`4cr online fraud: 2nd accused traced to Kolhapur, arrested
NT Reporter | Panaji Goa cyber crime police, probing the biggest online fraud in Goa involving an amount of Rs 4.74 crore, have arrested second accused Suraj Eknath Savat in connection with the case. Savat is a native of Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Police said a retired employee from Tiswadi, aged 72, lost the money to a [] The post `4cr online fraud: 2nd accused traced to Kolhapur, arrested appeared first on The Navhind Times .
Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
Mahayuti, MVA lines blur for local body elections
Political parties are setting aside differences to win local elections. Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP) and Ajit Pawar's NCP are discussing an alliance for Pimpri Chinchwad polls. In Kolhapur, both NCP factions are uniting against the BJP. Shiv Sena (Shinde) wants to ally with BJP in Nagpur, threatening a broader coalition if talks fail.
Rival NCP Factions Join Hands Against BJP In Kolhapur
Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) and Ajit Pawars NCP have joined hands to form a front named Rajarshi Shahu Vikas Aghadi, (RSVA) which will contest the Chandgad Nagar Panchayat and Zilla Parishad elections.
After Kolhapuri Chappals, Pradas Rs 69,000 safety pin sparks online outrage over luxury minimalism
Prada's Rs 69,000 safety pin brooch has sparked online debate about luxury pricing and minimalism. This follows criticism earlier this year when the brand sold sandals resembling Indian Kolhapuri chappals for over $785, igniting accusations of cultural appropriation and a lack of credit to artisans.
Favourite Maharashtrian breakfast finds home in Hyderabad
Theres something magical about a good plate of Misal Pav, that fiery, flavorful Maharashtrian breakfast that wakes up your senses with every bite. The crunchy farsan, the spicy kat (curry), the soft pav buns soaking up all that masala goodness, its an explosion of taste thats impossible to forget. Born in Pune and Kolhapur, Misal Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
PRADA delegation meets Kolhapuri chappal artisans in Athani, promises cooperation
A team to be sent to train in its Indian facility
TTD Chairman presents silk robes at Kolhapur temple
Maharashtra Government Approves Policy to Boost Digital Content Sector
To support this growth, the government has planned to establish AVGC-XR parks in Navi Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Satara, and Kolhapur, creating regional hubs for talent and innovation.
Special trains between Kolhapur and Kalaburagi during festival season
Crops over 42.84 lakh acres damaged by heavy rain in Maharashtra
MUMBAI: Over 42.84 lakh acres ready-to-harvest crops got badly damaged in the torrential rain in Maharashtra . According to the Maharashtra agriculture minister Duttaray Bharne, the 17, 85,714 hectares (42.84 lakh acres) of standing and ready to harvest crops got damaged. Nanded is one of the worst-affected districts, where 7.28 lakh hectares of crops got badly impacted, following 2.03 lakh hectares of crops damaged in Wasim district. In Yavatmal district, 3.18 lakh hectares, while 1.57 lakh hectares in Dharashiv, 1.77 lakh hectares in Akola, 47,266 hectares in Solapur, and 89,782 hectares of crops in Buldhana district were ruined in the heavy rain. In the torrential rain, impacted affected districts are Hingoli, Parbhani, Amravati, Jalgaon, Wardha, Sangli, Ahilyanagar, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jalna, Beed, Latur, Dhule, Jalgaon, Ratnagiri, Chandrapur, Satara, Nashik, Kolhapur, Sindhudurg, Gadchiroli, Raigad, Nagpur, and Pune. The most suffered crops include soybean, maize, cotton, urad, tur, moong while other places, vegetables, fruit crops, millet, sugarcane, onion, jowar and turmeric crops have also been affected. 35 lakh acres of crops damaged in torrential rain in Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Bharen said that Maharashtra has been witnessing heavy rains and floods over the last two months, which havecaused huge losses to farmers. The heavy rains in August and September of this year have caused huge losses in a total of 195 talukas across 30 districts of Maharashtra. The rains during this period have caused huge losses to Kharif crops in 654 revenue circles, the agriculture minister said. He further added that the Panchnamas in some districts have been completed, and compensation has also been extended to the affected farmers. The Panchnamas in the remaining areas are going on a war footing. The state is taking all possible measures to provide financial assistance to the affected farmers. State government is standing firmly with the farmers in times of this crisis, Bharne said. Sharad Pawar , in his Nasik farmers outcry rally, criticized the state government for ignoring the farmers. He said that in the last two months, more than two thousand farmers committed suicide, but no serious attention has been given.
