Days after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled the University Grants Commission (UGC) draft policy for the appointment of teachers and academic staff to universities and colleges, it has been criticised as an alleged attempt to centralise and corporatise higher education. The draft, titled Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education (Regulations, 2025), was released on January 6. It will remain in the public domain for feedback until February 5. The Students’ Federation of India (SFI) and the Progressive Students Forum have publicly opposed it and called on other student bodies to reject it. A statement issued by them reads: “Governments in several Opposition-ruled states, such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala, were already in conflict with their Governors—who also serve as Chancellors of several state-run universities—over the appointment of Vice-Chancellors. Now, the revised rules grant state Governors increased authority in the selection of Vice-Chancellors. It is quite evident that the candidate shortlisting and final selection processes remain opaque, lacking clarity on who will be called for interviews.” The statement adds: “Additionally, for the first time, the new draft regulations permit the consideration of industry experts and public sector veterans for Vice-Chancellor roles... This shift introduces corporate culture into the academic realm.” It also flags other concerns regarding promotions as well as reservations. A senior official from the state higher education department said: “This is just a draft policy and has been made open for objections and suggestions from the public. Anyone with doubts or objections can submit them to the UGC. There’s no need to jump to negative conclusions or issue protest warnings preemptively.”
12 January,2025 07:39 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghThe residents of Evershine Nagar in Malad West have decided to give an ultimatum to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and the Mumbai Police to demolish illegally constructed ramps on a pedestrian bridge over the Malvani creek connecting Malvani and Evershine Nagar. The residents held a public meeting on Saturday evening to discuss the danger of two-wheeler riders who use this pedestrian walkway bridge. A letter from the residents to the BMC and the police states the ramps have caused many accidents, including many that involved senior citizens. The residents have demanded demolition of the ramps which allow bikers access, stationing of traffic police at the FOB to stop bikers from using it, and installing of bollards to prevent bikers from getting onto the bridge. The residents have given January 20 as their deadline, failing which, they plan on an huge protest, including an indefinite fast by Tajinder Singh Tiwana, a resident of Evershine Nagar and a BJP worker. Tiwana said at the meeting, “We have written letters to BMC and other authorities for the demolition of these illegal ramps but no action has been taken.” In a reply to an RTI query filed by Deepak Modi in 2016 asking why the ramps were not demolished even after BMC sending machinery to do so, the civic body had replied, “During the demolition, a local representative and some others had shown strong opposition.”
12 January,2025 07:32 AM IST | Mumbai | Prasun ChoudhariThe Borivli Police have dismantled two drug smuggling gangs operating from Haridwar and Saharanpur. The gangs used an unusual method of concealing drugs by hiding them in the soles of slippers and shoes. The police seized 472 grams of heroin, valued at Rs 50 lakh in the Indian market, and arrested four individuals involved in the operation. Under the guidance of DCP Anand Bhoite (Zone 11) and Senior Inspector Maloji Shinde, Inspector Pradeep Kale, along with ATC officer PSI Pramod Nimpalkar, arrested two suspects, Parvez Khan (45) and Irfan Khan (35), on January 5. They recovered 88 grams of heroin during the operation. According to sources, during interrogation the suspects disclosed the method used to transport drugs into Mumbai. They revealed that they worked as courier boys for a gang leader in Khadki Taluka, Haridwar district, earning Rs 15,000 monthly. Their role involved creating small drug packets and delivering them to individuals based on their employers’ instructions in Mumbai. The accused said they would get calls from their boss with instructions to hand over the drugs to unidentified individuals near locations such as medical stores. The individuals were identified only by descriptions of their clothing. Information from Parvez and Irfan led the police to another gang operating from Saharanpur. Two more suspects, Shoeb Ansari (24) and Abhishek Kumar (25), were arrested from the Kashimira area. A search of their residences led to the recovery of 384 grams of heroin concealed in the soles of footwear. The suspects admitted to working as couriers for another gang smuggling drugs from Saharanpur to Mumbai and other parts of the country. Senior Inspector Maloji Shinde stated that investigations are ongoing to trace the gang leaders operating from Haridwar and Saharanpur.
