NIA conducts raid in Bihar's Bhagalpur, Bhojpur in fake currency racket case

PATNA: Sleuths of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted simultaneous raids in Bihars Bhagalpur and Bhojpur districts on Wednesday in connection with the circulation of counterfeit Indian currency notes in the state. Documents related to transactions of money and electronic devices were recovered during the operation. An NIA team reached Bhagalpur early in the morning and carried out searches in the house of Nagre Saddam, a software engineer currently lodged in the Beur central jail in Patna. The raiding team recovered Indian currency notes, suspected to be counterfeit, from Saddams house located at Bhikhanpur under Ishachak police station limits. Another team conducted a search on the residential premises of two close associates of Nazre Saddams in Bhojpur districts. Authoritative sources said that raids were conducted at Koran Dihtri village under the Sahar police station and Chhatarpura village under the Chauri police station limit in the district. According to police sources, the house of an Urdu school teacher was searched by the NIA team at Chhatarpura village. The teacher in question has close links with Nazre Saddam, who was arrested for his involvement in fake currency notes in September 2024 in the East Champaran district, close to the Indo-Nepal border. The residential premises of two suspects--Mohammad Nehal and Mohammad Wariswere searched by the raiding team. During the investigation, it came to light that Nazre used to supply counterfeit Indian currency to those operating in Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir. He also enjoyed close relationships with fake currency dealers of the Anantnag area of Jammu and Kashmir, who had connections with terrorist outfits as well. Mohammad Sarfaraz is one among them. Nazres links with a Nepal-based dealer Santosh Sahni also came to the fore. Sources in NIA said that some important documents related to money transactions and electronic devices were seized during Wednesdays operation. The NIA officials engaged in the operation, however, refused to disclose about the seizures. Later, the NIA team quizzed Mohammad Nisiuzzama, father of Nazre Saddam, at his residence in Bhagalpur.

PM Modi to address public meeting in poll-bound Bihar on Feb. 24

PM will release Kisan Samman Nidhi assistance at Bhagalpur meeting; He is likely to unveil development projects worth over 2,000 crore for the region

BJP aims for over three lakh turnout at Modis Bhagalpur rally on Feb 24

DNA TV Show: RSS' Bihar model ahead of Assembly elections in state

PM Modi will visit Bhagalpur on February 24th at 11 am to address a public rally ahead of the 2025 Bihar elections

PM Modi to address public rally in Bhagalpur ahead of Bihar elections

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a public rally in Bhagalpur on February 24th, accompanied by Bihar CM Nitish Kumar. The rally, focused on the Kisan Samman Nidhi distribution, expects around 5 lakh farmers and will emphasize the NDA's strong alliance ahead of the 2025 Bihar elections. BJP leaders aim to win over 200 seats in the state.

Mentally challenged man lynched by mob after beating two people to death in Bihar

PATNA: A 36-year-old mentally challenged man was lynched by a mob after he allegedly beat two people to death in Bihar's Bhagalpur district, police said on Saturday. The incident took place in Makandpur village in Nathnagar police station area on Friday night. The police said, Chotu Kumar, a mentally challenged youth, attacked his uncle Rajeev Rai (68), Jai Prakash Ram (64) and four others with an iron rod. While Rajeev Rai died on the spot, Jai Prakash Ram succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Irked over the incident, locals attacked Chotu with bamboo sticks and iron rods, causing grievous injuries to him. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to injuries during treatment. Deputy Superintendent of Police (Town II) Rakesh Kumar said, Tension prevails in the village following the incident. A posse of armed police forces has been deployed in the village as a precautionary measure, he added. Two of the seriously injuredChotu Rai and Kare Raiare undergoing treatment at Mayaganj Hospital, where their condition is stated to be critical. Kare Rai was later referred to Patna Medical College Hospital (PMCH) for better treatment. DSP Kumar said that the reason behind the incident has yet to be ascertained. A forensic team visited the spot and collected samples, he said.

Mentally challenged man lynched after beating 2 to death

A 36-year-old man, suspected to be mentally challenged, was lynched by a mob in Bihar's Bhagalpur district after he allegedly beat two people to death. The incident took place in Makandpur village on Friday night. Chotu Kumar allegedly beat Rajeev Rai (68), Jai Prakash Ram (65), and three others with a wooden log. Rajeev Rai died on the spot, while Jai Prakash Ram succumbed to his injuries during treatment. The other three are undergoing treatment at the nearest government hospital. By the time police reached the spot, locals were beating Chotu Kumar. He was taken to a government hospital where he died during treatment. Further investigation is underway.

