Panaji, Goa | 26 November 2025

The Maharashtra Film, Stage & Cultural Development Corporation Limited (MFSCDCL) marked a powerful presence at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025) in Goa, emphatically positioning Maharashtra as India’s undisputed filmmaking capital and an emerging global production hub. During the dedicated panel discussion titled “Maharashtra as Film Destination: Opportunities and Insights”, MFSCDCL showcased the state’s filmmaker-friendly ecosystem built on three strong pillars: India’s fastest single-window clearance system, one of the country’s most generous incentive packages for Marathi cinema, and world-class infrastructure backed by future-ready initiatives.

Maharashtra’s online portal www.filmcell.maharashtra.gov.in integrates 14 government departments and 105 sub-departments, delivering all shooting permissions within a strict 7-working-day timeline, with automatic deemed approval in case of delays, making bureaucratic hurdles virtually non-existent. The state continues to lead in supporting regional cinema by offering grants of up to ₹40 lakh for top-scoring Marathi films, doubling the amount for National Award winners, providing 100% entertainment tax exemption across Maharashtra, concessional rates at state-owned locations including the iconic Film City, and a special ₹5 lakh grant for women directors of ‘A’ category films or national/international award winners.

Further strengthening its appeal, the 521-acre Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari in Mumbai offers diverse indoor and outdoor sets, while a state-of-the-art AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming & Comics) centre is being established within Film City. Strategic tie-ups with FTII and other premier institutes are creating certified skill-development programmes to build a highly skilled local workforce.

Speaking at IFFI 2025, Swati Mhase Patil, Managing Director, MFSCDCL, stated, “IFFI 2025 is an important platform for Maharashtra to present its creative strength and evolving film ecosystem to the world. We aim to empower filmmakers with the best infrastructure, progressive policies, and a globally competitive environment.” Maharashtra warmly invites producers, directors, and creative professionals from India and abroad to experience unparalleled opportunities in the heart of Indian cinema. For permissions and incentives, visit www.filmcell.maharashtra.gov.in or write to filmcell@maharashtra.gov.in.

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Pune, 8 November 2025

“For realizing the Vision 2047 and strengthening the Make in India initiative, ‘Excellence in Education’ is of paramount significance. In order to fulfill the Prime Minister’s vision for a developed India, students must ensure excellence in academics and research. They should persistently strive to remain abreast of technological advancements and acquire new skills. Students should never lose sight of their goals.” These were the enlightening words of Ajit Gulabchand the Chairman Board of Trustees, NICMAR and Chairman Hindustan Construction Company Ltd. 

He was speaking as the Chief Guest of the 2nd Annual Convocation Ceremony of NICMAR University, Pune which is a pioneering university offering quality education in built environment.

On this auspicious occasion, Dr. Vijay Gupchup, President NICMAR University Pune, Dr. Sushma S. Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor, Ms. Shalaka Gulabchand Dhawan, Management Advisor, HCC Ltd, Interim Director General of NICMAR, Dr. Tapash Kumar Ganguly, Registrar Dr. Prashant Dave the Controller of Examinations Dr. Adinath Damale, Deans, Heads and faculty members were present to grace the ceremony. 

During the Convocation Ceremony, toppers of various academic programmes of the university – Sourabh Rathee (MBA in Advanced Construction Management), Ishani Rajesh Toradmal (MBA in Advanced Project Management), Samarth Singh (MBA in Real Estate and Urban Infrastructure Management), Chetan Rakesh Chavan (Master of Business Management), Vaishnavi Santosh Bampalwar (Master of Planning), Smita Sambhaji Patil (MBA in Environmental Sustainability), Savitra A. (MBA in Sustainable Energy Management), Neel Dinesh Madane (MBA in Family Business and Entrepreneurship), Anjali Suresh (Postgraduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying and Contracts Management) and Zakiya Shamsuddin Mulla (Bachelor of Business Management) were awarded Gold Medals.  

Ajit Gulabchand asserted that India can become a developed nation in 2047 only through high-quality education and collective effort towards development in all sectors. Today we need education that develops leaders of tomorrow who will meaningfully contribute to their respective fields and thereby nation building. He also insisted that education must sensitise students towards sustainable practices as we need to foster sustainable growth and development of the nation. Education and new technology along with sustainability and honesty in efforts can lead us to surmount pinnacles of success as a nation. He advised the graduating students to work hard for building the nation and prospering the humanity at large. 

