Latest Nagpur News | Top Nagpur News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Nagpur News Today | English Nagpur News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Nagpur Teen Hurt as Zipline Snaps During Manali Adventure

June 15, 2025, 6:00 pm

A horrific viral video has surfaced on social media, depicting a Nagpur teenager who fell in midair after a snapped zipline while participating in an adventure activity in Manali. She was on vacation with her family. As per Times of India, the girl suffered severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital.

The video footage, which has gone viral on social media, shows the girl as she sets off on her zipline ride at a famous adventure destination in Manali. All seems well at first, before the zipline cable gives way and she falls to the ground. One hears a man yell, “Ladki gir gayi (the girl has fallen).”

An X (formerly Twitter) user who posted the video wrote, “Zip line accident in Manali. Try and avoid doing all this. I don’t even know who and how much these guys are supervised and in peak season they will do anything to earn money.” But HT.com could not independently confirm the validity of the clip.

WATCH:

Zip line accident in Manali.

Please try and avoid doing all this. I don’t even know who and how much these guys are supervised and in eak season they will do anything to make money.#HimachalPradesh #manali #tourism pic.twitter.com/FqG6Sw0Gu0

— Sidharth Shukla (@sidhshuk) June 15, 2025

Social Media Reactions

The accident prompted an avalanche of posts on the internet, with users condemning the absence of security guidelines at tourist spots throughout India. A user said, “This is totally bad. These equipment should have an expiry date and an agency to verify their authenticity. This is irresponsible, sloppy.” Another remarked, “It’s always dangerous to perform such stunts.” A third observed, “Adventure in India becomes a misadventure in the majority of the cases because of the absence of professionalism & failure to follow safety procedures by the operators. Avoid.”

After the accident, the teenager was initially treated in a local hospital and then shifted to a specialized center. Her father subsequently confirmed to the Times of India, “She was discharged from the hospital and is now stable.”

A top police officer in Manali informed the magazine that the operators of the zipline and the family of the victim came to a mutual agreement. Local authorities of tourism and law enforcement will be compelled to review safety precautions taken by adventure sports operators in the area.

30-Year-Old IPS Officer Booked for Rape in Nagpur

April 13, 2025, 2:01 pm

A 30-year-old IPS official has been arrested for allegedly raping a 28-year-old woman doctor in Nagpur, Maharashtra, on the pretext of marrying her, officials told PTI on Sunday.

The woman registered a complaint at the Imamwada Police Station on Friday, after which an FIR was filed. According to her complaint, she and the accused first met on Instagram in November 2022. He was then studying for the UPSC exam, while she was studying for her MBBS degree, police added.

What started as online conversations gradually escalated into regular phone calls. As their bond grew stronger, the officer allegedly promised to wed her and eventually entered into a physical relationship with her, the police said.

But once the officer had cleared the Union Public Service Commission exam and was selected for the Indian Police Service (IPS), he began to distance himself and later refused to marry her, a senior official said. The woman also said that his family did not react to her several attempts at contacting them, leaving her troubled and forcing her to approach the police.

Soon after her statement, a case of rape was registered against the police officer on Saturday. Authorities confirmed that an inquiry into the issue is being carried out.

PM Modi’s Nagpur Visit Sparks Speculation on BJP’s New National President

March 24, 2025, 10:38 pm

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has yet to announce the name of its new National President, and the matter is taking longer than expected. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has clarified that they will offer their opinion when asked, but for now, they are not involved in the selection process of the new BJP President. After this statement, it is speculated that the BJP may finalize the new president’s name during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nagpur at the end of March. Modi is scheduled to visit Nagpur on March 30, where he is expected to meet RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat.

Several names have been discussed for the post of National President. One prominent name that emerged earlier was that of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. She is seen as a strong contender due to her leadership as the finance minister, a position she has held for years. Sitharaman has also made history by presenting the Union Budget for eight consecutive years. Being from the South, she could potentially unite the northern and southern regions of India. If she becomes the president, she would make history as the first woman to hold the position in BJP. As a member of the BJP, her profile aligns well with the current political climate.

However, there is now growing speculation that Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav is leading the race for the post. If Yadav were to become president, it would send a strong message to crucial states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, which are important for the BJP. Both Yadav and Sitharaman are considered capable leaders who suit the party’s current needs.

In addition to these two, other BJP leaders are also in the mix, including Union Ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Prahlad Joshi, G Kishan Reddy, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. Despite these speculations, it is widely believed that the final decision will be made with the consent of Prime Minister Modi and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat.

Prime Minister Modi is set to meet Bhagwat after a long gap, and it is anticipated that their meeting will play a key role in finalizing the new BJP president. The BJP’s poor performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections has given the RSS more influence, especially in states like Haryana, Maharashtra, and Delhi, where the RSS has been active in ensuring the party’s success. The growing role of the RSS in the BJP’s decision-making process makes it likely that they will have a significant say in selecting the new president.

