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VARUNA 2025: Indian Navy's bilateral naval exercise concludes
The bilateral naval exercise VARUNA 2025, held from March 19 to 22, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the partnership between the Indian Navy and the French Navy, an official statement said on Monday. The exercise was conducted in the waters of the Indian Ocean, focused on strengthening the operational coordination and tactical proficiency of both navies, it said. It further said that this year’s edition of the exercise featured a range of drills across multiple domains. The advanced air defence drills saw the participation of Rafale-M fighter jets from the French Navy and MIG-29K jets from the Indian Navy. These drills simulated real combat scenarios, allowing the navies to enhance their ability to jointly counter aerial threats, it said. Another important aspect of the exercise was Anti-Submarine Warfare. Indian submarines, along with anti-submarine frigates from both navies, conducted exercises to improve underwater domain awareness and tactics. Surface warfare operations involved coordinated maneuvers and simulated engagements that demonstrated the combined combat strength of both fleets, the statement said. "The structured drills were designed to further fine-tune tactical and operational proficiency in complex scenarios. Advanced Air defence drills with the participation of Rafale-M of the French Navy and MIG-29K of the Indian Navy, simulating realistic combat scenarios, honed the ability of participating units to counter aerial threats jointly," the statement said. It further said that the Anti-Submarine Warfare exercises involving Indian submarine and Anti-Submarine frigates of the two forces focused on deepening the understanding and proficiency in underwater domain awareness and tactics. Replenishment At Sea (RAS) exercises were also carried out with the help of two fleet tankers. These exercises tested the logistical interoperability and endurance of the navies, ensuring they could support sustained operations in the future, it said. The VARUNA 2025 exercise achieved a higher level of operational coordination between the two forces compared to previous editions. It also helped in enhancing jointmanship, reinforcing the shared commitment of both nations to uphold a rules-based maritime order and ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The exercise was designed to address contemporary maritime security challenges, providing invaluable operational experience. It also facilitated the exchange of best practices between the two navies, deepening their understanding of each other’s operational doctrines, the official statement said.
24 March,2025 07:30 PM IST | Mumbai | A Correspondent
Kalyan Police bust prostitution ring at hotel, rescue four women
Police busted a flesh trade racket being operated from a hotel in Kalyan city of Thane district and arrested two women while four victims were rescued on Monday, an official informed, reported PTI. The rescue operation was carried out by the Anti-Human Trafficking Cell (AHTC) of the Thane Crime Branch in Lal Chowkie area on Sunday. A case was registered under sections 143(1) and 143(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for human trafficking, as well as provisions of the PITA Act. The accused women had allegedly coerced the victims into prostitution for financial gain. The rescued women have been sent to a shelter home for rehabilitation, while investigations are ongoing, an official informed, reported PTI. Kalyan rape and murder: Police use all resources to nail suspects Second accused was found within 24 hours and the main accused within 48 hours; both sent to police custody till January 4 Even detective Sherlock Holmes (a fictional private detective) would have found the case a bit challenging, as the accused was never really the one the parents of the victim had named as the main suspect. The case pertains to the rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl on the evening of December 23 in Kalyan. The Kolsewadi police used both technical and human intelligence to nail down the real suspects and crack the case, first arresting a woman (believed to be the third wife of the key accused) within less than 24 hours and subsequently zeroing in on the main accused within 48 hours of the crime. On Thursday, the actual accused—Vishal Gawli, 28, and Sakshi, 23—were produced before the special POCSO court in Kalyan as their first remand came to an end. The court has extended the police remand of the accused until January 4. Investigating officer Inspector Ganesh Nhayade and his team found crucial pieces of evidence, including bloodstains on the mat in the auto rickshaw (MH 0500 8261—currently in police custody) that was allegedly used to transport the body of the minor girl to an isolated spot in Bapgaon, in Padgha police jurisdiction limit, where the body was dumped. Police said that the evidence has been sent for forensic analysis to verify if the blood is of the victim. The police also recovered the shirt that the accused wore on the day of incident and also the CCTV footage of the accused from strategic points, including mobile tower locations. Police said they have roped in the Kalyan fire brigade to search for the trolley bag which the accused confessed to having thrown it in a creek near Kalyan. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2025 07:06 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra passes resolution for Bharat Ratna to Jyotirao, Savitribai Phule
