Maharashtra minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday said that there was prima facie negligence on the part of SBL Energy Limited, where a powerful blast in Nagpur district of Maharashtra claimed 19 lives, reported the PTI. The explosion occurred on Sunday at the company’s detonator assembly plant in Raulgaon, Katol tehsil. Twenty-three people were injured, with 13 reported to be in a critical condition. Bawankule said that safety norms were not properly followed by the explosives manufacturer. He added that regulatory bodies — including the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health (DISH), and the labour commissionerate — had also failed to ensure compliance with safety standards in explosive manufacturing units in the region, as per the PTI. He stated that accountability would be fixed not only on the company but also on officials of these agencies if lapses were found. A detailed report is expected within a month. Arrests and legal action Police have arrested nine directors of the company. The Kalmeshwar police have registered a case against 21 directors and shareholders under Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), according to the PTI. The divisional commissioner, district collector and superintendent of police have been tasked with determining responsibility. If necessary, cases may also be registered against officials of the safety agencies, the minister said. Compensation and rehabilitation The company has announced compensation of Rs 75 lakh for the families of each deceased worker and Rs 25 lakh for the injured. In addition, the Centre will provide Rs 2 lakh and the Maharashtra government Rs 5 lakh to each bereaved family, taking the total compensation to Rs 82 lakh per family, the news agency reported. A rehabilitation package will be prepared for those who suffered permanent disabilities in the blast. Review of safety norms in region Bawankule said he had discussed the matter with Union Minister Piyush Goyal, highlighting multiple blast incidents at explosives factories in Nagpur district over the past few years. The divisional commissioner will prepare a comprehensive report on previous incidents and submit it to the Centre. The aim is to introduce necessary amendments to laws, frame proper standard operating procedures (SOPs), and prevent similar tragedies in the future. Company shut, salaries to continue According to the PTI, the factory has been shut following the blast. However, the management has agreed to continue paying salaries to employees until operations resume. The minister said skill development training would be provided to unskilled workers, and only certified personnel would be allowed to work once the company restarts. A wider inspection of skilled and unskilled labourers in industries across Nagpur district will also be carried out, he said. (with PTI inputs)
02 March,2026 04:09 PM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondentUnidentified persons allegedly attacked the car of a Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary in Maharashtra’s Akola city on Sunday night, police said. The incident took place in the Umri area under the Civil Lines police station limits when the leader was returning home. According to his police complaint, Shiv Sena (UBT) city chief Rahul Karade said that he was travelling back to Akola from his native village when some individuals attacked his vehicle using a sword and iron rods. Karade alleged that the attackers intended to kill him. He informed Akola Superintendent of Police Archit Chandak about the incident before lodging a formal complaint at the Civil Lines police station. Police have registered a case and launched an investigation. Officials said CCTV footage from the area is being examined. MLA condemns incident Nitin Deshmukh, the Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA representing the Balapur Assembly constituency in Akola district, condemned the attack and demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible. Police said further investigation is underway. Three held for kidnapping girl in Maharashtra's Latur district Meanwhile, in an another incident last week, three men in their 20s were arrested for allegedly kidnapping a minor girl in Maharashtra's Latur district, police said on Thursday, reported the PTI. The trio was taken into custody within an hour of receiving a complaint, an official said. A minor girl was allegedly abducted in a blue car within the jurisdiction of Deoni police in Latur district last week on Wednesday, he said. After receiving a complaint regarding the abductions, a major search operation was launched by the police, and the team of officials alerted authorities in Beed and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar districts of Maharashtra as well as highway patrol units to track the vehicle and nab the culprits, according to the PTI. The police official said that a highway security team intercepted the car at Gevrai in Beed, detained the three accused and rescued the girl, as per the PTI. The kidnapped girl was safely rescued by the officials and the accused were arrested by the police. Further investigations in the matter were ongoing, the news agency reported. (with PTI inputs)
