Periods are a natural phenomenon experienced by individuals with a uterus, involving the shedding of the uterine lining. The menstrual cycle includes ovulation and the potential for pregnancy, with periods lasting three to seven days. Factors like stress and health issues can affect the regularity of periods. Heavy periods and clotting are common but may require medical attention if persistent. PMS and period cramps vary among individuals, with severe cases needing medical consultation. Safe sex during periods is possible with protection to prevent infections. Pain relief methods include over-the-counter medications, exercise, and home remedies.

Scalp massages, known as champi in India, are traditionally used to soothe stress and relax through nerve stimulation and fragrant oils. However, the belief that they stimulate hair growth lacks conclusive scientific evidence. Some studies suggest a potential link between scalp massages and hair growth, but more research is needed. Conversely, aggressive massages may lead to hair loss, and dermatologists caution against harsh scalp massagers, especially for those with dandruff or psoriasis. While scalp massages can be enjoyable, they should not be expected to promote hair growth.

Adult acne sufferers, lacking proper guidance, often turn to expensive and natural brands that can exacerbate their skin issues. Urvashi Gulia from Delhi, who has chronic acne, has spent a significant amount on treatments that have often worsened her condition. Ranjit Bhatia, CEO of Remedico, a digital dermatology start-up, emphasizes that expensive skin care brands do not guarantee better skin and that the treatment process is more important than the products. Misinformation and lack of awareness about conditions like PCOS contribute to the problem. The article also discusses the social stigma associated with adult acne and the dangers of self-treatment with steroid and skin lightening creams, which can lead to addiction and further skin damage. The Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists has petitioned for regulation of steroid-based creams. The adult acne market in India is growing, but whether it will include informed treatments remains uncertain.

Disabled mother-of-two Devanabai Dhaigude and other women in Maharashtra, India, have lost their farm jobs due to heavy monsoon rains, exacerbating their economic struggles. Women in agriculture across India face increasing challenges from climate change and economic pressures, with limited support compared to their male counterparts. Experts and advocates call for more government awareness and financial support for women in agriculture. Despite some government initiatives, many women remain unaware of available schemes, leaving them vulnerable to economic and social hardships.

E-waste collectors and handlers in India, particularly those dealing with solar waste, face significant health risks due to the lack of safety practices and training. Informal units dominate the recycling sector, often neglecting the use of safety gear. Despite the government's inclusion of solar waste in e-waste regulations, specific guidelines for safe disposal and recycling are absent. Organizations like SWaCH advocate for better training and safety measures, highlighting the urgent need for improved occupational health standards in the sector.

India faces a severe antibiotic resistance crisis, exacerbated by pharmaceutical pollution, livestock antibiotic use, and outdated prescription practices. Despite evidence that shorter antibiotic courses reduce resistance, many doctors still prescribe full courses due to patient expectations and legal fears. Experts like Dr. Paul Offit argue for stopping antibiotics when symptoms resolve, except in cases like tuberculosis. The Indian Council of Medical Research has updated guidelines to minimize therapy duration, but widespread change is slow. The urgency is heightened by the potential for antibiotic-resistant infections to worsen the Covid19 pandemic's impact.

Children in Latur district, Maharashtra, are driving significant community improvements through child-friendly panchayats (CFP). Initiated by UNICEF and the Department of Rural Development of Maharashtra, CFPs empower children to advocate for their rights and community needs, leading to better amenities like drinking water and roads. Despite initial resistance from parents due to caste animosities, the initiative has seen success, with children actively participating in village administration and social issues. The project is now expanding to more villages, demonstrating its effectiveness in fostering proactive citizenship among young villagers.

Muslim vendors in Karnataka, India, face increasing discrimination and bans from Hindu temple fairs, driven by Hindu nationalist groups and supported by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. The bans follow a court ruling against Muslim girls wearing hijabs in schools, leading to protests and retaliatory actions by Hindu groups. The situation has escalated tensions, with Muslim vendors fearing backlash and Hindu vendors unable to show solidarity due to threats. Advocacy groups are challenging the discriminatory practices, calling for equal business rights for all communities.

