Mumbai:&nbsp;In a sweeping move to promote healthier eating habits among children, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a series of measures that prohibit the sale, advertisement and free distribution of junk food within a 50-metre radius of schools&nbsp;across the state.The new directive targets foods classified as High in Fat, Sugar and Salt (HFSS), including packaged chips, sugary drinks, carbonated beverages, chocolates, confectionery, instant snacks and other ultra-processed food products that are widely consumed by schoolchildren.Announcing the order, Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe&nbsp;said the initiative is aimed at creating a healthier food environment around schools and addressing the growing burden of childhood obesity, diabetes and other lifestyle-related diseases linked to unhealthy diets.<h3>What's new?</h3>Under the revised guidelines:<ul><li>No HFSS food or beverages&nbsp;can be sold within 50 metres&nbsp;of any school.</li><li>Vendors are barred from advertising or promoting junk food&nbsp;near school premises.</li><li>Companies and retailers cannot distribute free samples&nbsp;or promotional food products around schools.</li><li>Every school canteen must obtain a valid FSSAI licence or registration, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.</li><li>Schools have been directed to encourage healthier food choices, including fresh fruits, milk, buttermilk, sprouts, traditional Indian snacks and balanced meals in place of processed food.</li></ul>The FDA has also instructed schools to strengthen nutrition awareness among students and parents while discouraging the consumption of ultra-processed foods on campus.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cjp-founder-abhijeet-dipke-returns-to-maharashtra-receives-grand-welcome-in-hometown-1785331898055">CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke returns to Maharashtra, receives grand welcome in hometown</a><h3>Enforcement and penalties</h3>The Maharashtra FDA said it will conduct regular inspections&nbsp;of schools, canteens and food vendors operating nearby to ensure compliance with the new norms. Violators could face action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, including penalties, suspension or cancellation of food licences, depending on the nature of the violation.<h3>Part of a wider food safety campaign</h3>The junk food restrictions are part of Maharashtra's broader push to improve food safety standards across educational institutions.The FDA has also announced plans to:<ul><li>Train teachers and school authorities on food safety practices.</li><li>Increase monitoring of food sold inside and around schools.</li><li>Crack down on the sale of tobacco and other prohibited products near educational institutions.</li><li>Tighten surveillance of packaged foods and beverages marketed to children.</li><li>Promote awareness about healthy eating habits from an early age.</li></ul>The latest order follows a series of food safety enforcement drives carried out by the Maharashtra FDA in recent months, including action against food adulteration, misleading food labels and unsafe food products.<h3>Why it matters</h3>According to health experts, children are consuming increasing quantities of foods high in fat, sugar and salt, contributing to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, hypertension and other non-communicable diseases.By restricting the availability and marketing of junk food around schools while improving the quality of food served inside campuses, the Maharashtra government hopes to encourage healthier eating habits among students and reduce long-term health risks.The initiative also aligns with recommendations from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and public health experts, who have repeatedly called for stricter regulation of junk food in and around schools to protect children's health.

Maharashtra has banned the sale, advertising and free distribution of junk food within 50 metres of schools to promote healthy eating and curb childhood obesity.

Mumbai: In a sweeping move to promote healthier eating habits among children, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a series of measures that prohibit the sale, advertisement and free distribution of junk food within a 50-metre radius of schools across the state. The new directive targets foods classified as High in Fat, Sugar and Salt (HFSS), including packaged chips, sugary drinks, carbonated beverages, chocolates, confectionery, instant snacks and other ultra-processed food products that are widely consumed by schoolchildren. Announcing the order, Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the initiative is aimed at creating a healthier food environment around schools and addressing the growing burden of childhood obesity, diabetes and other lifestyle-related diseases linked to unhealthy diets. What's new? Under the revised guidelines: No HFSS food or beverages can be sold within 50 metres of any school. Vendors are barred from advertising or promoting junk food near school premises. Companies and retailers cannot distribute free samples or promotional food products around schools. Every school canteen must obtain a valid FSSAI licence or registration, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Schools have been directed to encourage healthier food choices, including fresh fruits, milk, buttermilk, sprouts, traditional Indian snacks and balanced meals in place of processed food. The FDA has also instructed schools to strengthen nutrition awareness among students and parents while discouraging the consumption of ultra-processed foods on campus. Also Read: CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke returns to Maharashtra, receives grand welcome in hometown Enforcement and penalties The Maharashtra FDA said it will conduct regular inspections of schools, canteens and food vendors operating nearby to ensure compliance with the new norms. Violators could face action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, including penalties, suspension or cancellation of food licences, depending on the nature of the violation. Part of a wider food safety campaign The junk food restrictions are part of Maharashtra's broader push to improve food safety standards across educational institutions. The FDA has also announced plans to: Train teachers and school authorities on food safety practices. Increase monitoring of food sold inside and around schools. Crack down on the sale of tobacco and other prohibited products near educational institutions. Tighten surveillance of packaged foods and beverages marketed to children. Promote awareness about healthy eating habits from an early age. The latest order follows a series of food safety enforcement drives carried out by the Maharashtra FDA in recent months, including action against food adulteration, misleading food labels and unsafe food products. Why it matters According to health experts, children are consuming increasing quantities of foods high in fat, sugar and salt, contributing to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, hypertension and other non-communicable diseases. By restricting the availability and marketing of junk food around schools while improving the quality of food served inside campuses, the Maharashtra government hopes to encourage healthier eating habits among students and reduce long-term health risks. The initiative also aligns with recommendations from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and public health experts, who have repeatedly called for stricter regulation of junk food in and around schools to protect children's health.