02 March,2026 03:58 PM IST | Akola | mid-day online correspondentMajor airlines including IndiGo, Akasa Air and Air India have suspended or extended suspensions of flights to and from Middle Eastern destinations amid escalating tensions in the region after US-Israel attack on Iran. Passengers were being offered full flexibility, including travel waivers, refunds, and rebooking options, as airlines adjust operations in response to airspace closures and security concerns. IndiGo flight suspensions IndiGo has extended the temporary suspension of select flights through parts of Middle Eastern airspace and adjusted other international services according to evolving conditions. Bookings made on or before 28 February 2026 are eligible for rescheduling at no additional cost or full refunds until March 7, 2026. An official statement said, "We have continued to meticulously evaluate the evolving regional developments and their potential impact on flight operations. After reviewing the latest operational inputs, we are taking the course that we believe is most responsible at this time, purely in the interest of safety. As part of our continued precautionary approach, the temporary suspension of select international flights operating through parts of the Middle Eastern airspace has been extended. Additionally, certain other international services may be impacted as we align operations with evolving conditions. Please check your flight status for the latest updates http://bit.ly/31paVKQ. We understand that these are uncertain times, and we want to assure you that our focus extends beyond operational preparedness to standing alongside our customers. If your booking is impacted, you will receive timely notifications on your registered contact details, and our teams will connect with you directly to provide assistance and guide you through the available options. To support you, we are extending full flexibility and waivers for travel to and from the Middle East, along with other impacted international sectors, until 7th March 2026, for bookings made on or before 28th February 2026. Customers may reschedule at no additional cost or opt for a full refund via https://t.co/9VuwyhxE9G." Akasa Air suspend flights Akasa Air has suspended flights to and from Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah, Kuwait, and Riyadh until 2 March 2026. Passengers with impacted bookings until 7 March may opt for full refunds or rebook without extra charges. The airline advised travellers to check flight status and contact its 24x7 Care Centre for assistance. "As part of our continued commitment to safety and responsible operations, we are taking measured decisions across select international sectors in view of the evolving situation in the Middle East. As shared earlier, Akasa Air flights to and from Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah, Kuwait and Riyadh have been suspended until March 02, 2026. Passengers with impacted bookings until March 07, 2026, may opt for a full refund or reschedule their travel at no additional charge. Our teams are actively reaching out to assist affected passengers using the contact details provided at the time of booking or web check in. We encourage passengers to check their flight status on http://bit.ly/qpfltsts prior to proceeding to the airport. For immediate assistance, please contact our 24x7 Akasa Care Centre at +91 9606112131. The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority. We appreciate your continued trust and understanding," the statement said. Air India cancels UAE and Middle East flights Air India extended the suspension of all flights to and from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar until on March 2, 2026. Selected flights to Europe were also cancelled, while westbound flights to North America and Europe are operating via alternative routes, increasing flying times. Affected passengers are being notified and assisted with rebooking or refunds. The airline cited ongoing assessments of safety, airspace availability, and operational feasibility as the basis for its decisions. "In view of the continuing situation in the Middle East, Air India has extended the suspension of all flights to and from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar until 2359 hrs IST on March 2, 2026. Additionally, select flights to Europe scheduled on 2 March 2026 have been cancelled, along with the scheduled return legs of these flights: - AI117: Amritsar - Birmingham - AI151/AI152: Delhi - Zurich - AI157/AI158: Delhi - Copenhagen - AI114: Birmingham - Delhi All other flights to North America and Europe will operate per schedule using alternative routings over available airspaces in the Middle East, which is expected to add to the flying times. Additionally, flights to New York (JFK) and Newark (Liberty International) will operate with technical stops at Rome (Fiumicino Airport). Air India continues to closely monitor the situation and has carefully assessed the evolving circumstances across multiple parameters, including safety, security, airspace availability, and operational feasibility, before deciding on these operations for 2 March 2026. We will share updates, based on further assessments, at an appropriate time. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to affected guests and is committed to assisting them with alternative arrangements. Guests with affected bookings are being notified on their registered contact details,” an Air India Spokesperson said. Operations at Delhi and Kerala airports hit At Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi, 87 international flights were cancelled on March 2, including 37 departures and 50 arrivals. Over the past two days, Indian carriers cancelled 760 overseas flights due to widespread airspace closures, according to the PTI. In Kerala, Gulf flight operations were disrupted for a third consecutive day. Around 45 departures from Cochin International Airport (CIAL) were cancelled, while limited services by Oman Air, Saudia, Etihad, and SpiceJet continued. At Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TIAL), 20 Gulf-bound flights were cancelled over three days, and Kannur International Airport (KIAL) recorded 10 cancellations. Calicut airport also saw 20 cancellations, the PTI reported.