Even though RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosbol had previously stated that the party was not involved in the president selection process, it is clear that the RSS will still play an important role in the final decision.

The BJP has a deadline for electing its new National President. The election process must be completed before the party’s National Council meeting on April 18, where the new president will be formally appointed. This delay in finalizing the president’s name has also been accompanied by delays in electing state-level party presidents. In crucial states like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, the new state presidents have yet to be announced, and the party has not disclosed the number of states where elections have been completed. However, it is believed that in more than half of the states, new presidents have already been elected.

The delay in completing the organizational elections has caused some trouble for the BJP. JP Nadda’s tenure as National President was extended by a year due to the general elections and subsequent assembly elections. Nadda, who currently serves as the Union Health Minister, had his term extended last year, although the party was supposed to hold elections for a new president earlier in 2024. This process has been postponed multiple times, primarily due to the delays in state elections.

Now, with the National Council meeting on April 18 looming, the BJP will likely announce the election schedule for the new National President soon. The announcement of the new president is expected to be a significant event for the party, as it sets the tone for the upcoming years, especially in terms of electoral strategies and leadership dynamics. The BJP’s leadership transition could also impact its performance in upcoming state elections and the 2024 general elections, making the decision all the more critical for the party’s future.

In conclusion, while the BJP has not yet made a definitive announcement about its new National President, the final decision is expected to come soon. With multiple candidates in the mix, the party, in consultation with the RSS, is likely to finalize a leader who can address the current political challenges and lead the party into the next phase of elections.

Nagpur Couple Builds Rs 50 Lakh Saffron Empire Without Soil or Water

February 19, 2025, 5:29 pm

A Nagpur-based couple has beaten the odds to raise saffron, the most costly spice in the world, in a 400-square-foot room without water or soil. Akshay Holey and Divya Lohakare Holey have utilized a pioneering aeroponic method to mimic the misty, chilly climate of Kashmir, generating whopping annual turnover of Rs 50 lakh.

Akshay, who is a BBA graduate, and Divya, who is a banker, started out in 2020 with plans to unlock the country’s high demand for saffron, a spice that is still underproduced in India. To learn about saffron cultivation, they spent three and a half months in Kashmir across two years learning from seasoned farmers.

“We chose to grow saffron because it is costly, its demand is high whereas domestic production is low,” Akshay told The Times of India.

Having begun with only 100 corms of saffron, the couple harvested only a few grams in their first harvest. But instead of being discouraged, they perceived a potential and multiplied their operation. Investing 350 kg of seeds, their second harvest yielded 1,600 grams. They were encouraged to expand further and established a 400-square-meter unit in Hingna in addition to a 480-square-meter unit.

In the last two years, their income has always been between Rs 40 to 50 lakh. But others have also been inspired by their success. “So far, we’ve trained 150 people, of whom 29 have successfully set up their own units across the state,” Akshay revealed. For Rs 15,000 per participant, they offer training to aspiring saffron growers, helping them establish their units. They also purchase saffron from these growers for packaging and marketing, creating a sustainable business model.

Their production levels have been impressive. “Last year, our production, including partner units, touched 45 kg,” Akshay said. The initial investment in a 100-square-foot unit is about Rs 10 lakh, and it can generate Rs 5 lakh per annum. Akshay said, “It’s an investment once. Seeds are purchased only once, and one seed gives three to five flowers with three strands of saffron each.”

The saffron crop is harvested between August and December, with the remaining period spent in growing seeds. The couple’s aeroponic setup is made to be durable, with machinery due to function optimally for 20 to 25 years. “The machinery can function optimally for 20 to 25 years,” said Akshay.

The company is not just profitable but also sustainable. “Our profit margin is about 80% because there are practically no recurring costs,” he explained. Solar power erases electricity costs, and as there’s no requirement for fertilizers or hired labor, they do everything themselves.

With a seed capital of Rs 55 lakh, they’ve made Rs 1.3 crore in five years, with most of the earnings in the past two years. Their saffron, graded by the Saffron Institute of Kashmir, is priced at Rs 630 per gram. “We combined traditional cultivation with technology. We are cultivating saffron with air and mist, without water or soil. And it changed our lives,” Akshay concluded.

Rs 1.51 Crore In Cash, Gold And Silver! Nagaur’s Wedding Dowry Breaks Records | WATCH

February 9, 2025, 8:32 am

In Rajasthan’s Nagaur district, a remarkable instance of the customary ‘Mayra’ tradition unfolded, where the maternal uncles of a bride presented a dowry of Rs 3 crore—surpassing the total wedding expenses. This unique cultural practice, deeply rooted in Rajasthani heritage, shifts the dowry responsibility from the bride’s parents to her maternal uncles.