The Maharashtra legislative assembly on Monday passed a unanimous resolution recommending that the Centre confer Bharat Ratna, the nation's highest civilian award, posthumously for social reformers Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, the PTI reported. Maharashtra Minister Jaykumar Raval introduced the resolution, with Ajit Pawar-led NCP MLA Chhagan Bhujbal and Congress leader Vijay Wadetiwar voicing their support. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that people have recognised the Mahatma title bestowed on Phule, and Bharat Ratna is the recognition of the state. "Mahatma title was above everything in the country and was enjoyed by only two people, Mahatma Phule and Mahatma Gandhi," he said. Expressing happiness at the assembly passing the resolution, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said bestowing the country's highest civilian award to the iconic social reformers will be honouring public sentiment. He stated that it would enhance the award's prestige. The resolution enhances the reputation of progressive and reformist Maharashtra, Pawar said while extending gratitude to legislators for passing it unanimously. Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule established the first school for girls in Pune, opening the doors of education for women, he said, reported PTI. "Today, women hold responsible positions in various fields such as agriculture, education, knowledge, science, research, space, politics, and social service, actively contributing to the nation's progress. The credit for the transformation goes entirely to their visionary approach and tireless efforts," Pawar stated, reported PTI. "Their extraordinary work in bringing education to the underprivileged, marginalized, and Bahujan communities remains unparalleled. Hence, they will always be regarded as 'Mahatma' by farmers, labourers, and all citizens," the NCP chief noted, reported PTI. Maharashtra CM pays tribute to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on Shaheed Diwas Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis paid floral tribute to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev on Shaheed Diwas, honouring their sacrifices for India's freedom. Several national leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union ministers, also remembered the martyrs and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia on his birth anniversary. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis paid floral tributes to freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev on the occasion of Shaheed Diwas on Sunday, honouring their sacrifices in India's struggle for independence. According to ANI reports, the Chief Minister stood solemnly before the portraits of the martyrs with folded hands, paying his respects to their indomitable spirit and unwavering patriotism. The event served as a reminder of the trio’s immense contribution to the nation’s freedom movement. Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were key revolutionaries in the fight against British rule and played a crucial role in shaping India's struggle for independence. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2025 06:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Two doctors booked by after pregnant woman dies during delivery in Thane
The Thane Police in Maharashtra have booked two doctors from a civic-run hospital in Thane district on charges of criminal negligence after a pregnant woman died during a delivery procedure on Monday, an official informed, as reported by news agency PTI. The 26-year-old woman was admitted to the facility run by the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) on February 11. She passed away during a delivery procedure conducted by two doctors two days later, police stated. Based on a complaint, an FIR was registered at Vishnu Nagar police station in Dombivli against the two doctors under Sections 106(1) (causing death by negligence) and 3(5) (a criminal act done in furtherance of common intention) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita on Saturday. No arrests have been made yet, and investigations were ongoing, an official said, according to the PTI. Vasai Hospital anaesthetist arrested for sexual harassment of female doctor Meanwhile, in an another incident, a 54-year-old anaesthetist has been arrested for making sexual advances and molesting his female doctor at a well-known hospital in Vasai. The survivor has alleged that the accused doctor would switch off the CCTV cameras at the hospital before making sexual advances and molesting her. According to the complainant’s statement to police, the accused had been sexually harassing her for the last two years. She claims that the accused, a fellow senior male doctor, regularly demanded sexual favours in exchange for promising better career prospects. The complainant, a 35-year-old female doctor, has been employed at the same hospital for the last few years. “According to her statement, the accused would use their position of power and influence within the hospital to coerce or pressure her into complying with these demands, insinuating that her career advancement—such as promotions, opportunities for research, or better job assignments—depended on her acquiescence,” zonal Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Pournima Chougule-Shringi told Mid-Day. The complainant told police that his repeated sexual advances and offers were made under the guise of professional or career-related incentives, creating a hostile and manipulative work environment. “Though she had made an internal complaint at the hospital in January, she did not get a satisfactory response. So, she approached us and we immediately registered a molestation case against the male doctor at Vasaigaon police station on Monday and arrested the accused,” the DCP Pournima added. “The police said that the survivor had been tolerating the sexual harassment for the last two years,” she said. (with PTI inputs)