The article discusses the heightened state of awareness and vigilance that many women experience due to safety concerns. It highlights a viral Twitter thread by Canadian journalist Joanna Chiu, who intervened in a case of sexual harassment on a flight. Psychologist Sadia Saeed explains the concept of hypervigilance and its potential impacts on mental and physical health. The piece also touches on the prevalence of gendered trauma and its portrayal in media, emphasizing the toll it takes on women's well-being.

India's ambitious goals for electric vehicle (EV) adoption are hindered by ineffective subsidies and policies. Many EV buyers, like Govind Mundhe, face challenges in accessing government subsidies and bank loans, particularly for low-speed two-wheelers. The FAME II scheme, which requires 50% locally manufactured components, is difficult to meet due to reliance on imported parts, primarily from China. Some companies resort to illegal means to qualify for subsidies. The lack of public charging infrastructure and high costs of home charging further complicate EV ownership. Experts suggest that policy adjustments are necessary to meet the government's targets and make EVs more accessible and affordable.

Heavy winds and tides challenge fishermen in Tamil Nadu, India, as they remove ghost nets from the ocean to protect marine life. Govind Gopalswami and other fishermen collaborate with Tree Foundation India, an NGO focused on marine conservation, to retrieve these harmful nets. Despite the difficulties and low compensation, over 3000 fishermen have removed 90,000 kg of ghost nets in two years. The initiative has led to a decrease in coral reef damage and an increase in fish populations. The Fisheries Department of Tamil Nadu supports these efforts, recognizing the positive impact on marine ecosystems.

Women farm workers in India, particularly in Maharashtra, are facing severe job losses due to extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. These women, who are often not recognized as farmers and lack access to government aid, are struggling with economic hardships and social issues such as domestic violence and early marriage of daughters. Activists and academics call for more targeted support and awareness programs for these vulnerable groups. Despite some government initiatives, the lack of awareness and accessibility to these programs remains a significant barrier.

Solar-powered spinning machines manufactured by Delhi-based social enterprise Resham Sutra are improving income and safety for silk spinners in India. Budhari Goyari, a member of the Bodo tribe, has doubled her production and income since using the machine. The initiative, started in 2019, has reached 350 villages across 16 states. It addresses physical injuries from traditional thigh-reeling and provides a reliable power source, overcoming frequent electricity disruptions. Women, who make up 60% of India's silk workforce, benefit from higher uniformity and prices for machine-spun silk. The initiative also aims to reduce carbon emissions and move towards a carbon-neutral silk industry. Challenges include the reluctance of silk spinners to adopt new methods and the cost of machines. Resham Sutra is working to expand the initiative with policy support and industry certification for solar-powered products.

In Pune district, efforts to combat child malnutrition have shown positive results, as evidenced by the improved health of Shivani Waghule, a four-year-old girl from Darumbre village. Previously categorized as moderately acutely malnourished, Shivani now weighs over 12kg and is healthy, thanks to the initiatives implemented in the region. The anganwadi worker, Surekha Waghule, highlights the significant progress made in addressing malnutrition among children in the area.

In Manipur, India, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) is providing crucial legal support to Kuki-Zo tribe members displaced by ethnic violence. Volunteers assist victims in filing First Information Reports (FIRs) against attackers, despite challenges such as illiteracy and lack of resources. The violence, which erupted after a protest against granting tribal status to the Meitei community, has displaced over 60,000 people and resulted in significant property damage. The ITLF's efforts aim to ensure justice for the victims amidst ongoing ethnic tensions.

India's initiative to promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption is faltering, as evidenced by the experiences of individuals like Govind Mundhe, a farmer from Maharashtra. Despite the promise of government subsidies, the plan has not met expectations, highlighting significant challenges in policy implementation and execution.