Grand Ceremony at Hanuman Bagh

Rambaksh Khoja, a farmer from Hanuman Bagh, Nagaur, upheld this tradition at the weddings of his nephew and niece. With three sons and one daughter, Khoja’s family is well-established, with two of his sons serving as government teachers and the third employed in the private sector. His daughter is married to Madanlal, a teacher from Phardod village, Rajasthan.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

नागौर के जाटों का “मायरा” एक बार फिर देश भर में चर्चा का विषय बना
खोजा परिवार ने फरङोद में 3 करोड़ का ऐतिहासिक मायरा भरा
(1.5 करोड़ रोकड़+ 2 प्लॉट+ 40 तोला सोना +चांदी+ सामान)#नागौर pic.twitter.com/cg0mOkpqUT

— divya (@DivyaJatni) February 7, 2025

Lavish Gifts Bestowed During ‘Mayra’

Following a royal-era tradition from Khinyala of Jayal, Khoja, along with 2,000 family members and relatives, arrived at his sister Birajaya’s home for the grand ‘Mayra’ ceremony. As part of the ritual, the three brothers draped their sister in a dupatta before presenting lavish gifts, including Rs 1.51 crore in cash, 30 tolas of gold, five kilograms of silver, and two plots in Nagaur city.

This event not only highlights the cultural richness of Rajasthan but also underscores the strong bond between maternal families and their married daughters, keeping alive a centuries-old legacy.

Porsche Re-Run: Minor Injures Five In A Car Crash In Nagpur, Hospitalized After Mob Attack

June 16, 2024, 12:24 pm

A minor driver caused significant damage and injured five people in a chaotic car accident on Saturday near KDK College, Nagpur. The young driver lost control of the car, hitting several parked two-wheelers before plowing into a crowd of vegetable sellers, roadside vendors, customers, and bystanders. The vehicle, heavily damaged, finally came to a stop after colliding with a roadside tree. Onlookers managed to rescue the minor from an enraged mob and handed him over to the police.

The Nandanvan police have detained the car’s owner, Mangesh Gomashe, who is affiliated with a political party, for allegedly giving the car keys to the minor. The minor, who works at a garage, had been instructed by his employer to move the car as it was blocking access to their workstation. Police have also detained the garage owner, Mahesh Gonnade, for his role in compelling the minor to drive the car.

Among the injured were an elderly couple, Mahendra and Vandana Agrawal, who sustained serious injuries. Vandana, bleeding heavily, was rushed to a hospital. Eyewitnesses described the horror, stating that the car appeared suddenly from a nearby lane and sped into the crowd on the footpath, giving people no time to react. A tomato seller’s cart was wrecked in the incident, with the seller trapped under the car as it pushed the cart ahead.

In addition to the Agrawals, other injured individuals included Vasanti Gond, Golu Shahu, and Kartick, all of whom sold vegetables on carts. Senior Inspector Popatrao Dhaitonde of the Nandanvan police station reported that both the car and garage owners have been booked under the Motor Vehicles Act and detained. The minor’s blood sample was collected for further investigation. Three of the injured have been discharged from the hospital, while two remain under medical care.

This incident mirrors another recent accident in Nagpur, where a minor driving a Skoda caused chaos, injuring several passersby. Public outrage has been significant, drawing comparisons to the infamous Pune Porsche case and igniting social media reactions.

Nagpur Blast: Director, Manager Arrested After Explosion Claims Six Lives

June 14, 2024, 5:04 pm

Following a tragic explosion at Chamundi Explosives Pvt Ltd in Dhamna, Nagpur, six workers lost their lives, and three others were critically injured on Thursday. The factory’s director, Jay Khemka, and manager Sagar Deshmukh were subsequently arrested on Friday, as confirmed by Vinod Godbole, police inspector of Hingna police station.

Sanjay Tidke, the general manager of Chamundi Explosives, assured compensation for the families of the deceased workers, stating prompt relief efforts were initiated upon learning of the incident.

Police Commissioner Ravindra Singhal indicated that the Nagpur blast was triggered by a fire in the firecracker storage unit adjacent to where workers were packing, prompting a detailed investigation by experts to determine the exact cause.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed sadness over the incident on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting efforts by the district administration and pledging financial assistance from the Chief Minister’s Assistance Fund for the affected families.

Former Maharashtra Home Minister and NCP-SCP leader Anil Deshmukh also visited the site to assess the situation and extend support.

Explosion At Nagpur Factory Kills 5, Other 5 Injured

June 13, 2024, 4:03 pm

Five people were killed and five others injured in an explosion at an explosives manufacturing factory in Dhamna, Nagpur, Maharashtra, officials confirmed on Thursday.

