Cab stir Day 2: On CM’s Home Turf, Airport Agony Continues Nagpur: For the second consecutive day, travelers at Nagpur’s airport faced severe disruptions as app-based cab drivers continued their strike, halting pick-up and drop services. Passengers were forced to walk nearly a kilometre through scorching heat to reach rides, with fares inflated beyond normal levels. Despite the city being represented by prominent leaders such as Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union minister Nitin Gadkari, and state revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, the last-mile connectivity at the airport collapsed, leaving stranded flyers with limited options. Stranded travelers described the ordeal as a test of endurance. A harrowed passenger recounted walking from Dr Hedgewar Memorial Square to the terminal, arriving drenched in sweat and exhausted. “I had a flight to catch and had no choice but to walk,” said Priya Mehta, traveling to Mumbai. Similarly, Rajesh Tiwari, another flyer, criticized the situation as “preposterous,” stating, “We pay for convenience, not to walk in this heat with luggage.” By evening, some passengers opted for alternative arrangements, but fares remained significantly higher than usual. The strike, which began on the first day, has exposed systemic gaps in urban transport coordination and administrative response. Cab union leader Deepak Sane, who met with airport authorities on Wednesday, accused officials of apathy, claiming repeated attempts to initiate dialogue had failed. “Officials say they are busy with VIP movements. What about the common public?” he questioned. Sane also alleged that security personnel were filming protesting drivers, adding, “We are being pressured to withdraw the strike for minimal assurances. It is nothing short of blackmail.#nitin_gadkari #devendra_fadnavis #chandrashekhar_bawankule #nagpur_airport #priya_mehta
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
Maharashtra Govt Tightens Deputation Norms for Revenue Officers The Maharashtra government has introduced stricter deputation norms for revenue department officers, requiring a minimum three-year tenure in their parent department before eligibility for further deputation. The new rules, implemented by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule following directives from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, aim to address concerns about the declining efficiency of core departmental operations due to frequent and prolonged deputations. The policy applies to all gazetted officers, including additional district collectors, deputy collectors, tehsildars, naib tehsildars, and land records department officials. For officers serving in the offices of the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, or state ministers, the deputation tenure is capped at five years. Beyond this period, special approval from the Chief Minister is required for further deputation. The government emphasized that the decision seeks to restore administrative discipline and improve service delivery to citizens. Officials highlighted that key departments such as revenue, land records, registration, and stamps have experienced significant outflows of gazetted officers, leading to vacant senior posts and disruptions in citizen services. The new guidelines aim to rectify this imbalance by mandating a mandatory "cooling-off" period of three years in the parent department before officers can be considered for deputation again. Initially, officers will be eligible for deputation for a maximum of three years. Upon completion, they must serve at least three years in their original role before being eligible for another deputation.#devendra_fadnavis #maharashtra_govt #chandrashekhar_bawankule #revenue_department #revenue_minister
Civic Bodies Told to Act Now to Meet Future Water Needs Maharashtra revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule directed municipal councils on Thursday to prioritize long-term water supply planning to address escalating water stress, warning that current systems are unprepared for future demand. Speaking at a district-level review meeting, the minister outlined a five-point development framework for newly elected municipal heads, with water supply and augmentation designated as central priorities. The directive comes amid growing concerns over declining rainfall, climate variability, and falling groundwater levels in regions like Vidarbha. Bawankule emphasized that these trends are "root causes of future water crises" and urged immediate action, including the protection and cleaning of local water bodies such as rivers and streams. The minister highlighted that many civic bodies lack the technical and engineering capacity to execute large-scale water projects, leading to inefficiencies. He noted that despite completing numerous schemes, adequate water supply has not been achieved, and called for such projects to be transferred to Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran for better execution and accountability. Bawankule also urged authorities to address leakages and prevent wastage by installing taps where absent, while strengthening supply networks in water-scarce areas. Municipal councils facing acute shortages were instructed to submit water reservation proposals within 10 days. The Kamptee MLA underscored the need for forward-looking planning, stating that all urban water blueprints must account for population growth over the next 25 years. "If planning reflects future realities, efficient and disciplined use of available water will follow," he remarked.#vidarbha #chandrashekhar_bawankule #maharashtra_revenue_minister #maharashtra_jeevan_pradhikaran #kamptee_mla