24 March,2025 06:17 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
Punjab Govt releases 450 more farmers from police detention
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has decided to immediately release 450 more farmers from the police detention. The Information and Public Relations Department of Punjab said this in a press release. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Headquarters Sukhchain Singh Gill, on Monday, shared the details and informed that Punjab Government has already released approximately 800 farmers from the police custody.He further stressed that Punjab Chief Minister has directed the immediate release of farmers including women, differently-abled individuals, farmers with medical conditions, and those above the age of 60. "In line with the directives of the Punjab Government, we are prioritising the release of such farmers and about 450 farmers are being released today," he said.Addressing another grievance of farmers regarding their belongings, the IGP stated that the Punjab Government has issued strict instructions on this matter, ensuring that no one will be allowed to misappropriate the farmers' property."To address the concern about belonging of farmers, the Patiala district police has also appointed SP-rank officer Jasbir Singh, as the Nodal Officer, and farmers facing issues related to their possessions can directly contact SP Jasbir Singh at the mobile number 90713-00002 for immediate assistance," said Dr Sukhchain Singh Gill, while adding that Patiala Police has already registered three first information reports (FIRs) in this regard.Earlier Bhartiya Kisan Union (Lakhowal) leader Harinder Singh Lakhowal and Samyukt Kisan Morcha leader Raminder Singh did not attend a meeting called by the Punjab government and then announced a protest at district headquarters across the state on March 28, alleging repression by the state government.The decision came after key farmer leaders accused the Punjab administration of using excessive force against protesting farmers and unlawfully detaining several leaders. Two days after Punjab police cleared the Sambhu and Khanauri border and removed the temporary structures erected by the protesting farmers, the state's Agriculture minister, Gurmeet Singh Khuddian, called for a meeting of farmer leaders on Friday in Chandigarh.Harinder Singh Lakhowal said, "The Punjab government called a meeting with us. The kind of atrocities that happened to us, we were removed (from protest sites) illegally...so many people are still jailed. We have decided not to attend this meeting. We will hold a protest on 28th (March) against this at district headquarters..." (ANI) (With ANI inputs)
24 March,2025 05:54 PM IST | Mumbai
Earthquake of 4.5 magnitude jolts Tibet
An earthquake of magnitude 4.5 on the Richter Scale struck Tibet on Monday as reported by the National Center for Seismology (NCS).As per the NCS, the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 5 km, making the region susceptible to aftershocks. Earlier, as well an earthquake of magnitude 3.5 jolted Tibet on March 15th. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at a depth of 10km, making it susceptible to aftershocks.According to the National Center for Seismology, On March 13, three earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from 3.5 to 4.3 struck TibetShallow earthquakes like this one are strictly dangerous than deeper ones due to their greater energy release as they are closer to the Earth's surface. This causes stronger ground shaking and increased damage to structures and casualties, compared to deeper earthquakes, which lose energy as they travel to the surface.The Tibetan Plateau is recognized for its seismic activity, which results from tectonic plate collisions.Nepal and Tibet regions lie on a major geological fault line where the Indian tectonic plate pushes up into the Eurasian plate, and earthquakes are a regular occurrence as a result. As per Al Jazeera's report, the region is seismically active, causing tectonic uplifts that can grow strong enough to change the heights of the Himalayas' peak "Education about earthquakes and earthquake-resilient buildings combined with funding for retrofits and resilient structures can help protect people and buildings when strong earthquakes occur," seismologist and geophysicis Marianne Karplus, told Al Jazeera."The earth system is very complex, and we cannot predict earthquakes. However, we can conduct scientific studies to better understand what causes earthquakes in Tibet and to better understand the shaking and impacts resulting from earthquakes," Karplus, who is a professor of geological sciences at the University of Texas at El Paso, told Al Jazeera. (ANI)(With ANI inputs)
24 March,2025 05:43 PM IST | Mumbai
Delhi CM tables CAG report on DTC, BJP slams AAP over financial mismanagement
A Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), tabled by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta in the Delhi Assembly on Monday. The report highlights the operational inefficiencies and financial losses, leading to criticism of the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, reported ANI. The report assesses DTC's key operational and financial aspects, highlighting inefficiencies and areas for improvement. It reviews fleet management, revenue generation, operational sustainability, and compliance with public transport policies. Following the tabling of the CAG report, BJP MLA Harish Khurana slammed the previous AAP government, accusing it of mismanaging the public transport system, which resulted in financial losses and a decline in DTC's bus fleet. Khurana, in the Delhi Assembly session, underlined that while AAP had promised 11,000 new buses in 2013-15, the number of DTC buses decreased from 4,344 in 2015 