02 March,2026 03:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPolice have arrested nine directors of an explosives manufacturing company following a devastating blast at its factory in Maharashtra’s Nagpur district that killed 18 people, officials confirmed on Monday, reported the PTI. The Kalmeshwar police have registered a case against 21 directors and shareholders of SBL Energy Limited under Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The explosion occurred on Sunday morning at the detonator packing unit of the company in Raulgaon, located in Katol tehsil of Nagpur district. At least 18 workers were charred to death, while 24 others sustained injuries, many of them said to be in a critical condition. Police stated that the bodies were burnt beyond recognition, and DNA samples are being collected from family members to establish the identities of the deceased, according to the PTI. Safety lapses flagged in initial probe Superintendent of Police (Nagpur Rural) Dr Harssh Poddar said a preliminary report by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) and the Defence Information System for Security (DISS) pointed to safety shortcomings at the facility. Acting on the findings, police registered a case against the company’s officials. The arrested directors are currently being questioned, and efforts are under way to trace and apprehend the remaining accused. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the explosion. The officials have said that further action would follow based on the outcome of the detailed inquiry. PM Modi express grief, announces Rs 2 lakh ex gratia for victims’ families Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the devastating blast at an explosives factory in Maharashtra’s Nagpur district. Calling the incident “deeply distressing,” the Prime Minister conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured. “The local administration is assisting those affected,” Modi said in a post on X, acknowledging ongoing relief efforts at the site. The Prime Minister announced financial assistance from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the victims of the tragedy. An ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh will be provided to the next of kin of each deceased, while those injured in the blast will receive Rs 50,000. The relief package aims to support affected families in the aftermath of the incident. (with PTI inputs)
02 March,2026 11:57 AM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondentIn view of the ongoing developments in the Middle East, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has activated its Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) to address grievances and queries raised by air travellers, an official statement said. The ministry said the Control Room is closely monitoring passenger concerns received through social media platforms, the AirSewa portal and dedicated helpline numbers. Complaints are being prioritised to ensure quick redressal. The statement said that 411 passenger grievances have been resolved so far during the current situation. The PACR is working in coordination with airlines and airport operators to provide timely assistance and minimise inconvenience to travellers. Helpline numbers issued by Indian embassies in affected countries have also been shared with passengers to help them coordinate directly with diplomatic missions where necessary. In view of ongoing developments in the Middle East, the Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) at the Ministry of Civil Aviation is proactively addressing grievances and queries of air travellers. Passenger concerns received through social media platforms, the AirSewa portal,… — MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) March 1, 2026 Passengers can seek help Passengers facing difficulties can contact the ministry through its official social media platforms, the AirSewa portal, or by calling the helpline numbers: - 011-24604283 - 011-24632987 The ministry said it remains committed to assisting travellers and ensuring support during the evolving situation. Gulf flight services from Kerala disrupted for third day Meanwhile, flight operations between Kerala and Gulf countries were disrupted for the third consecutive day on Monday amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Airport authorities indicated that the situation may continue for several more days, reported the PTI. According to Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), around 45 departing flights from Kochi were cancelled on Monday. A similar number of incoming flights were also listed as cancelled on the airport’s official website. However, some services operated as scheduled. An Oman Air flight to Muscat departed at 8.10 am. Flights operated by Saudia to Jeddah and Riyadh, another Oman Air service to Muscat, an Etihad Airways flight to Abu Dhabi, and a SpiceJet flight to Dubai were also listed as scheduled, according to the PTI. Airport operations affected Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Limited (TIAL) reported that 20 flights to the Gulf region were cancelled on Monday. Over the past three days, 65 services to and from Thiruvananthapuram airport have been called off, as per the PTI. Airport sources confirmed that an Oman Air flight from Muscat arrived at 7.20 am and departed again at around 8.30 am. Meanwhile, Kannur International Airport Limited (KIAL) listed 10 Gulf-bound flights as cancelled. At Calicut airport, around 20 flights remained cancelled. However, limited services continued to operate. Airlines including SalamAir, Oman Air, Flynas and Air Arabia operated select flights to destinations in Oman and Saudi Arabia, the news agency reported. Airport authorities said airlines have established help desks and are coordinating with affected passengers. Officials added that disruptions are likely to persist until the conflict in West Asia eases. (with PTI inputs)