Taps run dry, but 40% water goes down drain, NMC can’t find a fix Residents of Nagpur are facing a severe water crisis as the city’s municipal corporation struggles to address widespread leaks, illegal connections, and declining water supply. With summer temperatures rising, the situation has worsened, leaving households grappling with low water pressure, erratic distribution, and even contaminated water. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has acknowledged the problem, but critics argue that the response has been inadequate, leaving the city’s 3.5 million residents in dire straits. Revenue minister and district guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has admitted to large-scale water losses, citing a 40% leakage rate due to both infrastructure failures and illegal extraction. He highlighted that commercial establishments in areas like Sitabuldi and Mahal are drawing water beyond sanctioned limits, often using unregulated pumps. While notices have been issued to such entities, Bawankule assured that measures would not unfairly target poor or middle-class households. However, residents remain skeptical, as the crisis continues to deepen. The opposition Congress party, led by Leader of Opposition Sanjay Mahakalkar, has intensified its criticism, accusing the NMC of failing to act decisively. Mahakalkar convened a meeting with Congress corporators and senior water officials on Thursday, where complaints from across the city were raised. Corporator Wasim Khan from Prabhag 8 (central Nagpur) described the situation as “acute,” noting that many areas face daily water shortages. Dinesh Yadav from Prabhag 2 (north Nagpur) reported that residents are receiving contaminated water through taps, raising concerns about public health.#mahal #nagpur_municipal_corporation #sanjay_mahakalkar #chandrashekhar_bawankule #sitabuldi
State Waives Dues, Clears Free Land for Amravati Sports Complex Nagpur: The state government has approved the free transfer of 16,708 square meters of land in Navsari near Amravati for the development of a sports complex, while waiving key financial liabilities that had stalled the project. The decision was announced during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday, providing relief to the Amravati Municipal Corporation (AMC). Originally reserved as a playground under the development plan, the land was handed over to the civic body. However, the AMC had entered into agreements with third parties and initiated development without prior approval, including the commercial use of 1,878.80 square meters. The government had directed the corporation to pay ₹10.90 crore as land valuation and ₹3.56 crore as interest for commercial use since 2011. The AMC is burdened by liabilities totaling nearly ₹350 crore, including employee dues and pending contractor payments. Following intervention by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, the state decided to relax the conditions. "The decision was taken keeping in mind the city's contribution to producing athletes of national and international repute," Bawankule stated. The government, while clearing the free land transfer, also waived the ₹3.56 crore interest. The transfer remains subject to approval from the urban development department regarding the reservation status. The move aims to boost sports infrastructure in the region and alleviate the financial stress on the civic body. The land, initially designated for a playground, saw unauthorized development and partial commercial use, which led to the accumulation of significant liabilities.#devendra_fadnavis #chandrashekhar_bawankule #amravati_municipal_corporation #navsari #amravati_sports_complex
Maharashtra Government Introduces Micro-Zoning and Property Policy Reforms Maharashtra’s state government has announced a series of measures aimed at stabilizing the real estate sector, including the introduction of micro-zoning in key urban centers and adjustments to property valuation and regularization norms. The decision follows the rejection of a proposed 12% to 14% increase in Ready Reckoner (RR) rates, which was deemed unsuitable due to global economic uncertainties. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized that the move prioritizes public interest and aligns with evolving development plans. The micro-zoning initiative will be implemented in Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. This system will determine property valuations based on hyper-local factors such as infrastructure, amenities, and regional layouts. Bawankule explained that property rates will no longer be standardized across locations, ensuring valuations reflect the unique characteristics of each area. The policy aims to address disparities in property prices and support affordability while accommodating urban development needs. The government also expanded the regularization limit for unauthorized residential constructions built before January 1, 2011, from 500 square feet to 1,500 square feet. Eligibility for this adjustment is tied to proof of Maharashtra residency and inclusion in the 2011 electoral rolls. Structures exceeding 1,500 square feet will still face enforcement actions. This change is expected to benefit property owners on government land or within approved layouts, streamlining compliance processes. To reduce administrative burdens, the state introduced a new “Version 2” software for land records, slashing land survey costs from as high as ₹10,000 to approximately ₹1,000.#mumbai #maharashtra_government #thane #pune #chandrashekhar_bawankule
Maharashtra Govt Freezes Ready Reckoner Rates for 2026–27, Providing Relief to Real Estate Sector The Maharashtra government has announced that ready reckoner rates will remain unchanged for the financial year 2026–27, a decision aimed at stabilizing the real estate market and offering relief to homebuyers and developers. The move, implemented by minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule under the guidance of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, ensures that property valuation benchmarks will stay at the same levels as the previous financial year, which ended in March 2026. The freeze takes effect from April 1, 2026, and is intended to alleviate financial pressures on buyers and encourage property transactions across both urban and rural areas. The decision comes amid a challenging environment for the construction sector, which is grappling with global economic uncertainties and a domestic slowdown. Officials emphasized that maintaining the status quo on ready reckoner rates will prevent additional financial burdens on buyers and support the sector’s recovery. This follows a series of periodic revisions to the rates over the past decade, which have fluctuated based on economic conditions and policy priorities. Historically, ready reckoner rates—used to determine property values for stamp duty and registration—have seen significant changes. In 2017–18, the rates increased by an average of 5.86%, while the 2020–21 revision was limited to 1.74% due to the economic disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. A 4.81% rise was implemented in 2022–23, and this increase was extended for two years. In 2025–26, rates were raised across different regions, with rural areas seeing a 3.36% hike, municipal zones at 4.97%, and municipal corporation areas at 5.95%. Mumbai, in particular, recorded a 3.#devendra_fadnavis #maharashtra_govt #chandrashekhar_bawankule #cre_dai #i_sarita
‘Epstein-like end feared’: Congress claims ‘pen drive bombshell’ in Nashik astrologer Ashok Kharat's case Amid widespread public outrage over the rape-accused astrologer Ashok Kharat case in Maharashtra, a heated political clash erupted on Sunday between Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar and Maharashtra revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. Wadettiwar raised concerns that Kharat’s life could be endangered while in custody, drawing parallels to the 2024 Badlapur case in which a rape accused was killed during a police encounter. He warned that similar attempts to silence Kharat could occur to suppress evidence, citing past instances where individuals linked to powerful figures were allegedly protected. Wadettiwar also invoked the case of disgraced US financier Jeffrey Epstein, who died under mysterious circumstances in jail while facing sex trafficking charges, to underscore his fears that Kharat’s case could end in a similar fashion. Wadettiwar’s remarks followed claims by former minister Deepak Kesarkar that 39 state legislators had visited Kharat, prompting the Congress leader to demand action against those allegedly involved. He called for the names of individuals who supported or promoted Kharat, encouraged blind faith in him, or treated him as a deity to be publicly disclosed and booked under anti-superstition laws. He further alleged that a pen drive linked to the case contained information that could expose influential figures and trigger a “political earthquake” in Maharashtra. “If all that is on that pen drive is revealed, the Maharashtra government will land in serious trouble,” Wadettiwar said, warning that the contents could lead to the exposure of high-profile individuals tied to Kharat’s activities.#maharashtra #jeffrey_epstein #vijay_wadettiwar #ashok_kharat #chandrashekhar_bawankule
