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Fresh PIL in SC seeks law on menstrual pain leave for women
NEW DELHI: A fresh Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking directions to the Union of India, States and Union Territories to frame laws or policies recognising the problems faced by women during menstrual pain and to provide necessary relief, including the grant of leave, in consonance with Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution. The PIL has been filed by lawyer Shailendra Mani Tripathi, who has urged the apex court to intervene and address what he described as a legislative and policy vacuum affecting working women and female students. Issue directions to fill in the lacunae that exists regarding grant of relief in the nature of leave etc, to the working women & female students under exercise of power under Article 32 read with Articles 14, 21 and Articles 141 and 142 of the Indian Constitution, the PIL said. Tripathi highlighted in his plea that several private Indian companies have already introduced paid menstrual leave for their female employees. These include Ivipanan, Zomato, Byjus, Swiggy, Mathrubhumi, Magzter, Industry ARC, FlyMyBiz and Gozoop. He also pointed out that the Kerala government has granted menstrual leave to students in State universities, allowing them up to 60 days in a year. The prestigious institutions like NLIU Bhopal and MNLU Aurangabad have implemented menstrual leave policies. Punjab University has also approved and granted menstrual leave to the students, Tripathi said in the PIL. The petitioner further submitted that the menstrual status of a woman is a personal matter intrinsic to her privacy and must be treated with dignity and without discrimination. He argued that this requires the State to introduce measures that provide appropriate relief to women during menstrual pain so that they are able to cope with the suffering and protect their personal rights with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution. The petition, filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, sought directions to all States to frame a policy for menstrual pain leave for female students and working women under the provisions of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961. Earlier, Tripathi had filed a similar plea before the Supreme Court seeking directions on the issue. However, the court had asked him to approach the Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD), which could take an appropriate decision in the matter. After complying with the courts order, Tripathi submitted a representation to the WCD but did not receive any relief, following which he approached the Supreme Court again seeking redressal of his prayers. The petitioner has sought directions that during the menstrual period, if a woman suffers pain or other physical discomfort that makes it difficult for her to continue with her normal activities at the workplace, her request for leave or other suitable relief should be considered without discrimination, subject to reasonable and dignified conditions, keeping in mind that the issue concerns womens privacy. He also stressed that India has signed and ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), which recognises the need for non-discriminatory practices and for treating women with dignity. Spain has recently enacted a law to introduce menstrual leave, thereby addressing the problem of menstrual pain. Vietnam has also enacted and implemented menstrual leave policies. Countries like the United Kingdom, Wales, China, Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, South Korea and Zambia have different policies or laws on the grant of menstrual leave, he added in his PIL.
Fire at Aurangabad NTPC plant triggers panic
Panic gripped Aurangabad as a fire erupted at NTPC's Nabinagar Super Thermal Power Project's Unit-1 cooling tower during maintenance. While no injuries were reported, significant damage to equipment occurred. Firefighting efforts brought the blaze under control after several hours. An internal inquiry is underway to determine the cause, with maintenance resuming only after a safety review.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is among the 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra to which elections will be held on January 15, Wednesday. The counting of votes is scheduled for January 16, Friday, the State Election Commission (SEC) announced on Monday. Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are among the other prominent civic bodies going to polls. He reportedly confirmed that the election code of conduct has now come into force in all 29 local bodies. As many as 2,869 seats in these municipal corporations will be up for grabs in these local bodies, where elections are due since early 2022. Maharashtra State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare said the nomination process will begin on December 23, Tuesday with candidates allowed to make their submissions for a week until December 30. Scrutiny of papers will be done on December 31, and January 2, Friday, will be the last date of withdrawal of nominations, he said. Symbol allocation and the final list of candidates will be published on January 3. Polling in the 29 municipal corporations spread across Maharashtra will take place on January 15 and votes will be counted the next day, news agency PTI quoted Waghmare as saying. He said these 29 civic bodies, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), have 2,869 seats on offer and 3.48 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise in these major urban centres of the state. After long and tiring political blame games and court battles, the Supreme Court had finally given the deadline of January 31 to conduct the polls, reported Marathi media. Full list of local bodies heading to polls: BMC Pune Municipal Corporation Nagpur Municipal Corporation Solapur Municipal Corporation Kolhapur Municipal Corporation Thane Municipal Corporation Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Nashik Municipal Corporation Aurangabad Municipal Corporation Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation Amravati Municipal Corporation New Mumbai Municipal Corporation NandedWaghala Municipal Corporation Ulhas Nagar Municipal Corporation Sangli-Miraj-Kupwara Municipal Corporation Malegaon Municipal Corporation Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation Akola Municipal Corporation Bhayander Municipal Corporation Ahmednagar Municipal Corporation Dhule Municipal Corporation Jalgaon Municipal Corporation Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation Parbhani Municipal Corporation Chandrapur Municipal Corporation Latur Municipal Corporation Panvel Municipal Corporation Ichalkaranji Municipal Corporation Jalna Municipal Corporation Dates to remember: Application submission window: December 2330, 2025 Application scrutiny: December 31, 2025 Last date for withdrawal of candidature: January 2, 2026 Election symbol allocation and release of final candidate list: January 3, 2026 Polling date: January 15, 2026 Counting of votes: January 16, 2026
Licences of 176 retailers, 39 wholesalers cancelled over substandard medicines: Maharashtra Minister
Maharashtras Food and Drug Administration Minister said 36 samples were tested at 10 locations across Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Aurangabad and Nagpur divisions, of which 34 were found to be substandard
Bombay High Court recruitment 2025: The Bombay High Court has released its recruitment notification for 2025, inviting applications for 2,381 posts including clerk, driver, peon, and Steno across Bombay, Nagpur, and Aurangabad. Eligible candidates domiciled in Maharashtra can apply online from December 15, 2025, to January 5, 2026, via bombayhighcourt.nic.in. The recruitment involves written exams, skill tests, interviews (for clerks), document verification, and medical checks. Post-wise qualifications, age limits, and application fees are detailed in the official notification.
Two siblings die after consuming laddoos in Aurangabad, probe underway
Bihar government to set up 100 fast-track courts to dispose of pending cases
PATNA: Bihar deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, who is also holding the portfolio of home department, on Sunday announced that 100 fast track courts (FTCs) would be established in Bihar for speedy disposal of pending cases in the courts. The fast track courts aim to reduce the burden on the judiciary and provide due attention and time to cases of a sensitive nature. Chaudhary said that these fast-track courts would lessen the burden on courts considerably, considering that more than 18 lakh cases were pending in various courts of the state. He informed eight fast-track courts have been proposed in Patna, while four courts each will be established in Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur. Home Minister said that three fast-track courts each would be set up in Nalanda (Biharsharif), Rohtas (Sasaram), Saran (Chapra), Begusarai, Vaishali (Hajipur), East Champaran (Motihari), Samastipur, and Madhubani. Similarly, two fast-track courts each will operate in West Champaran (Bettiah), Saharsa, Purnea, Munger, Nawada, Jehanabad, Arwal, Aurangabad, Kaimur (Bhabua), Buxar, Bhojpur (Ara), Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Siwan, Gopalganj, Supaul, Madhepura, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar, Banka, Jamui, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, and Khagaria. In addition, it is proposed to establish one fast-track court each in the Naugachhiaand Bagaha sub-divisional courts. Chaudhary said, cases jointly identified by the district magistrates and superintendents of Police will be disposed of on a priority basis. A large-scale recruitment of personnel will also be undertaken for the establishment of a total of 100 fast-track courts across 38 districts and sub-divisions of the state. A total of 900 positions are proposed for each court, comprising eight types of posts -- bench clerk, office clerk, stenographer, deposition writer, data entry operator, driver, process server, and peon or orderly. As many as 79 courts will be specially set up for the speedy disposal of cases pending under the Arms Act. Bihar government was of the opinion that quick resolution of serious cases like those under the Arms Act would improve law and order in the state, Chaudhary added.