10-Year-Old In Maharashtra Suffers Heart Attack While Playing, Dies In Mother's Lap
A 10-year-old boy from Kolhapur in Maharashtra died of a heart attack after feeling uneasy while playing at a Ganesh Pandal.
Bombay HC shifts Sanatan Sanstha defamation case to Kolhapur from Goa over safety issue
The suits arose from comments linking Sanatan Sanstha and its members to the murders of a scribe and rationalists
Rioting in Kolhapur leaves 10 injured, several vehicles torched
A communal clash in Kolhapur during a football club anniversary celebration injured ten people, including two policemen, due to a misunderstanding over a sound system installation. The violence escalated as a mob pelted stones, vandalized vehicles, and set some ablaze, prompting police intervention.
Orange Alert In Mumbai As Heavy Rain Continues; Short Circuits, Tree Falls Reported
Mumbai was placed under an orange alert as heavy rains continued, while IMD issued a red alert for Raigad, Ratnagiri, Satara, Kolhapur, and Pune.
CJI Gavai launches Bombay HC's 4th bench in Kolhapur
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud inaugurated the Bombay High Court's new circuit bench in Kolhapur district on Sunday, with Maharashtra's Chief Minister and Deputy CM in attendance. This fourth bench aims to alleviate the burden on litigants and lawyers who previously had to travel to Mumbai for hearings. The High Court also has benches in Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Goa.
CJI B.R. Gavai inaugurates Bombay High Court circuit Bench at Kolhapur
At present, apart from the principal bench in Mumbai, the HC has two more benches at Nagpur in Vidarbha region and Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) in Marathwada region. A third bench of the High Court sits in adjoining Goa
CJI Gavai inaugurates Bombay HC's 4th bench in Kolhapur
Chief Justice of India B R Gavai on Sunday inaugurated the Bombay High Courts new circuit bench in Kolhapur. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde attended the event. This is the courts fourth bench after Mumbai, Nagpur, Aurangabad and Goa, set up to reduce travel for litigants from western Maharashtra and Konkan.
Bombay High Court issues sitting list for newly constituted Kolhapur Circuit Bench from August 18
It will take up for hearing work pertaining to the Division Bench Kolhapur, Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg
In a rare honor, Rani Bhosale, superintendent of Thane Central Jail, and her husband Rajaram Bhosale, an additional superintendent, have received the President's Medal for Meritorious Service. They are among eight Maharashtra prison personnel recognized with police medals. The awards acknowledge their long-standing commitment to prison management. Other recipients include officers from Mumbai, Byculla, and Kolhapur jails.
Pigeons, stray dogs, and an elephant; is defiance correct?
The courts ruled that a female elephant, Mahadevi, which was kept by Swasthishri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sanstha, a Jain math in Kolhapur which had kept her since 1992 should be taken away to a protected environment as she was ill. In another case, the Bombay High Court did not want the pigeons at the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
'Completely vague': SC on plea to return captive elephants kept in Vantara
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday termed as completely vague a plea seeking to constitute a monitoring committee to return the captive elephants in Vantara, a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre for wild animals. A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and P B Varale told advocate C R Jaya Sukin, petitioner in person, that he was making allegations against Vantara without even adding them as party. The top court asked the petitioner to implead Vantara in the petition. You are making allegations against parties which are not represented here. You have not made them respondents. You implead them and then come back to us we will see, the bench said and posted the matter for August 25. The apex court also tagged a similar petition with Sukin's plea. The petition was earlier mentioned before CJI BR Gavai for urgent listing. The plea has sought constitution of a monitoring committee to ensure the return of the captive elephants to its owners and to escue all wild animals, birds from Vantara and free them into the wild. The law and rules have been violated. States' administration failed, some officers were compromised and others were threatened. Captive elephants were forcibly taken from temples and their owners, the petition stated. Not only national level but also international level animals and birds, some of them endangered species, were smuggled into Vantara in the name of a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility in Gujarat, it added. Maharashtra CM Fadnavis holds meeting with Vantara zoo to bring back elephant Madhuri in Kolhapur
Vantara offers full support for Madhuris return
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 6: Vantara, the animal rescue centre in Gujarat today said that it fully supports efforts to bring back Madhuri, a 36-year-old elephant, to her original home in Kolhapur. Madhuri the elephant, also known as Mahadevi, was shifted from Kolhapurs Nandani Math to Vantaras facility in Jamnagar last month, following a Bombay High Court order based on a petition from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). In a statement issued, Vantara said, Vantara will extend [] The post Vantara offers full support for Madhuris return appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vantara to back Maha govt petition to bring back elephant Madhuri: CM
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Aug 6: Vantara, the Jamnagar-based animal rehabilitation centre, will support the Maharashtra governments petition in the Supreme Court seeking the return of elephant Madhuri to a monastery in Kolhapur, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Wednesday. A rescue centre will be set up for her near the monastery in Nandani in Kolhapur district, he said. I had an extensive discussion with the Vantara team today in Mumbai. Good news is that they assured me that they are happy [] The post Vantara to back Maha govt petition to bring back elephant Madhuri: CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vantara proposes a specialized elephant rehabilitation center in Kolhapur for Madhuri, in collaboration with the Jain Math and the Maharashtra Forest Department, following appeals from the Jain community. This initiative includes advanced medical facilities and natural enclosures tailored for Madhuri's well-being. Vantara supports the petition for Madhuri's return, emphasizing its compliance with court orders and aiming to address community concerns.