Rain in Sahara, a band based in Guwahati, Assam, blends various musical styles to address climate change and political corruption. Their performances resonate with the youth, particularly in India's northeastern states and neighboring countries like Bhutan and Nepal. The band's music, including hits like 'Black Water' and 'Ominous Clouds,' emphasizes the urgency of environmental issues. Their participation in international events, such as an Anti-Corruption Conference in Denmark, highlights their growing influence. The band's message encourages collective action against environmental degradation and political manipulation.

In India, fraudulent mobile loan apps like Rich Cash and Sharp Loan are exploiting users, leading to over 700 complaints of harassment by recovery agents in Pune in early 2022. Victims, such as Jafar Khan and Sonali Manjare, faced threats and blackmail when attempting to repay loans. The Reserve Bank of India's report highlights a significant increase in digital lending and the prevalence of illegal apps, many linked to Chinese entities. Despite efforts to regulate the industry, victims have little recourse, and the RBI is considering setting up a self-regulatory organization and proposing legislation to address the issue.

Residents of Chandrapur, Maharashtra, including Gokulbai Sahai, attribute health issues and deaths to pollution from the Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station (CSTPS), owned by MAHAGENCO. A report by the Centre for Research Clean Energy and Air claims that emissions from CSTPS caused 1,300 premature deaths in 2020. The National Green Tribunal found CSTPS in violation of environmental norms and ordered the installation of sulfur scrubbers and treatment of fly ash. MAHAGENCO plans to comply by 2023 and 2025, respectively. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has paused the Tribunal's orders. Local health professionals report a rise in respiratory diseases, and activists question the government's commitment to reducing pollution.

The article discusses the challenges faced by atheists in India, particularly in the context of rising Hindu nationalism and the influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It highlights the postponement of an atheism conference due to threats from Hindu nationalists and the broader societal pressures on atheists. The article also provides historical context on atheism in India and features personal stories from individuals who have faced ostracism and threats due to their lack of religious belief. The piece underscores the need for more support systems for atheists in India.

India's gig economy, while offering flexibility, is failing to support women workers adequately. Despite companies like Urban Company claiming to provide flexible work hours, many women, such as Seema Singh, face long hours and unsafe working conditions without proper support. Less than 10% of gig workers are women, often relegated to lower-paying jobs and facing sexual harassment. The Indian government's upcoming labor codes may not adequately protect gig workers, prompting unions like the All Indian Gig Workers Union and the Indian Federation of App-based Transport Workers to demand better conditions and legal recognition. Some progress has been made, as seen with Urban Company's reduced commission rates following protests, but challenges remain, including the lack of social security and the right to unionize.

India's youth continue to struggle with high unemployment rates long after the COVID-19 lockdowns, with many forced into less secure and lower-paying jobs. The pandemic exacerbated pre-existing job market issues, particularly affecting young people and women. Experts highlight the disproportionate impact on youth and the challenges in finding quality employment. Despite the ongoing third wave of infections, the government has avoided imposing another nationwide lockdown to prevent further economic disruption.

Families of Indian health workers who died from COVID-19 are struggling to receive government-promised compensation, facing bureaucratic hurdles and discriminatory policies that exclude private sector workers. The Indian healthcare system's chronic issues, such as understaffing and low pay, have been exacerbated by the pandemic, with over 480,000 reported deaths. The compensation scheme, launched in March 2020, has been criticized for its narrow application, and the actual number of deceased health workers is believed to be much higher than the official count. The situation reflects the fragility of India's healthcare system as the country faces a new outbreak fueled by the Omicron variant.

The article discusses the ongoing delays and inefficiencies of the Koregaon Bhima Enquiry Commission, established to investigate the Bhima Koregaon riots of January 1, 2018. Victims and activists express frustration over the slow progress and lack of justice, with only 48 out of 500 witnesses heard so far. The commission cites the pandemic and logistical issues as reasons for the delay. Criticism is directed towards government agencies and the commission's handling of the investigation, with calls for more accountability and faster resolution. The article also highlights the financial costs and the emotional toll on the victims.