Six J&K fencers selected for National Coaching camp at NCE Aurangabad
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 3: The Jammu & Kashmir Fencing Association (JKFA) announced a historic milestone as six talented fencers from J&K have qualified for the National Coaching Camp organized by the Sports Authority of India and the Fencing Association of India at the National Centre of Excellence, Aurangabad. The camp, sanctioned from December 1 to 31, will prepare athletes for the upcoming Asian Games and other international competitions. As per handout issued the fencers were selected based on [] The post Six J&K fencers selected for National Coaching camp at NCE Aurangabad appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
Snake venom worth Rs 80 crore seized in Jharkhand; three smugglers arrested
RANCHI: A joint team of the Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has seized snake venom worth approximately 80 crore in the international market. According to PTR officials, they recovered a total of 1.2 kg of snake venom, collected locally and prepared for smuggling abroad. The team also recovered 2.5 kg of pangolin scales during the operation. PTR officials stated that the operation was conducted on the basis of a tip-off received about the illegal trade of snake venom in the Palamu region. Three alleged smugglers, including a father and son, have been arrested in the case. Operation against the entire network is still on and the poison, which was collected locally, has also been recovered. We will send the recovered material to the laboratory for testing, said PTR Deputy Director Prajeshkant Jena. He, however, refused to divulge further details, citing that raids are still ongoing. The seized venom is valued at approximately 80 crore in the international market, while the pangolin scales are valued at around 20 lakh. Those arrested have been identified as Mohammad Siraj (60), a resident of Dev in Bihars Aurangabad district; his son Mohammad Miraj (36); and Raju Kumar Shaundik (50), a resident of Kauwakhoh under Hariharganj police station in Palamu. Raju runs a shop in the Hariharganj market and also sells herbs for a living. According to information provided by forest officials, they had received a tip-off that snake venom was being collected locally and sold in the international market. Based on this information, the accused were kept under surveillance for several days. First, the father-son duo was arrested from Bihar, followed by the arrest of Raju Kumar Shaundik from Hariharganj. Investigations revealed that Raju was involved in the jaggery trade as well as the smuggling of snake venom, said a local forest official requesting anonymity. The arrested persons have also admitted during interrogation that the venom was collected locally and supplied to the international market, he added. Notably, snake venom is used as a drug and is priced at up to 8 lakh per gram in the international market. Officials added that the phones of the accused have been seized and the entire network involved in the illegal trade of snake venom and pangolin scales is being investigated. The pangolin scales recovered during the raid belong to a rare mammal. These scales are used in the manufacture of medicines in China, Vietnam and several other countries, generating high demand in the international market.
Clash between supporters of different political parties near booth in Bihar's Nawada
Voting in Bihar's final phase saw minor clashes between political party supporters in Nawada's Warisaliganj. A JD(U) polling agent faced action in Sitamarhi for distributing pamphlets. Reports of clashes in Aurangabad and Araria were dismissed as misleading by the Election Commission. Voting proceeded smoothly overall.
Bihar assembly election: Litmus test for NDA, Mahagathbandhan in second and final phase
PATNA: The second phase of Bihar assembly polls will be like a litmus test for both ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition Mahagathbandhan, as both alliances are apparently evenly poised in the first round. The second phase of polling will take place in 122 constituencies across 20 districts of Bihar. After the first round of the election , held on November 6, which finished with a record voter turnout, the second phase polls to be held on Tuesday will decide which alliance will finally form the government in the state. As many as 40 seats in Tirhut, 24 in Seemanchal, 26 in Magadh, and 22 seats in Shahabad regions will go to the polls in the second phase. The 122 seats going to polls in the second and final phase are spread across 20 districts of Bihars central, western and northern regions. BJP traditionally dominated Tirhut, Saran, and northern Mithilanchal regions, whereas JD(U) has a strong ground in Bhagalpur. Mahagathbandhan , on the other hand, has dominant base in Magadh and Shahabad regions covering the districts of Jehabanad, Gaya, Aurangabad, Rohtas, Kaimur, Arwal, and Nawada. Congress, however, does not have a strong influence in this region and it largely rallied on its allies. While the opposition Mahagathbandhan faces the challenge of repeating its performance in Shahabad and Magadh regions, the ruling NDA will have to perform better in these regions and also hold its electoral bastions intact. In the 2020 assembly elections, the NDA dominated in Tirhut, while the Mahagathbandhan performed better in Magadh and Shahabad regions. During that election, Mahagathbandhan won only seven out of the 24 assembly seats in Seemanchal, whereas NDA won 31 out of the 40 seats in Tirhut region. Opposition shielding infiltrators for vote bank politics: Shah Tirhut played a significant role in bringing the NDA to power. The Mahagathbandhan won only nine seats here in 2020 assembly election. This crushing defeat in this region kept the party away from power. If the NDA retains its grip on Tirhut and succeeds in breaching the Mahagathbandhans bastions in Magadh and Shahabad or if the Mahagathbandhan defends its hold in Magadh while making gains in Tirhut the overall electoral dynamics could shift significantly. The 24 seats in Seemanchal are crucial in determining the formation of the government. In the last assembly elections, out of the 24 seats in Seemanchal, the BJP won eight, JD (U) four, Congress five, RJD and CPI (ML) one each, while AIMIM won five seats. The Mahagathbandhan is trying to consolidate its core voters in Seemanchal, while the NDA is working to further strengthen its position there. The presence of AIMIM and Jan Suraaj Party has made the election a triangular contest. This time too, Seemanchal has witnessed a power-packed campaign by all political parties. From rallies by BJP bigwigs, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, to the Rahul Gandhi-led Voter Adhikar Yatra, all parties have walked the extra mile to woo the Seemanchal voters. The Magadh region includes Gaya, Aurangabad, Nawada, Jehanabad, and Arwal districts. In 2020, Jitan Ram Manjhi's HAM party held the Imamganj, Tikari, and Barachatti seats in Gaya district. In 2025, HAM candidates are facing tough competition on all three seats. BJP is contesting from Gaya Town, JD (U) from Belaganj, Congress from Wazirganj, and LJP from Sherghati. Similarly, the prestige of the state Congress president Rajesh Ram is at stake in Kutumba, Aurangabad. The situation has changed for NDA as union minister Chirag Paswans LJP (RV) and former union minister Upendra Kushwaha`s RLM are contesting the polls this time as allies of the ruling alliance. In addition to it, Bihar governments scheme, 'Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojan' may also tilt the balance in faovur of the NDA this time, remarked political analyst. Under the scheme, women have received Rs 10,000 for opening their own businesses as the government would provide subsequent support up to Rs 2 lakh. In the 2020 Assembly election, the Mahagathbandhan won 20 seats, though its performance in Magadh, like in Shahabad, was weakened by rifts among its Kushwaha and Scheduled Caste supporters. The NDA failed to win any seats in Magadhs three districts Jehanabad, Aurangabad, and Arwal. This time, the NDA has replaced several candidates in the region and allotted six seats to its new ally, LJP (RV), which had contested independently in 2020. Nitish Kumar was, is, and will be Bihar's CM: BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad
Rajnath hits out at Revanth, alleges Congress trying to divide nation on religious lines
Aurangabad/Sasaram, Nov 9: Hitting out at Telangana CM Revanth Reddy for his Congress means Muslims comment, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday alleged the opposition party was trying to divide the country on the basis of religion. Addressing back-to-back rallies in Bihars Aurangabad and Sasaram districts on the last day of the campaign for the assembly elections, Singh claimed that the BJP-led NDA does not divide people on the basis of religion, caste or creed, as it believes in the [] The post Rajnath hits out at Revanth, alleges Congress trying to divide nation on religious lines appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bihar doesnt want return of jungle raj, says Modi
PATNA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched a strong attack on the Opposition, warning that the people of Bihar did not want a return of katta sarkar or jungle raj. Addressing an election rally in Aurangabad, Modi said incidents of crime and extortion would rise if those responsible for lawlessness in the past came back to power. They are already talking about turning children into rangdars (gangsters). They are openly declaring that if their leaders government comes to power, there will be katta (gun), donali (double-barrel rifle), firauti (extortion), rangdari (ransom) all of them will return, he said. He accused the Opposition of turning Bihar into a hub of migrant workers during its rule. Jungle raj wallahs stand for everything that blocks investment and employment generation. They must have tried to create mischief this time as well, but I praise the Election Commission for conducting orderly polls, he said. Modi also took a dig at the Mahagathbandhans election manifesto, calling it a bunch of lies. He said even Congress leaders had no trust in it and were silent. RJD gave Congress those seats it had never won in 3540 years, he added, claiming that the RJD stole the Opposition alliances CM face at gunpoint. The Prime Minister said the record turnout in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly polls showed peoples trust in the track record of Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar. Record-breaking turnout indicates women, farmers, and youth have decided to retain the NDA government in Bihar, he said. It is confirmed from the first phase phir ek baar NDA sarkar, Bihar mein phir se sushashan sarkar (once again NDA government, once again good governance in Bihar). He said his government had kept its promises, citing the Ram temple, abrogation of Article 370, and Operation Sindoor. Yesterday, voters of Bihar broke all records. Much credit goes to mothers and sisters who turned up in large numbers, taking turnout to around 65 percent, he said. Addressing another rally in Kaimur, Modi said Opposition confidence had been deflated. INDIA blocs election manifesto a bunch of lies Prime Minister Modi also took a dig at the INDIA blocs election manifesto, calling it a bunch of lies. He said even Congress leaders had no trust in the manifesto and were silent. The RJD gave the Congress those seats it had never won in 3540 years, the PM added, claiming that the RJD stole the Opposition alliances chief ministerial face at gunpoint.