Maharashtra has banned the sale, advertising and free distribution of junk food within 50 metres of schools to promote healthy eating and curb childhood obesity.

Maharashtra bans junk food sales near schools, mandates FSSAI licences for canteens

The NEET paper leak protest movement has reached Mumbai, with demonstrators gathering at Shivaji Park to demand accountability and reforms in the examination system. The protest comes amid growing nationwide outrage over alleged irregularities in competitive exams.

NEET protests in Mumbai's Shivaji Park

Student protests over the alleged NEET paper leak have spread across India, with demonstrations reported in Patna, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Mumbai, Jaipur, Goa, Kerala and other cities. Protesters have demanded accountability, education reforms, and raised concerns over police action against students in Delhi.

 NEET Protest: Students take to streets across India

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj remains the pride of Bharat. He established Hindavi Swarajya with courage and vision. His naval strength and forts changed the map of India. Shivaji Maharaj stood for justice, governance, and self-respect. He built an army rooted in discipline and loyalty.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: The eternal pride of Bharat 

Political speculation has intensified in Maharashtra after two senior NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leaders met Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, fueling fresh buzz over a possible political realignment. While neither side has confirmed any alliance talks, the meeting has sparked debate over the future of the NCP(SP) and its equations with the NDA ahead of key political developments.

Two top NCP (SP) leaders meet deputy CM Eknath Shinde 

A milk adulteration scam has been exposed in Maharashtra's Dharashiv district with 2.3 crore litres of milk suspected to have entered the market over the last six months. This comes even as governments have intensified their crackdown on adulterated milk across India. 


Maharashtra scam endangers children: 2.3 crore litres of milk adulterated with detergent

Political activity is gathering pace ahead of the upcoming Parliament session, with key meetings between Maharashtra's top leaders fueling speculation over possible political realignments.

INDIA bloc bereft as Sharad Pawar mulls abandoning Congress

A medical professional has resigned and departed Thane following an alleged attack by Shiv Sena workers. The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage, highlights rising concerns over the safety of healthcare personnel in the region. Medical associations are demanding swift legal action against the perpetrators and increased security measures to prevent political intimidation of hospital staff


One of the doctors resigns from post, leaves Thane after Shiv Sena 'attack' 

India’s monsoon has turned deadly. Floods and landslides have hit multiple states in 48 hours. Gujarat reports 16 dead with rescue operations still on. Maharashtra recorded 22 rain-related deaths, including a family of four electrocuted in Satara. Meanwhile IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi-NCR with more rain and thunderstorms forecast this week. Rivers are swelling, roads are cut off, and millions are bracing for more severe weather.

India's monsoon woes: Landslides, floods hit multiple states

Shiv Sena Eknath Shinde faction corporator Ramesh Mhatre has been arrested after allegedly assaulting doctors and medical staff at Shastri Nagar Hospital in Dombivli, Thane. The attack on July 6 reportedly included beating a female doctor on duty. The incident at the KDMC-run civic hospital has sparked outrage among medical staff and citizens, raising questions about political violence and safety of healthcare workers in Maharashtra.


Shiv Sena Shinde faction leader accused of beating up a female doctor

Tragedy has struck Kerala. A landslide hit near a tunnel project area in Wayanad, leaving 2 people dead and 7 others reportedly missing. Heavy rain and unstable terrain triggered the collapse, catching workers off guard. Right now, search and rescue teams are working non-stop to find those trapped under debris. It’s a heartbreaking scene for families waiting for answers, and for a state that knows the pain of landslides all too well.