Bhagalpur gears up for PMs rally on Feb 24

Hindu Woman Protests Outside Married Muslim Lover's Home In Bhagalpur, Police Step In

The married woman from Ghaziabad left her two children to be with her lover, now married, and from a different faith. After a dispute, police intervened, and a report was filed

Modi to visit poll-bound Bihar on Feb 24, preparations on

PATNA: The BJP has put its preparations for PM Narendra Modis visit to Bhagalpur on February 24 in full gear by reaching out to people from across all sections of the society in view of the Bihar assembly poll due in October-November this year. Union ministers have been engaged for making preparations for the PMs visit to conduct the programme on a mega scale so that it could set tone for the assembly election. They are visiting areas assigned to them and mobilising people to attend the event. The PM will participate in Kisan Samman Nidhi programme. During the event, he will transfer money to the accounts of farmers from across the country. The BJP has deputed partys office-bearers, ministers, MPs and MLAs to make Modis visit an occasion to set the narrative of development before the polls. Leaders from BJP allies JD (U) and LJP (RV) are also making efforts to ensure good turnout at the event. Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary said preparations for the PMs visit to Bhagalpur on February 24 were going on in full swing. Workers from 12 districts of the region have been asked to make the programme a grand success. In another development, Bihar legislatures month-long Budget session will commence from February 28 as the NDA government would present its last Budget before the state goes to the polls. The Budget session will conclude on March 28, according to a notification issued by the state parliamentary affairs department. On the first day, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan will address the joint session of both Houses of the state legislature. The government will also present the state economic survey on the first day of the session. Choudhary, who also holds finance portfolio in the Nitish Kumar-led government, will present the budget on March 3, the last budget of the present tenure. The assembly will have a total 20 sittings in the budget session. Since it is an election year, it is expected that Nitish Kumar government will pay focus on sectors like education, health, agriculture and transport.

Over four lakh voters' names deleted from electoral rolls in Bihar

PATNA: Ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for October-November this year, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has deleted the names of over four lakh voters from the electoral rolls. The move comes just before an ECI teams scheduled visit to the state to assess election preparedness. A team from the Election Commission is set to arrive in Patna for a two-day visit before the Holi festival next month. During the visit, the team will hold meetings with district magistrates and senior officials from various agencies to evaluate the situation ahead of the polls. Apart from Patna, the team will also visit Muzaffarpur and Bhagalpur. According to sources from the State Election Commission, 4,09,434 voters names have been removed from the electoral rolls for various reasons. Of these, 2,37,967 are male voters, 1,71,421 are female voters, and 46 are transgender voters. On the other hand, 9,94,466 new voters have been added to the list. The deletion of a significant number of female voters, particularly in districts like Kishanganj, Araria, Nalanda, and Madhubani, is expected to stir controversy. Opposition parties are reportedly preparing to raise this issue during the Election Commission's visit. Sources indicated that the EC team will also review the status of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems during meetings with officials. The schedule for the 243-member Bihar Assembly elections is likely to be announced in September, with voting expected to take place in November after major festivals like Dussehra, Diwali, and Chhath. Meanwhile, all political parties have begun preparations for the elections. Several top political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and NCP (SP) leader Sharad Pawar, are expected to visit Bihar by the end of February. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has already visited the state on February 5 to attend the birth anniversary celebrations of Dalit icon and freedom fighter Jaglal Choudhary.

Bihar beckons as PM, Rahul, Pawar to visit state in Feb

PATNA: The cream of Indias political leadership will descend on Bihar this month, raising an early bugle to the states assembly election slated for later this year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has plans to go to Bhagalpur in eastern Bihar in February. The date for his visit is not yet known. He will launch several welfare schemes for farmers and release the 19th instalment of the PM Kisan Nidhi Yojna that will benefit around 13 crore farmers nationwide. Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, arrives in Patna on February 5, his second visit in less than a month. State Congress president and Rajya Sabha member Akhilesh Prasad Singh said that Gandhi will participate in the politically significant birth anniversary function of freedom fighter Jaglal Choudhary, popularly called Gandhi of Bihar. Gandhi previously visited Patna on January 18 to address a Samvidhan Suraksha Sammelan. He made it a point to meet BPSC exam candidates protesting paper leaks. He also called on RJD chief Lalu Prasad. Former Union minister and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar will also be in Bihar, his first in nearly two decades. He will land in Katihar on February 27 to discuss strengthening the partys support base in Katihar and adjoining districts. Katihar district is part of the Muslim-dominated Seemanchal region of the state. Congress leader Tariq Anwar, a founding member of the undivided NCP, represents the Katihar Lok Sabha seat. The party reportedly eyes 150 of the 243 assembly constituencies.