to 3,937. He further asserted that under former Chief Minister Madan Lal Khurana, DTC was profitable, but under AAP, the corporation's overall losses surged to Rs 8,498.33 crore, increasing by Rs 5,000 crore during AAP's tenure. Outlining the revenue decline, he noted that DTC's operating income dropped from Rs 914 crore when AAP took power to Rs 558 crore. He also alleged financial irregularities, questioning why the AAP government allotted 3.18 lakh square meters of DTC land to private cluster buses without collecting Rs 225 crore in rent. Furthermore, he criticized the administration for failing to procure new buses despite having Rs 223 crore allocated to the Delhi Transport Department in 2022. According to ANI, Khurana credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention for providing electric buses to Delhi, stating that 1,770 CNG buses had exceeded their operational age but were not replaced by the AAP government. Earlier in the day, the Delhi Legislative Assembly convened for its Budget Session, ahead of which CM Gupta prepared the ceremonial 'Kheer'. The first budget of the newly elected Delhi government will also be presented today. Marking a unique start to the financial proceedings, the newly elected Chief Minister extended her gratitude to those involved in the budget-making process. The budget session, running from March 24 to March 28 with provisions for extension, marks an important moment for the BJP government, which returned to power after 27 years in the recent 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly election. The BJP government tabled two CAG reports on the now-scrapped excise policy and the healthcare system of the national capital during the first assembly session last month. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will move a motion to elect nine members each for the Committee on Public Accounts, Committee on Estimates, and Committee on Government Undertakings, as per ANI. (With inputs from ANI)
24 March,2025 05:05 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Assam Zoo receives 15 news species
15 news species have arrived in The Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden through an animal exchange programme with Chhatbir Zoo, Chandigarh, regulated by the Central Zoo Authority. This initiative has significantly enriched the zoo's biodiversity.These new species include Black Buck, Golden Pheasant, Emu, Java Sparrow, Chukar Partridge, Kalij Pheasant, and Comb Duck.Divisional Forest Officer Ashwini Kumar, of the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden, told ANI that the zoo has received these new species through the exchange programme with Chhatbir Zoo, Punjab."We have received some species during the animal exchange programme with Chhatbir Zoo, Punjab. Among the species, we have received Black Buck, some birds including Kalij Pheasant, Comb Duck, Chukar Partridge, Golden Pheasant, Java Sparrow, and Emu. Development works are ongoing in the state zoo, and we will add some new species to increase educational awareness," the DFO said.He further mentioned that Assam Chief Minister announced modernisation plans for the state zoo, which are currently being implemented."A big veterinary hospital-cum-rescue and rehabilitation centre will be built here. Renovation works of all older enclosures are ongoing. Apart from this, we are enhancing visitor amenities," DFO Kumar added.The Assam State Zoo is dedicated to creating ideal habitats for its animals while enhancing conservation efforts through strategic exchange programs. This initiative highlights the zoo's commitment to wildlife preservation and public education. (With ANI inputs)
24 March,2025 05:03 PM IST | Mumbai
Kerala: CM Vijayan announces intensified anti-drug campaign to combat narcotics
The Kerala government announced a large-scale anti-drug campaign set to begin in April, aiming to fight the rising menace of narcotics through a coordinated effort across society on Monday. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that the initiative would integrate all existing campaigns and involve various government departments, institutions, and community groups in a unified combat against substance abuse. Addressing a high-level meeting at the Legislative Assembly, Vijayan emphasised the need for an intensified approach to tackle drug-related issues in the state. As part of the campaign's preparatory phase, a crucial meeting is scheduled for March 30, bringing together experts, student and youth organisations, film, cultural, and media representatives, as well as teacher and parent associations, a CMO release noted, reported PTI. The meeting will focus on formulating a comprehensive action plan to guide the campaign's implementation. The release said a committee comprising various departments will be formed under the leadership of the Chief Secretary to prepare an anti-drug framework, according to PTI. "The Chief Minister has directed that anti-drug awareness should begin from lower primary classes. More programmes should be organised to attract children to sports. Steps must be taken to ensure that hostels and public places remain drug-free, and inspections should be strengthened," it said. Vijayan directed that the enforcement activities of the police and excise departments should be further intensified. "The Local Self-Government Department must take steps to shut down shops selling drugs. Modern equipment should be procured to detect the presence of narcotics, and the presence of sniffer dogs should be increased. If necessary, coordination with police officers from other states should be initiated," he said, reported PTI. He said measures to curb online drug trafficking will be strengthened. "Inspections at airports, railways, and ports should be intensified, along with