Dr. Vijay Gupchup in his address to students said, “We all engineers endeavor to resolve industrial problems through our skills and expertise. We should never compromise on addressing the pertinent problems for improving processes and practices in the industry. He also advised the students to responsibly manage time and money. 

Dr. Sushma Kulkarni in her inspiring speech suggested that students should adopt the growth mindset to progress in life. They must not become complacent. While asserting the importance of stepping outside of the comfort zone, she guided them on progressing through five zones to achieve growth and fulfillment in life, such as Comfort Zone, Fear Zone, Learning Zone, Growth Zone and Transformation Zone. She said that in order to transform one’s life, one must confidently navigate through these five zones. She also informed the audience that NICMAR University, Pune has launched world-class academic programmes to impart quality education in the field of built environment. She added that the University makes every effort to hone its students’ technical and managerial skills, thereby contributing to their holistic development. 

The academic procession was led by the Registrar Dr. Prashant Dave. Dr. Jyotish Singh and Prof. Sreelakshmi Sreekumar compered the convocation ceremony. Dr. Adinath Damle proposed a vote of thanks.

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Saswad, Representative : The Maharashtra Public Security Bill 2024 is being described as unconstitutional and detrimental to democracy, as it infringes upon the fundamental rights of citizens. In protest, the Nationalist Congress Party Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SP) led by Sharad Pawar, the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray, the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee led by Harshvardhan Sapkal, and other constituent parties of the Maha Vikas Aghadi have announced statewide protests and demonstrations.

The protests are scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 10 September, and Thursday, 2 October 2025. The demonstration for Purandar taluka will be held today, Wednesday, 10 September, at 9:30 AM at Shivtirth Chowk in front of the Saswad Municipal Office.

Ahead of the protest, a review meeting of the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s executive committee was conducted. During the meeting, party leaders urged people to participate in large numbers and support the movement.

Key attendees included Manikrao Zende Patil, Pradeep Poman, Abhijit Jagtap, Sudamrao Ingle, Vijay Kolte, Shamarav Dhumal, Gauri Kunjir, Bandukaka Jagtap, Suhas Kamble, Vamanbhau Kamthe, Balasaheb Bhintade, Gaurav Kolte, Ankush Parkhande, N. D. Jagtap, Sambhaji Pawar, Ramdas Jagtap, Sunil Kolte among others.

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Kolhapur, Correspondent

In a major move to compete with national brands like Amul and Mother Dairy, Gokul Dairy is set to enter the market with cheese and ice cream products. Chairman Navid Mushrif announced that buffalo milk will be purchased at ₹10 per liter and cow’s milk at ₹8 per liter.

The 63rd Annual General Meeting of the Kolhapur District Milk Producers’ Union (Gokul) was held at the Mahalaxmi Cattle Feed Plant in Shirgaon MIDC. Chairman Navid Mushrif welcomed all participants at the beginning of the meeting. A condolence resolution was read out, followed by his inaugural address. The agenda was presented by Executive Director Dr. Yogesh Godbole, and members approved the proposals with a unanimous vote.

Gokul’s cow’s milk and buffalo’s milk curd products are already popular across Maharashtra. With the growing presence of milk producers and increasing consumer demand, Gokul has decided to expand into cheese and ice cream segments, leveraging its strong market base.

This expansion is expected to further boost Gokul’s market presence and intensify competition with other major dairy producers, while offering customers a wider range of high-quality dairy products.

Key Achievements and Future Plans

• Gokul has already achieved a collection milestone of 20 lakh liters and aims to reach 25 lakh liters.

• The cooperative’s turnover increased from ₹3,670 crore at the end of March 2024 to ₹3,966 crore by the end of March 2025, marking a growth of ₹296 crore.

• The share capital also saw an increase of ₹1.74 crore.

• Plans for expansion include focusing on fodder development, breeding programs, and purchasing superior buffalo breeds.

• Chairman Navid Mushrif announced that Gokul will soon start producing custard products such as custard apple, fig, and rose petal basundi.

Participation and Leadership

The meeting was attended by prominent leaders including Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif, MLA Satej (Bunty) Patil, and directors Chetan Narke, Shashikant Patil-Chuyekar, Vishwasrao Patil, Arunkumar Dongle, Kisan Chougule, Ranjitsingh Patil, Karnsingh Gaikwad, Babasaheb Chougule, Ambarish Ghatge, Sujit Minchekar, Yuvaraj Patil, Muralidhar Jadhav, and others, along with all dairy producers.