Kolhapur Wants Elephant Madhuri Back: Amit Shah Promises Cooperation To Deputy CM Shinde, MP
Amit Shah said that instructions have been given to Vantara regarding Elephant Madhuri. Vantara has offered to establish a satellite rehabilitation centre for Madhuri in Kolhapur
Kolhapur SHOCKER! Husband slits wife's throat during family feud
A husband killed his wife by slitting her throat during a family feud at Mahalaxmi Colony on Wednesday in Durve Nagar, a suburb of Kolhapur.
Vantara officials, on Wednesday, acknowledged the religious significance of the Mahadevi elephant for the Jain Math and said that their involvement in the matter was based only on the Supreme Court's order.
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis holds meeting with Vantara zoo to bring back elephant Madhuri in Kolhapur
MUMBAI: Amid public uproar and pressure over bringing back Madhuri elephant in Kolhapur, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday held a meeting with the team of Vantara and discussed modalities to bring back the elephant. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, posting on his social media account, said he had an extensive discussion with the Vantara team today in Mumbai. Good news is that they assured me that they are happy to join Maharashtra Governments petition before the Honble Supreme Court for the smooth passage of the elephant Madhuri back to the Math. Vantara told that they are acting only on the orders of the Hon Supreme Court and had no intentions to grab the custody of Madhuri, he said. CM Devendra Fadnavis further added, The team also showed their willingness to build a rehab centre for Madhuri in Kolhapur near Nandani at a place selected by the Forest Department of Govt of Maharashtra. They also informed that they give highest respect to the religious sentiments of the community, Fadnavis said. The 36-year-old elephant Madhuri (also called Mahadevi) was relocated last week from Kolhapurs Shri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Jain Math to the Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust at Vantaras wildlife rehabilitation facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat. However, residents of Kolhapur and the Jain community opposed this move, sensing a conspiracy to hand over the elephant to Vantara zoo. The elephants removal has triggered massive public unrest in Kolhapur. Last Sunday, thousands took part in a 'silent march' led by former MP Raju Shetty, beginning from Nandani and ending at the district collectorate. Taking cognizance of public sentiment, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting with the representatives of the Jain Math and ensured all possible help to bring Madhuri elephant back to Kolhapur. He also said the state government will file a review petition in court as well.
Elephant Madhuris Journey From Kolhapur To Vantara: The Jumbo Twists & Turns | Watch
Taking note of the protests, Vantara has now offered to establish a satellite rehabilitation centre for Madhuri in the Nandani area of Kolhapur
Chief Minister Fadnavis says a special team will be formed to care for elephant Madhuri after her return from the rescue/rehabilitation centre
Vantara: Did Not Initiate Relocation Of Elephant Mahadevi From Kolhapur To Jamnagar
Vantara was not the initiating party, and that the entire process has been conducted under judicial and statutory oversight, in coordination with authorities, the statement said
Thousands in Kolhapur are protesting the court-ordered relocation of elephant Mahadevi to Vantara's sanctuary in Gujarat. While the Bombay High Court and Supreme Court cited years of neglect and poor health as grounds for her rehabilitation, locals insist she is part of their religious and cultural heritage. Vantara, named by the courts to receive the elephant, denies any role in initiating the transfer. The legal battle is over, but public emotion and political pressure continue to grow.