“At least 5 people have died and 5 people are injured in an explosion at an explosives manufacturing factory in Dhamna. The team is about to reach the spot,” stated Ravinder Singal, Commissioner of Police, Nagpur.

Former Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh and NCP-SCP leader Anil Deshmukh were present at the incident site.

“This incident of the explosion took place in an explosive unit near the village Dhamna. The incident took place in the afternoon. The manager and owner of the unit are absconding. The injured have been sent to the hospital for treatment… A team from the explosive department is here and further investigation is underway,” Deshmukh said.

Further details are awaited.

After Delhi Hits 52.3°C, Nagpur Scorches At 56°C; IMD Issues Heat Warning

May 31, 2024, 11:10 am

In a remarkable occurrence, Mungeshpur, located in northwest Delhi, recorded an unprecedented maximum temperature of 52.3 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, setting a new record for the capital city. This temperature was measured at the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Mungeshpur village, which also functions as an automatic weather station (AWS).

Among the four AWS established by the IMD in Nagpur, two showed extraordinarily high temperatures, exceeding 50 degrees Celsius and surpassing the 52.3 degrees Celsius recorded at the Mungeshpur AWS in northwest Delhi on Wednesday. The Delhi station made headlines nationwide by posting an astonishing 52.9 degrees Celsius, though the AWS/ARG (automatic rain gauge) Networks of the IMD have placed the Mungeshpur data under review.

The Nagpur AWS, situated in a 24-hectare open agricultural field belonging to PDKV at Ramdaspeth near North Ambazari Road, recorded an extraordinary 56 degrees Celsius. The AWS at the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Sonegaon also recorded a temperature of 54 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the AWS in the fields of the Central Institute of Cotton Research (CICR) at Khapri near Wardha Road registered 44 degrees Celsius, and the Ramtek AWS reported 44 degrees Celsius as well.

Following the alarming temperature in Delhi, which is considered the highest maximum temperature in India, the AWS/ARG networks are again under scrutiny. Regional meteorological officials caution against relying on AWS data during extreme heat days, as the sensors tend to malfunction beyond 38 degrees Celsius. A senior forecasting scientist at the RMC explained, “The AWS sensors have a fault. After a certain threshold temperature, the recordings become unreliable. They work fine for temperatures below 38-40 degrees. This is called positive bias in scientific parlance. The expansion of requisite elements needs to be linear. But the process loses its linearity in high temperatures.”

A recent study by VNIT’s climatology lab found that maximum temperatures in the city vary significantly, influenced by factors such as densely populated areas, open spaces with greenery, and open areas without vegetation. This study noted that Nagpur has distinct local climate zones, each with differing temperature readings.

During a visit to the PDKV AWS, situated between Maharajbagh Zoo and Vanamati, TOI observed that temperatures in the open field seemed higher than those near the greenery of Maharajbagh Road. The AWS sensors were exposed to direct sunlight without any surrounding greenery.

A senior RMC official pointed out that AWS sensors are imported from European countries, where temperatures do not reach the extremes seen in Indian cities. ML Sahu, deputy director of RMC, stated that the daily weather updates prepared for public use are manually compiled by scientists and considered more reliable. “Four mercury-based thermometers are used to record the daily temperature. A dry mercury bulb is used for current temperature and a wet bulb is used for ascertaining humidity. The temperature area is closed and only air passes through it,” Sahu said.

The AWS data is transmitted to the Pune data centre, where the information is decoded and uploaded to the AWS/ARG Networks portal in real time.

Nagpur: The Congress Bastion

May 13, 2024, 4:23 am

Post-independence, Nagpur continued its allegiance to the Congress, with the party dominating the electoral scene for years but saffron party is using all its might and succeeded to dent their votes from last two general polls.

Nagpur Lok Sabha seat is one of the 48 Lok Sabha (parliamentary) constituencies of Maharashtra state in western India. This constituency is spread over Nagpur city and some part of Nagpur district.

Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency is not just about the conventional political dynamics; it harbors a few quirky and unusual facets that add a unique flavor to its character. In essence, Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency transcends the mundane with its quirky blend of political prominence, fruity heritage, spiritual gatherings, historical oddities, climatic surprises, cultural amalgamation, and linguistic diversity. It’s a microcosm where the weird and the wonderful coexist, adding layers of fascination to its identity. Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency has seen its share of interesting parliamentarians over the years.

Here are some facts about a few notable ones: Anasuyabai Kale: She was the first an Indian politician to get elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Parliament of India, from Nagpur as a member of the Indian National Congress in 1952. She was re-elected as a member of the 2nd Lok Sabha in 1957.