12 January,2025 07:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah KhanMind the Yawwwning gap Commuters at Borivili Railway Station display a variety of moods and expressions as they await the arrival of the iron horse. Straight outta asylums, literally A spot inside Ranchi Mental Asylum where the author (inset) crafted his latest book. Pic/Instagram Rithwik Aryan faced challenges like OCD and anxiety from a young age, which later fuelled his interest in mental health and eventually inspired his latest book, Out of Madness. He wrote this from two of India’s largest mental health centres, in Agra and Ranchi, after dropping out of Harvard. “Since I was enrolled in a prestigious institution, the heads at the mental hospitals knew that I would do legitimate work. There were a few rules, like not taking photos of the inmates or disclosing their identities, but otherwise, they were quite supportive,” says Aryan. The thought-provoking read blends psychological thriller and dark comedy, taking you on a journey into the heart of India’s psychiatric institutions, where Aryan spent one-and-a-half years of his five-year writing spree for this book, an eye-opener on mental health and human vulnerability. Aryan says he aimed to blend entertainment with deeper themes like loneliness and men’s mental health. Abhonkar ahoy! You go, boy Juggle, don’t struggle: Abhonkar embodies endurance and dexterity Marathons are not just about sweat, blood, cheers and fears. Like for the Tata Mumbai Marathon (TMM) on January 19, Ketan Abhonkar will be attempting “joggling” through the searing 42.2 km, full marathon distance. Joggling? That’s when participants run while juggling. Abhonkar has several half marathons (21 km) done and dusted, and now he is attempting joggling for the full for the first time, managing three balls continuously. Way to go joggler; we’ll cheer for you! Free school of hip-hop Beatboxer Tasheer Khan, or Tash Rappers, beatboxers, and breakers come together in a circle every Sunday at 4 pm at Marol’s Bharat Van Joggers Park. This gathering of rap artistes is called a rap cypher, and Marol now has one of the only ones in the city. Adding a challenging note, Tasheer Khan or Tash, a beatboxer and founder of the Marol Rap Cypher, has started a Sunday Chit Code Cypher series. Now, every Sunday, the collective of 500 to 600 artistes who meet here will pick up chits with a writing prompt. Each artiste will get five minutes to write, and then freestyle away. “This increases confidence and helps improve writing,” he says. Tash, who launched the Marol Rap Cypher in 2017, said he used to go to a cypher in Shivaji Park in 2013, where he learnt to beatbox. But the cypher stopped in 2015-16 and with no place to learn about hip hop, Tash picked up The Gospel of Hip Hop: The First Instrument, a book by American rapper KRS-One which taught him a lot and led him to launch a cypher himself. “I have been hosting the cypher consistently for free. Even if I’m travelling, it continues. I want to give all underground artistes a chance to polish their skills and grow,” he says. Batting for queer pride! Ashish Pandya We may not all play for the same team in the dating scene, but we sure can bat for the same cause and support our LGBTQiA+ friends. As many as 80 players—a mix of mostly LGBTQiA+ community members along with some allies—will don shin pads and step up to the crease today at SportingLions Sports Turf in Bandra West to participate in the Queer Premier League. The QPL is being organised by the Humsafar Trust and Gaysi Family as part of the annual Mumbai Queer Pride Month celebrations running through January. “It’s a friendly cricket match in the 10-over format [aka T10] that’s hosted to foster a space where people from the community can come together and play. It’s also meant to break stereotypes that queer people don’t play sports—we do,” says Ashish Pandya, moderator, Mumbai Queer Pride Collective, adding that there will also be cheerleaders to keep team spirits high. While registrations are now closed for the match, today, those who’d like to participate in Pride festivities can also take a seat in the Pride Bus, which will be adorned with rainbow flags and will ferry across Kala Ghoda at 4.30 pm. A day of Bridge in Mumbai (From left) Pooja Shetty, Mukul Deora, Milind Deora, Hema Deora (with trophy), chief guest, ex-chairman of HDFC Deepak Parekh, and Soham Sarkar Mumbaikars are known for their love of the mind sport of Bridge and if you think we are lying, you should check out the Shri Murli Deora Memorial Bridge Tournament that is held this month every year near the date of his birthday (January 10). Bombay Gymkhana was packed on January 7 with those who love the game, and a large screen showed the journey of the late Murli Deora. The mind sport is played in pairs and the winner was Hema Deora and her partner Soham Sarkar. Hema said, “It was a very memorable tournament as my late husband’s bridge colleagues were present too, and Deepak Parekh, his favourite partner, presented me with this winners’ trophy. The tournament used to be held in various cities during the Winter National Bridge Tournaments, but Murli Deora being Mumbai’s Member of Parliament and fondly known in the city, Hema felt it is more appropriate to hold it here. “The game requires patience and a strategic mind, and we hope that the tournament helps spread the love!” she says. It was an enjoyable full-day tournament, and the event was a great success for Bombay Gymkhana members as well as Hema’s invitees.