Modi-Nitish track record is of keeping promises: PM Modi
Modi addressed two rallies in Bihar on Friday - in Aurangabad and Bhabua - where he claimed that the high voting percentage in Bihar in the first phase has ruffled the Mahagatbandhan, underlining that this is an indicator of people's faith in the governance track record of Narendra-Nitish dispensations.
Tejashwi Yadav says Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj will have no impact on Bihar polls
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Friday said that poll strategist Prashant Kishor, whose party Jan Suraaj made its electoral debut in the first phase of Bihar Assembly elections on Thursday, would have no impact on the outcome. In an interview with NDTV , Yadav dismissed speculation that Kishors party could split votes from the RJD. This question about which party will damage us or who can help us the RJD has been pushed into this narrative. Some will claim that in the last election Chirag Paswan helped us or speculate Kishor will steal votes from us in this election but we have nothing to do with this, he said. Yadav added, I have only belief that we are going to form the government and Bihar will change. He also referenced past tensions in the BJP-JDU alliance, noting that in the previous election, Chirag Paswans Lok Janshakti Party contested independently, which affected the BJP-JDU vote share. Paswans solo run took away nearly 5.7 per cent votes from the BJP-led alliance at the same time, the opposition Mahagathbandhan, led by the RJD, picked up nearly nine per cent more than it got in 2015, Yadav said, according to NDTV . Tejashwis favourite CM is Stalin, whose party compares Biharis with bidis: Amit Shah Many observers have drawn parallels between Kishors Jan Suraaj and Paswans earlier role, with speculation that the new party could act as a third front and influence the vote, particularly among young and educated voters. However, Yadav dismissed the idea that Kishor could be a game-changer. He also ruled out any significant role for Asaduddin Owaisis All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen in the election, indicating that the contest will primarily be between the ruling NDA, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumars JD(U) and the BJP, and the opposition Mahagathbandhan, fronted by the RJD and Congress. The first phase of polling covered 121 of Bihars 243 Assembly seats, recording a voter turnout of 64.66 per cent, the highest in the states history. Yadav said that this high participation is a positive sign. I have positive feedback from everywhere. People want change They want a Bihar free from corruption; they want Bihar to be a hub of IT, textiles, food processing, agro-based industry, Yadav said, according to the NDTV interview. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the record voter turnout in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections showed that people had reposed their faith in the track record of Narendra and Nitish. Addressing a rally in Aurangabad district, Modi predicted a clear victory for the NDA, led in Bihar by Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, and lauded the Election Commission for conducting peaceful polls across 121 constituencies. BJP leaders, who cast votes in Delhi, also voted in first phase of Bihar polls: Rahul Gandhi
Tejashwis favourite CM is Stalin, whose party compares Biharis with bidis: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday criticised RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav for calling Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin his favourite CM, alleging that the DMK had previously insulted Biharis by comparing them to bidis. Someone asked Lalus son who his favourite CM is. He said Stalin, do you know who he is? His party compares Biharis with bidis. His party insults Biharis and disgraces them. Tejashwis favourite is this CM, Shah claimed at a rally in Bhagalpur. He also accused the DMK of opposing the construction of the Ram Temple and insulting Sanatan Dharma. The remarks come after Stalin last week criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his alleged comments that DMK leaders harassed workers from Bihar, asking the PM to avoid cheap politics targeting Tamils ahead of elections. Shah also targeted the broader opposition, saying the RJD-Congress combine had no development agenda for Bihar. Lalu-Rahul-Rabri have not done anything for the poor, except patronising infiltrators who are taking away jobs, foodgrain, and other resources, he said. He described the Mahagathbandhan as a thagbandhan, lacking both policy direction and unity. Tejashwi Yadav says Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj will have no impact on Bihar polls Addressing security concerns, Shah alleged that Maoists reigned supreme in Bihars Gaya, Aurangabad, Jamui, and other districts during Lalu Prasads tenure as Chief Minister and credited the current government with eliminating Naxalism. If you want to prevent jungle raj, vote for the NDA, he said. In this Naxal-affected area, around 150 Naxals had hijacked the Dhanbad-Patna Express, killing three people. The area was completely under Naxal control. But now, thanks to PM Modis efforts, it is Naxal-free. Earlier, voting used to end by 3 PM; now, people can vote till 5 PM, Shah said. He also took a dig at Lalu Prasad Yadav, claiming that if the Mahagathbandhan comes to power, it would create a new department called Apaharan (kidnapping). He also criticised the Congress leadership, alleging that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi did not have the courage to respond to repeated terror attacks during the UPA regime. Shah further promised a series of development initiatives in Bihar if the NDA retains power. Speaking at rallies in Jamui and Bihpur, he announced plans for an electric vehicle manufacturing cluster, a defence corridor, world-class expressways, new highways, medical and engineering colleges, and an investment of Rs 20,000 crore in pisciculture. He also reiterated support for the construction of a grand temple dedicated to Goddess Sita in Bihar. On the political front, Shah warned voters about potential law-and-order issues under an RJD government. No one can prevent riots in Bhagalpur if the RJD wins the Bihar polls. You have to decide whether you want the kidnapping industry in Diara or the development of tourism, he said. BJP leaders, who cast votes in Delhi, also voted in first phase of Bihar polls: Rahul Gandhi
People trust the track record of Narendra-Nitish: Modi hails record turnout in Bihar polls
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the record voter turnout in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections showed that people had reposed their faith in the track record of Narendra and Nitish. Addressing a rally in Aurangabad district, Modi predicted a clear victory for the NDA, led in Bihar by Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, and lauded the Election Commission for conducting peaceful polls across 121 constituencies. Never before in Bihars history has the turnout been so high. Much of the credit goes to mothers and sisters who came out in large numbers, raising the turnout to nearly 65%. It is evident that they trust the track record of Narendra-Nitish, the Prime Minister said. Asserting that people voted to ensure the NDAs return to power for good governance, Modi said voters had rejected the false promises of the RJD-led opposition. Even Congress, despite being its ally, doesnt trust RJDs promises, he remarked. Taking a dig at the opposition, Modi warned against the return of jungle raj, recalling the violence and Naxal insurgency that marked past elections. The jungle raj wallahs have taught even children to speak of katta and dunaali. They stand for everything that blocks investment and jobs, he said. He also praised the Election Commission for conducting orderly polls despite attempts by jungle raj elements to create trouble. Modi credited Nitish Kumar with ending jungle raj but noted that he faced non-cooperation from the Congress-led UPA during his first nine years as Chief Minister. Reiterating his commitment to promises made, the PM cited the Ram temple in Ayodhya, the abrogation of Article 370, and Operation Sindoor as examples. I do what I promise. You saw what happened to the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack in Operation Sindoor, he said. Speaking in a region known for its large number of soldiers, Modi highlighted the one rank one pension scheme, saying Rs 1 lakh crore had been transferred to ex-servicemen. The RJD people might not even know how many zeros are in one lakh crore, he quipped. Referring to the land-for-jobs scam involving RJD chief Lalu Prasad and his family, Modi said, They promised jobs but made people give up their land. Now they are out on bail. Accusing the opposition of politics of insults, Modi said, They mocked Chhathi Maiya by calling it a drama and spoke ill of Maha Kumbh. On November 11, when the second phase of polls is held, you must punish them. He was referring to Lalu Prasads past remarks on the Maha Kumbh and Congress leader Rahul Gandhis criticism of Modis symbolic Chhath offering.
