News for 'Government of Maharashtra'

Jarange accuses Fadnavis of 'deceiving' Marathas, accepts IV fluids

Jarange accuses Fadnavis of 'deceiving' Marathas, accepts IV fluids

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Quota activist Manoj Jarange has accused Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and cabinet colleague Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil of deceiving the Maratha community on the reservation issue, even as he accepted IV fluids on the 11th day of his indefinite hunger strike due to deteriorating health.

Fadnavis to be replaced as Maharashtra CM? Raut's big claim

Fadnavis to be replaced as Maharashtra CM? Raut's big claim

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Shiv Sena-UBT leader Sanjay Raut has made significant claims regarding potential political shifts, suggesting Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis might move to the Centre, paving the way for a new BJP chief minister in the state. Raut also announced a 'Ram Raksha Andolan' protest in Nagpur against alleged embezzlement at the Ayodhya Ram temple and commented on delimitation and activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike.

SC intervenes in Mumbai Film City tree felling for creative tech institute

SC intervenes in Mumbai Film City tree felling for creative tech institute

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Maharashtra government and other parties regarding a plea to fell and transplant trees for a proposed National Centre of Excellence for Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics and Extended Reality in Mumbai's Film City. The project, deemed of "eminent national importance," requires the felling of 124 trees and transplanting 333, with compensatory afforestation planned. The court's intervention follows a previous order restricting tree felling in the Aarey colony.

Maharashtra waives off Rs 48,000 crore of farmers' power dues

Maharashtra waives off Rs 48,000 crore of farmers' power dues

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a significant waiver of approximately Rs 48,000 crore in pending electricity dues for farmers, aiming to facilitate new agricultural power connections and support the state's agricultural sector.

Is Rohit Pawar dumping Sharad Pawar to join Congress?

Is Rohit Pawar dumping Sharad Pawar to join Congress?

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

BJP MLC Parinay Fuke claimed NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar was considering joining the Congress, citing deteriorating relations with Supriya Sule. In response, Pawar accused Fuke of shielding alleged corruption, particularly concerning illegal sand businesses, paddy procurement issues, and irregularities in an employment guarantee scheme, challenging him to address farmers' concerns instead of making baseless claims.

'Conspiracy to kill me': Jarange as Mumbai cops deny nod for hunger strike

'Conspiracy to kill me': Jarange as Mumbai cops deny nod for hunger strike

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has accused the Maharashtra government of conspiring to kill him and suppress his agitation, following Mumbai police's denial of permission for his indefinite hunger strike from September 19. Jarange stated he would proceed with the march to Mumbai despite the ban.

Maha govt canteens, official events get a healthy menu makeover

Maha govt canteens, official events get a healthy menu makeover

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

The Maharashtra Public Health Department has issued a directive making healthy foods and beverages mandatory in all government canteens and official events. The order aims to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods and combat the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases by promoting a menu designed with ICMR-NIN and FSSAI guidelines.

Jarange agrees to drink water, take saline but continues fast

Jarange agrees to drink water, take saline but continues fast

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange has agreed to take water and saline treatment but vowed to continue his indefinite fast until all demands for Maratha reservation and Kunbi certificates are met. His health is deteriorating, prompting concerns from doctors and appeals from authorities. Jarange criticised the state government and mediating ministers, alleging political infighting and a lack of serious engagement on the issue.

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Ministry of Home Affairs informed a Joint Committee of Parliament that the number of active NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act has halved over the last decade, even as foreign funds received by them have significantly increased. Christian associations received the largest share of these funds in 2024-25. The report comes amidst discussions on a contentious FCRA amendment bill aimed at tighter government oversight.

'Rs 370 biryani' remark: Comedian Pranit More moves SC to club FIRs

'Rs 370 biryani' remark: Comedian Pranit More moves SC to club FIRs

Rediff.com20 hours ago

Comedian Pranit More has approached the Supreme Court to club multiple FIRs filed against him after a guest on his show made a controversial "Rs 370 biryani" remark, deemed misogynistic. More's counsel informed the court that he has apologised on all forums, including the National Commission for Women, and the apex court has sought notices from the Centre and state governments.