stricter border police checks," the Chief Minister stated. Vijayan also said that couriers, parcels, and tourist vehicles entering Kerala's borders should be subjected to thorough inspections. Ministers outlined the anti-drug initiatives implemented by their respective departments. The meeting was attended by ministers Saji Cherian, M B Rajesh, O R Kelu, R Bindu, and V Abdurahiman, along with Chief Secretary Sharada Muraleedharan, Additional Chief Secretaries A Jayathilak and K R Jyothilal, State Police Chief Sheikh Darvesh Sahib, ADGPs Manoj Abraham and P Vijayan, and Excise Commissioner Mahipal Yadav. The move came amid an intensified anti-narcotics campaign by various state government agencies, including the police and excise department. On Saturday, the Kerala Police stated that, as part of its special drive, D-Hunt, to prevent the sale and use of psychotropic substances such as MDMA, it had registered 7,038 cases and arrested 7,307 individuals across the state within a month of launching the initiative. (With PTI inputs)
24 March,2025 03:37 PM IST | Kerala | mid-day online correspondent
SC confirms ‘cash found’ at Delhi HC Judge Yashwant Varma’s house
A video shared by the police commissioner of burnt wads of cash at Justice Yashwant Varma’s residence and preliminary findings of the Delhi High Court chief justice calling for a “deeper probe” have prompted Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna to constitute a committee to conduct an in-house inquiry into the allegations against the judge. In an unprecedented move, the top court, late on Saturday evening, uploaded on its website the inquiry report of Delhi High Court Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya—complete with photos and videos—regarding the alleged discovery of a substantial amount of cash from the residence of Justice Varma, a judge in the high court. Justice Yashwant Varma. File pic The 25-page inquiry report of Justice Upadhyaya, uploaded on the apex court’s website, contains two short notes in Hindi that mention that after the fire at the storeroom of Justice Varma’s residence on March 14 was doused, four to five half-burnt sacks containing currency notes were found. The report said prima facie, it seemed that a short-circuit had led to the fire. The video, also shared by Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora with Justice Upadhyaya, clearly shows burnt cash and firefighters dousing the flames. CJI forms panel The three-member inquiry committee formed by the CJI consists of Justices Sheel Nagu (Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court), G S Sandhawalia (Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court) and Karnataka High Court judge Anu Sivaraman. “The Chief Justice of the High Court of Delhi for the time being has been asked not to assign any judicial work to Mr Justice Yashwant Varma,” the top court said in a statement on Saturday. However, no timeline has been fixed for the committee to conclude the probe. ‘Conspiracy to frame’ Justice Varma has, in his response, strongly denounced the allegations in the currency-discovery row and said no cash was ever placed in the storeroom either by him or any of his family members. In his response submitted to the Delhi High Court chief justice, Justice Varma has said the allegation of cash discovery from his residence clearly appears to be a conspiracy to frame and malign him. “It was during our meeting at the High Court Guesthouse that I was first shown the video and other photographs, which had been shared with you by the Commissioner of Police. I was totally shocked to see the contents of the video since it depicted something which was not found on site as I had seen it,” Justice Varma said. “It was this which prompted me to observe that this clearly appeared to be a conspiracy to frame and malign me,” said Justice Varma. “Neither I nor any of my family members had any knowledge of cash nor does it have any bearing or relation with me or my family,” he added. 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
24 March,2025 09:17 AM IST | New Delhi | Agencies
Chhattisgarh: Surrendered Maoists, victims to get govt aid
Land to civilian victims of Maoist violence and increased compensation for the kin of those killed while assisting in anti-Maoist operations are part of the new rehabilitation policy recently cleared by the Chhattisgarh cabinet, an official said. The ‘Chhattisgarh Maoist Surrender/Victim Relief and Rehabilitation Policy-2025’ aims at providing higher compensation, free education, healthcare facilities and job opportunities to victims of Maoist violence. Also, surrendered Maoists will receive rehabilitation and legal support to start a new life, the official said on Saturday. The primary objective of the new policy is to support those affected by Maoist violence and reintegrate surrendered maoist into the society. The Chhattisgarh government believes a balance between strict action and rehabilitation is essential to eliminate Maoism, the official added. Compensation given in the case of death of ‘gopniya sainik’ (informers) specially assisting police in anti-Maoist operations has been increased from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh (over and above the compensation payable under central schemes). A surrendered Moaist will receive a cash assistance of Rs 50,000. A Maoist who is unmarried, or whose spouse is not alive, will be given a grant of Rs 1 lakh within three years for marriage. A surrendered Maoist carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh or more will be allotted a maximum of four decimal (1742 sq ft) land in urban areas, or maximum one hectare of agricultural land in rural areas. 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
24 March,2025 09:10 AM IST | Raipur | Agencies