PM Modi targets Opposition, highlights NDAs Bihar roadmap at Aurangabad rally
Prashant Kishor slams PM Modi: 'You want votes from Bihar, but set up factories in Gujarat?'
Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor, campaigning in Bihar's Aurangabad ahead of the second phase of Assembly elections, accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and PM Narendra Modi of neglecting Bihar's development while questioning corruption, high electricity bills, and lack of industries.
Bihar: Kishor urges citizens to vote for childrens future in Aurangabad, reacts to H Files
Samsung announces winners of Solve for Tomorrow 2025 Innovation Challenge
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 4: Samsung, Indias largest consumer electronics brand today announced the top four winners of its flagship national innovation programme, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2025. The initiative, now in its fourth year, encourages young innovators to create tech-driven solutions addressing real-world challenges in Indian communities. The winning teams, Percevia (Bengaluru), NextPlay.AI (Aurangabad), Paraspeak (Gurugram) and Prithvi Rakshak (Palamu), secured Rs 1 crore in incubation grants and will continue developing their prototypes at IIT Delhis FITT Labs with [] The post Samsung announces winners of Solve for Tomorrow 2025 Innovation Challenge appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Rahul Gandhi accuses PM Modi of distracting youth with social-media reels
Aurangabad: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the youth to remain busy in making social media reels, so that they stay distracted from pressing problems about education, health and employment. Addressing back-to-back rallies in Bihars Aurangabad and Gayaji, Gandhi charged the PM with promoting addiction to social media. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Rahul Gandhis army controlled by 10% comment triggers fresh controversy
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has sparked a fresh controversy with his remarks suggesting that only a small section of the population -- primarily from upper castes -- dominates key institutions in India, including the armed forces, reports said. Speaking at an election rally in Bihars Aurangabad ahead of the Assembly polls beginning November 6, Gandhi said, Only 10 percent of the countrys population -- the upper castes -- get opportunities in corporate sectors, the bureaucracy, and the judiciary. Even the Army is under their control. He argued that the remaining 90 percent of Indians -- comprising backward classes, Dalits, Scheduled Tribes, and other minorities -- are largely absent from positions of influence. Reiterating his demand for a national caste census, Gandhi said such data is essential to ensure equal representation and to protect the Constitution. We want to know how many Dalits, OBCs, women, and minorities are there. If 90 percent of the people dont have participatory rights, the Constitution cannot be protected, he said. Gandhi also claimed that there are no Dalits in Indias top 500 companies, underscoring what he described as deep-rooted inequality in access to opportunities. This is not the first time his comments about the military have drawn criticism. Earlier, the Supreme Court had reprimanded him for remarks made during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, in which he alleged that Chinese troops were thrashing Indian soldiers in Arunachal Pradesh.
PM Wants Youth To Remain Busy Making Social Media Reels So That They Dont Raise Questions: Rahul
Aurangabad, Nov 4: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the youth to remain busy in making social media reels, so that they stay distracted from pressing problems about education, health and employment. Addressing a poll rally in Bihars Aurangabad, Gandhi charged the PM with promoting addiction to social media. Modi wants you to become addicted to making reels, Instagram, Facebook This is the new high (nasha) of the 21st century. He wants such [] The post PM Wants Youth To Remain Busy Making Social Media Reels So That They Dont Raise Questions: Rahul appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
AURANGABAD: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the youth to remain busy in making social media reels, so that they stay distracted from pressing problems about education, health and employment. Addressing a poll rally in Bihar's Aurangabad, Gandhi charged the PM with promoting addiction to social media. Modi wants you to become addicted to making reels, Instagram, Facebook. This is the new high of the 21st century. He wants such a scenario because this would ensure that the youth remain distracted, and do not hold his government accountable for their problems about education, health and employment, he alleged. Gandhi also claimed that Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah were indulging in 'vote chori' (vote theft) in Bihar, as they know the NDA would not win the assembly polls. The INDIA bloc, if voted to power in Bihar, will be a government of the extremely backward, socially marginalised and Dalits, the former Congress president asserted. Slamming the NDA government in the state, Gandhi accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of turning the youth of Bihar into labourers. Question paper leaks are also a regular affair in Bihar, benefitting the financially rich students, alleged Gandhi
Aurangabad Railway Station renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Railway Station
The move comes three years after Aurangabad city was renamed Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Homecoming Vote: Migrant workers returning for Chhath puja could decide Bihar polls
NEW DELHI: With nearly 70 lakh Bihari migrant workers returning home for the Chhath festival on October 2728, just a week before the first phase of Bihar Assembly polls, political experts expect a surge in voter turnout across the state's 243 constituencies. The Assembly polls will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11, with counting and results scheduled for November 14. According to estimates, around 2.5 to 3.1 crore Biharis work outside the state, including 8090 lakh who migrate annually for work as labourers, masons, mechanics, and other trades. The migrant workers coming home, mostly labourers and employees working in factories, construction sites, and offices across India, are being considered a decisive voter bloc. Many of them are likely to stay back and vote, especially in districts that recorded low polling in 2020. Both the NDA and Mahagathbandhan (opposition grand alliance) are urging migrant workers to stay back and vote, portraying it as a duty to ensure a better future for Bihar. The majority of those who come (for the festival) belong to Scheduled Castes and marginalised communities whose families benefit from government welfare schemes. Their womenfolk will certainly think of the NDA, not the RJD, claimed a BJP leader. However, RJD leaders disagreed, claiming that the migrant workers facing hardship in other BJP-ruled states would not vote for the NDA in Bihar. Those who face hardship outside Bihar due to unemployment and poor development under NDA rule will never vote for the NDA, said a senior RJD functionary. Those who feel humiliated or exploited in other states are less likely to vote for parties aligned with those governments, admitted a senior NDA leader, requesting anonymity. The NDA leader, however hoped that rust in Modi and the work done by Nitish Kumar may convince the migrant workers to back the JDU-led alliance. While the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan has made joblessness a central campaign issue, the ruling NDA has highlighted job creation and social welfare to counter the attack. Both camps are actively reaching out to returning migrants through local networks, community meetings, and WhatsApp groups. Districts such as Purnia, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Saharsa, Sitamarhi, Gaya, Jehanabad, Saran, Motihari, Jamui, Nawada, and Aurangabad all major hubs of outmigration are expected to see higher participation this time. Poll analysts believe the Kosi region, plagued by recurrent floods and high migration, could witness a sharp rise in voting, with nearly half of the returnees expected to stay through election day. Similar trends are anticipated in the Tirhut and Purnia divisions, depending on migrants ability to sustain themselves economically after Chhath. Waqf Act will be thrown into dustbin if INDIA bloc voted to power in Bihar: Tejashwi Yadav JD(U) expels 11 leaders for anti-party activities in poll-bound Bihar
Bihar polls fight between Vikaas and Vinaash: Nadda
AURANGABAD (Bihar), Oct 23: BJP chief J P Nadda on Thursday said that the assembly elections in Bihar will be a fight between Vikaas (development) of the NDA and Vinaash (destruction) of the INDIA bloc. Addressing a rally in Aurangabad district, Nadda lashed out at the Congress, accusing it of being a parasitic party that finishes off its junior alliance partners. The senior BJP leader attacked the RJD, saying the Lalu Prasad-led party stands for Rangdari (extortion), Jungle raj (anarchy) [] The post Bihar polls fight between Vikaas and Vinaash: Nadda appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Main accused, suspended policeman among three arrested in Ranchi restaurant owner murder case
RANCHI: Jharkhand Police arrested three persons, including the main accused and a suspended policeman, in connection with the murder of a restaurant owner in Ranchi , an officer said on Monday. One accused, identified as Prashant Kumar Singh, was arrested on Sunday, and based on inputs provided by him, the main accused and the suspended policeman were nabbed after an encounter with the police . Acting on a tip-off that the main accused, Abhishek Singh, was attempting to flee from Ranchi with his family, police set up checkpoints at several locations. During the operation, police spotted him and the suspended policeman and surrounded them near the ITBP camp in Kanke police station area on Sunday night, the officer said. Abhishek Singh sustained two gunshot wounds in both his legs during an exchange of fire with police. He is currently being treated at the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Superintendent of Police (Rural), Praveen Pushkar said. He said that they also arrested suspended policeman Harendra Singh, who had supplied firearms to Abhishek. We nabbed both after a gun-battle around 10.30 pm on Sunday night in Kanke police station area. They opened fire on the police, and we returned fire, in which Abhishek Singh sustained injuries to his legs, the SP added. The SP said that Harendra Singh had previously been a sepoy in the Jharkhand Police. He has been under suspension for the last five years. Abhishek confessed that Harendra Singh had provided him with a weapon. Harendra has criminal antecedents, and there are three pending cases against him at Argora, Gonda, and Patan in Palamu. The SP said that Abhishek Singh is a resident of Bihar's Aurangabad and also has criminal antecedents. He said that the police have lodged FIRs at Kanke and Pithoria police stations against four accused, of whom three have been arrested and a manhunt has been launched for the fourth person, identified as Amit Thakur. We seized four pistols, 31 cartridges, and a rifle, Rs 2 lakh in cash, two four-wheelers, and four mobile phones from their possession. Our investigation is underway into the case, he said. A restaurant owner, identified as Vijay Kumar Nag (47), was shot dead after a vegetarian customer was allegedly served non-veg biryani in Ranchi on Saturday night.