Ravaged by the 1989 communal riot, Babarchak in Banka is now Bihar's first smart village

PATNA: Babarchak village in Bihars Banka district, once ravaged by a frenzied mob during the 1989 communal riots, has earned the distinction of becoming the states first Smart Village, with modern facilities now available at residents doorsteps. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar visited the village in Rajaun block on Sunday, and inaugurated the new amenities. He was accompanied by his cabinet colleagues Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, who expressed their delight at offering these facilities as residents gave them a warm welcome. In 1989, the village was severely impacted by communal violence, and many residents fled to safer locations due to fears of further attacks. For decades, the village remained deserted, with houses abandoned and locked. However, most of the residents have since returned, and the village now spans 11 acres with significantly improved living conditions. So far, 64 families have received pucca (permanent) houses, constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The village now boasts a modern school, hospital, sports complex, solar street lights, park, anganwadi kendra, community center, health and wellness center, rural markets, and more. Plans are underway to provide pucca houses for 165 additional families under the same scheme. Banka District Magistrate Anshul Kumar said that the residents of Babarchak now enjoy basic amenities comparable to those in urban towns and cities. The new houses are equipped with essential utilities, he added. Furthermore, a skill development center has been established to train locals, helping them become economically self-reliant. Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have also been formed to empower women. Soon, Babarchak will become a growth center, and its residents will no longer need to leave the state in search of jobs, he emphasised. Former Rajaun Block Pramukh Suman Paswan recalled that the village previously lacked road connectivity, forcing residents to walk long distances to the local Nawada market. Now, this village is proud to have all basic facilities, he said with a smile. Arti Devi, Mukhiya of Nawada-Kharauni Panchayat, expressed pride in Babarchak's transformation into the states first Smart Village. The residents are overjoyed with the government's efforts and have thanked Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for this initiative. All families who had migrated to areas such as Baliyas (Dhoraiya block), Agarpur, and Pithna (Bhagalpur) have now returned to their newly built homes. With Babarchak declared the states first Smart Village, it appears that the dreams of former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalamwho envisioned providing urban-like amenities to rural areas through the Provision of Urban Amenities in Rural Areas (PURA)have been realized.

JD(U) MP surrenders in court over attack on journalists, gets bail

Two journalists have alleged that Bhagalpur MP Ajay Mandal and his men abused them and brutally attacked them while the two were covering the arrangements at the airport here in anticipation of Chief Minister Nitish Kumars visit. It is also alleged that the men snatched the journalists phones and formatted them.

JD(U) MP and his men abuse and thrash two scribes in Bhagalpur

Alleged abuse took place at Bhagalpur airport ahead of Bihar CMs planned visit; phones were seized and reformatted, with a number of videos deleted, according to local journalists

Bihar police arrest two for stealing human skulls from graveyard for black magic

PATNA: Bihar Police claimed to have solved the mystery behind missing human heads from graves in Bhagalpur district after arresting two individuals on Wednesday. Acting on a tip-off, a police team raided the hideouts of the suspects in Saraiya and Bora villages under Goradiha and Amdanda police stations and arrested Mohammad Imdad and Mohammad Azad. The two confessed to their crime, revealing that they had visited the graveyard in Afsar Nagar, beheaded bodies buried there, and took the skulls away. Locals claimed that in the past five years, miscreants had stolen the heads of at least six bodies from the graveyard in Asaraf Nagar under Sanhaila police station limits. Police launched an investigation after Badiru Zaman lodged a complaint on 22 January, stating that the head of his mother, Bibi Noorjavi Khatoon, was missing from her grave. He claimed that he had buried her six months ago. Recently, a child's body also went missing from its grave, further intensifying resentment among the local minority community. The victims body was mutilated, and the head was stolen from the burial site. Station House Officer (SHO) of Sanhaila police station, Chandan Kumar, said, The suspects confessed to their crime and revealed that the stolen skulls were used to extort money from people under the pretext of black magic. A human skull was recovered from the possession of Mohammad Imdad. Both suspects, residents of Banka district, were produced in court and remanded in judicial custody for 14 days. The SHO stated that the accused were in constant contact via mobile phones. The call detail records of their mobile phones will be obtained to establish their connections in the theft of human skulls from the graveyard, he added. The graveyard in Asaraf Nagar village, under Fazilpur Sakrama panchayat, serves at least half a dozen villages. Locals alleged that some shepherds had damaged the boundary wall, making the site vulnerable to trespassers. They have demanded immediate repairs and proper fencing of the graveyard.