The Maharashtra government will hold a meeting to address public backlash over two Bombay High Court rulingsrelocating elephant Mahadevi from Kolhapur to Gujarat and banning pigeon feeding in Mumbai. Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis said the government must consider public sentiment and explore possible solutions, as the decisions were court-mandated and not initiated by the state.
'Decision Made By Courts, Not State': Fadnavis On Elephant Mahadevi's Relocation To Vantara
The Bombay High Court, in its July 16 order, noted that Mahadevi, the elephant had been kept in chains and solitary confinement in Kolhapur.
From Begging In Chains In Kolhapur To Freedom At Vantara After 33 Years: Elephant Mahadevis Journey
Elephant Mahadevi (Madhuri) had foot rot, untreated wounds, and continued psychological stress. The elephant was transferred to Vantara under court supervision
Thousands march in silent rally in Kolhapur, demanding return of elephant Mahadevi by NGO Vantara
The Bombay High Court on July 16 had allowed the relocation of the elephant to Vantaras facility in Gujarat, noting that the elephant had been kept in solitary confinement and was reportedly in poor health
Maharashtra temple elephant relocated to Vantara; devotees turn emotional
Devotees of Swasthishri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sanstha, a religious body in Maharashtras Kolhapur, bid an emotional farewell to their temple elephant, which was shifted to Anant Ambani-owned Vantara in Gujarats Jamnagar district. Due to misinformation about elephant Mahadevi (Madhuri) circulating on social media, PETA India shares the full story of how she went from Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Bombay High Court gets new bench at Kolhapur; sittings from August 18
The Bombay High Court will establish a new bench in Kolhapur, western Maharashtra, commencing August 18, 2025. This fourth HC bench in the state aims to alleviate the burden on litigants and lawyers who currently travel to Mumbai. Covering six districts, the decision follows demands and support from legal figures, promising more accessible and efficient justice for the region.
Bombay HC gets 4th Bench at Kolhapur; sittings from August 18; Maharashtra CM hails move
The new Bench is likely to have jurisdiction over six districts Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg (last two located in coastal Konkan region)
After Prada controversy, LIDCOM and LIDKAR reaffirm ownership of Kolhapuri Chappal GI Tag
After a Maharashtra business body engages in discussion with Prada, LIDCOM and LIDKAR say that nobody apart from them can negotiate with Prada or anyone else
Elephant relocated to Gujarat facility run by Vantara from Kolhapur; devotees bid emotional adieu
The elephant was transferred to representatives of the Radhe Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust run by Vantara, an animal welfare centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, from the Kolhapur mutt on Monday.
Jain Community protests transfer of temple elephant to Ambani-run sanctuary in Gujarat
HUBBALLI : The Jain community in Maharashtra and Karnataka has expressed strong opposition to the relocation of a temple elephant named Madhuri, also known as Mahadevi, from the Nandani Mutt in Kolhapur to the Vantara animal rescue centre in Gujarat, operated by Anant Ambani. Although the elephant's transfer was carried out following a court order prompted by a petition from PETA (India), many Jains have condemned the move, demanding that the elephant be returned to the mutt or relocated to a government facility, rather than being placed in what they see as a private enterprise. Protests are being planned in Hubballi and Belagavi in Karnataka, with prominent Jain saints from across India vowing to escalate the matter. The community intends to petition Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Justice of India B R Gavai, urging them to reconsider the decision. Public outrage intensified after videos of the Nandani Mutt seer weeping during the elephants departure went viral earlier this week. In response, several members of the Jain community have begun boycotting products and services offered by the Ambani-led Jio brand. PETA India had submitted an application to the Bombay High Court citing the elephants poor welfare and history of aggression. The 35-year-old female elephant, described as having exhibited dangerous behaviour in recent years, including allegedly causing the death of a Jain swamiji, was subsequently ordered to be relocated to the newly established Vantara facility in Gujarat. However, the Jain community sees the move as an affront to their religious and cultural traditions. Jains are known for their compassion and nonviolence. This elephant has been part of our spiritual life for decades, said Gunadhatnandi Maharaj, head of the Varur shrine. Across the country, Jains are being marginalised. First in Gujarat over the Girnar shrine, and now this. Bringing the elephant back to Nandani Mutt has become a central cause for many Jain shrines. We will approach the highest authorities to reverse this cultural loss. Echoing these sentiments, Bhuvankeerthi Battarak Swamiji of Kanakagiri Mutt questioned the rationale behind the decision. Do we, who run over 14,000 gaushalas, need to be taught about animal welfare? Could the government not have worked with the mutt to improve conditions rather than relocating the elephant? If Maharashtra lacks its own facility, why must the animal be sent all the way to Gujarat? he asked. Despite the concerns raised, PETA maintains that the relocation was essential for the elephants welfare. In a statement, the organisation highlighted the elephants history of aggression and emphasised the need for expert care, which they claim Vantara is equipped to provide. The Jain community, however, remains firm in its stance and is preparing to launch widespread protests until the elephant is returned to Kolhapur.