Aurangabad Railway Station Renamed As Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
The notification was issued on October 15. Interestingly, the renaming process was originally set in motion by the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government: A senior government official
Aurangabad Railway Station Renamed Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Maharashtra government issues gazette notification nearly three years after citys renaming
Blood Plasma Loot Gang Busted, 6 Arrested In Bhopal
Police investigation suggested that the gang has so far stolen 1,150 units of FFP from the blood bank of AIIMS, Bhopal, and sold them to two labs in Nashik and Aurangabad in Maharashtra at the rate of Rs 5,800 per unit.
Congress releases first list of 48 candidates for Bihar assembly polls
PATNA: After much hiccups, the Congress finally released its first official list of 48 candidates for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections to be held in two phases on November 6 and 11. The list of candidates has been released by K C Venugopal, general secretary of the All-India Congress Committee (AICC), late on Thursday. The party has given tickets to five women and four Muslim candidates in the first official announcement of its candidates. It has retained 11 sitting MLAs, which includes Bhagalpur, Kadwa, Manihari, Muzaffarpur, Rajapakar, Buxar, Rajpur, Kutumba, Kargahar, Hisua and Aurangabad. Congress and RJD leaders were in constant deliberations over some seats, including Kahalgaon, Vaishali and Narkatiaganj seats. The deadlock over seat-sharing among the INDIA bloc partners may have finally been broken hours after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge took matters into their own hands and talked to Rashtriya Janata Dal supremo Lalu Prasad over the phone on Thursday. The party had, a day before, started releasing the names of some candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections in Bihar on the official handle of its Bihar unit. Congress had also posted photos of the candidates receiving their nomination certificates. This comes even as the seat-sharing arrangement between the Mahagathbandhan allies has not been officially finalised yet. According to the list, Bihar Congress president Rajesh Ram and Congress legislature party leader Shakeel Ahmad Khan will contest from Kutumba and Korha (reserved) assembly constituencies respectively. In addition, Pratima Kumari has been fielded from Rajapakar (reserved), Shiv Prakash Garib Das from Bachhwara, Amita Bhushan from Begusarai and Braj Kishore Ravi from Rosera assembly constituencies. Similarly, Umesh Ram has been fielded from Sakra (reserved) constituency, Bijendra Choudhary from Muzaffarpur, Pratima Kumari from Rajapakar, Savita Kumari from Sonbarsa (reserved), and Punam Paswan from Korha assembly seat. Dr Chandan Yadav will be in the poll fray from Khagaria. Shyam Bihari Prasad will contest from Raxaul, Shashi Bhushan Rai from Govindganj and Wasi Ahmad from Bettiah. Amit Kumar Singh Tunna will fight from Riga, Navin Kumar from Bathnaha, Jayesh Mangal Singh from Bagaha, Amit Giri from Nautan, Abhishek Ranjan from Chanpatia, Nitu Kumari from Hisua, Awadhesh kumar Singh from Wazirganj, Anand Shanker Singh from Aurangabad, Santosh Mishra from Kargahar, and Mangal Ram from Chenari (reserved) seats. pic.twitter.com/io0WmcA5sG Congress (@INCIndia) October 16, 2025
Congress releases first list of candidates for Bihar assembly polls
The Congress released its first official list of 48 candidates for the Bihar Assembly polls on Thursday. The party's Bihar unit president Rajesh Ram has been fielded from the SC-reserved seat of Kutumba. The party had, a day before, started releasing the names of some candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections in Bihar on the official handle of its Bihar unit. Congress had also posted photos of the candidates receiving their nomination certificates. This comes even as the seat-sharing arrangement between the Mahagathbandhan allies has not been officially finalized yet. In its first list, the party has fielded Bijendra Chaudhary from Muzaffarpur, Om Prakash Garg from Gopalganj, Amita Bhushan from Begusarai, Dr. Shashi Shekhar Singh from Wazirganj. Meanwhile, Kaushelendra Kumar will contest from Nalanda, and Anand Shankar Singh from Aurangabad. Anil Kumar will contest from Bikram, Lalan Kumar from Sultanganj, Amaresh Kumar from Lakhisarai, BK Ravi from Rosda, Shashibhushan Rai alias Gappu Rai from Govindganj, Jitendra Singh from Amarpur, and Shiv Prakash Garib Das from Bachhwara Assembly constituency. Trishuldhari Singh has been fielded from the Barbigha seat. pic.twitter.com/io0WmcA5sG Congress (@INCIndia) October 16, 2025
Cosmo Foundation , the community outreach arm of Cosmo First Ltd., in a significant display of its commitment to climate action, has launched a large-scale Miyawaki & Fruit Bearing Forestry plantation drive in collaboration with the 25 Battalion Border Security Force (BSF) at its Chhawla campus in New Delhi. The initiative marks yet another major milestone in creating an extensive green cover within the BSF campus, strengthening Cosmo Foundations continued dedication to environmental sustainability. Cosmo Foundation, 25 Bn BSF plant 15,000 trees Inaugurated by Honble Shri Daljit Singh Chawdhary, IPS, Director General, Border Security Force, through this initiative, Cosmo Foundation aims to plant 15,000 native trees across the campus. To support this, the BSF will be providing the necessary land, water, and resources to ensure the long-term maintenance and growth of the plantation, with Prayas Youth Foundation as the implementation partner. During his address, Mr. Chaudhary highlighted how BSF has grown over the years, and also remembering the contribution of Late Shri Ashwini Kumar, Padma Bhushan, former DG of BSF. Last year, Cosmo Foundation had planted 7,500 saplings of Miyawaki at the same campus and in order to cater to the water requirements, Cosmo had supported with laying of a borewell with piping & sprinkler system. The Border Security Force is deeply committed to the well-being of our nation, and that commitment extends to protecting our environment, said Shri Daljit Singh Chawdhary, IPS, Director General, BSF , speaking on the occasion. We are proud to partner with Cosmo Foundation in this meaningful effort. Planting 15,000 trees here at the Chhawala Campus is not just about adding greeneryits a vital step toward climate resilience and a powerful example of the synergy between national service and corporate social responsibility. We are immensely thankful to Cosmo Foundation for their continued contribution and in making our campus much greener. The event was graced by Mr. Ashok Jaipuria, Chairman, Board of Trustees Cosmo Foundation and Chairman & Managing Director Cosmo First Ltd., and Mrs. Yamini Jaipuria, Managing Trustee Cosmo Foundation and Whole-time Director Cosmo First Ltd. Senior BSF officials, senior team from Cosmo First Ltd, and Cosmo Foundation, students from BSF School and Jamia Hamdard University, Invitees and the implementation team were also present, contributing to the plantation drive. In their joint statement, Mr. & Mrs. Jaipuria reaffirmed, At Cosmo First, we believe that true industrial progress is measured not only by innovation and productivity but also by the positive footprint we leave on the environment. Our continuous investments in cleaner technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable operations reflect our long-term vision of growth that respects both people and the planet. This plantation drive strengthens that purposeturning intent into action for a greener, more responsible future. This Miyawaki and Fruit Bearing Forestry drive is a part of Cosmo Foundations ongoing environmental mission, which has already resulted in the planting of over 1.6 lakh (1,60,000) trees across 179 acres in Delhi, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Notable successes include the creation of a Biodiversity Hub in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), where 40,000 trees have been planted, with plans for an additional 35,000 by FY 2025-26, establishing it as one of Maharashtras largest biodiversity zones. Alongside this, Cosmo Foundations comprehensive environmental work includes maintaining urban green spaces, creating rainwater harvest systems, and conducting plantation drives with schools, BSF, Indian Army, and farmers. All of these are conducted while focusing on native tree plantation, Miyawaki, and agroforestry to improve air quality, support the environment and generate livelihood for farmers. Cosmo Foundation is also actively involved in education, and empowerment related activities contributing to the 3E mission, while also making strides in health, and sanitation initiatives. Over the years, these community led initiatives have demonstrated Cosmo Foundations holistic approach to development and sustainable living while adapting a People First approach. About Cosmo Foundation Established in 2008, Cosmo Foundation is the community outreach initiative of Cosmo First Ltd., working to uplift underdeveloped communities near its operational locations in Karjan (Vadodara District) and Gangapur (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar District), as well as in Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and the tribal district of Chhindwara (Madhya Pradesh). The Foundations programs focus on Education, Environment, and Empowerment, impacting more than 7.5 lakh (750,000) beneficiaries through various initiatives. About Cosmo First Ltd. Established in 1981 and founded by Mr. Ashok Jaipuria, Cosmo First is a global leader in Specialty films for Packaging, Labelling, Lamination, Industrial & Synthetic Paper (BOPP, BOPET and CPP), Cosmo Speciality Chemicals (Masterbatches, Adhesives, & Coating), Cosmo Plastech (Rigids - IML Containers and Specialty Sheets of PP / PET and HIPS) and Cosmo Sunshield (Window, Privacy and Security Films), along with a digital-first Omni channel Pet care business under the brand name Zigly. Cosmo First is into D2C, B2B2C and B2B businesses and has operations in India, Japan, Korea, Europe and Americas. Visit www.cosmofirst.com for more details.