Prior to her election to the Lok Sabha, Kale had been a member of the Assembly of the Central Provinces and Berar, to which she was nominated in 1928. She also served in 1937 as Deputy Speaker of the Central Provinces Legislative Assembly. In 1948, she was president of the All India Women’s Conference.

She was a descendant of The Diwan of Aundh state. She married into the cadet branch of Kale of Waghere, Nashik. She was educated at Hujur Paga High School and Fergusson College in Poona and then at Baroda College, Baroda. She was married to Purushottam Balakrishna Kale. She had three sons and two daughters. After winning Lok Sabha election from Nagpur in 1957, she died mid-term two years later.

Jambuwantrao Dhote: Known for his independent political stance, Jambuwantrao Dhote was a Member of Parliament from Nagpur in 1971 and 1980 from Indian National Congress. He was Member of Parliament from Nagpur (Lok Sabha constituency) in 1971 to 5th Lok Sabha, defeating his Congress rival. When Indira Gandhi split Congress in January 1978, he joined her Congress(I) party. He was elected for second time from Nagpur in 1980 to 7th Lok Sabha as a Congress candidate.

He was a vocal advocate for farmers’ rights and was known for his straightforward approach to issues affecting the common people. Apart from Politics, Datta Meghe has established a chain of CBSE Schools, Medical Colleges, Engineering Colleges, Hospitals, Banks, Spinning mills, IT firms in urban & especially rural areas to provide the best of facilities at extremely affordable rates.

Dhote left Congress soon, and founded Vidharbha Janta Congress (VJC) Party on 9 September 2002. He was elected to Maharashtra Assembly 5 times. He was elected from Yavatmal in 1962 and 1967 elections as a Forward Bloc candidate, and in 1978 as Congress member. He died on 18 February 2017 due to a heart attack in Yavatmal. He can be remembered as the only ‘mass leader’ of Vidarbha to date.

Vilas Muttemwar: A seasoned politician from the Congress party, Vilas Muttemwar served multiple terms as the Member of Parliament from Nagpur. He held portfolios like Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy and Minister of State for Finance. His contributions include efforts towards rural development and economic policies. In 2009 general elections, he received 3,15,148 votes against Banwarilal Purohit, who has managed to receive 2,90,749 votes.

Muttemwar served as a member of the Lok Sabha representing the Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency several times. He is the only politician from Nagpur constituency who had been constantly elected as the Parliamentarian for seven times. He is the most revered and respected politician of his times.

He served as the Minister of State in the Department of Rural Areas and Employment, Ministry of Rural Development and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs under Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao between 1995 and 1996 and as Minister of State (Independent Charge) in the Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh from 23 May 2004 till 22 May 2009.

Banwarilal Purohit: Before becoming the Governor of Tamil Nadu, Banwarilal Purohit was a Member of Parliament from Nagpur in 1984 and 1989. He has a long political career and has been associated with various parties over the years, including the Congress and the BJP. His tenure as an MP was marked by his involvement in issues related to education and social welfare. Purohit is an Indian politician who is serving as 29th Governor of Punjab, India and Administrator of Chandigarh from September 2021. He was the former Governor of Tamil Nadu from 2017 to 2021, and former Governor of Assam from 2016 to 2017. He is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party. He was a Member of Parliament from the Nagpur (Lok Sabha constituency) three times, twice as an Indian National Congress member, once as a BJP member.

Datta Meghe: A prominent educationist and politician, Datta Meghe represented Nagpur in the Lok Sabha in 1991. He was known for his contributions to the field of education and healthcare, having established various educational institutions and hospitals in the region.

Meghe is currently a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party and former & senior member of Indian National Congress. He was elected to Lok Sabha as a member of Congress Party in Maharashtra state. He was a Member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, representing Maharashtra, from April 2002 – 2008.

Earlier he was Member of Legislative Council of Maharashtra from April 1978 to June 1991 for three times and also during 2001-April 2002.

Nitin Gadkari: A prominent figure in Indian politics, Nitin Gadkari represented Nagpur in the Lok Sabha. Gadkari first time contested from Nagpur in 2014 and emerged victorious against Congress’ Vilas Muttemwar. In this election, Gadkari garnered 587,767 votes and Muttemwar received 3,02,919 votes. He again claimed victory in 2019 by defeating Nana Falgunrao Patole by a margin of 2,16,009 votes. Interestingly, Gadkari garnered a whopping 660,221 votes. For 2024, Gadkari is again contesting from the same constituency raising the hopes of the saffron party to claim the victory third time in a row. That will be a record for a non-Congress party into the bastion of the grand old party.