Monsoon instensifies: Landslide kills 3 in Wayanad, floods kill 18 in Maharashtra 

Heavy monsoon rains have lashed parts of Maharashtra, prompting authorities to shut schools in affected areas and place rescue teams on high alert. Waterlogging, flooding, and disruptions to transport have been reported as officials urge residents to remain cautious. Emergency response teams are monitoring the situation closely.

Maharashtra monsoon fury: Red alert as heavy rain continues to lash Maharashtra 

Maharashtra monsoon fury: Schools shut, rescue teams on alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for Maharashtra’s Thane, Palghar, and Raigad districts as heavy rains continue to lash western India. The region is expected to experience intense rainfall, raising concerns over waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and possible flooding in low-lying areas. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel. Emergency response teams have also been placed on standby to manage any weather-related incidents.


IMD puts Maharashtra's Thane, Palghar and Raigad on alert as heavy rains lash Western India

Mumbai is witnessing a strengthening monsoon system as heavy rainfall activity continues across the city and surrounding regions.

The India Meteorological Department has extended the orange alert, warning of intense showers that could disrupt transport, cause waterlogging, and impact daily life. Authorities have advised caution as weather patterns remain highly active over Maharashtra.

The monsoon surge highlights the growing intensity of seasonal rainfall, with more heavy spells expected in the coming hours.

Mumbai Monsoons: Rainfall Gathers Space, Orange Alert Extended

Shiv Sena (UBT) is facing fresh turbulence after two rebel MPs publicly declared their support for Eknath Shinde. With reports suggesting that as many as six MPs could switch camps, pressure is mounting on Uddhav Thackeray, who has called an urgent meeting to assess the fallout and formulate the party's response amid the growing rebellion.

Shinde's 'Operation Tiger' Strikes Shive Sena(UBT); Uddhav Calls Emergency Meet

Speculation is mounting over an imminent split within the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) as six of its nine Lok Sabha MPs failed to attend a mandatory meeting convened by the party’s chief whip, Anil Desai. This massive no-show has reignited intense speculation about a potential rebellion, with reports suggesting that the rebel MP's might join the rival Eknath Shinde-led faction.

Big Blow to Uddhav: Six Shiv Sena(UBT) MP's Skip Meet, Split Buzz Intensify

Mumbai: In a major step towards strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting women’s participation in sports, the Maharashtra government is considering a state-wide uniform policy to ensure basic amenities and enhanced safety measures at sports grounds across the state.&nbsp;The move comes after concerns were raised during the 2026 Budget Session regarding the lack of adequate toilet facilities for women athletes at several sports venues.&nbsp;Acting on an assurance given in the legislature, a detailed review meeting was held on Tuesday with officials from various departments to assess the current situation and chart a roadmap for improvement.&nbsp;During the meeting, suggestions were made to develop a comprehensive policy for sports ground infrastructure, with a special focus on the needs of women athletes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Key proposals include the construction of model toilet facilities, installation of adequate lighting systems, creation of separate changing rooms, and deployment of CCTV cameras to enhance security at sports venues.&nbsp;Officials noted that women athletes from Maharashtra have consistently delivered outstanding performances at both national and international competitions.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, inadequate infrastructure at grassroots and district-level sports facilities often poses challenges for aspiring athletes, particularly women and girls.&nbsp;The government emphasised that providing a safe, dignified, and supportive environment is essential for encouraging greater participation in sports.&nbsp;Apart from physical infrastructure, discussions also highlighted the importance of quality coaching, nutritional support, financial assistance, access to training facilities, and social acceptance for the overall development of women athletes.&nbsp;Authorities believe that access to basic facilities such as clean toilets, changing rooms, and secure training environments can significantly improve participation rates and help athletes focus on performance without facing avoidable hardships.&nbsp;As part of the initiative, officials have been directed to prepare a detailed action plan for creating the required infrastructure at sports grounds across Maharashtra and ensure its effective implementation. The proposed policy is expected to benefit thousands of women athletes training in urban as well as rural parts of the state.

Officials noted that women athletes from Maharashtra have consistently delivered outstanding performances at both national and international competitions, but inadequate infrastructure at grassroots and district-level sports facilities poses challenges for aspiring women athletes.

