Stone pelting on BhagalpurHowrah Vande Bharat train

The BhagalpurHowrah Vande Bharat Express faced a stone-pelting incident near Hatpuraini halt, damaging a coach window. Railway officials are reviewing CCTV footage and the RPF has launched an investigation to identify the culprits. DRM Manish Kumar Gupta assured strict action against those responsible.

SC to hear plea of Bihar DSP seeking to quash rape case filed against him in different city after 10 years

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court is scheduled to adjudicate on April 17, a plea filed by asenior police officer seeking to quash a rape case filed against him after the delay of ten years. The FIR was allegedly registered at a different place, away from where the crime had taken place. The accused, Somesh Kumar Mishra, a former trainee DSP presently working as DSP in Bihar's Gopalganj, has filed a Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the top court seeking to quash the FIR against him. Mishra moved SC after the Patna High Court in 2022 refused to quash the FIR against him. According to the prosecution, Mishra is accused of sexually assaulting the victim at gunpoint between the years 2009 and 2012. According to Mishra's lawyer Shailendra Mani Tripathi, the case against him was initiated without the due process of law. The case has been initiated without the lodging of an FIR, which is contrary to legal requirements. And also there is no content prescribed in the FIR. The proceedings are not in accordance with the law. The FIR indicates that the distance from the place of occurrence to the police station is 2 kilometers. However, it has been alleged that the incident took place in Delhi, Tripathy alleged. Furthermore, there are no allegations pertaining to Bhagalpur in the entire report. Thepolice, without any jurisdiction, conducted an arbitrary investigation and then filed a charge sheet in the Sessions Court, Bhagalpur, he said. Mishra in his plea, stated that the police inquiry against him was conducted without following the due process of law. According to Mishra's plea, instead of approaching a police station and filing a complaint, the victim had sent an email to the Bihar police academy Rajgir in 2019, which was forwarded by the DIG to the additional DGP and Deputy Director of Bihar Police. Following this, the additional DGP ordered the DIG to submit an inquiry report within a week. As part of the inquiry, the victim was asked by the police to come to the police academy in Rajgir. On January 25, 2020, the victim along with her husband, appeared before the sexual harassment committee at Bihar police academy and informed that the said incident had happened a decade ago. The plea stated that following this, instead of lodging the FIR in Delhi, where the offense occurred, the police registered a case at Bihar's Bhagalpur on March 20, 2020. Mishrawas arrested in November 2020, and was granted bail the next month. Claiming that the allegations against him are baseless and fabricated with an intent to ruin his life and career, Mishra alleged that he had been targeted at a time when he was trying to settle in life with his dream job and thinking of starting a family life. The FIR is based on false and fabricated facts, as such, the same is liable to be quashed. There was a substantial delay (about a decade) in lodging the FIR and no plausible explanation regarding this has been given. Delay in lodging the FIR, itself shows that it is done after much thought and consultation, due to mala-fide intention, he alleged.

Seven arrested in Bhagalpur for e-rickshaw theft

Lightning, thunderstorms kill 61 in Bihar; CM Nitish Kumar announces 4 lakh ex-gratia

PATNA: At least 61 people have died due to lightning strikes and hailstorms that lashed several districts of Bihar over the past 48 hours . Nalanda district reported the highest number of fatalities, with 22 deaths on Thursday alone. Other districts also reported casualties: Patna, Bhojpur, Siwan, and Gaya recorded four deaths each; Gopalganj and Jamui reported three each; Muzaffarpur, Jehanabad, Saran, and Arwal reported two deaths each; while Begusarai, Darbhanga, Saharsa, Katihar, Munger, Madhepura, Araria, and Bhagalpur each reported one death. Nalanda District Magistrate Shashank Bhubhankar confirmed that 21 people died due to thunderstorms and one due to lightning. He added that relief and rescue operations are underway in the affected areas. Instructions have been issued to hand over the bodies to their families after postmortem examinations. Efforts are also being made to restore traffic disrupted by fallen trees. Police personnel have been deployed to clear roads by removing logs and branches. Six people died in Nagma village under the Manpur police station limits when a tree fell on a temple on Thursday. The victims had taken shelter in the temple during the hailstorm, and a wall collapse caused their deaths. Other fatalities in Nalanda district were reported from Jaitipur under Islampur block, Dekpura under Rahui block, as well as from the Silao and Giriyak blocks. The district administration has released emergency contact numbers for residents. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia payment of 4 lakh to the families of the deceased. In a statement issued by the Chief Ministers Office, people were urged to stay indoors and go out only in cases of emergency. On Wednesday, 13 more people had died due to lightning strikes across four districts of the state. Heavy rains and hailstorms have affected at least 25 out of Bihars 38 districts in the past two days. In addition to the loss of human lives, the storms have caused extensive damage to homes, livestock, and agricultural crops. A senior official from the State Disaster Management Department stated that district officials have been directed to assess the damage to property and crops. Compensation will be provided to affected individuals based on their reports.