Party hopping begins, two from JD(U) join Congress in Bihar

PATNA : Party-hopping has picked up in Bihar as the assembly election draws near, charging the states political atmosphere. Leaders have begun switching sides in the hope of contesting the election representing parties of their choice. The parties embrace them with open arms to encash their caste identities and winnability factors. On Tuesday, two senior leaders of the ruling Janata Dal (United) --Ali Anwar, former Rajya Sabha member and Bhagirath Manjhi, son of Bihars Mountain Man Dasarath Manjhi joined the Congress. In addition, Manoj Prajapati, state president of Akhil Bharatiya Prajapati Kumbhkar Sangh, along with other leaders, joined the grand old party. Ali Anwar is an influential Pasmanda community leader. Pasmandas form the lions share among the backward Muslim votes. He is a two-term Rajya Sabha member and All-India Pasmanda Muslim Samaj president. The Congress is trying to strengthen its support base among backward Muslims and Dalits through Ali Anwar and Dasarath Manjhi, political analyst Pramod Kumar said. On Saturday, state RJD vice president Shobha Kushwaha joined Chief Minister Nitish Kumars JD (U) along with a large number of supporters. The party hopes her entry will help consolidate the Luv-Kush (Kurmi-Koeri) vote base. Shobhas induction comes when the RJD is trying hard to make inroads into the Kushwaha vote bank. In the last Lok Sabha polls, it had fielded three Kushwaha candidates. It appointed Abhay Kushwaha, who won the election from Aurangabad, as its parliamentary party leader in the Lok Sabha. Shobha was also a member of the Bihar State Commission for the Protection of Child Rights. A prominent leader of the Dhanuk caste (listed as EBC in Bihar), Ajay Rai from Bhagalpur, also joined JD (U) on the occasion. The JD (U) claimed he supported former poll strategist Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party. Recently, former JD (U) vice president Mangani Lal Mandal was inducted into the RJD by party leader Tejashwi Yadav. With the help of Mandal, Tejashwi is trying to woo the EBC vote bank. The EBC support is considered crucial for getting and retaining power in Bihar. This has been Nitishs core vote bank for the last 20 years. In the previous Lok Sabha elections, he had inducted Mukesh Sahni into the alliance to make inroads into the Mallah vote bank. Mandals influence is believed to be in Madhubani, Darbhanga, Samastipur and Muzaffarpur of north Bihar. He has been an MLA and MP from Jhanjharpur. This time, RJD celebrated former chief minister Karpoori Thakurs birth anniversary in Madhubani districts Phulparas on Friday, considered as the Karmabhhomi of Thakur, who was also from the EBC category. In the 2020 assembly election, the grand alliance could not perform well in Samastipur, Darbhanga, Madhubani and Muzaffarpur. While the RJD won 11, Congress and CPI (M) won a seat each in Muzaffarpur and Samastipur.

PM Modi to visit Bihar in February; 'Centre makes false promises in state to gain political mileage', accuses RJD