Mumbai: In a major step towards strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting women’s participation in sports, the Maharashtra government is considering a state-wide uniform policy to ensure basic amenities and enhanced safety measures at sports grounds across the state. The move comes after concerns were raised during the 2026 Budget Session regarding the lack of adequate toilet facilities for women athletes at several sports venues. Acting on an assurance given in the legislature, a detailed review meeting was held on Tuesday with officials from various departments to assess the current situation and chart a roadmap for improvement. During the meeting, suggestions were made to develop a comprehensive policy for sports ground infrastructure, with a special focus on the needs of women athletes. Key proposals include the construction of model toilet facilities, installation of adequate lighting systems, creation of separate changing rooms, and deployment of CCTV cameras to enhance security at sports venues. Officials noted that women athletes from Maharashtra have consistently delivered outstanding performances at both national and international competitions. However, inadequate infrastructure at grassroots and district-level sports facilities often poses challenges for aspiring athletes, particularly women and girls. The government emphasised that providing a safe, dignified, and supportive environment is essential for encouraging greater participation in sports. Apart from physical infrastructure, discussions also highlighted the importance of quality coaching, nutritional support, financial assistance, access to training facilities, and social acceptance for the overall development of women athletes. Authorities believe that access to basic facilities such as clean toilets, changing rooms, and secure training environments can significantly improve participation rates and help athletes focus on performance without facing avoidable hardships. As part of the initiative, officials have been directed to prepare a detailed action plan for creating the required infrastructure at sports grounds across Maharashtra and ensure its effective implementation. The proposed policy is expected to benefit thousands of women athletes training in urban as well as rural parts of the state.

Officials noted that women athletes from Maharashtra have consistently delivered outstanding performances at both national and international competitions, but inadequate infrastructure at grassroots and district-level sports facilities poses challenges for aspiring women athletes.

Maharashtra plans uniform sports ground policy to improve safety and facilities for women athletes

A wave of anger and grief swept through parts of Pune district after the rape and murder of a three-year-old girl in Nasrapur village shocked Maharashtra. Residents across the Bhor-Rajgad belt observed a shutdown in protest, demanding strict punishment for the accused, a 65-year-old labourer who has now been arrested.


3-Year-Old Raped & Killed in Pune, But The Crime Could Have Been Avoided

Gujarat and Maharashtra have celebrated their statehood on May 1 every year since 1960. The state-wide public holiday is observed with official ceremonies and events across both states.

Gujarat and Maharashtra have celebrated their statehood on May 1 every year since 1960. The state-wide public holiday is observed with official ceremonies and events across both states.

Gujarat and Maharashtra mark statehood, remembering the 1960 division

National Investigation Agency and the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad have taken over the investigation into the stabbing of two security guards by a 31-year-old suspect. Devendra Fadnavis described the incident as a possible case of “self-radicalisation,” raising concerns over lone-wolf extremism and online influence. Authorities are now examining the suspect’s background, digital activity, and possible motives.


NIA, Maharashtra ATS Probe ‘Self-Radicalisation’ Angle In Security Guards Stabbing Case

In a joint operation, the Delhi Police Special Cell and the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have arrested two suspects from Mumbai for allegedly plotting a terror attack in the national capital.
The accused, identified as Mossab Ahdam alias Kalam Kalyan and Mohammad Hamad Kollara (both Mumbai residents), have been brought to Delhi for further interrogation.
According to investigators, both men were highly radicalised and had alleged links with multiple terror organisations, including Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Islamic State. Police sources said the suspects were also associated with online extremist networks such as “Mission Khilafat” and “Soldiers of Prophet”.

Delhi Police & Maharashtra ATS Foil Major Delhi Bomb Plot Using Toy Train Device

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Budget 2026–27 presented by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in the state Assembly on Friday focused on farmer relief, major infrastructure expansion, housing, and continued welfare schemes, while laying out an ambitious economic vision for the state.&nbsp;Presenting the budget, Fadnavis said the government’s priority is to strengthen rural livelihoods while accelerating urban development projects across Maharashtra.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of the biggest announcements was a farm loan waiver of up to Rs 2 lakh, aimed at providing relief to farmers struggling with debt.&nbsp;&nbsp;The government also announced incentives of up to Rs 50,000 for farmers who regularly repay their crop loans, in a bid to encourage financial discipline in the agricultural sector.&nbsp;The budget also reaffirmed the continuation of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, a flagship welfare scheme that provides financial assistance to eligible women aged 21 to 65 from low-income families. While the scheme will continue, no increase in the monthly assistance amount was announced this year.&nbsp;Infrastructure development remained a major focus, particularly in the Mumbai metropolitan region. The government outlined several projects including the Sewri–Worli connector, expected to be completed by September 2026, and the Bandra–Versova Sea Link, which is targeted for completion by 2028. Expansion of the Mumbai Metro network was also highlighted as a key priority to improve urban mobility.&nbsp;In the housing sector, the state announced plans to redevelop nearly 20 lakh slum homes in Mumbai and build 10 lakh affordable houses across Maharashtra. The government also proposed the development of a 130-acre startup and innovation hub in Wadala, aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and attracting new investments.&nbsp;Rural infrastructure was another key area of focus, with the government planning to connect 1,000 villages with concrete roads and expand rural road networks across the state.&nbsp;The budget also outlined a long-term vision for economic growth, with the state government aiming to transform Maharashtra into a $5-trillion economy by 2047.