Chairman Navid Mushrif delivered the welcome address, while thanks were extended by Shashikant Patil Chuyekar.

A Stormy Moment

Although the meeting was expected to be smooth, it faced a brief disruption when opposition member Shauziya Mahadik raised objections midway. However, her concerns were ignored, and Executive Director Dr. Godbole continued presenting the agenda. Supporters responded with loud slogans, attempting to overpower the dissenting voice and ensure that the agenda proceeded uninterrupted.

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Pune, August 19 – Dr. Baban Jogdand, an officer from YASHADA, Pune, has been deputed by the Government of Maharashtra to the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Research and Training Institute (BARTI), Pune, as Assistant Professor. He has also been entrusted with the responsibility of Head of the Department for Extension and Services. Under this department, he will oversee the institute’s publications, publicity, and the "Samata Doot" project, among other activities.

Dr. Jogdand formally assumed charge of his post in the presence of BARTI’s Director General, Sunil Ware. On the occasion, both dignitaries paid floral tributes to the statue of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. Welcoming him, Director General Sunil Ware presented Dr. Jogdand with the book Mahamanav and a bouquet.

Speaking at the event, Ware highlighted Dr. Jogdand’s significant contributions at the reputed YASHADA institute, noting that he holds two PhDs and has rich experience as a senior officer, academician, and journalist. With his extensive public outreach and strong academic background, Dr. Jogdand is expected to play a vital role in taking BARTI’s initiatives to grassroots communities.

Registrar Indira Aswar, Snehal Bhosale, Vrushali Shinde, along with other officers and staff members of BARTI, were present. Dr. Jogdand has earned PhDs in Journalism and Public Administration and has completed 15 degrees and 10 certificate/diploma courses in various disciplines. He also served as the editor of Yashmanthan, YASHADA’s in-house magazine, and has contributed extensively as an author, editor, speaker, researcher, and anchor. He is also a member of the Government’s Dr. Ambedkar Charitra Sadhane Publication Committee and Balbharati, and has worked on several university academic boards.

The program was compered by Ramdas Lokhande, while Sumedh Thorat proposed a vote of thanks.

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Pune: A 22-kg golden kalash, crafted by city-based Shripad Shankar Nagarkar Jewellers, was installed atop the samadhi temple of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj at Alandi in a grand ceremony attended by political leaders, trustees and devotees.

The kalash, made entirely from devotees’ contributions, was consecrated with rituals, taken in a traditional nagar pradakshina, and later handed over by the Nagarkar family to the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sansthan Committee.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, Rural Development Minister Jaykumar Gore, Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Dr Neelam Gorhe, District and Sessions Judge Mahendra Mahajan, MP Shrirang Barne, MLAs Uma Khapre, Bapusaheb Pathare and Mahesh Landge, and temple trustees including Yogi Niranjannath and Adv. Rajendra Umap, were present. CM Fadnavis and other dignitaries also felicitated Vasant Nagarkar, Prasad Nagarkar and Pushkar Nagarkar for their craftsmanship.

Temple officials said the Nagarkar family was formally entrusted with the responsibility of creating the kalash on August 8. Over six days, a team of 22–25 artisans worked on two sections — the spire and the urn — to complete the structure using 22 kg of pure gold.

“This is not just an ornament for the temple but a spiritual crown for Maharashtra’s cultural and devotional traditions,” said Vasant Nagarkar, adding that the family considered the opportunity a blessing from Sant Dnyaneshwar.

The installation coincided with the 750th birth anniversary year of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, making the moment even more significant for devotees. “The golden kalash symbolizes faith, tradition and devotion, and will remain etched in Maharashtra’s spiritual history,” said Prasad Nagarkar.

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Pune : : Suryadatta Group of Institutes, Pune, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Radnx Ltd., London (UK), to provide international-standard training in mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for students.

The MoU was signed by Prof. Dr. Sanjay B. Chordia, Founder President of Suryadatta Education Foundation, and Dr. Renu Raj, Founder & CEO of Radnx Ltd. Present at the signing were Suryadatta Vice President Sushma Chordia, Dean Prof. Dr. Pratiksha Wable, and Law College Coordinator Prof. Ketki Bapat.

