Snake Bites 6 Tribal Girls in Maharashtra Hostel, 3 Die Three tribal girls died and three others were treated for snakebites after a venomous snake attacked them while sleeping on the floor of a hostel in Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra. The incident occurred around midnight on Sunday at an aided tribal residential school in Japtalai village, approximately 10 kilometers from Dhanora taluka headquarters. District collector Avishyant Panda announced an inquiry into the event, citing concerns about safety measures at the school. According to officials, the girls, aged 8, 12, and 14, succumbed to the bites, while three others, aged between 11 and 14, were hospitalized and administered anti-venom. The surviving students were being closely monitored by medical teams. Panda emphasized that the inquiry would examine whether the school adhered to safety protocols and whether protective measures were in place to prevent such incidents. Panda instructed the district surgeon to ensure the treatment of the surviving students was adequate and to provide special care. Teams from the Tribal Development Department were also ordered to inspect the school and gather information. If negligence or safety lapses were found, action would be taken against those responsible, Panda stated. Gadchiroli’s co-guardian minister, Ashish Jaiswal, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that all necessary medical facilities and support would be provided to the injured students. Jaiswal noted that the administration had been directed to ensure the students received proper care and that responsibility would be determined once the Tribal Development Department’s inquiry report was received.#gadchiroli_district #ashish_jaiswal #avishyant_panda #tribal_development_department #japtalai_village
Union ministry slashes mining penalties, VED welcomes move Nagpur: The Union ministry of mines has significantly reduced penalties for mining lease holders who violate civil rules, according to a recent notification issued last week. The changes apply to infractions other than illegal mining, replacing earlier provisions that mandated imprisonment for minor offenses with civil penalties. The Vidarbha Economic Development (VED) Council, an NGO focused on regional development, had previously raised concerns with the government about easing these penalties. VED’s president, Rina Sinha, highlighted that the organization took the initiative to address widespread issues faced by mine owners and concessionaires. She noted that penalties of up to Rs50 lakh for procedural delays, such as late report filings, created severe operational strain. To address this, VED collaborated with the Indian Mines Managers’ Association and the Mining Engineers Association of India to hold a seminar on the issue. Their recommendations were forwarded to minister of state Ashish Jaiswal. The revised penalties have been widely welcomed as a relief for the mining sector. Previously, for a mining lease covering up to 50 acres, the maximum fine for violating rules or terms related to mineral concessions—such as delayed report submissions—was Rs50 lakh. This has been reduced to Rs1 lakh. For other violations, the fine has been lowered to Rs2 lakh instead of the previous Rs20 lakh. For larger leases exceeding 150 hectares, the penalty has been adjusted to Rs25,000 per hectare, down from Rs50 lakh. These changes were detailed in a note shared by VED’s vice president, B K Shukla. VED emphasized that the new measures aim to balance regulatory compliance with the operational realities of the mining industry.#ashish_jaiswal #ved_council #union_ministry_of_mines #rina_sinha #ved_vice_president_b_k_shukla
Vidarbha Ashramshala Upgrade To Save Travel Toil For Tribal Students The Maharashtra government has approved significant upgrades to 16 government-run tribal ashramshalas across Nagpur and Amravati divisions, aiming to reduce the travel burden on students from remote tribal communities. The decision, announced on June 11, allows these schools to offer Classes 8-10 and Classes 11-12, enabling students to pursue secondary and senior secondary education locally instead of commuting daily to district towns. This initiative is expected to alleviate financial strain on economically weaker families and improve educational access for tribal students who previously faced challenges in continuing their studies due to long travel distances. The upgrades cover three categories. One primary ashramshala will now offer Classes 8 to 10, while six existing secondary schools have been authorized to introduce both Arts and Science streams for Classes 11 and 12. Two additional schools in Chandrapur will provide only the Arts stream, and four others, including two in Nagpur district, will offer only the Science stream. The full list of 16 schools, along with their respective districts, is appended to the approval notice. Notably, four of the upgraded schools are located in Nagpur district alone—two in the Ramtek-Parseoni region north of the city and two in the Katol area to the west. Previously, students from these schools who wished to study Science after Class 10 had to travel daily to cities like Ramtek, Kamptee, or Nagpur. The cost of transportation and the loss of study hours disproportionately affected tribal and economically disadvantaged families.#maharashtra_government #nagpur_district #ashish_jaiswal #ramtek_constituency #amravati_division