PATNA: Taking a jibe at Prime minister Narendra Modi's proposed visit to Bihar next month, main opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) said on Monday that PM Modi will once again befool people of the state by making hollow promises as assembly elections are due later this year. Leader of opposition in the Bihar assembly Tejashwi Prasad Yadav said that PM Modi and his cabinet colleagues will make a beeline as assembly elections are approaching. Every day, someone from the centre will visit the state and make false promises to people of the state to gain political mileage in the elections, he added. Attacking BJP, Tejashwi, who is also RJD's chief ministerial face, said that everything promised during elections would be forgotten by the saffron party. They have nothing to do with the development of Bihar. They make tall claims during elections and everything is forgotten after the results are out, he told the media. He, however, contended that the people of Bihar will not fall in the trap of their 'jumla' and give a befitting answer in the upcoming assembly elections. People of the state feel deceived by PM Modi and they will not allow themselves to be swayed by emotions this time. Whatever PM Modi promised earlier has proved hollow, he alleged. Tejashwi said that if PM Modi has affection and love for the people of Bihar, he should first accord central university status to Patna University and give special category status to the state. Will these things he do for the benefit of people of Bihar? he asked. Echoing similar views, RJD spokesperson Mritunjay Tiwari said that PM Modi will again talk about Bihar and its people as elections are to be held in October-November this year. He will talk about Bihari's luscious 'Litti Chokha' and 'Chhath' festival but will not deliver anything, he alleged.Tiwari claimed that PM Modi will return empty handed as people of the state have already understood his political gimmicks. He also slammed the NDA government at the centre for its stand on the Waqf Board issue. Prime Minister Modi is expected to reach Bhagalpur on February 24 to offer mega schemes to the farmers of the state. On that day, PM Modi will transfer Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna money to the accounts of farmers. Preparations for the PM's visit, the first in the new year, have already started in Bhagalpur. Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, who was here to attend the 101th birth anniversary celebration of social leader and former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur on Friday, informed the media that PM Modi will visit Bhagalpur on February 24 to distribute PM Kishan Nidhi among farmers. Chauhan also held a meeting with Bihar deputy chief ministers--Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha and other senior leaders of the party on PM's proposed visit. Meanwhile, RJD MP from Patliputra Misa Bharti exuded confidence that the opposition 'INDIA' bloc will form the next government in Bihar. RJD and INDIA bloc stand with people of Bihar while addressing issues like inflation, unemployment and providing government jobs, she said. On the other hand, BJP leaders defended PM Modi saying that the opposition has no issues to raise ahead of the assembly elections. They are trying to divert the people's attention from state's development during the NDA rule and achievements of the NDA government both at the centre and in the state, BJP leader Rakesh Kumar said.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar postpones Pragati Yatra due to ill health

PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has postponed his ongoing Pragati Yatra due to ill health. Scheduled to visit Purnea on January 27 as part of the third phase of his yatra, the CM is reportedly suffering from seasonal fever and is expected to recover after rest. A letter issued by the CM secretariat on January 27 stated that he would resume the yatra on January 28. Nitish Kumar launched the Pragati Yatra from Bagaha in West Champaran district on December 22. During this statewide initiative, he reviews various development schemes in meetings held with district officials. The third phase of the yatra, which began on January 16, was initially planned to conclude on January 29, covering seven districts in 12 days. Despite his illness, the Chief Minister attended the Republic Day flag-hoisting ceremony at Gandhi Maidan on January 26 but skipped a reception hosted at Raj Bhavan by the newly appointed Governor Arif Mohammad Khan. Nitish also missed unfurling the national flag at a Mahadalit hamlet, a tradition he initiated in 2005 after assuming office. The Chief Minister was in Saharsa on January 23, where he laid the foundation stone and inaugurated 52 development schemes worth 210 crore. After resuming the yatra, he will visit Katihar on January 28 and Madhepura on January 30. The fourth phase is scheduled to begin on February 1 in Bhagalpur, followed by visits to Banka on February 2, Munger on February 6, Lakhisarai and Sheikhpura on February 8, Jamui on February 10, and Nawada on February 11.

Bhagalpur weavers bag Rs 5 crore contracts

PATNA: The weavers of Bhagalpur in Bihar are on cloud nine after receiving contract orders of saffron-coloured gamcha (towel), sarees, shirts, and other pieces of silk clothing for the Maha Kumbh Mela starting January 13 at Prayag Raj in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh. Around 200 weavers of Bihars Silk City are working overtime to meet the deadline. A senior functionary of the Bhagalpur Weavers Association said the weavers have received contract orders worth Rs 5 crore. The demand may go up in the days to come. Orders have been placed for saffron-coloured towels, sarees, shirts and bandis in bulk. We are working overtime to meet the deadline, said Mohammad Tariq, a weaver of Champanagar. He said the cloth merchants of Prayag Raj have given the weavers a 15-day deadline for the supply of 15,000 sarees, 10,000 shirts, and 1,000 bandis made of matka silk. We are more than happy with these orders, revealed Tariq, who has been in the business for over 15 years. Champanagar, a hub of weavers who usually wore a deserted look, is buzzing with activities these days. A Bhagalpur-based garments dealer, Kaushal Kumar, said that he has received orders of bandis and shirts made of linen. The bandis and shirts, all in saffron colour, are being prepared at the karkhana (stitching shop), he said. At least 70 weavers are engaged in supplying Bhagalpuri silk sarees, lehenga, quilts and other clothes to foreign countries such as Russia, Nepal, US, Italy and Japan. Another weaver Mohammad Tahsin Sabab said that the saffron-coloured gumcha are the favourite of Nagas and saints.

