From establishing premier universities to serving as Governor, the visionary founder leaves behind an indelible mark on Indian education.

The Demise

Dr. Dnyandeo Yashwantrao (D. Y.) Patil, a pioneering force in India’s higher education landscape and former Governor, passed away in Kolhapur at the age of 90.

Affectionately honored as “Shikshanmaharshi” (Grand Teacher), Dr. Patil transformed access to professional education over a career spanning several decades. Through the D Y Patil Group, he established over 150 institutions including top medical colleges, engineering institutes, and deemed universities across Navi Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, and Mumbai.

His immense contributions to education and healthcare earned him the prestigious Padma Shri in 1991. Beyond academia, Dr. Patil was an influential figure in public administration, serving as a Maharashtra MLA and later as Governor of Tripura, Bihar, and West Bengal. His vision also brought world-class sports infrastructure to Navi Mumbai with the iconic D Y Patil Stadium.

Tributes have poured in from political leaders, academics, and citizens nationwide, honoring a leader whose legacy endures through the millions of students educated across his institutions.

Spike in investment schemes and fake “digital arrests” leaves residents reeling as police push for faster reporting.

Cyber Crime Surge

A sharp surge in digital scams has siphoned off a staggering Rs 68 crore across 178 reported cases, highlighting the aggressive tactics used by cybercriminals.

Fraudsters are relying on high-yield online investment traps, fake job promises, and high-pressure “digital arrest” schemes where impostors pose as law enforcement officers over video calls to extort money. Senior citizens have been hit especially hard, often losing life savings in minutes.

A primary challenge for police is the speed at which funds are funneled through networks of secondary accounts and converted into cryptocurrency, leaving law enforcement able to recover only a fraction of the stolen money. Police urge the public to remember that no government agency conducts online arrests or demands money over video calls.

If targeted, report the crime immediately to the national helpline 1930 or at cybercrime.gov.in. Calling within the “golden hour” remains the single best chance to freeze funds before they disappear.

In lieu of festivities, local representatives hosted medical check-ups, tree plantations, and aid for the needy.

Welfare Drive

Swapping celebrations for public welfare (Sewa Din), local BJP leaders in Ghansoli marked the birthday of former Airoli MLA Sandeep Naik with a series of community-focused programs.

Led by former Corporator Ghanshyam Madvi and Ward 8 Corporator Lalita Madvi, in collaboration with the Savitri Mahila Social Welfare Foundation, the event brought health services, environmental action, and direct aid to local residents.

A key highlight was a free medical camp where specialist doctors provided general health screenings, dental care, and ECGs. Organizers also distributed Ayushman Bharat health cards on the spot, enabling eligible families to secure government medical benefits without administrative delays.

Alongside healthcare services, leaders spearheaded a tree plantation drive pledging long-term care for the newly planted saplings and visited local night shelters to distribute fresh fruits to the homeless. Outstanding members of the “Aata Thambaych Nahi” women’s group were also felicitated for their community contributions. Reflecting on the initiative, Ghanshyam Madvi highlighted the core philosophy guiding the day’s activities.

“Senior leader Ganesh Naik taught us that politics should be 80% social work and 20% politics,” Madvi noted. “Sandeepji wanted us to skip extravagant celebrations and focus entirely on health, environment, and supporting those in need.” Key attendees included Ghansoli Ward President Chetan Patil, Corporator Madhuri Harijan, Corporator Ganesh Sakpal, and numerous local residents who gathered to support the cause.