Maharashtra Approves Regularization of Residential Encroachments on Government Land Maharashtra’s government has approved a policy to regularize residential encroachments on government land up to 500 square feet free of cost, aiming to provide housing security to low-income families across the state. The decision, announced by revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule following directives from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, applies to encroachments existing as of January 1, 2011, and used strictly for residential purposes. The policy excludes Mumbai and its suburban districts. Bawankule emphasized that the government’s stance is to ensure no needy family remains without shelter, with progress reviewed every three months. Under the scheme, encroachments exceeding 500 square feet will incur an occupancy fee of 10% of the prevailing market value, while the maximum eligible area is capped at 1,500 square feet. Any excess construction will be removed, and structures with partial commercial use will be charged 25% of the market value for that portion. Land will be granted jointly in the names of husband and wife under the ‘occupancy class-2’ category, with a registration fee of Rs1,000 for plots up to 1,000 square feet. The policy mandates strict scrutiny to exclude non-citizens and requires officials to file police complaints for violations. Encroachments on ecologically or socially sensitive land—such as riverbeds, grazing lands, forests, public roads, cremation grounds, playgrounds, and areas reserved for schools and hospitals—will not be regularized. Eligible families in such locations will instead be considered for alternative housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.#maharashtra #mumbai #devendra_fadnavis #chandrashekhar_bawankule #pradhan_mantri_awas_yojana
Farmers Blocking Access Roads To Lose Govt Benefits, Warns Bawankule Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced on Friday that farmers who block farm access roads will lose eligibility for government welfare schemes, as part of efforts to address encroachments and irregularities in land administration. Speaking to the media in Nagpur, the minister stated that individuals obstructing or damaging farm and access roads will have their Aadhaar-linked identification and farmer IDs blocked for five years. This measure follows directives from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis under the Mukhyamantri Baliraja Farm Road Scheme, aimed at improving rural connectivity. Officials emphasized that the policy seeks to ensure uninterrupted access to agricultural land, a critical issue in several districts. Under the new framework, tehsildars will issue notices to individuals encroaching on roads mapped in village records or located on government land, giving violators seven days to remove obstructions. Failure to comply will result in forcible removal by authorities. Bawankule addressed concerns about infrastructure projects disrupting traditional farm access routes, stating the government will provide alternative service roads under right-of-way provisions. "Farmers' right of access to their land will be protected," he added. Responding to allegations by Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar against NCP ministers, Bawankule urged restraint, asserting the inquiry was conducted fairly. He noted that decisions regarding figures like NCP minister Narhari Zirwal or political leaders would be handled by their respective parties.#nagpur #devendra_fadnavis #vijay_wadettiwar #chandrashekhar_bawankule #mukhyamantri_baliraja_farm_road_scheme
Devotion Hits Its Crescendo At Poddareshwar Temple Ram Navami Shobhayatra Nagpur: A sea of devotees surged through the city on Thursday as the Poddareshwar Ram Temple's 60th Shobha Yatra rolled out, with packed streets, rising chants, and continuous movement of crowds turning the procession route into a live, unfolding celebration. Devotees lined up along the route — from Itwari through Badkas Chowk, Gandhi Gate, Cotton Market, and Variety Square — hours in advance, with continuous chants and drumbeats accompanying the procession. The scale of participation remained high through the afternoon, with crowds swelling at every major junction. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union minister Nitin Gadkari joined the celebrations at the temple, where they performed pooja of Lord Ram and attended the aarti. They later symbolically pulled the chariot, marking the formal start of the rath procession. Senior leaders, including revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, mayor Neeta Thakre, were also present. Fadnavis, while speaking to mediapersons at the Poddareshwar Ram Temple, said the ideals of Maryada Purushottam Lord Ram continue to guide society. "The Shobha Yatra here in Nagpur has become a unique tradition, growing in scale and participation every year. It is heartening to see such overwhelming devotion and unity among people. This spirit of faith and discipline is what defines our cultural strength," he added. The procession featured around 94 tableaux, making it one of the largest in recent years, which spanned over 3.5 km in length, with 24,000 volunteers helping to smooth out the process. These depicted scenes from the Ramayana and other mythological themes, including Ram Darbar, Lord Hanuman, Mahadev, Maa Bhagwati, and Indra.#nitin_gadkari #devendra_fadnavis #chandrashekhar_bawankule #neeta_thakre #poddareshwar_ram_temple