Jarange to head to Mumbai for solo protest on Tuesday amid Ganesh festival

Jarange to head to Mumbai for solo protest on Tuesday amid Ganesh festival

Rediff.com7 days ago

Denied permission for his hunger strike in Mumbai, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange on Monday announced he would head to the Maharashtra capital alone on September 15 to stage a protest at Azad Maidan.

Jarange heads to Mumbai despite denial of protest nod

Jarange heads to Mumbai despite denial of protest nod

Rediff.com7 days ago

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has proceeded towards Mumbai despite police denying permission for his protest at Azad Maidan. Jarange, who has been on a hunger strike for 17 days demanding OBC quota for Marathas, is travelling with a small group amid tight security, citing a Bombay High Court ruling that supports democratic agitation. He also alleged a conspiracy to kill him.

81 lakh women removed from Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme

81 lakh women removed from Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin Yojana has seen 81 lakh registered beneficiaries removed following a multi-month e-KYC verification drive, with the state's Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare clarifying the process was mandatory to filter out ineligible individuals, income-tax payers, and government employee families.

'Sound during Hindu festivals....': Maha ministers clash over DJ sound

'Sound during Hindu festivals....': Maha ministers clash over DJ sound

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Maharashtra ministers are divided over the use of high-decibel DJ systems during Hindu festivals. While Minister Yogesh Kadam asserts that festival sound will not be stopped, his colleagues Sanjay Shirsat and Meghana Bordikar advocate for adherence to noise pollution norms, with Bordikar citing a personal tragedy. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also called for a return to traditional celebrations and a consensus on restricting DJ systems.

BJP MLA's school courts row over Jain festival lunchbox advisory

BJP MLA's school courts row over Jain festival lunchbox advisory

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

A school owned by a BJP MLA in Thane advised students not to bring root vegetables in lunchboxes during the Jain Paryushan festival, sparking a controversy. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) objected, while the MLA clarified it was a request, not a mandatory order, aimed at respecting religious sentiments and promoting healthy eating.

Raj Thackeray's son booked for removing Modi's photo in Pune college

Raj Thackeray's son booked for removing Modi's photo in Pune college

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Two Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers have been arrested in Pune for allegedly removing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph from a government polytechnic office. The incident occurred during a visit by MNS leader Amit Thackeray, who is also facing a case related to the alleged act. BJP criticised the MNS leader for political immaturity.

Maharashtra restricts 'Sting' energy drink sales near schools

Maharashtra restricts 'Sting' energy drink sales near schools

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Maharashtra government has announced a ban on the sale of 'Sting' energy drink and other intoxicating substances within a 500-metre radius of schools. This decision comes amidst concerns about the health impact of such beverages on schoolchildren, with the Food and Drug Administration directed to enforce the new restriction and schools urged to conduct awareness programmes.

Jarange Patil to begin indefinite hunger strike in Mumbai from Sept 19

Jarange Patil to begin indefinite hunger strike in Mumbai from Sept 19

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Activist Manoj Jarange announced an indefinite hunger strike in Mumbai from September 19 for Maratha reservation in jobs and education. He will lead a march from September 15, covering various districts before reaching Azad Maidan. Jarange urged peaceful protest and accused the government of inaction on caste certificates, while the Bombay High Court upheld the right to protest. The core demand is for Marathas to be included in the OBC category via Kunbi records, a move opposed by existing OBC groups.

Task Force Formed To Revive Formula 1 In India By 2028

Task Force Formed To Revive Formula 1 In India By 2028

Rediff.com7 days ago

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has announced the formation of a 10-member Task Force, chaired by Yugal Kishore Joshi, to explore the revival of Formula 1 in India. The committee will assess challenges, identify policy interventions, and develop a roadmap to potentially host a race by 2028, addressing issues that led to its discontinuation after 2013.