JD(U) names 44 candidates in second list; completes 101 quota ahead of Bihar elections
PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumars Janata Dal (United) released its second list of 44 candidates on Thursday, a day after announcing 57 names for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections scheduled from November 6 to 11, completing JD(U)s full list of 101 candidates. The names of the 44 candidates were announced by Chandan Kumar Singh, state general secretary and in-charge of the party headquarters. The second list includes Vibha Devi, wife of Nawada strongman Rajballabh Prasad Yadav, who will contest from the Nawada seat. Another notable candidate is Chetan Anand, son of strongman Anand Mohan, fielded from Nabinagar in Aurangabad district. He had previously won from the Sheohar seat on the ticket of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) in the 2020 Assembly election and has been rewarded for supporting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during the vote of confidence in the Assembly in February last year. Nine women candidates have been fielded, including Shalini Mishra from Kesaria, Meena Kamath from Babubarhi, Sweta Gupta from Sheohar, Sheela Mandal from Phulparas, Lesi Singh from Dhamdaha, Manorama Devi from Belaganj, Sonam Rani Sardar from Triveniganj, and Shagufta Azim from Araria. Bihar elections: Congress begins allotting party symbols, BJP completes list of its 101 candidates Four candidates from the minority community have also been given tickets, including Zaman Khan from Chainpur. Other notable candidates include Mahabali Singh from Karakat, Sumit Kumar Singh from Chakai, Damodar Raut from Jhajha, Nagendra Chandrawanshi from Nokha, Manoj Yadav from Belhar, Shubhanand Mukesh from Kahalgaon, Bulo Mandal from Gopalpur, Dularchand Goswami from Kadwa, Lesi Singh from Dhamdaha, Vijay Singh Nishad from Barari, Dr. Lalit Narain Mandal from Sultanganj, Shambhu Suman from Manihari, Jayant Raj from Amarpur, Manish Kumar from Dhoraiya, Vashishtha Singh from Kargahar, Rituraj Kumar from Ghosi, and Pramod Kumar Singh from Rafiganj. As per the seat-sharing deal, BJP and JD(U) will contest 101 seats each, LJP (RV) 29, and HAM and RLM six seats each.
Bihar elections: Congress begins allotting party symbols, BJP completes list of its 101 candidates
PATNA: With barely two days left for filing nomination papers for the first phase of the Bihar assembly elections , political activities have intensified in the state. Congress, a major ally of the Opposition INDIA bloc, has started allotting party symbols to its candidates even as a seat-sharing deal is yet to be formally announced. Congress released its list of 17 candidates , posting the announcement on its official X handle even as seat-sharing arrangements within INDIA bloc remained unresolved. The party has fielded Anand Shanker Singh from Aurangabad, Pratima Das from Rajapakar, Shiv Prakash Garib Das from Bachhawara and Kaushalendra Kumar (Chhote Mukhiya) from Nalanda. Similarly, Om Prakash Garg will contest election from Gopalganj, Jitendra Singh from Amarpur, Amita Bhushan from Begusarai, Lalan Kumar from Sultanganj, Rajesh Kumar from Kutumba, Shashi Sekhar from Warsaliganj, Trishuldhari Singh from Barbigha, Vijendra Choudhary from Muzaffarpur. In addition, Shashi Bhushan Rai has been fielded from Govindganj, Anil Kumar from Bikram, and B K Ravi from Rosera assembly seats. Sources said that more names would be cleared after consultation with leaders of the INDIA bloc. The Congress Central Election Committee (CCEC) had approved candidates for 43 seats. The sub-committee, headed by Ajay Makan, is said to have cleared the names of eight more candidates on Wednesday. BJP releases first list of 71 candidates for Bihar Assembly elections In the ruling NDA camp, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released names of all 101 candidates. The third list of 18 candidates were released late on Wednesday. According to the list, Bina Devi will contest from Kochadhaman, Sangita Kumari from Mohania, Sanjay Pandey from Narkatiaganj, Satish Kumar Yadav from Raghopur and Bharat Bind from Bhabua. Murari Paswan will join the fray from Pirpainti and Ashok Kumar Singh from Ramgarh. Earlier the party has released second list of 12 candidates, including folk singer Maithili Thakur from Alinagar and former IPS officer Anand Mishra from Buxar. With this, the BJP has announced candidates for all 101 seats. NDAs ally--Janata Dal (United) has released its first list of 57 candidates. Senior leaders like Umesh Kushwaha and Vijendra Prasad Yadav have already filed their nominations from the Mahnar and Supaul seats. Vijay Kumar Chaudhary is expected to file his nomination papers from Sarairanjan on Thursday. Under the seat-sharing pact within NDA, BJP and JD(U) will contest 101 seats each, LJP(RV) 29, HAM and RLM six seats each. Bihar assembly elections will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11. The counting of votes will take place on November 14. The total number of voters stands at 7.42 crore, down from 7.89 crore in June this year. BJP conspiring to impose President's rule in Bihar after assembly elections, claims RJD leader Tejashwi
Congress starts announcing candidates for Bihar polls before finalising seat-sharing deal
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Wednesday night started announcing its candidates for the Bihar Assembly elections even before finalising the seat-sharing arrangement with its Mahagathbandhan allies. According to the announcement being made by the X handle of the party's Bihar unit, its state president Rajesh Ram is contesting from the Kutumba assembly constituency. The party started announcing the names of candidates on X without releasing an official list of nominees. Along with the announcements, it posted photos of nominees being handed over party nomination certificates. The Congress leadership is in talks with its alliance partners, including the RJD, but the seat-sharing arrangement has neither been finalised nor announced. The development comes as RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav filed his nomination from Raghopur assembly seat on Wednesday. The last date for filing nominations for the first phase of polls is October 17, while that for the second phase is October 20. Rajesh Ram thanked the Congress leadership for fielding him from the Kutumba seat. The Bihar Congress congratulated Ram and others for their nomination. - INDIA B. K. Ravi ! INDIA pic.twitter.com/PUq2msnIL2 Bihar Congress (@INCBihar) October 15, 2025 According to the announcements, Shashi Shekhar Singh will contest the election from the Wazjirganj seat. Kaushlendra Kumar, alias Chhote Mukhiya, will be the INDIA bloc candidate from the Nalanda seat. From the Barbeegha seat, the party fielded Trishuldhari Singh and Pratima Das from the Rajapakad seat. Shashi Bhushan Rai, alias Gappu Rai, has been fielded by the Congress from the Govindganj seat, while Vijendra Chaudhary will contest the Muzaffarpur seat. Om Parkash Garg will contest the Gopalganj seat, and Jitendra Singh from the Amarpur assembly seat. Amita Bhushan has been fielded by the Congress from the Begusarai seat, while Lallan Kumar will contest the Sultanganj seat. In the Rosda assembly constituency, the Congress has fielded B K Ravi as INDIA block candidate. Bihar Youth Congress state president Prakash Garib Das will contest the Bachhwada seat, while Anand Shekhar Singh will be the Congress candidate from the Aurangabad assembly seat. Bihar assembly polls are slated in two phases on November 6 and 11, and the counting of votes will take place on November 14.