Maharashtra Govt Decentralizes Land Regularisation Powers, Collectors to Handle 90% of Cases The Maharashtra legislature on Wednesday passed the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2026, marking a significant shift in the state’s approach to land regularisation. The legislation, introduced by revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, empowers district-level authorities to handle the majority of cases involving breaches of land-use conditions. This decentralised framework allows collectors and divisional commissioners to resolve nearly 90% of such cases locally, aiming to reduce bureaucratic delays and improve access to administrative remedies for citizens. The bill replaces the previous system, where even minor land-use violations were referred to the state secretariat in Mumbai, creating a backlog and forcing citizens to make repeated trips to the capital. Bawankule highlighted that this centralised process placed an immense workload on the Mantralaya, the state’s administrative headquarters. Under the new system, only cases of exceptionally high value will continue to be handled at the state level, while routine matters will be resolved at the district level. The amendment addresses longstanding gaps in the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, which previously lacked clear statutory provisions for regularisation. This absence led to legal ambiguities and prolonged litigation, with many cases remaining unresolved for years. The new provisions, including Section 37A, introduce a codified legal framework to streamline the process and ensure uniformity in decision-making across districts. Officials noted that the lack of defined rules had created procedural uncertainties, often disadvantaging small landholders and businesses.#maharashtra_govt #chandrashekhar_bawankule #maharashtra_legislature #maharashtra_land_revenue_code #mantralaya
Maharashtra Launches Tech-Driven Crackdown on Illegal Mining The Maharashtra government announced a comprehensive crackdown on illegal mining operations, leveraging advanced technology to address regulatory lapses and environmental concerns. Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule revealed that a detailed Electronic Total Station (ETS) survey and Google-based mapping of the entire state will be completed within three months. This initiative aims to accurately assess the extent of minor mineral extraction and identify unauthorized activities. Bawankule emphasized the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by senior IPS officers and divisional commissioners, to probe illegal mining networks. The SIT will focus on dismantling the illicit racket by investigating sites operating without verified leases, environmental clearances, or licenses for explosives. The minister highlighted that several mining locations have been functioning in violation of regulations, contributing to revenue losses and environmental degradation. To ensure accountability, the government will conduct a five-year audit of mining permissions, scrutinizing past approvals for irregularities. Officials who allegedly facilitated illegal mining activities over the past five years will face departmental inquiries. Additionally, a strict enforcement measure will be implemented: any truck found transporting minerals illegally three times will have its registration permanently revoked by the transport authority. The government also plans to present a white paper in the next legislative session, detailing the scale of illegal mining across the state. Bawankule assured farmers that individuals extracting minor minerals for personal or housing use will not face legal action.#maharashtra #special_investigation_team #chandrashekhar_bawankule #electronic_total_station #white_paper
Thousands gather at Sawangi for Meghe’s last rites Datta Meghe, a prominent political leader and educationist who played a pivotal role in shaping public life across Vidarbha for decades, was cremated with state honors on Sunday evening at his farm in Wardha. The event drew thousands of mourners and tributes from across political, educational, and social circles. Meghe, a former member of parliament, passed away in Nagpur on Sunday, and his body was brought to his residence in Sawangi (Meghe) on Monday. A steady stream of citizens, including people from political, educational, and social sectors, gathered to pay their respects, reflecting his deep influence in the region. The funeral procession began in the afternoon, moving from Sawangi (Meghe) to his residence, with crowds lining the route to catch a final glimpse. Floral tributes were placed at various points along the way, and chants of “Datta Meghe amar rahe” echoed as the procession passed. The last rites were conducted at his farm, in accordance with his wishes. His sons, ex-MLC Sagar Meghe and Hingna MLA Sameer Meghe, lit the funeral pyre in the presence of family members, marking an emotional ceremony. Prominent leaders attended the event to honor Meghe, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, State Minister Pankaj Bhoyar, and several legislators and former ministers. Senior administrative and police officials were also present. Meghe was widely regarded as a key figure in the Wardha-Nagpur region, having been elected to the Lok Sabha multiple times. Over the years, he worked across political parties, focusing on public welfare and regional development.#nitin_gadkari #devendra_fadnavis #datta_meghe #sawangi_meghe #chandrashekhar_bawankule