India's Ministry of New and Renewable Energy's goal to install 40GW of rooftop solar power by 2022 is far from being met, with only 6GW installed by October 2021. Policy inconsistencies, such as the GST hike for solar components and changes in net and gross metering rules, have been blamed for the slow progress. Manufacturers and experts criticize the lack of stable policies and consultation, which hinders investment and consumer interest. Financing challenges, particularly for MSMEs and residential sectors, and MSEDCL's slow approval and payment processes further exacerbate the issue. The article highlights the struggles of the solar industry in India amidst ambitious renewable energy targets.

The article highlights the increasing violence faced by Christians in India, particularly from right-wing Hindu groups like Bajrang Dal, which are closely associated with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It details a specific incident in Roorkee, Uttarakhand, where a church was attacked, and its members assaulted. The article also discusses the broader context of religious hate crimes in India, the role of anti-conversion laws, and the lack of police action against perpetrators. Historical instances of violence against Christians are also mentioned, emphasizing the ongoing nature of such attacks.

Environmentalists, academics, social activists, and farmers in India are opposing the government's plan to expand palm oil production in the northeastern border states. They argue that the expansion will not benefit farmers and will damage the environment. Lalchhana Hmar, a farmer from Mizoram State, shared his modest earnings from oil palm cultivation, highlighting the financial challenges faced by local farmers.

The adoption of grid-connected rooftop solar energy in Maharashtra has been hindered by impractical and irrational conditions set by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co Ltd (MSEDCL). Despite financial assistance from the Central Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, only 8MW of the targeted 25MW has been installed due to issues such as the requirement for a remote monitoring system, insurance for the entire system, and stringent performance ratios. Solar manufacturers have filed a writ petition against these conditions, and the inefficiency of the DISCOM has been criticized. The COVID-19 pandemic and increased costs of components have further exacerbated the situation.

Meghalaya, India, faces severe soil erosion exacerbated by traditional jhum cultivation and a growing population. The introduction of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) by the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) has improved soil management and increased farmers' incomes. Farmers like Thrisilon Rynghang have transitioned from jhum to IFS, resulting in higher and more stable earnings. IFS incorporates horticulture, livestock, and natural resource conservation, reducing soil erosion and providing economic security. Success stories have encouraged more farmers to adopt IFS, leading to over 100 hectares of land being cultivated under this system in the state.

Lakshadweep, a peaceful Indian archipelago, faced a severe COVID-19 outbreak and political turmoil after the arrival of Praful Khoda Patel, a Hindu nationalist official. Patel's policies, including lifting travel restrictions, banning beef, and allowing alcohol, have sparked protests among the predominantly Muslim population. His plans to develop the islands into a tourist destination and impose stringent security laws have been widely criticized as attempts to marginalize Muslims and suppress dissent. The situation has led to significant unrest, with residents fearing for their future and cultural identity.

Farmers in Assam, such as Ranjita Pegu and Ruksana Begum, have significantly increased their rice yields and income by adopting flood-tolerant rice varieties like Bahadur Sub-1 and Ranjit Sub-1, developed by Assam Agricultural University. The System of Rice Intensification method has also contributed to higher yields and more sustainable farming practices. Despite initial reluctance, the success stories and support from organizations like Seven Sisters Development Assistance have encouraged more farmers to adopt these new methods, providing a lifeline against the chronic flooding in the region.

Lakshadweep, a peaceful Indian archipelago, faced a severe COVID-19 outbreak and social unrest after Praful Khoda Patel, a Hindu nationalist official, lifted travel restrictions and introduced controversial policies. These policies, seen as targeting the Muslim majority, included property seizures, bans on beef, and stringent security laws. The local population, previously untouched by the pandemic, now faces significant health and economic challenges. Protests have erupted, with residents and activists condemning Patel's actions as an attack on their culture and freedoms. The situation highlights broader issues of religious and political tensions in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.

Farmers in Assam, India, are adopting new flood-tolerant rice varieties such as Bahadur Sub-1 and Ranjit Sub-1, developed by Assam Agricultural University, to combat chronic flooding. These varieties, along with the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method, have significantly increased yields and incomes for farmers like Ranjita Pegu and Ruksana Begum. The initiative, supported by organizations like Seven Sisters Development Assistance, aims to mitigate the impact of floods on agriculture, which affects 40% of the state's land. The success of these methods is encouraging more farmers to adopt them, providing a lifeline in flood-prone areas.