Government to hold 1,000 stakeholder meetings, workshops, outreach programmes on India-UK trade pact
NEW DELHI: The government will organise as many as 1,000 outreach programmes, including stakeholder meetings, workshops, awareness drives and feedback sessions, in the next 20 days across the country to sensitise industry and states on the India-UK trade agreement , sources said. The exercise is aimed at ensuring effective implementation and maximising benefits from the comprehensive economic and trade agreement (CETA), which was signed on July 24. They said that there is a plan to hold sector-wise outreach programmes. Respective line ministries will also hold programmes on the agreement. Teams will also visit different states to inform them about the benefits of this trade agreement. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will hold a meeting with the leather and textiles sector on the trade pact here on Monday. Goyal on July 26 said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already instructed him to talk to specific industry segments that will become far more competitive now after the implementation of this pact. I will be having sectoral meetings with every sector till the Parliament is going on and after that I will go to all states, he has said. Bhagalpur silk (Bihar), Pashmina shawls (Jammu and Kashmir), Kolhapuri chappal (Maharashtra), and Thanjavur dolls (Tamil Nadu) will now prominently appear on shelves in malls and shops across Britain, as the India-UK free trade agreement will provide duty concessions to a host of traditional products manufactured here. Other such goods, which will benefit from the pact, include Baluchari sarees (West Bengal), Bandhini (Gujarati tie-dye textile art), Kanchipuram sarees, and Tiruppur knitwear. The minister will also travel to Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and talk to the fishermen community about the opportunity that this pact opens for them. I will visit tech centres of Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Pune, Mumbai, Gurugram (and inform) how the double contribution convention pact (DCC) will help them expand their services exports, Goyal has said, adding, we will be sensitising the sectors to get the best out this agreement. We will send delegations to UK... and prepare the ground work in the next few months while their parliamentary approval is going on so that we can start leveraging the FTA as soon as it is operational, he added. India-UK FTA allows India to temporarily hike tariff if UK imports surge The pact will see 99 per cent of Indian exports enter the UK duty-free, when it comes into force. It will also reduce tariffs on British products such as cars, cosmetics, and whisky. The deal aims to double the USD 56-billion trade between the world's fifth and sixth largest economies by 2030. While India has opened its market to various consumer goods, including chocolates, biscuits, and cosmetics, it will gain greater access to export products such as textiles, furniture, footwear, gems and jewellery, sports goods, and toys. Also, Indian companies, such as TCS and Infosys, operating in the UK won't have to make social security contributions for up to three years for employees who move from India. Under the pact, tariffs on Scotch whisky will be reduced from 150 per cent to 75 per cent immediately, and further lowered to 40 per cent by 2035. On automobiles, India will reduce import duties to 10 per cent over five years, down from the current rate of up to 110 per cent, under a gradually liberalised quota system. India has provided duty concessions to the UK auto exporters only on large petrol and diesel vehicles and high-priced EVs, while protecting sensitive segments of the domestic automotive industry, especially mid and small cars and low-priced EVs, under the trade pact. India will also get duty-free access to several agri goods in the UK, such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, turmeric, pepper, cardamom, and processed goods like ready-to-eat food, mango pulp, pickles, and pulses. Marine products such as shrimp, tuna, fishmeal, and feeds, currently taxed between 4.2 per cent and 8.5 per cent, will become duty-free once the pact comes into force. In the textiles segment, India is facing a duty disadvantage vis-a-vis Bangladesh, Pakistan and Cambodia, which have duty-free access to the UK market. Now this FTA would eliminate the tariff on textile imports from India, thereby enhancing its price competitiveness in the UK market. On the services front, the agreement will enable Indian financial services players to expand their footprint in Britain, enhance their competitiveness and serve the Indian diaspora and businesses. For digitally delivered financial services, the UK has provided market access with respect to the various sub-sectors under both insurance and insurance-related, and banking and other financial services. India has right to take corrective steps if UK imposes carbon tax
After Prada appropriation, Maharashtra to certify authentic Kolhapuri chappals with QR code