Stone Vessel Discovery at Ramtek’s Gad Mandir Complex Enhances Heritage Significance A significant archaeological find has emerged at the historic Ramtek Gad Mandir complex in Nagpur, where a large half-buried stone vessel was uncovered during renovation work. The artifact, believed to have been used for storing water, was discovered a month ago by a laborer involved in the project. The discovery has sparked renewed interest in the site’s historical importance, particularly as it is associated with the legend of Lord Ram, who is said to have stayed there during his exile. Minister of State and local MLA Ashish Jaiswal visited the site on Sunday, emphasizing the vessel’s role in highlighting the temple complex’s lesser-known historical aspects. He noted that the find could attract more tourists, as it offers insights into the site’s past. Jaiswal explained that the vessel was discovered near one of the temple gates, suggesting it may have been used to supply potable water to pilgrims and visitors ascending the hill to reach the temple. The minister also highlighted the ongoing conservation efforts, stating that the site where the vessel was found is now off-limits to further renovation work. He assured that authorities are providing full support for the artifact’s preservation, with the Archaeology Department overseeing the Rs175 crore renovation project at the temple. Jaiswal expressed confidence that such discoveries would enhance the site’s appeal as a heritage destination. Superintending archaeologist Shiv Bhagat of the Archaeological Survey of India’s Nagpur Circle confirmed that further details about the vessel’s origin and dating will be shared in due course.#nagpur #ashish_jaiswal #archaeological_survey_of_india #ramtek_gad_mandir #archaeology_department
Hidma Eulogy in Pune Hostel Event Sparks Concern Over Urban Naxal Influence on Tribals A Pune-based state social welfare department hostel recently became the center of controversy after students performed a dance to a song eulogizing slain Maoist commander Hidma. The event, part of a multi-day cultural festival, drew attention from authorities, including Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal, who oversees tribal-dominated Gadchiroli district. Jaiswal warned against the influence of "urban naxals" seeking to exploit tribal culture for political propaganda, emphasizing the need to protect "innocent minds" from Maoist narratives. According to sources, five of the students involved in the dance were from Gadchiroli, while one was from Chandrapur. Jaiswal stated that police would counsel the minors to distance them from Maoist influencers, who he claims weaponize tribal traditions to incite unrest. A senior official in the Maharashtra anti-Naxal apparatus confirmed that the event organizers are under police scrutiny. While Gadchiroli has been declared Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)-free, Jaiswal highlighted lingering threats from "destructive forces" attempting to destabilize the region. The incident has reignited discussions about the broader challenge of Maoist influence in rural and tribal areas. Jaiswal, alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has been tasked with addressing the legacy of Maoist activity in Gadchiroli, which was once a hotbed of insurgency. He urged tribal communities to resist "false narratives" that could lead to self-destruction, stressing that the government has enacted legal measures to combat urban naxals.#devendra_fadnavis #gadchiroli #ashish_jaiswal #maoist_commander_hidma #maharashtra_anti_naxal_apparatus
Ramtek Tourism Circuit: State Ministers Inspect Bird Park and Recreation Centre Nagpur: State revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule and minister of state (MoS) Ashish Jaiswal conducted an inspection of a bird park and a recreation centre near Khindsi Lake on Saturday, marking a renewed push for the development of the Ramtek-Khindsi-Mansar tourism circuit. The visit followed discussions on expanding the region’s appeal as a tourist destination, with officials emphasizing the integration of natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and modern infrastructure to sustain visitor interest. Jaiswal highlighted the broader vision for Ramtek’s tourism sector, which includes linking multiple attractions such as the Film City, seaplane connectivity, and recreational sites. He stated that these initiatives aim to create a cohesive experience for tourists, ensuring steady footfalls and long-term economic benefits. The minister also reiterated the importance of the seaplane project, which has received approval under the central government’s Udaan scheme, as a key component of the region’s growth strategy. Bawankule praised the bird park for offering a unique experience, noting its diverse collection of rare and beautiful bird species and the natural surroundings that enhance its appeal as a tourist spot. He emphasized the role of such projects in promoting eco-tourism and creating opportunities for local businesses. Chandrapal Chouksey, director of the projects, underscored the significance of tourism as a driver of economic activity, stating that it generates revenue across various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and retail.#chandrashekhar_bawankule #ashish_jaiswal #udaan_scheme #ramtek_khindsi_mansar #seaplane_project