Varsha Torgalkar reports on the severe lack of essential health services in the tribal villages of the western Indian state of Maharashtra, highlighting the gaps in India’s health policies. In areas less than 200 km from Mumbai, tribal communities like those in Chinchale Khair gram panchayat lack access to electricity and basic healthcare facilities, with the nearest primary health center 10 km away. The tribal population suffers from decades of neglect, with poor access to medical help leading to preventable deaths. Pregnant women face daunting challenges to reach hospitals, and few villagers have access to the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. The article suggests that if infrastructure cannot be developed in these remote villages, the government should make them self-dependent by training local youth and women to provide healthcare.

India's second COVID-19 wave is proving devastatingly egalitarian, affecting the middle and upper classes, including politicians, cricket players, and Bollywood stars. The virus is spreading rapidly in apartment high-rises, which have become transmission spots due to central air-conditioning systems and elevators. A third wave is considered inevitable by the government, and the healthcare system is near collapse with oxygen shortages and overwhelmed medical staff. The country has set daily records for new cases, and the death toll is believed to be underreported. Vaccine supplies are low, and there is hesitancy among the poor, exacerbated by misinformation. The crisis threatens to devastate India's middle class, which had been growing steadily until the pandemic.

India is experiencing a second wave of Covid19, driven more by public complacency and inadequate infrastructure than by virus mutations. Health experts, including Dr. Samiran Panda and Dr. Balram Bhargava from the Indian Council of Medical Research, emphasize the importance of maintaining social distancing, ramping up contact tracing, testing, and vaccination efforts. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed states to vaccinate everyone above 45 and create district action plans. The government warns against complacency, highlighting the rapid increase in cases and the need for continued vigilance.

Jadav Payeng, known as India’s ‘Forest Man’, is expanding his environmental efforts by planting a larger forest near the 550-hectare forest he previously grew in Assam’s Majuli. At 62, he is also inspiring a new generation of environmental warriors by visiting schools and encouraging children to plant trees.

The Maharashtra government's Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Pump Yojana aims to address water scarcity by deploying solar-powered water pumps, particularly benefiting farmers in drought-prone Marathwada. While the scheme has advantages like reducing nighttime farm visits and preventing electrical hazards, challenges include groundwater depletion and eligibility issues. Experts suggest a more strategic distribution of pumps to prevent over-exploitation of groundwater. The scheme's implementation highlights both the potential benefits and the need for better regulatory mechanisms.

India's mental health professionals are experiencing severe burnout due to the increased demand for mental health services during the Covid-19 pandemic. The mental health crisis has been exacerbated by the nationwide lockdown, with a significant rise in mental illness cases. Mental health workers are facing emotional and physical exhaustion, compounded by the challenges of adapting to teleconferencing, maintaining patient confidentiality, and dealing with personal losses. The lack of regulatory support and supervision in the field further aggravates the situation. Initiatives like Swaasthi, a mental health hotline, aim to provide support to these overwhelmed professionals. The article highlights the urgent need for systemic changes to support mental health workers and prevent a post-pandemic mental health crisis.

A good monsoon has not benefited many farmers in Maharashtra due to faulty soybean seeds, leading to widespread complaints and minimal compensation. The Union Agriculture Ministry, led by BJP's Narendra Singh Tomar, lowered seed certification standards, resulting in increased complaints. State-owned Mahabeej Corporation and private companies like Eagle Seeds and Gold Seeds are primarily blamed. Activists criticize the delayed actions of the agriculture department and the central government's policies. The Supreme Court stayed the Bombay High Court's directive for state action against seed companies, further complicating the issue.