HAM announces six candidates for Bihar polls as part of NDA seat deal
PATNA: Union minister Jitan Ram Manjhis Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) on Tuesday released the list of its candidates for the six assembly seats that have been allotted to the party as part of a seat-sharing deal within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for the Bihar assembly elections. According to the list, Deepa Kumari will contest from Imamganj (Reserved) seat while Anil Kumar has been fielded from Tekari. Similarly, Jyoti Devi will be the partys official candidate from Barachatti (Reserved) constituency. In addition, Romit Kumar has been nominated as a candidate for Atari assembly seat. Three of these constituencies, Imamganj, Tekari, and Barachatti, fall under the limits of Gaya district. Prafulla Kumar Manjhi has been fielded from Sikandara in Jamui district. Lalan Ram will contest from Kutumba assembly constituency in Aurangabad district. BJP releases first list of 71 candidates for Bihar Assembly elections
Navi Mumbai Airport To Be Renamed After DB Patil, Says Maharashtra CM Fadnavis
Fadnavis also announced that the process of renaming airports in Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) is underway
How the Water Wheel is changing lives in rural India
In 2015, Habitat for Humanity India introduced the water wheel to 500 families in Aurangabad. The post How the Water Wheel is changing lives in rural India appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
Taj Mahal draws 69 lakh visitors in 202425, remains Indias most visited monument
NEW DELHI: The Taj Mahal, Indias iconic white marble marvel in Agra, has once again emerged as the countrys most visited monument, attracting 69 lakh visitors, including six lakh foreign tourists, in 202425. The footfall at the Mughal-era tomb accounted for nearly 12 per cent of all tourist entries at the 145 ticketed monuments protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The 17th-century mausoleum of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal has been the top revenue-generating and most visited monument for more than a decade, according to the Ministry of Tourism. According to the latest India Tourism Data Compendium released by the Ministry of Tourism, other popular sites for domestic visitors include the 13th-century Sun Temple at Konark (35.7 lakh) and the 12th13th-century red sandstone tower in Delhi, Qutub Minar (32 lakh). With 2.2 lakh visitors, the Agra Fort, another Mughal-era structure, stands at second place on the list of historical buildings receiving 2.24 lakh visitors. It is followed by Qutub Minar (2.20 lakh). Delhis Red Fort (28.84 lakh), the Tomb of Rabia Durrani (Bibi Ka Maqbara) in Aurangabad (20.04 lakh), the Ellora Caves in Aurangabad (17.39 lakh), Golkonda Fort in Hyderabad (15.63 lakh), Agra Fort (15.45 lakh), Upper Fort Aguada in Goa (13.58 lakh) and Charminar, which is also in Hyderabad (13.43 lakh), had the highest number of domestic visitors in 202425. Humayuns Tomb in Delhi (1.58 lakh), Baori at Abhaneri in Rajasthan (1.16 lakh), Fatehpur Sikri (97,000), Itimad-ud-Daulah in Agra (90,367), the Nalanda Excavation Site (88,151), the Red Fort in Delhi (79,311) and the noted ancient Buddhist site Shravasti of Uttar Pradesh, Sahet-Mahet (73,312), are among the top sites frequented by foreign tourists. The footfall at other ticketed monuments in the year was 2.93 crore, including 6.21 lakh visitors from foreign countries. In total, the ASIs protected sites received 5.66 crore visitors, of which 24.15 lakh were from abroad. The statistics on the number of visitors to monuments are maintained by the office of the Director General, ASI, based on the records of the number of tickets sold at the monuments to both Indian and foreign nationals. There are 3,697 ancient monuments, archaeological sites and remains under the ASI located in various states and union territories. For administrative purposes, to ensure better conservation and upkeep of monuments, the states and UTs have been divided into 34 ASI Circles and three mini Circles, each under the jurisdiction of a Superintending Archaeologist.