MoS Jaiswal Reviews Rising Tiger Movement and Attack Incidents in Pench Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal directed authorities to take immediate action against the rising incidents of tiger movement and attacks in the Pench region during a review meeting held in Sillari, Ramtek. The meeting, chaired by Jaiswal, emphasized the urgent need to enhance protective measures for communities living near forest areas. He instructed officials to install protective fencing in vulnerable zones and develop green zones where necessary to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Jaiswal also ordered the deployment of dedicated mobile and medical units to ensure rapid response to emergencies, including tiger attacks. The minister highlighted the importance of a high-level meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to finalize comprehensive strategies for addressing the growing threat posed by tigers. This meeting is expected to focus on long-term solutions to balance conservation efforts with the safety of local residents. Jaiswal assured the public that their safety remains a top priority, promising swift implementation of protective measures. To aid in monitoring and reporting incidents, he announced the launch of a toll-free helpline for residents to report tiger sightings or attacks and seek assistance. AI-enabled cameras have already been installed in select villages, and officials were directed to expand this network to cover more areas. The technology is intended to track tiger movements and provide real-time data to authorities. Jaiswal also emphasized the need for improved coordination between forest departments and local communities to prevent conflicts.#chief_minister #devendra_fadnavis #ashish_jaiswal #minister_of_state #forest_development_corporation_of_maharashtra
Nagpur Set to Become National Hub for Seaplane Ecosystem A survey to finalize seaplane routes originating from Khindsi Lake is underway, positioning Nagpur as the national hub for an amphibious aviation network. The initiative, supported by the government under the Udaan scheme, aims to establish a comprehensive seaplane ecosystem encompassing aircraft, training facilities, and maintenance operations. Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal confirmed to The Times of India that the project is at an advanced stage, with trials already completed. "The government has cleared the scheme, and surveys are currently being conducted with teams scouting locations on boats in Khindsi. It won’t be long before you can land directly at Khindsi Lake and check into a houseboat," Jaiswal stated. The project envisions houseboats with seven rooms, with the first boat to be procured from an Indian firm. Future specialized houseboats will be imported to enhance the experience. Jaiswal emphasized the transformative potential of seaplanes for regional connectivity, stating, "The seaplanes will revolutionize air traffic in Vidarbha and bring more tourists to this region. We are following up with various authorities, and things are moving ahead in a positive way." Mumbai-based entrepreneur Siddharth Verma, spearheading the seaplane project, highlighted Nagpur’s strategic location as the key factor. "Nagpur’s central position makes it the natural choice for anchoring the national seaplane ecosystem. Planes will be stored here, and training and maintenance will be conducted from this hub," Verma explained. He noted that the company already operates similar services in Konkan, Mumbai, and Nashik, with strong demand in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.#nagpur #ashish_jaiswal #khindsi_lake #udaan_scheme #siddharth_verma
4L River Prawn Seed Stocking Undertaken in Khindsi Lake Nagpur: Minister of State and Ramtek MLA Ashish Jaiswal recently initiated the stocking of nearly four lakh river prawn seeds in Khindsi Lake at Ramtek. The move marks a strategic shift from traditional fishery practices, focusing on high-value species to enhance productivity and fishermen’s incomes. The initiative aligns with the natural breeding and egg-laying cycle of river prawns, a phase that improves survival rates and supports sustainable propagation within the reservoir ecosystem. Fisheries officials emphasized that such scientifically timed interventions are crucial for long-term growth and resource management. Jaiswal highlighted the reliance of Vidarbha’s fisheries sector, particularly in Nagpur district, on Indian major carps like Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal, which account for 80-85% of total production. While these species remain vital for local consumption and affordability, overdependence has led to limitations in output and seasonal price volatility, affecting fishermen’s earnings. He noted that freshwater prawns, with market prices ranging between Rs400 and Rs800 per kilogram, offer a more stable and lucrative alternative. Assistant commissioner of fisheries, Shubham Komrewar, confirmed plans to expand similar prawn seed-stocking efforts to the Pench reservoir in the coming weeks. The project underscores efforts to diversify aquatic resources and mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on a single species. By integrating high-value species into existing ecosystems, authorities aim to create a more resilient and profitable fisheries sector while ensuring environmental sustainability.#ramtek #pench_reservoir #ashish_jaiswal #khindsi_lake #shubham_komrewar