MEAs swift action brings Bhagalpur man back home after 8 yrs in Saudi

Two men fatally shoot each other in Bhagalpur

Poster war between RJD, JD(U) erupts in Bihar ahead of assembly elections

PATNA: Poster war between the main opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) led by Lalu Prasad and ruling Janata Dal (United) led by chief minister Nitish Kumar has begun ahead of the Bihar assembly elections due later this year. On Wednesday, posters erupted at different locations in the state capital, including Beerchand Patel Marg, where the offices of many political parties are located, drawing a parallel between two stalwarts, Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar. The posters claimed that the Lalu era was marked by communal clashes. At least 12 major incidents of communal violence occurred in Bihar between 1090 and 2005 in which a number of people lost their lives, and their property was damaged. Communal clashes took place at frequent intervals and fear was writ large on the face of people during Lalu era. On the other hand, there is communal peace and the rule of law prevails in the state during Nitish Kumars regime, the posters read. The posters contained the list of major communal incidents reported during the Lalu era. These include Sasaram riots in Rohtas district on March 30, 1990, communal flare-up in Sitamarhi on October 7,1992, which left 44 dead and communal riots in Bhagalpur, Araria, Samastipur and Darbhanga May 29-30, 1996. Similar incidents took place in Patna on January 1, 1997, Nalanda and Munger on October 1, 1998, Sasaram (Rohtas) and Biharsharif (Nalanda) on January 1, 2000, Nalanda on March 9, 2001, Darbhanga on January 2, 2003, Munger on January 16, 2003 and Ara (Bhojpur) on October 5, 2003, respectively. On the other hand, posters claimed that there was peace and harmony among members of different communities during Nitishs regime. Those involved in riots were brought to book and also prosecuted by the court for their offences. There is sushashan (good governance in Bihar), the posters read. Reacting to the latest posters put up on the Beerchand Patel Marg, JD(U) MLC Neeraj Kumar said that he had no knowledge about the individual or groups that put up the posters in the state capital. But there is truth in these posters. Communal riots had become an order of the day during Lalus era, he added.

Modi, Rahul to firm up high-stakes Bihar battle plank with April rallies

PATNA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Bihar on April 24 in the run-up to the state assembly polls due in October-November. He will address panchayat representatives on the occasion of the National Panchayati Raj Day in Madhubani district. Addtionally, the PM will lay foundation stone and inaugurate several development projects on the occasion. On Monday, Union minister of state for Panchayati Raj Lalan Singh, deputy chief minister Samrat Choudhary and state industries minister Nitish Mishra reviewed the preparedness for the PMs visit. It will be Modis second visit to the state since January this year. Senior BJP leaders said on Monday that PM Modi will make frequent visits to the poll-bound state to boost morale of party workers ahead of the assembly elections. He will also announce several development projects for Bihar. On February 24, Modi had visited Bhagalpur to release the 19th instalment of the PM Kishan Samman Nidhi scheme; besides addressing a rally at the airport ground, the PM also interacted with farmers from neighbouring districts. BJP sources said several Union ministers are set to visit the state ahead of the assembly polls. On March 29 and 30, Union home minister visited Bihar and addressed a rally at Gopalganj, the native district of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav where he launched a scathing attack on the RJDs first family. Shah also held a meeting with top NDA leaders at Chief Minister Nitish Kumars residence where, among other issues, seat sharing was also discussed. The NDA partners reportedly submitted a list of seats from which each party wanted to contest from. All roads lead to Bihar On the other hand, the opposition INDIA bloc is also gearing up for the upcoming Bihar elections. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi is set to visit the stae on April 7 to take part in the Samvidhan Suraksha Sammelan in Patna. Before his visit, state Congress has launched a campaign to garner support.

