Maha cabinet gives nod to continuation of 40% property tax rebate

The Maharashtra state government has approved the continuation of a 40% rebate on property tax, which was introduced in 1970 but discontinued in 2019. The scheme affected almost 8 lakh property taxpayers, drawing sharp reactions from citizens. The decision to restart the rebate scheme will take effect from April 2023, with taxpayers not having to pay dues for the years between 2019 and 2023. Pune district guardian minister Chandrakant Patil said that if taxpayers had already paid additional property tax after the scheme's discontinuation, the Pune Municipal Corporation would adjust the amount and provide a rebate.

Bigger, juicier, sweeter: Expect an XL mango crop, say experts

Experts predict an excellent mango crop in Uttar Pradesh this season, with timely rains and favorable weather conditions promising larger, sweeter fruits. Farmers expect better yields and higher prices, with varieties like Dussehri anticipated to hit markets in early June.

U.P. braces for rising temps, light showers to linger

Temperatures in Uttar Pradesh set to rise gradually, with IMD predicting moderate heat and light showers primarily in southern districts. Maximum temperatures expected around 39°C, with partly cloudy skies and no imminent heatwave forecast.

Four cops among 5 killed in Aligarh road accident

Four policemen and an undertrial died in Aligarh when a police van hit a stationary container on Delhi-Kanpur highway. The accident occurred at 8:15 am, potentially due to driver fatigue. Authorities are investigating and have informed human rights bodies.

POCSO Act never meant to criminalise consensual relationships: Allahabad HC

Allahabad HC emphasized POCSO Act isn't meant to criminalize consensual teen relationships. Granting bail to an 18-year-old accused of raping a 16-year-old, the court noted the consensual nature and lack of medical evidence should be considered.

HYDRAA will check unauthorised constructions in Telangana capital: CM

Hyderabad Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy announced the formation of the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) to combat unauthorized constructions and civic issues, aiming to prevent pollution and infrastructure decay. He emphasized the need for timely decisions to avoid problems faced by other major cities and defended HYDRAA against opposition claims of being anti-poor.

Haryana CM condemns holding BBMB chairman ‘hostage’, demands water release

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini criticized the Punjab government for mishandling a water dispute, alleging an illegal hostage situation involving the Bhakra Beas Management Board chairman. He condemned Punjab's refusal to comply with a high court ruling and urged Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to respect the decision, asserting Haryana's right to its share of water for drinking purposes.

Businessman shot at in central Delhi; bouncer among 2 held

Police in New Delhi have arrested two suspects, Sahil Malik and Shivam Bhadauria, in connection with a May 2 shooting of businessman Rajendra. The duo was apprehended while planning another robbery. The investigation revealed that accomplice Prashant masterminded the heist by tracking Rajendra's movements. A firearm and stolen motorcycle were recovered from the suspects. Further investigations are ongoing.

Govt shares RTE admission data update: Basti, Hardoi, Etah lead in EWS admissions

The Uttar Pradesh government reported significant increases in Right to Education (RTE) admissions, with Basti district leading at 93%. Over 1.85 lakh seats were allotted this year, with 1,06,592 enrollments in private schools. Officials emphasized the importance of education for economically weaker sections, though concerns remain about inadequate financial support for private institutions.

Transport dept identifies 50,000 sq ft advertisement space for DTC's revenue generation

The Delhi Transport Corporation aims to enhance revenue by utilizing around 50,000 square feet of advertising space across the city. With liabilities skyrocketing from Rs 28,263 crore in 2015-16 to Rs 65,274 crore in 2021-22, the initiative includes advertising on buses, commercializing depot spaces, and converting old buses into shops to improve financial health.

South Delhi faces waterlogging threat as drain cleaning remains behind schedule

South Delhi faces potential waterlogging this monsoon as three key drains remain undesilted. Municipal Corporation of Delhi admits cleaning may not complete before June's end, risking flooding in multiple neighborhoods due to delayed maintenance work.

Pollution board vacancies: SC contempt notice to chief secys of Haryana, Delhi

Supreme Court issues contempt notices to Delhi, Haryana, UP, and Rajasthan chief secretaries for failing to fill vacancies in pollution control boards, highlighting 55% posts vacant in Delhi and demanding explanations for non-compliance.

Bangladeshi woman married to UP man detained for illegal stay in Barabanki

A Bangladeshi woman married to an Indian man was detained in Barabanki for overstaying her tourist visa. Married in Bangladesh and India, she was found living illegally after her visa expired in January 2024, sparking an immigration identification drive.

One dead, another injured as motorcycle collides with cyclist in outernorth Delhi

A 44-year-old man, Sambhu Nath Yadav, was killed and another, 26-year-old Irsad, was injured in a motorcycle-bicycle collision in Narela Industrial Area, Delhi. The accident occurred on Wednesday night. Yadav was declared dead at the hospital, while Irsad suffered serious head injuries. Police are investigating, with a case registered under relevant sections.

Bihar NDA connects to youths via sports route

Bihar NDA is targeting youth voters through sports initiatives, increasing sports budget to ₹568 crore, building infrastructure, creating a dedicated sports department, and offering job opportunities and scholarships to attract first-time voters.

Sack Punjab minister for holding BBMB chairman hostage: Hooda

Congress leader Hooda demands Punjab minister Harjot Singh Bains be sacked for holding BBMB chairman hostage at Nangal dam, calling the act illegal and unconstitutional, and urging central government intervention in the water distribution dispute.