Govt to 'hand-hold' private miners for critical mineral security abroad

Govt to 'hand-hold' private miners for critical mineral security abroad

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Union Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy announced that the Indian government is intensifying its support for private mining entrepreneurs seeking critical mineral opportunities abroad, working with the Ministry of External Affairs and appointing mineral officers in embassies to facilitate these efforts.

Maharashtra to make domicile must for driving licence from Aug 1

Maharashtra to make domicile must for driving licence from Aug 1

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Maharashtra plans new policy to make domicile certificate mandatory for driving licence from August 2026, alongside efforts to regulate bike taxi services for revenue and job creation.

Maratha quota stir: Jarange warns of march to Mumbai over Kunbi certificate

Maratha quota stir: Jarange warns of march to Mumbai over Kunbi certificate

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

Activist Manoj Jarange on Sunday stood firm on his demand for Kunbi caste certificates for all Marathas as his indefinite hunger strike entered the second day, warning that he would march to Mumbai if the Maharashtra government failed to act.

Maharashtra Government To Seek Death Penalty In Pune Rape-Murder Case

Maharashtra Government To Seek Death Penalty In Pune Rape-Murder Case

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured that the government will push for a death penalty for the accused in the Pune child rape-murder case, asserting that the state will fast-track the trial to ensure justice in 'record time'.

Dahi Handi: 31 Pune Ganapati Mandals say no to DJs, embrace tradition

Dahi Handi: 31 Pune Ganapati Mandals say no to DJs, embrace tradition

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

In Pune, 31 prominent Ganapati mandals celebrated a "DJ-free" Dahi Handi, advocating for traditional instruments over high-decibel sound systems for upcoming festivals like Ganeshotsav. This initiative, led by Punit Balan, aims to preserve Maharashtra's cultural heritage and reduce noise pollution, gaining support from around 200 mandals and the Chief Minister.

Bipasha Basu flags worms in food packet, tags Tukaram Mundhe

Bipasha Basu flags worms in food packet, tags Tukaram Mundhe

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Actress Bipasha Basu has raised concerns over food safety and the quality of packaged food after claiming that she found several tiny worms inside a newly opened food container, prompting her to seek intervention from Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe.

Why Have Major Trade Unions Been Excluded From Minimum Wage Panel?

Why Have Major Trade Unions Been Excluded From Minimum Wage Panel?

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

'Major unions should be included. If this goes on, decision-making will become heavily one-sided and we will be forced to continue our strikes.'

Don't politicise Ajit Pawar's death: Sunetra reacts to Supriya

Don't politicise Ajit Pawar's death: Sunetra reacts to Supriya

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar has appealed to Opposition leaders to stop politicising the death of her husband, Ajit Pawar. Her comments follow accusations from NCP (SP) working president Supriya Sule regarding the lack of an FIR and the ruling faction's perceived inaction. Pawar stressed the immense grief of the family and affirmed faith in ongoing investigations.

Ganpati Pandal Insurance Demand Surges

Ganpati Pandal Insurance Demand Surges

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Oriental Insurance has insured around 100 Ganesh pandals this year compared with only 20-30 last year.

Maha auto, taxi drivers welcome Marathi learning deadline extension

Maha auto, taxi drivers welcome Marathi learning deadline extension

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has extended the deadline for autorickshaw and taxi drivers to acquire working knowledge of Marathi by one year, a decision welcomed by unions who say it removes the immediate threat to their livelihoods.

Disha Salian CBI probe a conspiracy against Thackeray family: Raut

Disha Salian CBI probe a conspiracy against Thackeray family: Raut

Rediff.com7 days ago

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has accused the Centre of orchestrating a political conspiracy through the CBI's FIR in the Disha Salian death case. Raut claims the probe is designed to tarnish the Thackeray family's reputation and target Aaditya Thackeray, linking it to broader political manoeuvres and an ongoing Supreme Court case.