Authorities demolish house of Fahim Khan, accused in Nagpur violence case, amid SC directive against punitive action

Civic authorities on Monday demolished the house of Fahim Khan, a leader of the Minority Democratic Party (MDP) who has been booked for sedition in the Nagpur violence case. At around 10.30 am on Monday, three JCB machines of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation started demolishing the house, located at Sanjay Bagh Colony in Yashodhara Nagar area, amid heavy security and drone surveillance in the entire area. Civic sources claimed that the action was being taken under the MRTP Act, as the construction of the building was unauthorised. Khan who is currently lodged in jail is among the over 100 persons, mostly Muslims arrested for the violence in Maharashtra's Nagpur city on March 17. Local Muslims of the area have accused the police of arbitrary arrests and bias towards the community. The violence erupted on March 17, after members of Hindu extremist groups Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) allegedly burnt a 'chadar' with Quranic inscriptions during an agitation demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb in Kuldabad, around 490 kilometres away from Nagpur. Following the incident, some Muslim residents gathered at the site to protest and complained to the police demanding the immediate arrest of those involved in the burning of the religious text. However, the police refused to pay heed to their demands and sided with the right-wing groups, alleged local Muslims. By the evening on March 17, VHP and Bajrang Dal members marched through Muslim-majority areas of Nagpur, chanting provocative slogans, which resulted in clashes with the local Muslims. 38-year-old Irfan Ansari, who was attacked by the mob while on his way to Nagpur railway station, succumbedto injuries on Saturday, marking the first death from the violence. The violence also caused massive destruction to properties in the Muslim-majority areas. According to the local residents, police refused to step in during the violence and sometimes actively participated in the destruction of property, along with the right-wing mob. Eight workers of the VHP and Bajrang Dalhad surrendered beforethe police two days after the violence, only to get bail that evening from the court. According to Cyber DCP Lohit Matani, Fahim Khan, who has been dubbed the key accused in the violence, is accused of editing and circulating the video of the protest against Aurangzeb due to which the riots spread. He is also accused of glorifying the violent videos. Meanwhile, similar to other recent incidents of communally instigated violence including that in Sambhal, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said bulldozer action will be used against the accused, wherever required. Whatever damage has happened will be recovered from the rioters. If they do not pay the money, then their property will be sold for the recovery. Wherever required, bulldozers will also be used, Fadnavis was quoted as saying by ANI . The CM also said that individuals who incited violence through social media will be treated as co-accused. Fadnavis' statement on punitive bulldozer action comes amidst a Supreme Court-ordered stay on such measures. The chilling sight of a bulldozer demolishing a building, when authorities have failed to follow the basic principles of natural justice and have acted without adhering to the principle of due process, reminds one of a lawless state of affairs, where might was right,the apex court had noted in its November 2024 order. (With inputs from PTI, ANI) Amid Nagpur violence, right-wing social media handles post cauliflower pictures evoking 1989 Bhagalpur riots

Bihar Diwas celebrated at Dilli Haat with grand display of heritage, progress

NEW DELHI: Bihar's rich cultural heritage, legacy, arts, and handicrafts are being beautifully showcased at Dilli Haat on the occasion of Bihar Diwas, which is celebrated annually onMarch 22 to commemorate the creation of Bihar as a separate state in 1912. As part of the ongoing Bihar Utsav, the event is elaborately highlighting Bihars vibrant cultural legacy, art, and handicrafts. Bihar's Minister of Industries, Nitish Mishra, who was invited as the chief guest on Saturday, said, I have been a student of history, and there was a time when the history of the world revolved around Bihar. If you belong to Bihar, I urge you to encourage your friends to visit Bihar at least once. There is so much here that people from across the country should see. Bihar today understands its responsibility in the field of industry. Even those residing outside Bihar can see the state's steady progress. We are moving forward, guided by new policies. Today, Bihar boasts of robust infrastructure and good governance. The state is ready to soar to new heights, Mishra added. On the occasion, Bandana Preyashi, IAS, Secretary of the Department of Industries, attending the event said, The state of Bihar was established 113 years ago, and since then, we have been celebrating this festival. Together, we are striving to present a new image of Bihar. Bihar is not just about Madhubani paintings, Bhagalpur silk, or litchisBihar is fast emerging as an attractive destination for investment as well. Kundan Kumar, Resident Commissioner (RC) of Bihar, who also present at the occasion and urged members of Bihars diaspora to connect with their roots and contribute to the state's growth. He said, The Bihar Foundation invites all members of the diaspora to join hands with us under the motto of Bonding, Branding, and Business. Together, lets create avenues for mutual prosperity and strengthen our ties with Bihar. Shekhar Anand, Director of Technical Development, attending it said Each artifact and artwork displayed here tells the story of Bihars centuries-old heritage and skill. Our artisans are not only preserving history but also shaping the future. As part of Bihar Diwas, a special cultural evening was organised featuring performances by famous artists from Bihar. The lineup included Bharatanatyam by Manisha Jha, folk dance by Nalanda Sangeet Kala Vikas Sansthan, folk music by Dr Sushmita Jha, classical singing by Dr. Nalini Joshi, folk and playback singing by Rekha Jha, and folk music performances by Goswami Aradhya Giri (Lucy Bharat), among others. Their outstanding performances made the Bihar Day celebrations truly memorable. The Bihar Utsav is being held at Dilli Haat, INA, fromMarch 16 to 31, 2025, exhibiting and exploring Bihars vibrant traditional art, craft, and cultural heritage.