Karnatakas Shivamogga Tiger and Lion Safari to get new animals from Indore, Aurangabad zoos
In return, Shivamogga zoo will be sending two Asiatic lions, sloth bears, and golden jackals each to the Aurangabad zoo on September 25
Bombay High Court refuses to interfere in ward formation, says elections cannot be derailed
The Aurangabad Bench of the Bombay High Court dismisses petitions challenging Zilla Parishad elections, citing Constitutional bar on interference and urgency of polls
Three J&K Fencers qualify for Asian Games 2026 Core Group trials
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Sept 15: Out of 13 fencers from Jammu and Kashmir who participated in the Core Group Selection trials for the Asian Games 2026, only three have secured their place in the initial core group. The successful fencers are Shreya Gupta, Vishal Thapar and Ajay Kumar. The trials were held at SAI NCOE Patiala (Epee), Army Sports Institute Pune (Sabre) and SAI NCOE Aurangabad (Foil), featuring top athletes from across India. Shreya Gupta displayed remarkable resilience, securing [] The post Three J&K Fencers qualify for Asian Games 2026 Core Group trials appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NEW DELHI: India accounts for 17% of the worlds population and 20% of the global disease burden, yet fewer than four percent of international clinical trials are conducted in the country. This gap means Indian patients often wait years after global approvals to access breakthrough therapies. Now, a new initiative, aligning it with Central Drugs StandardControl Organisations (CDSCO) priorities to boost participation of government sites in Phase 3 and 4 trials, has trained nearly 400 professionals, including investigators, ethics committee members and support staff to meet the global Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards. The initiative is aimed at strengthening Indias role in global clinical research and facilitating faster patient access to breakthrough therapies. Launched by Roche Pharma India, the company on Saturday announced the successful completion of its first phase of the Advanced Inclusive Research (AIR) Site Alliance initiative in India, in which it partnered with 10 leading government hospitals from across the country. This milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening Indias readiness to participate in global and local clinical trials, enabling faster patient access to breakthrough therapies and ensuring Indias diverse population is better represented in clinical research, said the company. Launched in 2023, the initiative focused on streamlining internal processes, building digital readiness for better data capture and monitoring and delivering tailored training programs to enhance operational efficiency. By equipping leading government hospitals with global-standard clinical trial capabilities, we are helping to bring innovations faster to India. This is a crucial step toward building equitable healthcare and shaping treatments that are relevant for India, said Dr Sivabalan Sivanesan, Country Medical Director, Roche Pharma India. Dr Amit Sehrawat, Associate Professor, Medical Oncology and Haematology, AIIMS, Rishikesh, said, This initiative is a strong example of how publicprivate partnerships can accelerate capacity-building and strengthen Indias clinical research ecosystem. India carries a significant burden of cancer, infectious and chronic diseases, yet has historically been underrepresented in global trials. By enabling government hospitals to participate in cutting-edge research, this program ensures Indian patients are part of the evidence generation process helping make treatments safer, more effective and relevant for our population. Dr Vyunkta Raju K N, Professor, Dept of Paediatric Neurology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health, said: The AIR Site Alliance program has been transformational. Our investigators and ethics committees are now better equipped to conduct research of global standards. This collaboration has given our institutions new opportunities to bring advanced research directly to our patients. The 10 hospitals, which are part of this initiative are: AIIMS, Rishikesh; Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi; PGIMS, Rohtak; Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Center, Muzaffarpur; Balco Medical Centre, Raipur; Government Medical College, Aurangabad; Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health, Bengaluru; Dr. Bhubaneswar Borooah Cancer Institute (BBCI), Guwahati; Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute & Hospital, Lucknow and Acharya Harihar Post Graduate Institute of Cancer, Cuttack. The project aligns closely with Indias national priorities, including the CDSCOs encouragement for greater participation of government sites in Phase 3 and 4 trials and the Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation Policy (PRIP) initiative that explicitly encouraged industry-academia partnerships to strengthen R&D capabilities, build clinical trial infrastructure and enhance Indias global competitiveness in innovative research, the company said. This initiative supports the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 - creating a future-ready, world-class healthcare ecosystem where India emerges as a global hub for clinical research, accelerates access to breakthrough innovations, and delivers equitable health outcomes for every citizen, it added. The AIR Site Alliance is Roches flagship global initiative designed to expand access to clinical trials for underrepresented populations. Already implemented in the US, UK, Canada, and Africa, the AIR Site Alliance is now active in India, helping to close representation gaps, generate more robust scientific evidence and accelerate equitable healthcare outcomes worldwide, the company added.
Kumaraswamy Discusses Way Forward For HMT In Annual Performance Review Meet
HMT Limited, a central public sector enterprise, comes under the administrative control of the Heavy Industries Ministry. It has two manufacturing units -- a food processing machinery unit at Aurangabad and an auxiliary business division in Bengaluru
Bihar cabinet approves industrial investment promotion package with free land, major incentives
PATNA: The Bihar cabinet on Tuesday approved the Bihar Industrial Investment Promotion Package 2025 aimed at attracting industrial investment, particularly large private investments, in the state. The package includes provisions such as free land, financial incentives and other related concessions to create a conducive atmosphere for the states rapid industrial development. The package, which received cabinet approval at its meeting on Tuesday, is part of the Bihar Industrial Investment Promotion Policy 2016 and will remain in force until 31 March 2026 for investors. The decision regarding the promotion package is in line with the announcements made by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to grant concessions to industries. It also aligns with the governments commitment to create one crore employment opportunities in the state over the next five years, Bihar Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena said. While giving details of the main features of the industrial promotion package at a post-cabinet meeting briefing, Chief Secretary Meena said that the state government has decided to transfer land free of cost to the investors willing to set up industries in Bihar. FREE LAND FOR INDUSTRIES Stating that the land will be transferred at a token amount of 1, Meena said that there are three types of schemes from which an investor can choose. If an investor makes an investment of 100 crore and creates 1,000 direct employment opportunities, the investor will get 10 acres of land from the government free of cost. Those willing to invest 1,000 crore will get 25 acres of land depending on the project, whereas if a Fortune 500 company invests in the state, it will get 10 acres of land, Meena said, while expressing confidence that the move will attract big-ticket investments to the state. Other investors, who do not opt for any of the above schemes, will also get land at a 50 per cent discount on BIADAs land rate for setting up industries in the state, said the Chief Secretary. He was accompanied by Development Commissioner Pratyaya Amrit, Industries Department Additional Chief Secretary Mihir Kumar Singh and Cabinet Secretariat Department Additional Chief Secretary S Siddharth during the press conference. Stating that investors will have to choose from any of the three financial incentive schemes, Chief Secretary Meena said that as per Option I, an investor who gets a term loan from financial institutions will receive interest subvention of up to 40 crore plus SGST reimbursement of up to 100 per cent. Option II will give investors net SGST reimbursement of up to 300 per cent of the approved project cost for 14 years, whereas Option III will enable investors to avail themselves of a 30 per cent capital subsidy of the total approved project cost. It is completely up to the investors as to which option they want to choose from, the Chief Secretary said, adding that the export incentive has been doubled from 20 lakh to 40 lakh per year, and the time frame has also been increased to 14 years to boost exports from the state. Talking about the employment generation incentive, he said that the government will provide 5,000 per month per employee besides giving support of up to 300 per cent on account of ESI and EPF expenditure. For other units, the government will provide 2,000 per month per employee as an employment generation incentive, plus 100 per cent support on ESI and EPF, Meena said, and added that 20,000 per worker will be given as a skill development incentive. The package also includes 25 per cent reimbursement of up to 1 crore for environmental protection incentive. Additionally, 20 per cent or a maximum amount of 6 lakh will be given as a renewable energy usage incentive. ACQUISITION OF 14,600 ACRES OF LAND APPROVED IN PAST ONE YEAR The state government has already taken an in-principle decision to set up an industrial area or park in every district of the state, he said, while stating that the government has approved the acquisition of 14,600 acres of land for 32 industrial areas/parks in the past one year, whereas BIADA has acquired 8,000 acres of land since its inception. All the industrial areas/parks have either been developed or are being developed near expressway highways or high-speed corridors, Meena said, emphasising that all these industrial areas are well-connected, having both road and rail connectivity. For example, industrial areas in Rohtas and Aurangabad are close to the Varanasi-Kolkata expressway, while the industrial area in Darbhanga is located near the Amas-Darbhanga expressway. Similarly, the industrial area in Purnea is located near the Patna-Purnea expressway, he added. In yet another significant decision, a Fin Tech City will be developed adjacent to a plot of the Multi-Modal Logistic Park (MMLP) at Fatuha circle in Patna district, Chief Secretary said, adding that the Fin Tech City will be developed on the lines of GIFT (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) located between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. The cabinet sanctioned 408.81 crore for the acquisition of 242 acres of land for the Fin Tech City. The Infrastructure Development Authority, Patna, will acquire the land. The development of Fin Tech City will help in bringing containerised cargo directly to Patna from ports, and from Patna, it will be further exported to other countries, Meena said. LAND ACQUISITION FOR EXPANSION OF INDUSTRIAL AREA In order to expand the industrial area in different districts, the Infrastructure Development Authority (IDA), Patna, will acquire a total of 1,927.5 acres of land worth 797.1 crore in six districts: Bhojpur, Sheikhpura, Rohtas, Sheohar, Darbhanga and Purnea. The district-wise break-up of land acquisition is as follows: 249.48 acres of land will be acquired at a cost of 52.62 crore in Bhojpur district; 250.06 acres of land at 42.16 crore in Sheikhpura; 492.85 acres of land at 154.07 crore in Rohtas; 270.01 acres of land at 105.27 crore in Sheohar; 385.45 acres of land at 376.07 crore in Darbhanga; and 279.65 acres of land at 66.91 crore in Purnea district. A total of 26 decisions, including the industrial investment promotion package, were taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