Patna Diary | Right time to take right turn: Lalu

RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has often courted controversy with his statements; his latest poster is no exception. While inviting Nitish to rejoin the Mahagathabandhan, Lalu targeted him in a poster. He suggested that now is the right time to take the right turn, implying that Tejashwis leadership could lead to benefits such as the Mai, Behan Maan Yojana, free electricity for up to 200 units, and job opportunities. He warned that on the Nitish Path, there would only be unemployment, crumbling infrastructure, and rising crime. Lalu had invited Nitish to return to the alliance camp, but Nitish declined. Tejashwi accuses retired babu of tax collection According to Tejashwi Yadav, Bihar is currently grappling with the DK Tax syndrome. The LoP in the state assembly sharpened his criticism of CM Nitish Kumar, alleging that a retired bureaucrat is effectively running the government and collecting funds, dubbed DK Tax, from officials in exchange for favourable postings. Tejashwi claimed that many competent officers have been sidelined due to their failure to pay this tax. Since 2018, the powers of the chief secretary and the DGP have also been diminished. Yadav argues that a group of retired bureaucrats is making key decisions. Darbhanga airport to go international Among positive developments, the state cabinet led by CM Nitish Kumar, has approved a proposal to acquire an additional 89.75 acres of land for the expansion and development of Darbhanga Airport into an international facility. Additionally, the cabinet has authorized the acquisition of 139 acres of land valued at `207 crore for the expansion of Raxaul Airport, which is located near the Indo-Nepal border in East Champaran district. Alongside Patna, Gaya is another international airport in the state. Furthermore, ongoing efforts are being made to develop and upgrade other airports, including those in Purnea, Bhagalpur, and Muzaffarpur. Ramashankar Our correspondent in Bihar ramashankar@newindianexpress.com

Maruti Suzuki signs MoA with Bihar Govt Transport Dept

5 driving test tracks to be automated at Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Gaya, Purnia and Saran 2 driving test tracks automated by Maruti Suzuki at Aurangabad and Patna are already operational Automated Driving Test Tracks (ADTTs) for Two-wheeler (TW) and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) driving license testing MSIL to increase the number of Automated Driving Test Tracks to 44 across the country, from the current 27 New Delhi : Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Transport Department, Government of Bihar to automate driving license test tracks at Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Gaya, Purnia and Saran. The MoA was signed in the presence of Smt. Sheela Kumari, Honble Transport Minister of Bihar and Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal (IAS), Secretary, Transport Department, Government of Bihar. The MoA was signed by Shri Navin Kumar (IAS), State Transport Commissioner, Government of Bihar and Shri Tarun Agarwal, Senior Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility, Maruti Suzuki. With zero human intervention, the Automated Driving Test Tracks are aimed to make license testing more comprehensive, efficient, and transparent. The rigorous and standardized evaluation process is designed to assess candidates according to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR). Test results are also automatically generated. Applauding Maruti Suzuki on its road safety efforts, Smt. Sheela Kumari, Honble Transport Minister of Bihar said, I applaud Maruti Suzuki, Indias leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, for their exemplary commitment to road safety through nationwide programs. One of their innovative initiatives, the Automated Driving Test Tracks, ensures that only skilled drivers get a driving license, making our roads safer for everyone. We successfully automated the driving test tracks in Aurangabad and Patna with them and have seen drivers coming better prepared for the license testing. We are glad to partner with Maruti Suzuki once again to develop five more Automated Driving Test Tracks in Bihar. This collaboration will significantly contribute toward reducing road accidents and promoting responsible driving practices in our state of Bihar. Mr. Rahul Bharti, Executive Officer, Corporate Affairs, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, Maruti Suzukis association with the Bihar government goes back to 2018 when we set up the states first Institute of Driving and Traffic Research (IDTR) to offer driver training in Aurangabad. Since then, we have inaugurated ADTTs at Aurangabad in 2020 and Patna in 2021. We thank the Government of Bihar for further entrusting us with this road safety project. Maruti Suzuki has been steadfast in its commitment to the 5 pillars of road safety - engineering, education, evaluation, enforcement, and emergency care. Automated driving license testing is a vital component of the evaluation process. Equipped with high-definition cameras and an integrated IT system, ADTTs guarantee a comprehensive, efficient, and transparent testing process ensuring that only skilled drivers are awarded licenses. Mr. Bharti added, According to data shared by the Union Road Transport Ministry, 15.3 lakh lives were lost in road accidents in the 10 years between 2014-2023 in India. Road death rate in the country is around 250 per 10,000 km as opposed to 119 in China, 57 in the USA, and 11 in Australia. An important aspect of road safety is drivers skill and knowledge of traffic rules. Automated Driving Test Tracks will ensure that license seekers are better prepared and only skilled drivers are awarded a driving license. This will bring a positive transformation that will go a long way to reduce road accidents caused by human error. Maruti Suzuki Automated Driving Test Tracks across India Over the past years, Maruti Suzuki has systematically automated 27 driving test tracks (across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and Haryana). The Company is in the process of setting up 12 additional ADTTs in Uttar Pradesh. With the addition of these 5 test tracks in Bihar, the Company will complete automation of 44 driving test tracks across the country.