Nagpur violence: 14 more held, number of arrests reaches 105; three fresh FIRs registered

NAGPUR: At least 14 more persons have been arrested in connection with the violence in Nagpur earlier this week, taking the total number of arrests to 105, a senior police official has said. According to the police, 14 persons, including 10 juveniles, were nabbed on Friday. The official said three more FIRs have been registered in connection with the incident. Large-scale stone pelting and arson were reported in several parts of Nagpur on March 17 over rumours that a chadar with holy inscriptions was burnt during protests led by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) seeking the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's tomb , which is in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. 17 accused in Nagpur violence case remanded to police custody till March 22 Fourteen accused were arrested from different parts of the city in connection with the riots. Three more FIRs have been registered related to the riots, Nagpur police commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singhal said. He said the decision to lift the curfew from some parts of the city would be made after a high-level review meeting. Singhal, meanwhile, held a meeting at Police Bhavan in Civil Lines here to take stock of the situation. Thirty-three police personnel, including three Deputy Commissioner of Police-rank officers, were injured during the violence. Key accused Fahim Khan is among those booked for sedition. Amid Nagpur violence, right-wing social media handles post cauliflower pictures evoking 1989 Bhagalpur riots 'Stones hurled, vehicles torched': Locals recount mob attack in Nagpur as prohibitory orders imposed

Amid Nagpur violence, right-wing social media handles post cauliflower pictures evoking 1989 Bhagalpur riots

Amid the communal violence that ensued in Maharashtra's Nagpur, following protests by Hindu extremist groups Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad demanding the demolition of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb's tomb, some right wing social media handles have been sharing images of cauliflower, symbolically referring to bloodshed as a solution. A right-wing X handle, @HPhobiaWatch , posted a picture of a woman harvesting cauliflowers with the caption, Nagpur has a solution. Commenting to the post, another user, @HitRunDFI wrote, Request to Hindus: Do not be sitting ducks this time. Have a target, have a number in mind like a minimum of 2-3 and act. Also, remember, you will be blamed by everyone even if you do nothing. So stop worrying about bad PR. Request to Hindus: Do not be sitting ducks this time. Have a target, have a number in mind like a minimum of 2-3 and act. Also, remember, you will be blamed by everyone even if you do nothing. So stop worrying about bad PR. ASPR (@HitRunDFI) March 18, 2025 Agriculture has a calming effect on violent minds. Maybe Nagpur needs more cauliflower farming, wrote another user, @Karthik0412 . What is the cauliflower reference? The reference to cauliflowers and cauliflower farming in this context is a direct evocation of the 1989 Bhagalpur violence, which saw a series of brutal massacres of more than 900 Muslims at the hands of right-wing mobs including members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad in Bihar's Bhagalpur district, during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. Following the violence, according to multiple media reports , more than a hundred dead bodies of Muslims were recovered from the cauliflower fields of Logain. The violence, which lasted nearly two months and affected nearly 200 villages in rural Bhagalpur, killed more than a thousand people, according to official accounts. However, other sources put the death toll at 2000. According to the People's Union for Democratic Rights ( PUDR) report, 93% of the dead were Muslims. A report by the members of Bhagalpur Riots Inquiry Commission, set up by the Satyendra Narayan Sinha-led state government in December 1989, held the administration guilty of incompetence and indifference for letting the Ram Janmabhoomi procession pass through a Muslim-dominated area, raising provocative slogans. The report also found Superintendent KS Trivedi wholly responsible for the riots that occurred. Notably, the BJP and VHP had contested the disciplinary action against Trivedi, following which then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi revoked his transfer, issued by the state government. The Bhagalpur violence remains a dark blot in Indian history with multiple subsequent governments in Bihar falling short of conducting proper investigations and delivering justice to the victims.