As part of the collaboration, Radnx’s 80-hour Mediation Foundation Training Course will be jointly offered to Suryadatta students. The program will equip participants with international certification, practical skills, and professional opportunities in mediation, helping them emerge as globally recognized mediators, legal professionals, and peace leaders.

Prof. Dr. Sanjay B. Chordia said, “This initiative provides a vital platform for global collaboration in mediation. It will empower Indian youth with world-class training and prepare them to play a meaningful role in dispute resolution and peacebuilding.”

Radnx Ltd. is a global leader in cross-border mediation and dispute resolution, known for its structured and ethical training approach. Its CEO, Dr. Renu Raj, is an internationally acclaimed mediator, SRA-registered foreign lawyer, and member of India’s 2023 Parliamentary “Mediation Bill Amendment” Committee.

The collaboration aligns with Suryadatta’s vision of offering value-added, industry-oriented courses across disciplines. Mediation, a rapidly emerging field worldwide, will soon become part of Suryadatta’s professional training programs.

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Pune, Correspondent 

To tackle persistent traffic congestion in Hinjawadi and Chakan areas, Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar has directed the concerned authorities to immediately develop roads following the removal of encroachments. He emphasized the need for coordinated action among departments to widen narrow roads and ensure long-term traffic decongestion.

Pawar issued these directives during a review meeting held at the PMRDA headquarters in Akurdi after conducting an on-ground inspection of traffic bottlenecks in the Chakan region.

Senior Officials in Attendance
The meeting was attended by Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Anna Bansode, MLAs Shankar Mandekar and Babaji Kale, Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar, PMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Yogesh Mhase, Additional Commissioner Deepak Singla, District Collector Jitendra Dudi, ZP CEO Gajanan Patil, and PMRDA Chief Engineer Rinaz Pathan, along with senior officials from the PWD and MIDC.

Encroachment Must Be Removed, Roads Developed Immediately
Due to encroachments and poor road conditions in the Chakan MIDC and surrounding areas, commuters, workers, and businesses are facing serious difficulties. Pawar stressed that failure to develop roads after removing encroachments often leads to re-encroachment. Hence, administrative departments must follow up promptly and ensure road development post-clearance.

Heavy Vehicles and Traffic Management
Given the high volume of heavy vehicles entering the Chakan region, Pawar recommended implementing time based movement restrictions and developing truck terminals in the MIDC area. The RTO and police should jointly plan and enforce these measures.

Additionally, he instructed officials to address solid waste management issues and strictly act against anyone obstructing road development including filing cases under relevant legal provisions if necessary.

Presentation of Traffic Master Plan
PMRDA Commissioner Dr. Yogesh Mhase presented a detailed traffic decongestion plan for the Chakan area, including phased timelines and a master plan to improve road infrastructure and mobility.

Work So Far Is Satisfactory, Further Speed Required
Pawar noted that recent initiatives to resolve traffic and civic issues in Hinjawadi and nearby areas have been satisfactory and beneficial for citizens. He instructed that remaining work should proceed with the same urgency and efficiency.

On-Site Inspection of Key Locations
The Deputy CM also visited key traffic-choked points including Bharat Mata Chowk (Moshi), Samruddhi Petrol Pump (Nanekarwadi), Medankarwadi–Sase Phata, Chakan Chowk, Ambethan Chowk, Kadechiwadi Road, Hinganewadi, and Mhalunge Police Chowki Road. He instructed officials to implement necessary improvements at each location.

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New Delhi – In a sharp attack on the Congress party, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MP Dr. Shrikant Shinde alleged in the Lok Sabha today that after the horrific 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the then Congress-led Maharashtra governmenttook Bollywood celebrities to the Taj Hotel, instead of showing real resolve against terrorism. He accused Congress of utter failure in combating terrorism, despite hundreds of innocent civilian casualties during its tenure.

Participating in the debate on Operation Sindoor, Dr. Shinde presented Shiv Sena’s stance and said, "Shiv Sena will never compromise on the issue of national security."

Dr. Shinde said, “Even today, the country has not fully recovered from the trauma of the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai, in which hundreds of innocent lives were lost. Instead of expressing national grief, the then Chief Minister of Maharashtra took Bollywood celebrities to the Taj Hotel. This was a moment of shame for the entire nation.”