Gadkari is a seasoned politician, who has held key ministerial positions, including Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping, and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation. Known for his focus on infrastructure development, he’s credited with initiatives like the Bharatmala project and Sagarmala project. He is an Indian politician from Maharashtra, who is the current Minister for Road Transport & Highways in the Government of India. He is also the longest serving Minister for Road Transport & Highways currently running his tenure for over nine years. Gadkari earlier served as the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from 2009 to 2013. He is also known for his work as the Public Works Department Minister of the State of Maharashtra, where, under his leadership, a series of roads, highways and flyovers across the state were constructed. He currently represents the Nagpur constituency in the Lok Sabha and is a lawyer by occupation.

He previously also served as a Minister in various departments which includes Water resources and River development, Shipping, Rural Development and MSME. During the cabinet reshuffle on 7 July 2021, the portfolio for the Ministry of MSME which was under him was reassigned to Narayan Rane, another BJP MP from Maharashtra as a part of cabinet expansion. He is often referred to as the “Expressway Man of India” by the media due to his initiation of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and contributions to the development of expressways and other road infrastructure. The World Economic Forum has recognised him as the “pioneer of public–private partnership (PPP) in the road sector in India”. Under his tenure as Minister of Road and Transport, Indian highway network grew by 59% within 9 years.

These parliamentarians have left their mark on Nagpur’s political landscape through their contributions to governance, policy-making, and public service, making them interesting figures in the constituency’s political history.

Highlights of the Constituency

The historical political landscape of Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency reflects a dynamic interplay of various political parties, leaders, and socio-economic factors.

Here’s an overview: Pre-Independence Era: Before independence, Nagpur was a significant political center in Central India. It was part of the Central Provinces and Berar, a region under British colonial rule. The political landscape during this period was shaped by movements for self-governance, with leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Gopal Krishna Gokhale making their mark.

Post-Independence: After independence, Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency emerged as a crucial political battleground. Initially, the Indian National Congress dominated the political scene, reflecting the broader national trend. Leaders like Dhananjayrao Gadgil, Nandatai Waghaye, and Vasantrao Naik were prominent figures from Nagpur who played significant roles in Congress politics.

Emergence of Opposition: Over time, opposition parties gained ground in Nagpur. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its earlier avatar, the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, started making inroads. Leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Nitin Gadkari emerged as influential BJP figures in Nagpur and contributed to the party’s growth in the region.

Regional Parties: Alongside national parties, regional parties and movements also influenced Nagpur’s political landscape.

The Vidarbha region, including Nagpur, saw movements advocating for separate statehood or greater autonomy.

This led to the emergence of regional parties and leaders who championed regional issues.
Coalition Politics: The political landscape in Nagpur, like elsewhere in India, also witnessed coalition politics. Parties formed alliances or coalitions to maximize their electoral prospects. These alliances sometimes reshaped the traditional Congress versus Opposition narrative.

Shifts in Power: The political landscape of Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency experienced shifts in power dynamics. While the Congress held sway for significant periods, the emergence of strong opposition parties like the BJP led to competitive electoral contests.

Key Issues: Political discourse in Nagpur often revolved around issues like regional development, industrial growth, agriculture, infrastructure, and identity politics. Leaders and parties tailored their agendas to address these issues, influencing voter sentiments.

Current Scenario: In recent years, the BJP has gained dominance in Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency.

Leaders like Nitin Gadkari, who has a strong base in Nagpur, have played instrumental roles in the BJP’s electoral success in the region.

Overall, the historical political landscape of Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency reflects a complex interplay of national and regional dynamics, party ideologies, leadership, and socio-economic factors, shaping the course of electoral politics over time.

Lok Sabha Polls: RSS Chief Bhagwat votes in Nagpur

April 19, 2024, 9:03 am

Chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Mohan Bhagwat, cast his vote in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections polls on Friday in Nagpur, Maharashtra.

After casting his vote, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat showed his inked finger.
He urged everyone to use their right to vote, saying “Voting is our duty, our right. There should be 100 per cent polling. I have cast my vote.”

The first phase of the Lok Sabha elections of 2024 marked the opening of polls in 102 parliamentary constituencies located in 21 states and Union Territories at 7:00 am on Friday. The polls close at 6:00 p.m.

Maharashtra, which is the second-largest state in terms of population after Uttar Pradesh, holds significant political importance with 48 Lok Sabha seats out of the total 543. The upcoming elections in Maharashtra are expected to be fiercely contested between two major political coalitions: the Mahayuti coalition consisting of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shiv Sena, and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition comprising the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP).

Five specific Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra will be closely watched during the elections: Chandrapur, Bhandara-Gondiya, Gadchiroli-Chimur, Ramtek, and Nagpur. These constituencies are expected to play a crucial role in determining the overall outcome of the electoral contest in the state.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress party secured only one seat, Chandrapur, out of Maharashtra’s total 48 seats. However, this time around, the competition is expected to be tough as the BJP is putting in significant effort to regain the constituency. The BJP has nominated a state minister from Chandrapur, indicating a strong bid to recapture the seat.