02 March,2026 11:29 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reviewed the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East. Steps to assist stranded Indians were also discussed in affected countries were also discussed during the meet, an official statement said. The high-level meeting focused on the escalating hostilities following recent military developments involving Iran, Israel and the United States. An official statement stated that the CCS was briefed on the February 28 air strikes in Iran and the subsequent escalation, including retaliatory attacks across several Gulf nations. The committee emphasised the urgent need for de-escalation, calling for an early cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue and diplomacy. Assistance for Indian nationals The CCS directed all concerned departments to take necessary and feasible measures to assist Indian nationals affected by the unfolding crisis. According to the PTI, particular attention was paid to -- - Indian travellers stranded in transit hubs - Students scheduled to appear for examinations - Broader regional security, economic and commercial disruptions Following Iran's retaliation after the US-Israel attacks in Tehran, much of West Asia’s airspace currently closed, flight services have been severely disrupted. Hundreds of Indian nationals are reportedly stranded at major hub airports including Dubai and Doha, with many appealing for assistance through social media platforms, the news agency reported. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that Indian missions across the region remain in continuous contact with citizens. Emergency helplines have been activated to provide support and guidance. Escalation following attack on Iran The CCS meeting followed a dramatic escalation after a joint United States-Israel aerial bombardment targeted Iranian military and governmental sites. Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, aged 86. Iran responded with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, US military installations across the Gulf, and commercial hubs including Dubai. US President Donald Trump stated that the operation was intended to provide Iranians with what he described as their “greatest chance” to reclaim their country, adding that precise and sustained bombing could continue as long as necessary. Senior ministers in attendance The PTI reported that the CCS meeting was attended by key members of the Union Cabinet and senior officials, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Also present were senior administrative and defence officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Secretary. Indian presence in the region Approximately 10,000 Indian citizens reside in Iran, while more than 40,000 live in Israel. The wider Indian diaspora in the Gulf and West Asia region is estimated at nearly nine million, the PTI reported. India has previously conducted large-scale evacuation operations in conflict zones, particularly across West Asia, successfully repatriating thousands of citizens during times of crisis. (with PTI inputs)
02 March,2026 10:40 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentOn the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita has said that the government is in touch with Indian embassies abroad and any official decision from the Ministry would be communicated through formal channels. From the Ministry, many individuals from the disturbed areas have reached out to embassies and missions abroad. However, any action taken by our Ministry will be communicated to through the proper official channels, he said. Referring to the forthcoming Assam assembly elections, he said that the people of Majuli have consistently supported the BJP, whether in Panchayat, Lok Sabha or Assembly elections. He alleged that Congress would remain confined to limited pockets in the state and added that the people of Majuli have consistently rejected the party. He has criticised leaders over the opposition alliance in Assam, saying that there was "nothing new" in the opposition's coming together. He claimed that the people of Assam have repeatedly rejected opposition unity in previous elections. As per the release, Pabitra Margherita participated in the programme and addressed the gathering, making several key remarks on state and national issues in front of the media. A youth conference was organised in Majuli under the initiative of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), Majuli district committee, with support from the Ujani Majuli, Dakshin-Purba, Madhya Majuli and Namoni Majuli mandals at Dariyapar on Saturday. Speaking about Batadrava Than land, he alleged that encroached land had been cleared by the government led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Further, he stated that both the Centre and the state government are working towards securing UNESCO World Heritage status for Majuli, adding that the final decision rests with UNESCO. He said the governments are making "100 per cent efforts" towards achieving the recognition. On the death of singer Zubeen Garg, Margherita said that the judiciary and the government are working towards ensuring justice. He said that everyone wants the mystery behind Garg's death to be uncovered and that those responsible should be punished, expressing faith that the judiciary will deliver justice. Responding to Gaurav Gogoi's candidature from Jorhat, Margherita said that as the president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), Gogoi has the authority to choose his constituency, and added that the BJP welcomes his decision. 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