Man seeking ban on DJs, loudspeakers assaulted in Pune

Man seeking ban on DJs, loudspeakers assaulted in Pune

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Vidyanand Bapat, a Pune-based activist advocating for a ban on high-decibel DJ systems and loudspeakers during festivals, was publicly assaulted by a man named Santosh Chavan while speaking to media persons.

Tukaram Mundhe: 'My Vested Interest Is...'

Tukaram Mundhe: 'My Vested Interest Is...'

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

'I have a vested interest -- to serve the people of Maharashtra and ensure safe food. That is my vested interest, if at all there is one.'

SC resumes final hearing on Sena row, Shinde camp defends EC verdict

SC resumes final hearing on Sena row, Shinde camp defends EC verdict

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Supreme Court resumed hearing pleas challenging the Maharashtra Speaker's decision regarding the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena MLAs and the Election Commission's recognition of the Shinde faction as the "real" Shiv Sena. Senior advocate Neeraj Kishan Kaul, representing the Shinde camp, argued that the EC has jurisdiction under Article 324 to examine a party's democratic character and organisational structure, especially when the Thackeray faction's constitution was not registered with the poll panel. He emphasised that the Shinde faction's case is based on a split within the political party, not just its legislative wing, citing cadre discontent. The hearing remains inconclusive.

When Will Tata Sons List?

When Will Tata Sons List?

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

'Listing leads to greater transparency and shareholder oversight.'

Post stabbing incident, Maharashtra boosts Mumbai local train security

Post stabbing incident, Maharashtra boosts Mumbai local train security

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Following a fatal stabbing on a Mumbai local train, the Maharashtra government has announced plans to expand CCTV coverage, strengthen police patrolling, and implement other safety measures across the suburban railway network. The state also highlighted the quick arrest of the accused using facial recognition technology and ongoing efforts for passenger and women's safety.

Govt inks pact with 4 spiritual bodies to boost 'drug-free India' drive

Govt inks pact with 4 spiritual bodies to boost 'drug-free India' drive

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The Indian government has expanded its Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan by signing agreements with four spiritual organisations. These partnerships aim to enhance grassroots awareness, prevention, recovery, and social mobilisation efforts against substance abuse, leveraging the extensive reach of these groups.

Jarange's 'final agitation' for Maratha quota begins

Jarange's 'final agitation' for Maratha quota begins

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Quota activist Manoj Jarange has launched an indefinite hunger strike, demanding that the Maharashtra government immediately issue caste certificates based on the 58 lakh Kunbi records identified earlier, asserting that the Maratha community will not grant any further time.

Over 100 Maha tourists stranded in flood-affected Nepal

Over 100 Maha tourists stranded in flood-affected Nepal

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

State officials report that at least 114 tourists from Maharashtra are estimated to be stranded in flood-hit Nepal, with 53 confirmed safe. The Maharashtra government has initiated coordination efforts with tour agencies and central authorities, establishing helplines and control rooms to assist and gather information on those affected by the devastating flash floods.

Pune court rules criticism of government is not 'waging war'

Pune court rules criticism of government is not 'waging war'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A Pune court has granted bail to NCP (SP) office-bearer Mahadev Balgude, ruling that criticism of the government or chief minister does not constitute "waging war" against the nation. The court emphasised every citizen's right to comment on and criticise government actions, noting that the charges under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 152 were debatable.

Sports Ministry Unveils National Sports Election Panel For Fair Polls

Sports Ministry Unveils National Sports Election Panel For Fair Polls

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Sports Ministry has established a 20-member National Sports Election Panel, including former Chief Election Commissioners, to oversee fair elections in national sports bodies as mandated by the National Sports Governance Act. Concurrently, the deadline for applications to the National Sports Tribunal, which will handle sports disputes, has been extended.