On the Congress side, Pratibha Dhanorkar, widow of the late Suresh alias Balu Dhanorkar, is contesting. Meanwhile, the BJP has chosen Sudhir Mungantiwar, the current Minister of Forests and Cultural Affairs in the state, as its candidate.

In Ramtek, which is the only seat contested by the Shiv Sena led by Shinde in the initial phase of the general elections on April 19, the Congress, part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, has nominated Shyamkumar Dault Barve.

Moving to Gadchiroli-Chimur, the largest Lok Sabha constituency in Maharashtra in terms of area and plagued by Naxal violence, Congress has fielded Namdeo Dasaram Kirsan against BJP’s Ashok Mahadeorao Nete, the incumbent MP who won the seat in 2014 and 2019.

Nete was previously defeated by Marotrao Kovase of the Congress in the 2009 Lok Sabha elections. However, Nete has been successful in winning state assembly elections from the Gadchiroli seat twice before, in 1999 and 2004.

Maharashtra holds immense electoral significance with its 48 Lok Sabha seats, the second-largest after Uttar Pradesh. In the 2019 elections, the BJP won 23 out of 25 seats it contested in alliance with Shiv Sena. The upcoming elections in Maharashtra will be conducted in five phases, with the results scheduled to be announced on June 4.

101 pc sure of my victory: Nitin Gadkari on winning election from Nagpur

March 27, 2024, 4:10 pm

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, contesting from Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency for the BJP, expressed utmost confidence in his victory, asserting, “I am 101 per cent sure of my victory.” He aims to secure a significant win with a margin exceeding five lakhs, attributing this to public support, party workers’ dedication, and his efforts.

Gadkari outlined his development agenda for Nagpur, emphasizing plans to transform the city into a pollution-free and green city. He stated, “The all-round development of Nagpur Vidarbha has been the initial resolution of my political life.” His agenda includes focusing on tourism, industry, IT, MIHAN development, and purifying the Nag river.

The Union Transport Minister highlighted his vision for a sustainable transportation system, stating, “The transport here will run on electric, alternative fuel or biofuel. The use of petrol and diesel will be negligible.” He also plans to create green spaces, playgrounds, swimming tanks, and health clubs in each Vidhan Sabha constituency.

In terms of employment generation, Gadkari mentioned, “Till now, 68 thousand jobs have been provided under MIHAN. I will try to take the figure to one lakh in a year.”

Gadkari’s campaign strategy revolves around connecting with people directly, stating, “Connecting with people- man to man, heart to heart, house to house- is the specialty of my campaign.” He also utilizes technology to communicate messages effectively.

In an innovative move, Gadkari invited suggestions from voters for his future vision, stating, “I have asked for suggestions from voters till March 30. I will study the suggestions given by people and then declare my next vision.”

Rejecting the notion of election management, Gadkari emphasized genuine public support, saying, “I do not have to manage the election. You can understand whatever you want to.” He emphasized that people attend his rallies voluntarily, without inducements, and pledged to work with those who truly support him, his party, and Prime Minister Modi.

Maharashtra: 9 deaths and 3 injured in a blast at Solar Industries’ Nagpur factory

December 17, 2023, 4:18 pm

When explosives for coal blasting were being packed at a solar explosive company’s plant in Nagpur, Maharashtra, on Sunday, December 17, an explosion occurred that claimed the lives of at least nine people. At Solar Industries India Limited, which is located in the Bazargaon area, the explosion occurred at around 9.30 am. Furthermore, the blast caused serious injuries to three additional people. For defense establishments, the company produces a range of goods.

According to officials, there were twelve workers inside the solar company’s unit when the incident happened. The company’s cast booster plant was the site of the explosion. “A blast at the Solar Explosive Company in Nagpur’s Bazargaon village claimed the lives of nine people. The blast occurred during the packing process of the Solar Explosive Company’s cast booster plant, according to SP Nagpur Rural Harsh Poddar, who spoke with the news agency ANI. The official stated that more information on the subject is awaited.

Nagpur: Thousands throng to celebrate Marbat festival

September 15, 2023, 4:48 pm

On Friday, thousands of people thronged the streets of Nagpur, Maharashtra, to celebrate the Marbat festival with religious zeal.

According to custom, believers march in a procession carrying effigies of demonic entities. The primary attractions of the procession are the clay effigies or ‘Marbats’ of Kali (black) and Pivli (yellow), which are burned by the villagers. The 150-year-old celebration is solely held in Nagpur.

According to local legend, these statues absorb negativity and societal problems as they parade through the streets, and the organizers frequently highlight various social and national issues through this celebration.

The effigies, which are displayed across the city, follow a predetermined itinerary before meeting at the city’s Nehru Chowk. The effigies are burned at the end of the celebration.