12 January,2025 06:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Team SMDDo you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign. AriesMarch 21 – April 19Pay attention to details and manage your time efficiently. Get all the information you need before making any big decision that affect you in the long term.Life tip: Make time to work on yourself and bring your life into balance. Working on your body-mind connection will be healing, and help your relationships. TaurusApril 20 – May 20This is a positive time for those negotiating a new contract or even a raise in salary. Seniors need to do their research before making any health related decision.Life tip: Focus on creating the life you want without trying to control how it manifests in the end. Do not resist change. GeminiMay 21 – June 20Speak out when you need to, but make sure your words are situation appropriate. This is a positive time if you want to expand your social network.Life tip: Recognize any self created blocks for what they are, and work on them on a priority basis. You are capable of much more than you think. CancerJune 21 – July 22Work within structures, even if you find them restricting. Those with sensitive digestive systems should eat only home cooked food.Life tip: Release what is no longer needed – this includes decluttering your home, especially your closet. Make space for new experiences and possessions. LeoJuly 23 – Aug 22 Dream big, but also do the practical work needed to manifest what you want. Break any complex situation down into smaller manageable parts.Life tip: Pay attention to your creative side and make time for a hobby just for it’s own sake. Have fun – you do not need to be perfect all the time! VirgoAug 23 – Sept 22Your professional network is important. You need to use it to your advantage. Those renovating their home need to stick to a budget.Life tip: Focus on what is important if you feel overwhelmed. Remember that you don’t need to do everything at once. LibraSept 23 – Oct 22Use any information you hear at the right moment, and in the right manner. Let go of any bad habits that would have an impact on your long term health.Life tip: Though it is a good idea to listen to the opinions of people you trust, there are time when it is best to follow your own inner guidance. ScorpioOct 23 – Nov 21Be mindful if you repeat any gossip, as it could spread quickly. This is a good time for meetings, negotiations and interviews.Life tip: Work on your shadow self, which needs healing. Some may want to take professional help , and this would be a step in the right direction. SagittariusNov 22 – Dec 21Do not let yourself get swayed by someone who has an agenda of their own. Those in a long distance relationship could make an important decision.Life tip: Step into your power and do not be afraid to be a leader. You have much to offer the world even if you do not think so. CapricornDec 22 – Jan 19Those in large organisations may make a career changing choice. Take care if you have bone related health issues.Life tip: Be authentic when dealings with others, and don’t make it about yourself. Make choices that bring you closer to goodness. AquariusJan 20 – Feb 18Handle any differences of opinion at home or with family in an appropriate manner. Do not make any promises you will not be able to keep.Life tip: Be part of a community or friend group without losing yourself in it. Use any leadership position you may have to inspire and uplift others. PiscesFeb 19 – March 21Those who have multiple homes may find themselves shuttling between them. Timing is crucial when making a big decision.Life tip: Break through any rut you might be experiencing, and remember that you need to get out of your comfort zone in order to grow and improve.
12 January,2025 12:06 AM IST | Mumbai | Aparna BoseEight passengers sustained minor injuries after a Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus hit a metro rail pillar in Thane, a police officer said on Saturday. The incident took place at 6 am on Friday on Pankhanda road near Ovla village and the injured persons were discharged after preliminary treatment, the Kasarvadavali Police Station officer said. "Driver Krishna Adsul, 34, was driving the vehicle in a rash and negligent manner. An FIR (first information report) under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Motor Vehicles Act was registered on the complaint of MSRTC. He has not been arrested as yet," the officer said. 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.
