developed nation, often referred to as “Viksit Bharat,” India needs to focus on priority sectors. These include energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, tourism, healthcare, and agribusiness. Encouraging investment in these areas can help drive growth at scale and support long-term economic stability. South Asia growth, global risks and policy challenges The report also looks at the broader regional picture. Growth in South Asia is projected to slow to 6.3 per cent in 2026, down from 7 per cent in 2025, mainly due to disruptions in global energy markets. Despite this slowdown, South Asia is still expected to grow faster than most other emerging and developing regions. Growth is projected to recover to 6.9 per cent by 2027. The global outlook remains uncertain. The report warns that prolonged conflict could reduce global growth by up to 1 percentage point. Inflation could also rise significantly, increasing pressure on economies worldwide. The World Bank also noted the growing use of industrial policies across countries. In South Asia, governments are using such policies more frequently than in other regions, although results have been mixed. While global uncertainties persist, India is well-positioned to maintain strong economic growth. With solid fundamentals and a focus on reforms, the country can continue to navigate challenges and sustain its growth momentum. (With IANS Inputs)
11 April,2026 03:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentForeign Secretary Vikram Misri will undertake a three-day visit to Paris and Berlin beginning Sunday for high-level talks on energy, trade and defence sectors that have become increasingly critical amid a fractured geopolitical landscape. Misri's visit to France and Germany comes at the end of his trip to the US, where he met Secretary of State Marco Rubio and a number of other senior officials of the Trump administration. The West Asia crisis and its impact on energy security are expected to figure prominently in Misri's talks with the interlocutors in Paris and Berlin. In Paris, the foreign secretary will co-chair the India-France Foreign Office Consultations along with Martin Briens, the secretary general of the French Foreign Ministry, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement on Saturday. Both Misri and Briens will discuss a wide range of issues, including defence, civil nuclear energy, space, cyber and digital, artificial intelligence and initiatives fostering people-to-people exchanges in addition to the latest global and regional developments, it said. In Berlin, the foreign secretary will co-chair the India-Germany Foreign Office Consultations alongside Geza Andreas von Geyr, the state secretary of the German Foreign Office, the MEA said. The discussions would cover diverse domains of bilateral cooperation, including trade and investments, defence and security, technology, green energy, development cooperation, education and people-to-people ties, as well as global and regional matters of mutual interest, it said. Misri is also expected to meet other dignitaries and senior government officials in both Paris and Berlin. The foreign secretary's trip follows the visits of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron to India in January and February, respectively. It will provide an opportunity to review the full spectrum of India's bilateral relations with both countries and advance ongoing cooperation across key priority areas, the MEA said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
11 April,2026 02:03 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIAs many as 32 persons, including policemen, were injured after a bus collided with a container lorry at Koyilandy here on Saturday, officials said. According to police, the bus was carrying personnel of the Malabar Special Police (MSP) who were returning to their base after election duty at around 12.30 am. Police said the accident occurred near Kollam in Koyilandy on a National Highway stretch when the bus collided with the container lorry. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals and were later discharged after receiving preliminary medical aid. Twenty-seven policemen and five others -- employees in the bus and the container lorry, sustained injuries. Both vehicles were later removed from the road to ensure smooth traffic movement, police said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
11 April,2026 01:54 PM IST | Kozhikode | PTIADVERTISEMENT
-1775921936067_d.png?tr=w-436,h-271 "Devendra Fadnavis counters criticism of centuries-old Warkari movement. File Pic")
-1775918264525_d.png "India increases windfall tax on fuel to boost domestic availability. Representational Image")
-1775911394512_d.png "DMRC conducts safety campaign at stations to prevent lift and escalator accidents. Representational Pic")
-1775909151904_d.png "Aadhaar change eases long-pending issue for Ladakh residents. Representational Pic")
-1775902844724_d.png "World Bank sees India resilient amid rising global uncertainties. Pic/World Bank")
-1775896384392_d.png "India reviews bilateral relations with European partners. File Pic")
-1775895860236_d.png "Representational Image")