National

Maharashtra Declares January 15 Public Holiday for Municipal Corporation Elections


The Maharashtra Government has officially declared January 15 as a public holiday in view of the upcoming Municipal Corporation elections across the state. The holiday will apply to 29 municipal corporations, including Mumbai City and Mumbai Suburban districts governed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

The decision has been taken under Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, with powers delegated to the state government through a 1968 notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The move aims to ensure maximum voter participation by allowing citizens adequate time to exercise their democratic right.

Among the civic bodies going to the polls, the BMC holds particular political and administrative significance, as it governs India’s financial capital and manages an annual budget exceeding ₹74,000 crore, making it one of the richest municipal corporations in the country.

Elections to the BMC and 28 other civic bodies will be held on January 15, with counting of votes and declaration of results scheduled for the following day. The outcome of these elections is expected to have a significant impact on Maharashtra’s political landscape.

Sports

Maharashtra Government Announces ₹2.25 Crore Cash Rewards for World Cup-Winning Cricketers


In a gesture celebrating excellence and national pride, the Maharashtra Government has announced ₹2.25 crore each for Indian cricketers Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Radha Yadav, following India’s sensational victory in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.

The trio played pivotal roles in scripting one of India’s greatest sporting triumphs — a win that united the nation and showcased the rising dominance of Indian women’s cricket on the global stage.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde praised the players for their performance, calling them “icons of inspiration for the youth of India.” The felicitation ceremony will soon be held in Mumbai to honour the players’ achievements.

The announcement comes as a significant boost to women’s sports, emphasizing the government’s commitment to recognizing female athletes who have brought international glory to the country.

As the celebrations continue across the nation, this recognition from Maharashtra underscores the impact of India’s World Cup heroes — both on and off the field. 🇮🇳

Business

Asia’s Largest Hospital to Rise in Pune, Named After Lata Mangeshkar


In a historic decision, the Maharashtra government has announced the construction of Asia’s largest hospital in Pune, dedicated to the legendary playback singer Lata Mangeshkar.

The upcoming facility aims to provide state-of-the-art medical infrastructure and world-class healthcare services, catering to millions of patients from across India and beyond. It will also stand as a lasting tribute to the “Nightingale of India,” whose voice touched hearts across generations.

Officials highlighted that the hospital will:

  • Offer cutting-edge medical treatment and advanced healthcare facilities.
  • Serve as a hub for medical research, innovation, and training.
  • Provide affordable and accessible healthcare to people across social and economic backgrounds.
  • Contribute to Maharashtra’s vision of becoming a leader in healthcare infrastructure.

By naming this ambitious project after Lata Mangeshkar, the government seeks to immortalize her contributions to Indian culture while creating a healthcare institution that echoes her spirit of service and inspiration.

This announcement marks a significant step forward in strengthening India’s healthcare system and honoring one of its most iconic legends.

Business

Maharashtra Government Permits Shops and Establishments to Operate 24×7


In a significant policy shift, the Maharashtra government has officially allowed shops and commercial establishments to remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This landmark decision is aimed at strengthening the retail sector, boosting the state’s economy, and creating more opportunities for both entrepreneurs and workers. It also aligns Maharashtra with global cities that already embrace a 24×7 business culture.

According to the government, the move will:

  • Boost retail and service sector growth by enabling businesses to serve more customers.
  • Generate employment opportunities, especially in the hospitality, retail, and services industries.
  • Provide greater consumer convenience, particularly for professionals and night-shift workers.
  • Enhance tourism and nightlife, making Maharashtra more attractive to visitors.

While the decision has been widely welcomed by the business community, experts highlight the importance of ensuring safety measures, proper staffing, and labor rights as the state transitions into a 24×7 economy.

This progressive step is expected to transform Maharashtra’s economic and social landscape, offering a new era of flexibility and growth.

National

Maharashtra Govt Grants ₹25,000 Each to 1,800 Bhajani Mandals for Ganesh Festival


In a significant cultural initiative, the Maharashtra government has announced financial assistance of ₹25,000 each to 1,800 bhajani mandals ahead of the Ganesh festival.

Bhajani mandals, groups that perform devotional songs and music, are an inseparable part of Ganesh Chaturthi festivities across Maharashtra. Their performances create a spiritual and festive atmosphere, drawing communities together in devotion and celebration.

The financial aid aims to support these traditional groups, many of which operate with limited resources. With this grant, the government seeks to encourage cultural preservation, empower local artists, and ensure that the tradition of bhajans continues to enrich Ganesh Utsav celebrations.

The Ganesh festival, which brings millions of devotees together every year, is not only a religious occasion but also a display of Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. The assistance to bhajani mandals underlines the government’s effort to strengthen grassroots cultural participation while uplifting community-led traditions.

With this support, the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi promises to be both spiritually enriching and culturally vibrant.