IndiGo flight to Ranchi diverted to Nagpur after medical emergency on board

August 22, 2023, 10:43 am

An onboard medical emergency caused an Indigo flight from Mumbai to Ranchi to be diverted to Nagpur, according to officials. Officials claim that a sick passenger on the flight caused the crew to divert the plane.

The IndiGo flight — 6E 5093 — touched down at Nagpur.

Officials said that the passenger was offloaded and taken to a nearby hospital for additional medical care; they also said that he did not survive.

“Unfortunately, the passenger did not survive. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones,” the carrier said in a statement.
Further details are awaited.

Skipper Rohit Sharma faces selection headaches before start of first Test against Australia

February 8, 2023, 2:50 pm

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is in a catch-22 situation amid the selection of the final eleven ahead of the first Test against Australia in the much awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy. All the players are fully fit and in tremendous touch, pushing to get a place and do well.

The first Test between the world’s top two cricket nations is scheduled to get underway on February 9. The four-match series is much anticipated because its outcome will have an impact on other sides’ chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship Final.

All players are in tremendous touch, so it is difficult to leave someone out of the final line-up. It is a healthy sign that players are doing well, so all options are open to being given a chance as per the pitch conditions. Rohit Sharma stated this in a pre-match press conference in Nagpur.

The discussion is abuzz about the batting position of inform batter Shubman Gill. The youngster has been in the best of his form, playing superb white-ball cricket recently and scoring an outstanding hundred against Bangladesh in the First Test in December.

Before the start of the series, some Australian experts accused India of preparing pitches that favoured its bowlers. Rohit Sharma reiterated that it is better to focus on cricket instead of the pitch. After all, the 22 guys who will take the field are quality players.

“We have to play four important Test matches in the BGT, and we want to win the series. It is going to be challenging. Preparation is crucial. “If your preparation is up to the mark, results will automatically come,” Rohit added.

The Indian camp is expecting that Nagpur track will take the spin, so both sides could apply different strategies to take advantage in the match. India is the current holder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after winning the series on Australian soil in 2020–21.

PM Modi inaugurates Nagpur Metro phase I

December 11, 2022, 11:59 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi rode the Metro from Freedom Park to Khapri as part of the Nagpur Metro Rail Project’s first phase of inauguration ceremonies on Sunday.

Additionally, PM Modi lay the cornerstone for the rail project’s Phase II, which would cost more than Rs 6700 crore to build. The Prime Minister was also spotted mingling with students and travellers as he travelled from Freedom Park to Khapri.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched off the sixth Vande Bharat Express earlier on Sunday, which will travel between the cities of Nagpur in Maharashtra and Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh.

Prime Minister Modi extended his hands to the riders after signalling off the train.

PM Modi has signalled off the sixth Vande Bharat Express.

The Prime Minister had already arrived in Nagpur when he was welcomed by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

At a public event in Nagpur later in the day, he will lay the cornerstone for the renovation of Nagpur Railway Station and Ajni Railway Station, which would cost approximately Rs 590 crore and Rs 360 crore, respectively.

The Government Maintenance Depot, Ajni (Nagpur), and the Kohli-Narkher Section of the Nagpur-Itarsi Third Line Project will be dedicated to the Nation by the Prime Minister. These projects each cost anywhere between Rs 110 crore and Rs 450 crore to develop.

The Prime Minister laid the cornerstone for the National Institute of One Health (NIO), Nagpur, as a step toward developing the nation’s infrastructure and capabilities under the “One Health” philosophy.

The “One Health” philosophy acknowledges the interdependence of human health, that of animals, and that of the environment.

This method recognises that the majority of infectious diseases that impact people are zoonotic (transmitted from animal to human). The institute, which will engage and coordinate with all stakeholders and serve as a catalyst to advance research and capacity building in the “One Health” paradigm across the nation, will be constructed at a cost of more than Rs 110 crore.

At Nagpur, the Prime Minister will lay the cornerstone for the project to clean up the river Nag.

The project, which is a part of the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP), will cost more than Rs 1925 crore to implement.

The prevalence of Sickle Cell Disease in the Vidarbha region, especially in the tribal population is comparatively high. The disease along with other haemoglobinopathies like thalassemia and HbE cause a significant disease burden in the country. To address this issue, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the ‘Centre for Research, Management and Control of Haemoglobinopathies, Chandrapur’, in February 2019. Prime Minister will now dedicate to the nation the Centre, which is envisaged to become a Centre of Excellence for innovative research, technology development, human resource development, in the field of haemoglobinopathies, in the country,” it said.
Prime Minister will dedicate the Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET), Chandrapur to the Nation. The institute aims to develop skilled human resources to meet the requirements of the polymer & allied industries.