KOLHAPUR: The humble Kolhapuri chappal, one of India's most iconic traditional crafts, is enjoying renewed prominence not only in domestic fashion circles but also in international markets, amid Italian brand Prada being accused of appropriating the footwear. The GI-tagged handmade flat leather sandals, known for their intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage, now carry an added layer of protection and authenticity in the form of QR codes, thanks to recent technological and legal innovations. The move aims to check counterfeiting and highlight the identity of the artisan behind each product, boost consumer trust and strengthen the market position of the traditional craftsmen, officials from the government-run Leather Industries Development Corporation of Maharashtra (LIDCOM) said. Recently, artisans cried foul after footwear similar to the Kolhapuri chappals featured in Italian luxury fashion brand Prada's new collection, alleging violation of the GI (Geographical Indication) rights. Following the row, Prada had acknowledged the sandals showcased in their men's 2026 fashion show were inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear. The brand, however, clarified in a reply to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce that the showcased sandals are still at the design stage and not yet confirmed for commercial production. A team of experts from Prada visited Kolhapur earlier this month to interact with artisans and assess the local footwear manufacturing process. Dating back to the 12th century, the footwear has been primarily crafted in Maharashtra's Kolhapur, Sangli and Solapur districts. Its distinctive design, made using naturally tanned leather and handwoven straps, has been preserved through generations of artisans. A major boost came in the early 20th century when visionary ruler Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj promoted it as a symbol of self-reliance and Swadeshi pride. He encouraged the use of these chappals, helping elevate the rural craft into a respected cottage industry. Kolhapuri chappal row: Bombay HC dismisses PIL against Prada; questions petitioners' right to sue What was once a humble, coarse village slipper, soon became a symbol of swadeshi identity under the royal patronage. To safeguard this cultural legacy and ensure fair recognition for artisans, the Maharashtra and Karnataka governments jointly secured the GI tag in 2019. Under international trade rules such as the TRIPS agreement, this GI status legally reserves the rights to manufacture and market Kolhapuri chappals to artisans from specific districts in both the states. The certification defines the product as handmade, using traditional techniques and natural leather, with open-toe construction, prohibiting the use of synthetic materials or mechanised processes. Going a step further, the LIDCOM has introduced QR-coded certification for each pair of chappals, the corporation said in a statement. This digital initiative aims to tackle counterfeiting and highlight the identity of the artisan or self-help group behind each product, it said. Buyers scanning the code can access details like name and location of the artisan or production unit, district of manufacture in Maharashtra, craft techniques and raw materials used, validity and status of the GI certification. This initiative not only boosts consumer trust but also strengthens the market position of traditional craftsmen, the LIDCOM said. The corporation is now calling upon consumers, designers and the common public to stand in solidarity with India's indigenous craft traditions. Kolhapuri chappals are not just fashion accessories. They are a powerful expression of traditional skill, identity and the dignity of small artisan communities, the statement quoted LIDCOM Managing Director Prerna Deshbhratar as saying. Founded in 1974, LIDCOM has been a pivotal institution in empowering rural leather artisans. Through training programmes, market development, design innovation and economic support, the organisation has transformed traditional footwear-making into a symbol of Maharashtra's cultural pride and grassroots economy. Kolhapuri chappals have now regained global spotlight, blending heritage with modern relevance. More than just the traditional footwear, they are a symbol of skilled artisanry and indigenous pride. Since 1974, LIDCOM, also known as the Sant Rohidas Charmodyog and Charmakar Vikas Mahamandal, has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting this heritage craft, as per the statement. The corporation has empowered thousands of rural artisans by offering skill development training, encouraging innovation, expanding markets and ensuring sustainable livelihoods, it said. On the organisation's vision, Deshbhratar, said, Kolhapuri chappals are not merely utilitarian items. They embody stories of self-reliance, national pride and a living cultural tradition. Through our efforts, we aim to strengthen the hands that preserve this legacy and inspire generations to come. Apart from economic uplift, the corporation is also committed to cultural conservation. It continues to implement a wide range of initiatives -- from developing training centres and empowering self-help groups to building linkages between buyers and suppliers across domestic and international markets -- to ensure the traditional craft survives and thrives in a changing economic landscape, the statement said.
The GI-tagged handmade flat leather sandals, known for their intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage, now carry an added layer of protection and authenticity in the form of QR codes.