The article explores the growing trend among Indian millennials to choose a child-free life, highlighting the experiences and motivations of individuals like Pratima Naik, Sourav Dixit, and Dipak Parashar. It discusses the societal pressures and cultural norms in India that emphasize marriage and procreation, particularly the preference for sons to continue family lineages. The article also touches on the broader implications of India's population growth, including social and environmental challenges. Child Free India (CFI), a movement founded by Naik, supports those who opt for a child-free lifestyle and collaborates with international organizations to promote their cause.

Majuli, the world's largest river island located in Assam, faces severe healthcare access challenges, exacerbated by annual flooding. The indigenous Mising community, among others, suffers from skin infections and other health issues due to the floods. Despite the presence of primary and community health centers, specialized care is lacking, and residents often have to travel long distances by boat to seek medical attention. The recent Cyclone Amphan raised concerns but did not significantly impact Majuli. Non-profit organizations like Piramal Swasthya provide mobile clinics, but connectivity issues during floods hinder communication. Local authorities have acknowledged the need to address healthcare inadequacies.

Indigenous Mising communities in Assam, India, face recurrent floods with minimal government support. Majuli, the world's largest river island, is severely affected by climate change, leading to land erosion and unpredictable flooding. The Mising, primarily dependent on agriculture and fishing, lack access to information and infrastructure, making them highly vulnerable. Despite some government interventions like cement tetra-pods to prevent erosion, the community struggles with damaged roads, lack of purified water, and insufficient flood alerts. The article highlights the community's resilience and the urgent need for better governmental support.

The Alphonso mango season in Maharashtra's Konkan region has been delayed due to erratic weather patterns, including extended monsoons, heavy rainfall, and cyclones. Farmers are experiencing a significant reduction in flowering, which is expected to decrease mango production by 30%-40%. The adverse weather has also led to increased pest attacks. Experts and farmers are concerned about the financial impact, especially on small-scale farmers. There are calls for government intervention to support affected farmers. While no definitive study links these weather changes to climate change, it is considered a likely factor.

Bipin Dhane, an IIT Kharagpur graduate, left his high-paying job in Singapore to start the Hummingbird School in Kulamua village, Majuli district, Assam, in 2017. The school, which now has over 240 students, primarily from the Mishing tribe, focuses on both academic and local livelihood skills such as fishing, bamboo weaving, and agriculture. Despite challenges like annual floods, the school has made significant strides in improving education and community development. The Assam government has recognized the school's model and seeks to replicate it across the state. The school also engages in livelihood training and mental health initiatives for the community.

The article describes a challenging trek in the Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in West Sikkim, India. The trek, which begins in Yuksom, is rich in biodiversity and offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, including Kanchenjunga, Mount Pandim, Mount Kabru, and Mount Narsing. Despite the difficulties posed by heavy rain and steep ascents, the trek's majestic scenery and lush green meadows provide a rewarding experience. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal, and permits are required for foreigners and Indians. The trek is open during the dry seasons from September to November and March to May.

In Alegoan Phata village near Pune, Maharashtra, many members of the Bhil tribe, a de-notified tribe, lack voter IDs, Aadhar, and ration cards, excluding them from voting in the upcoming 2019 Maharashtra assembly elections. The hamlet lacks basic facilities such as water supply, toilets, and concrete houses. Despite their forefathers having lived in the village, they have no proof of Indian citizenship. Activists and the local sarpanch acknowledge the issues but have made little progress in resolving them. The community faces discrimination, inadequate housing under government schemes, and challenges in accessing livelihood opportunities.

Mount Everest remains a pinnacle for mountaineers, with the trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. Starting from Lukla, trekkers face unpredictable weather and demanding trails, with key stops at Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. The journey, marked by stunning Himalayan views and cultural sites like the Sherpa Cultural Museum and Khunde Hospital, culminates at EBC and Kala Pathar, where climbers witness breathtaking vistas of Everest. Preparation, acclimatization, and fitness are crucial for this 10-12 day adventure.