One of the biggest announcements by CM Devendra Fadnavis in Maharashtra Budget was farm loan waiver of up to Rs 2 lakh, aimed at providing relief to farmers struggling with debt. The government also announced incentives of up to Rs 50,000 for farmers who regularly repay their crop loans.

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Budget 2026–27 presented by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in the state Assembly on Friday focused on farmer relief, major infrastructure expansion, housing, and continued welfare schemes, while laying out an ambitious economic vision for the state. Presenting the budget, Fadnavis said the government’s priority is to strengthen rural livelihoods while accelerating urban development projects across Maharashtra. One of the biggest announcements was a farm loan waiver of up to Rs 2 lakh, aimed at providing relief to farmers struggling with debt. The government also announced incentives of up to Rs 50,000 for farmers who regularly repay their crop loans, in a bid to encourage financial discipline in the agricultural sector. The budget also reaffirmed the continuation of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, a flagship welfare scheme that provides financial assistance to eligible women aged 21 to 65 from low-income families. While the scheme will continue, no increase in the monthly assistance amount was announced this year. Infrastructure development remained a major focus, particularly in the Mumbai metropolitan region. The government outlined several projects including the Sewri–Worli connector, expected to be completed by September 2026, and the Bandra–Versova Sea Link, which is targeted for completion by 2028. Expansion of the Mumbai Metro network was also highlighted as a key priority to improve urban mobility. In the housing sector, the state announced plans to redevelop nearly 20 lakh slum homes in Mumbai and build 10 lakh affordable houses across Maharashtra. The government also proposed the development of a 130-acre startup and innovation hub in Wadala, aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and attracting new investments. Rural infrastructure was another key area of focus, with the government planning to connect 1,000 villages with concrete roads and expand rural road networks across the state. The budget also outlined a long-term vision for economic growth, with the state government aiming to transform Maharashtra into a $5-trillion economy by 2047.

One of the biggest announcements by CM Devendra Fadnavis in Maharashtra Budget was a farm loan waiver of up to Rs 2 lakh, aimed at providing relief to farmers struggling with debt. The government also announced incentives of up to Rs 50,000 for farmers who regularly repay their crop loans.

Loan waiver for farmers, big infra boost: What the Maharashtra Budget 2026 promises

Sunetra Pawar is set to take oath as Maharashtra’s new Deputy Chief Minister today, marking a key political development in the state. The swearing-in ceremony will be held in Mumbai amid heightened security, with senior leaders from across parties expected to attend.


Sunetra Pawar Will Be the First Woman Deputy CM of Maharashtra

Sunetra Pawar takes oath as Maharashtra’s new Deputy Chief Minister today, marking a key political development in the state. The swearing-in ceremony will be held in Mumbai amid heightened security, with senior leaders from across parties expected to attend.


BREAKING: Wife of Late Maha Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Sworn in as Maharastra Deputy Chief Minister

Sunetra Pawar Set To Take Oath as Maharashtra Dy CM 

Sunetra Pawar is set to take oath as Maharashtra’s new Deputy Chief Minister today, marking a key political development in the state. The swearing-in ceremony will be held in Mumbai amid heightened security, with senior leaders from across parties expected to attend.

Sunetra Pawar Set to Be Sworn in as Maharashtra Deputy CM Today

Sunetra Pawar to Take Oath as Maharashtra DY CM; Swearing-In Ceremony to be Held Today

In a significant political development, Sunetra Pawar, wife of the late Ajit Pawar, is set to take oath as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister on Saturday.

Breaking: Late Ajit Pawar's Wife Sunetra Pawar to Take Oath as Maharashtra Deputy CM on Saturday

India bids a final farewell to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar as his last rites are performed with full state honours in Baramati.


Nation Mourns as Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Laid to Rest 

Thousands of people have gathered in Baramati to pay their last respects to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who tragically died in a plane crash.

Ajit Pawar Funeral: Thousands Gather to Pay Last Respects to Ajit Pawar

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