Class 10 Student Dies By Suicide In Bihar, Family Says Was Unhappy With Marks

A class 10 student died by suicide after allegedly shooting himself with his father's licenced revolver at his residence in Bihar's Bhagalpur district on Sunday, police said.

AAI chairman instructs agencies to complete Patna airport new terminal building by January 25

PATNA: Chairman of Airport Authority of India (AAI) Vipin Kumar on Friday reviewed, ongoing works of the new terminal building of Jayaprakash Narayan International (JPNI) Airport in Patna and issued instructions to the agencies and engineers at the site to expedite and complete all remaining works to make the airport ready by January next year. He also asked the airport director to ensure seamless coordination with state authorities and regulatory bodies, including DGCA, and BCAS for all mandatory approval required to meet the project's deadlines, prior to the commissioning of the new terminal. The master plan for the expansion of Patna airport is estimated to cost Rs.1216.90 crore which includes the development of new terminal building, multi-level car parking facility and parking Bays. With a built-up area of 65,155 sqm, the new world-class terminal building will cater to 3,000 passengers during peak hours. The AAI chairman said that the expansion of new terminal building will boost the airport's capacity from 3 million to 10 million passengers annually. The construction of new terminal building will include six new additional parking stands, increasing the present five to 11 parking stands.The new terminal is equipped with state-of-the-art passenger facilities, including 54 check-in counters, five-passenger boarding bridges, five conveyor belts and eight in-line XBIS machines which allows for quick transit of passengers inside terminals. The design of this Griha IV-star-rated new terminal building is inspired from the forms of Nalanda ruins and the interiors will be adorned with Madhubani paintings. In September, Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar had reviewed the ongoing construction of the new terminal. He also urged the officials to expedite the completion of the expansion project at the earliest. At the review meeting, CM Nitish had emphasised the importance of enhanced facilities and better connectivity. In addition, he had offered the state government's support for any additional needs during the construction of the new terminal building. In addition, the Bihar government has also planned the expansion of Gaya and Darbhanga. The state government is also working on establishing new airports in Purnea, Raxaul, Rajgir and Bhagalpur.

AAP MP Raghav Chadha proposes financial assistance to farmers for stubble management