11 January,2025 10:47 PM IST | Thane | PTIA blaze was reported at Rangoon Zaika Hotel on LBS Marg in Kurla on Saturday night. No injuries have been reported so far. The Mumbai Fire Brigade has engaged in firefighting operations. The blaze has been confined to the ground floor of the hotel, and the surrounding area is empty. It was reported at 9:08 pm to the Mumbai Fire Brigade, which confirmed that it is a Level-1 blaze. Apart from firefighters, ambulance, medical, police, and power supply personnel have also been stationed at the site. More details are awaited.
11 January,2025 10:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA portion of an old, single-storey building in a bustling marketplace in Navi Mumbai collapsed on Saturday, fire officials said. There were no occupants in the structure, located on a narrow lane at the Janta Market in Turbhe, when part of the building came crashing down in the afternoon, news agency PTI reported. It is not clear how old the building is. Civic teams are currently clearing the area to ensure that no one is trapped under the debris, an official said. “We heard a loud noise. When we went running towards this area, we saw that a portion of the one-storey building had collapsed,” a local vendor said. The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has urged locals to avoid the vicinity while efforts are underway to secure the area, PTI reported. Chhattisgarh: Two killed, several injured in Raipur building collapse Two people were killed when a portion of an under-construction building collapsed on them in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on Saturday evening, police said. According to officials, several others were injured and required hospitalisation. “Parts of an under-construction building have collapsed. Two people died in the incident. Several others have sustained injuries and have been admitted to the hospital,” said ASP Lakhan Patel. “Work is underway to remove the debris... We are further looking into the incident,” added the ASP. Earlier, the silo structure of a smelting plant at Sargaon in Mungeli district of Chhattisgarh collapsed on Thursday, leaving many injured, news agency ANI reported. Under-construction structure collapses at station in UP; 3 sustain serious injuries An under-construction structure collapsed at Kannauj railway station on Saturday, trapping several people, ANI reported. Uttar Pradesh Minister Asim Arun confirmed that 23 people were rescued, with 20 sustaining minor injuries and undergoing treatment. "Work was underway for the new terminal at Kannauj railway station when the under-construction structure collapsed. 23 people were rescued, 20 people received minor injuries, and they are undergoing treatment. Three people are seriously injured and have been referred to Lucknow. Some more people are feared to be trapped," he said. A rescue operation is currently in progress, ANI reported. A senior Railways official added that Kannauj is among the stations selected under the Amrit Bharat Yojana, which funds the development of railway stations. "An under-construction lintel has collapsed here. The administration immediately came into action, and officers from all areas, along with local people, assisted in the rescue work. Further investigation is underway," he said. (With PTI and ANI inputs)
11 January,2025 08:40 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentIn a major boost to the state's transport system, Maharashtra's Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Saturday announced that 2,640 new buses would be added to the State Transport (ST) fleet this year. The new vehicles will feature the iconic red flag, which will soon be seen on roads across the state. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Road Safety Mission in Thane, Sarnaik highlighted the importance of modernising the transport services while prioritising safety and cleanliness. "We are working on a master plan to transform the overall transport system in Maharashtra. The focus will be on safe travel, cleanliness, and modernisation of the ST service, which will happen in phases," he said. The first phase of the modernisation includes a significant upgrade of facilities for ST employees, with Sarnaik stressing the importance of improving employee welfare. "The quality of every facility available to ST employees, from uniforms to restrooms, must be upgraded. Only when we ensure better facilities for our employees can we provide better services to passengers," he added. As part of the fleet expansion, the highly anticipated new Lalpuri buses have already begun arriving. The Maharashtra Minister dedicated 17 new buses on Saturday and confirmed that by the end of January, 150 Lalpuri buses would be delivered to depots in Thane city and rural areas. Additionally, 300 ST buses are expected to be delivered each month, with all depots across the state set to receive these buses. Sarnaik also announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art 100-bed clinic in Borivali for ST employees and their families. The clinic will offer a range of health services in collaboration with the state government's health department, ensuring better healthcare facilities for ST staff. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari gives in-principle nod to cable car project for MMR Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has given in-principle approval for the implementation of a cable car project using a ropeway system in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The approval was conveyed during a meeting with state officials in New Delhi, which also saw the presence of State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. Sarnaik discussed the implementation of the cable car project in MMR with Gadkari, who emphasised the importance of developing an integrated transport system. The Union Minister stressed the need to reduce travel time, particularly between the suburbs and Mumbai Airport. The proposed cable car project is designed to address the growing challenges of urbanisation and transport in MMR. It will be executed through a public-private partnership (PPP) model or through joint financial collaboration between the central and state governments. The project is being overseen by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). MMR is experiencing rapid urban growth, extending from Palghar to Uran-Pen in Raigad district. With daily pressure on existing public transport systems, including roadways, railways, and metro, Sarnaik highlighted the necessity of introducing air-based services like the cable car system to meet the region’s future transport needs. In line with the project’s progress, Gadkari has instructed V Umashankar, Secretary of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, to initiate a survey and prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to move the project forward.