02 March,2026 10:00 AM IST | Assam | ANIIn view of flight cancellations following the escalating security situation in the Middle East, India on Sunday asked foreign nationals in the country to approach relevant authorities for visa extensions. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued an advisory for foreign nationals impacted by the travel disruptions. “All foreign nationals in India, who have had to change their travel plans due to the ongoing developments in the West Asia region and need assistance with extension of their visa or to regularise their stay, are requested to contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal 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
02 March,2026 09:13 AM IST | New Delhi | AgenciesIndia has issued advisories for its nationals in Qatar, Turkey and Syria in view of the current regional security situation and flight disruptions, urging them to remain vigilant and stay in touch with the respective embassies and consulates for assistance following the Israel-US strike on Iran. The Embassy of India in Doha announced that regular consular services would remain suspended on March 2 due to the "prevailing security situation." In its advisory, the Embassy stated, "In view of the prevailing security situation, all Indian nationals residing in Qatar are requested to note that regular consular services at Embassy of India, Doha will remain closed on 2nd March 2026." However, it clarified that emergency services would continue. "Embassy officials will be available for emergency services related to consular (passport, visa, attestation etc) and labour issues," the statement added. The Embassy also shared its 24/7 helpline number +974-55647502 and email cons.doha@mea.gov.in for immediate assistance. It urged Indian nationals to follow its official social media accounts on Facebook and X for the latest updates. The Consulate General of India in Turkey's Istanbul issued an advisory following cancellation and diversion of flights at Istanbul Grand Airport and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport. The Consulate said it is "closely monitoring the situation arising from the cancellation and diversion of flights" at the two airports. It added that the mission "remains in constant communication with the concerned airlines as well as Indian passengers who may be affected." Indian citizens were advised to "closely follow the instructions and advisories issued by the airlines and airport authorities." For assistance or emergencies, the Consulate shared its helpline number +90 541 238 5632 and email addresses admn.istanbul@mea.gov.in and protocol.istanbul@mea.gov.in. Furthermore, in a separate advisory, the Embassy of India in Syria's Damascus cautioned Indian nationals in Syria in view of the "current regional situation." "All Indian nationals in Syria are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, take due care, remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines and advisories as and when issued by the Embassy and the Syrian Authorities," the Embassy said. For emergency queries, Indian nationals in Syria have been asked to contact the mobile number +963-993385973. The Embassy also shared its website https://coidamascus.gov.in and email cons.damascus@mea.gov.in for further assistance. On February 28, Israel and the United States launched a joint missile strike titled Operation Roaring Lion/Operation Epic Fury against Iran. US President Donald Trump and Iranian state media confirmed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israel strikes, alongside his daughter, grandchild, daughter-in-law, and son-in-law. 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
02 March,2026 09:12 AM IST | New Delhi | ANIScientists at Osaka Metropolitan University in Japan have identified a new and unexpected behavior in cleaner wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus). When shown a mirror, these small reef fish did more than appear to recognize their reflections. They also began interacting with the mirror using a piece of food, suggesting a level of cognitive sophistication not typically associated with fish. The findings indicate that cleaner wrasse may be capable of “contingency testing,” a complex mental process most observed in highly intelligent marine mammals. 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
02 March,2026 08:32 AM IST | Osaka | AgenciesShia mourners took to the streets in various parts of India on Sunday to express outrage and grief over the death of Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israel strike. Kashmir — which has about 15 lakh Shias — witnessed major protests at Lal Chowk, Saida Kadal, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama, an official said. In Uttar Pradesh’s capital, Lucknow, scores of people gathered near the Bara Imambara mosque and shouted slogans during the protest, with women mourners clinging to the Iranian leader’s photo and weeping. In Karnataka’s Chikkaballapur district, where Khamenei once visited, people observed silence, and shops and commercial establishments voluntarily closed. Villagers also announced a three-day mourning period. Scenes of extreme distraught and slogannering were also witnessed in New Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Telangana, where protesters, holding Khamenei’s posters, voiced their anger against the US and Israeli actions. 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
02 March,2026 08:29 AM IST | Srinagar | AgenciesADVERTISEMENT