CHANDIGARH: Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha proposed a comprehensive initiative to support farmers in stubble management, requesting the central government to provide assistance of Rs 2,500 per acre to farmers. He added that sustainable solutions to stubble burning require robust financial and policy backing. While taking up this issue in the upper house of the parliament today, Chadha also pointed out that while farmers are unfairly blamed for contributing to air pollution in North India, the problem is fuelled by several factors across many states. He emphasised that this year, under AAPs leadership, Punjab saw a remarkable 70 per cent drop in stubble-burning incidents, proving that progress is possible with the right support. Chadha raised concern over prevailing pollution in North India and its impact in Rajya Sabha, stating that North India is currently covered in a thick blanket of smoke. He said, with every breath, we are unknowingly inhaling the equivalent of numerous cigarettes and bidis. Air pollution isnt just Delhis problem its a crisis affecting the entire region, spanning multiple states. Cities in the North such as Bhagalpur, Muzaffarnagar, Noida, Hapur, Bhiwani, Agra, Faridabad face way more pollution than Delhi. Yet, the blame is disproportionately placed on farmers. Today, I stand to raise my voice in their defence, he added. He further stated that an IIT study shows that while stubble burning is a cause of air pollution, it is not the only one. However, the entire blame is unfairly shifted onto farmers. Punjab reports 70 per cent reduction in stubble burning, highlights Ex-Situ management efforts Throughout the year, we call farmers our gods and anndata, but come November, we label them as criminals, demanding they be fined or jailed, he said. Chadha asserted, no farmer deliberately or willingly burns stubble. They do it out of sheer compulsion. This year, AAP ruled Punjab saw a reduction of more than 70 per cent in stubble-burning incidents. In contrast, states like Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan reported an increase. He emphasised that Punjab took up paddy farming to feed the country when there was a shortage of food grains. However, this has come at a great cost to Punjab. He said, Our water table has dropped by 600 feet, our soil has degraded, and this is despite the fact that rice is not a staple food for Punjabis. He added that after harvesting paddy, farmers are left with stubble, which they have only 1012 days to clear before sowing the next crop. If they dont clear it in time, the yield of the next crop is adversely affected. This forces farmers to burn the stubble. SC raises concerns over Punjab, Haryanas inaction on stubble burning amid rising air pollution Chadha pointed out that solutions like Happy Seeders and Paddy Choppers come with a hefty price tag, requiring farmers to spend Rs 2,0003,000 per acre to operate them. For farmers already struggling to break even, such expenses are unaffordable, leaving them with no choice but to burn stubble. Tragically, the worst affected by this toxic air are the farmers themselves and their families, who are forced to breathe it. He proposed a solution stating, if we provide farmers in Punjab and Haryana Rs 2,500 per acre as immediate financial assistance to manage stubble, no farmer will burn it. Of this, Rs 2,000 should be contributed by the central government, and the state government will bear the remaining cost. This will offer a short-term solution to the stubble-burning issue. Chadha further stated, As for a long-term solution, we need to promote crop diversification, moving away from paddy to crops like cotton, maize, pulses, and oilseeds. While we talk a lot about AI (Artificial Intelligence), we also need to talk about AQI (Air Quality Index).

Challan For Vehicle Parked At Home? Traffic Scam Exposed In Bihar's Bhagalpur

Traffic cameras, intended to improve the system, were instead issuing fines to individuals whose vehicles are parked safely at home.

Sultanganj railway station in Bihar to be renamed after Ajgaibinath Dham

Patna: Sultanganj railway station in Bihars Bhagalpur district is set to be renamed after the revered Hindu shrine Ajgaibinath Dham. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Samrat Choudhary announced on Monday that a proposal regarding the change of name has been passed by the municipal council of Bhagalpur. Speaking at an event in Bhagalpur, the Deputy Chief Minister stated that the proposal passed by the municipal council will soon be forwarded to the appropriate authority for further action. He added, The name of Sultanganj railway station will be changed after approval from the authorities concerned. The renaming of the railway station aims to enhance the importance of the shrine and promote tourism in the region. Choudhary mentioned, It will also connect to the cultural roots of the area concerned, reiterating that the state government is committed to promoting tourism in Bihar. The Ajgaibinath temple, an ancient site dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Sultanganj and is known for its carvings and stone inscriptions. Situated along the banks of the Ganga River, the temple attracts a large number of devotees of Lord Shiva. Choudhary also claimed that since 2007, various communities, including the chief Mahant of the Juna Akhara Committee, local residents, and the Panda community, have advocated for renaming the Sultanganj railway station after Ajgaibinath Dham. Earlier, the BJP had proposed changing the name of Bakhtiyarpur railway station, which is named after Akhtiyar al-Din Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji, the founder of the Khilji dynasty of Bengal, which ruled Bengal from 1203 to 1227 CE. However, the proposal was discarded after opposition leaders opposed the renaming of the railway station.

Bihar's Sultanganj railway station will be renamed as Ajgaibinath Dham: DyCM Samrat Choudhary

Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister, Samrat Choudhary, revealed plans to rename Sultanganj railway station in Bhagalpur district. The station will be renamed after the Ajgaibinath Dham, a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The proposal, already approved by the local municipal council, will be forwarded to the relevant authorities for final approval.

Bihar: Hindutva Mob hoists Israeli flag at mosque in Bhagalpur

Tension escalated in Bihars Bhagalpur when the Hindutva mob climbed a nearby mosque and hoisted a saffron flag while waving the Israeli flag. The incident took place during the Kali Visarjan Yatra near Tamtam Chowk under the Lalmatia Police Station. The incident was captured in a video that shows the agitated radical mob climbing onto 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 .