11 January,2025 07:03 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian Coast Guard Region (West) conducted a Special Coastal Cleanup Drive at Girgaon Chowpatty in Mumbai on Saturday, as part of its upcoming 49th Raising Day celebrations. The event highlighted the Coast Guard's ongoing commitment to marine environmental protection, with a strong focus on preserving the ecological balance of the nation's coastal areas. Apart from the Indian Coast Guard personnel, volunteers from local schools and colleges in Mumbai also participated in the cleanup effort. The initiative aimed to foster a collective sense of responsibility for the protection of coastal biodiversity. Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, PTM, TM, Commander, Coast Guard Region (West), expressed his appreciation for the enthusiastic participation of all those involved in the drive. He highlighted the symbolic nature of the event, noting that it went beyond routine cleanup efforts. "This drive is not just about cleaning the beaches; it is a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the biodiversity of our coastal areas," said IG Sharma. The cleanup drive saw active involvement from various groups, including the Ismaili Civic Group, National Social Services, and the National Scouting Guiding Development Committee. A key feature of the event was the Mallakhamb display by the team of Padma Shri awardee Uday Deshpande, renowned for bringing the traditional Indian sport to international recognition. Dr Nandini Jain, a Kalaripayattu master, and her team showcased the ancient martial art, adding an energetic cultural element to the event. The enthusiasm of the volunteers and participants demonstrated the broader message of the event: the importance of collective action in safeguarding the environment. As the cleanup progressed, the beach began to transform, reflecting the positive impact that can be achieved when individuals come together for a common cause. This special drive is part of the series of events leading up to the Indian Coast Guard’s 49th Raising Day celebrations, set for February 1, 2025. The Coast Guard Region (West) will continue to host similar events across the west coast of India, further promoting the vital role of the Coast Guard in marine conservation and environmental protection.
11 January,2025 04:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA massive fire broke out at temporary godowns storing scrap and paper rolls in Bhiwandi town of Maharashtra’s Thane district, gutting the structures and the materials stored inside. Firefighting efforts continued overnight to contain the blaze, officials reported on Saturday. The fire erupted around 4 pm on Friday at Walpada in Bhiwandi, where the scrap materials were housed in tin sheds, according to a fire department official. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. Three fire engines from the Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation were immediately dispatched to the site to tackle the flames. However, the fire rapidly spread, fuelled by the large quantity of scrap and paper rolls stored in the temporary godowns, making the firefighting operation particularly challenging. “Firefighting operations continued throughout the night as the blaze engulfed the stored scrap materials. The extent of the damage is significant, but no casualties have been reported,” the official stated. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and investigations are underway. Authorities are examining whether any lapses in safety measures might have contributed to the incident. The incident has raised concerns about the safety standards in such temporary storage facilities. Local authorities are urging businesses operating in similar setups to prioritise fire safety by installing fire-fighting equipment and conducting regular inspections to prevent such mishaps in the future. Residents in the vicinity of Walpada expressed concern over the thick plumes of smoke emanating from the site, which were visible from a distance. The fire department assured that the flames were under control by Saturday morning and that efforts were on to ensure the site was completely safe.
11 January,2025 02:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