In the first three months of 2019, 29 farmers committed suicide in Beed district, Marathwada, due to chronic drought and debt from crop failures. Despite various government schemes and a loan waiver program, many farmers and their families have not received the intended benefits. A march led by the All India Kisan Sabha and supported by opposition parties highlighted the crisis, but farmers' issues remain largely unaddressed. Mismanagement of water resources and encouragement of water-intensive crops like sugarcane exacerbate the problem. The plight of the families left behind by deceased farmers is dire, with many struggling to transfer land titles and receive benefits. Allegations suggest that only those close to power receive scheme benefits, leaving the majority, including landless laborers, without support.

Pune, a city known for its educational and IT hubs, is gearing up for the Lok Sabha elections with 31 candidates contesting, including prominent figures like Girish Bhalchandra Bapat from BJP and Mohan Joshi from Congress. The article provides detailed profiles of these candidates, including their political careers, criminal cases, and assets. BJP has a stronghold in Pune, having won multiple times since 1991, but Congress aims to reclaim its influence. The article also highlights the voter demographics and previous election results, offering a comprehensive overview of the political landscape in Pune.

A conflict within the Kanjarbhat community in Maharashtra, India, centers on the centuries-old tradition of virginity testing for brides. Young activists are challenging this practice, which they view as a violation of privacy and dignity, and have petitioned the government to make it illegal. The Maharashtra government has indicated it will consider the practice a form of sexual assault and make it punishable by law. Despite threats and social boycotts from orthodox community leaders, the activists continue their campaign to abolish the tradition.

The article discusses the importance of patient feedback in improving childbirth experiences in hospitals, highlighting the personal story of Karen Alfonso and the broader issue of hospitals not respecting mothers' rights and wishes during childbirth. It emphasizes the need for better communication between new mothers and hospitals, citing the efforts of the organization Together For Her, which has implemented post-birth surveys in private hospitals in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, leading to improvements in practices such as skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding.

The Marathwada region of Maharashtra, India, is experiencing a severe drought, leading to a rise in farmer suicides. Despite the state government's promises and declarations of drought, farmers have not received the promised backup employment under the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Employment Guarantee Act. The lack of water has prevented planting in both winter and monsoon seasons, and dam levels are critically low. The government's initiatives, including a farm loan waiver and the Jalyukta Shivar project, have not prevented the doubling of farmer suicides in four years. With general elections approaching, the distressed farmers' plight could influence their support for the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance.

Amol Palekar criticized the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Mumbai for censoring his speech against the government during an exhibition. He revealed that the curator had been instructed not to allow anti-government remarks. Palekar questioned the dissolution of the advisory committee and the bureaucratic control over art exhibitions. He highlighted the reduction in exhibition space for new and senior artists and criticized the government's increasing censorship since 2014. Palekar's stance received support from several artists, emphasizing the ongoing issue of artistic freedom and government interference.

Amit Shah assured that the BJP will construct the Ram temple, reaffirming the party's commitment. He also mentioned the eviction of invaders through the National Residents Certificate. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed confidence in winning 43 seats in the upcoming elections. Shah highlighted the achievements of the Modi government, including benefits for farmers, women, and laborers, while criticizing the Congress for its lack of progress over the past 55 years.

Mohsin Shaikh, a 28-year-old engineer, was lynched by members of the radical Hindu Rashtra Sena in Pune, Maharashtra, in 2014. Despite arrests, including the leader Dhananjay Desai, most accused are out on bail, and the trial has yet to begin. The victim's family and social activists criticize the police and judicial system for their inaction and failure to prevent further hate campaigns. The article highlights the broader issue of mob lynchings in India, with 45 people killed in such incidents between 2014 and 2018. The Supreme Court has called for legislation to curb these growing incidents.

Activists have accused the Latur Police and the Child Welfare Committee of inaction against Mufti Abdul Wajid, a maulavi accused of sexually exploiting minor girls at a madrasa in Maharashtra's Latur district. Despite evidence presented by social activist Azhar Tamboli, including video and audio clips of the alleged victims, authorities have not taken action. The CWC and police claim the girls denied any issues, but activists argue the girls are pressured and fear repercussions. The case highlights concerns over the handling of child sexual abuse allegations and the need for protective measures for victims.