He further added that while Congress failed to prevent such attacks during its rule, the country has witnessed no major terror attack in Maharashtra in the past 10 years, which he credited to strong leadership at the Centre.

Congress Stalled Justice, Says Shinde

Dr. Shinde also cited the Pahalgam terror attack, mentioning that three innocent people from his Kalyan constituencyhad died. Through Operation Mahadev, the Centre had ensured justice to their families. In contrast, 127 victims of the 2006 Mumbai local train bomb blasts are still awaiting justice, he said, blaming Congress for allowing the accused to walk free.

He pointed out that an accused in the 1993 Mumbai blasts had campaigned for a candidate from the UBT (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction, questioning their credibility to speak on national security.

Criticism Over Repeal of POTA and Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Dr. Shinde also slammed Congress for repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), claiming that its removal led to a spike in terror activities. He further accused the Congress of helping the main accused in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy escape the country and alleged that the party had “sympathy for Afzal Guru”, the mastermind behind the 2001 Parliament attack.

Shinde recounted that it was only after Balasaheb Thackeray's demand to then President Pranab Mukherjee that Afzal Guru was executed, despite Congress’ earlier hesitation.

He also mocked the response of the then Union Home Minister, stating that while cities were reeling under attacks, “the Home Minister was busy changing clothes three times a day.”

Pune, Correspondent 

Pune-based renowned mountaineering organization Giripremi has announced two major expeditions in the Indian Himalayas, scheduled for August 2025. These include twin expeditions to Mount Samgyal (5,814 meters) and Mount Dawa (5,900 meters), both located in the Nubra Valley region of Ladakh. These expeditions are specially designed for Giripremi’s young and aspiring mountaineers, offering them a real-world opportunity to gain high-altitude climbing experience and test their mountaineering skills.

The Mount Samgyal and Mount Dawa expedition will be led by veteran Everest summiteer Krishna Dhokale, accompanied by experienced mentors Ganesh More and Ashish Mane, both also Everest summiteers.

The climbing team comprises Akhil Katkar, Manoj Kulkarni, Amod Pachhapurkar, Shravan Kumar, Sameer Devre, Ronak Singh, Sahil Phadnis, Kaushal Gadre, Chintamani Godbole, and Advait Dev. Notably, the team will attempt these climbs without any Sherpa assistance beyond base camp, managing all aspects of the expedition—including load ferrying, route opening, and camp management—on their own. This mission is expected to test and strengthen the climbers' leadership, endurance, teamwork, and self-reliance, as they navigate unpredictable weather and harsh terrain in the Leh-Siachen region.

Simultaneously, Giripremi has also planned an ambitious expedition to Mount Meru in the Gangotri Glacier region under the leadership of Umesh Zirpe, recipient of the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award. This climb will attempt the first-ever ascent from the eastern ridge of Mount Meru—a technically challenging and sacred peak in the Garhwal Himalayas, mentioned in ancient Indian scriptures.

The Mount Meru team includes experienced climbers Vivek Shivade, Varun Bhagwat, Nikunj Shah, Ronak Singh, Vinod Gosai, and Mingma Sherpa. The climb features extreme rock climbing at high altitudes, with dangers such as frequent rockfalls, narrow ridges flanked by deep gorges, and treacherous terrain en route to the summit. Due to the uniqueness and difficulty of this attempt, the expedition has garnered attention from the global mountaineering community and the Indian Army.

The flag-off ceremony for both expeditions was held this evening at New English School, Tilak Road, Pune. Flags were presented to the teams by Sheetal Teli-Ugale, Commissioner of Sports and Youth Services, Maharashtra, and Sunil Koparkar, Managing Director of IAC International Automotive India Pvt. Ltd. Other dignitaries present included Ms. Dipali Khairnar (Head of HR, IAC), Jayant Tulpule (President, Giripremi), Giripremi founder and veteran mountaineer Mrs. Ushaprabha Page, and Anand Palande.

Speaking at the occasion, Teli-Ugale urged the climbers to exercise utmost caution and extended best wishes on behalf of the state government. She emphasized that the Mount Meru expedition, in particular, would serve as a source of inspiration for young Indian climbers, symbolizing confidence, planning, and a patriotic drive to accomplish the extraordinary.

Sunil Koparkar also extended his best wishes to both teams, acknowledging the significance of these expeditions.

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