Union Minister's Nephew Shot Dead In Family Feud Over Tap Water In Bihar

A dispute over the tap water between two nephews of Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai turned violent leading to the death of one of them in Parbatta village of Bihar's Bhagalpur district on Thursday.

Union Minister Nityanand Rais Nephew Shot Dead In Bihar, Sisters Condition Critical

Union Minister Nityanand Rai's nephew was shot dead in Bhagalpur, Bihar amid a family feud. Rai's sister was critically injured. The incident involved a gunfight between Rai's nephews.

Frequent attacks on police rock Bihar assembly, CM Nitish Kumar holds emergency meeting with top officers

PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar held an emergency meeting with Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena and Director General of Police (DGP) Vinay Kumar to assess the law-and-order situation in the state following a ruckus created by the Opposition in the legislative council on Monday over frequent incidents of attack on police personnel in recent past. As per official records, as many as 12 incidents of attack on police teams by mobs took place in different parts of the state during Holi celebrations between March 14 and 15. While two police officers lost their lives, 27 other police personnel suffered injuries in these attacks during the period. Police, however, maintained restraint and didnt open fire in any of these incidents. In addition, 11 incidents of clash between two rival communities were reported during the period, leaving 14 individuals injured. However, no death has been reported from anywhere. In all, 29 individuals have been arrested in connection with the incidents of clash between two rival communities. Similarly, two incidents of clash between two groups belonging to the same community were reported in which 26 people were wounded. Three accused have been detained for interrogation in connection with the incident, additional director general of police (law and order) Pankaj Kumar Darad told the media on Monday. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar called the chief secretary and DGP in the state assembly soon after Opposition members voiced concern over frequent attacks on police personnel, creating a fear psychosis among common people. If police officials are not safe, what to talk about common people, Opposition members said in the assembly carrying placards in their hands. The situation turned a bit tense when Opposition members started shouting slogans and tripped into the well with posters in their hands. Speaker Nand Kishore Yadav intervened and requested the protesting members to go back to their seats and raise the issue at the appropriate time. The proceedings of the House later reassumed. The placards were, however, taken away by Marshals at the directive of Speaker Yadav. Surprisingly, when Opposition members raised the issue of attacks on policemen, especially those attached to Dial 112 (emergency services) during Zero hour, some members from the treasury bench also nodded their heads, as if they supported the Oppositions concern. Mob attacks police team in Bihar's Bhagalpur, five officers injured Expressing his grave concern over attacks on police teams, Congress MLA from Bhagalpur Ajeet Sharma said that the way police personnel were falling prey to outlaws, reflected their growing audacity and governments failure. Earlier, RJD MLA from Mahua Mukesh Raushan claimed that 22 deaths took place in the state during Holi. What is more required to wake up the government from slumber? Two police officers were killed and several others got wounded in attacks by mobs during the period. On the other hand, BJP leaders are inciting communal flare-up, he added. The NDA leaders raised the issue of Tej Pratap Yadav, RJD MLA from Hasanpur, who drove a motorbike without wearing a helmet in protected area and also forced his bodyguard to dance in police uniform. They claimed that the law and order in the state was well under control.

Another attack on Bihar Police: 5 cops injured in stone pelting by villagers in Bhagalpur

Five policemen have sustained injuries in an attack by locals under the Antichak police station area in Bhagalpur district of Bihar.

Mob attacks police team in Bihar's Bhagalpur, five officers injured

PATNA: A police team was attacked by a mob in Bihars Bhagalpur district, leaving five officers, including Sub-Inspector Dhanrath Rai, seriously injured. The incident took place around 7:30 pm on Saturday in Kasri village under Antichak police station limits in the Kahalgaon sub-division. The injured policemen have been admitted to a government hospital in Kahalgaon for treatment. According to officials, the police team had gone to the village to investigate a scuffle between two families when they were attacked. A sub-inspector, three policemen, and a village chaukidar were injured as the mob pelted stones and assaulted them with bamboo sticks. The situation quickly turned violent, forcing the policemen to flee for safety. Their patrol vehicle was also damaged in the attack. A video of the incident went viral on social media, prompting senior police officials to order immediate action against those involved. Kahalgaon Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Kalyan Anand said that the clash began after minor children argued over a trivial matter. The dispute escalated into a violent altercation between two families, leading to tensions in the village. He confirmed that five suspects had been detained for questioning and that raids were ongoing to arrest others involved in the attack. A case has been registered based on the statement of a magistrate present in the village. This is the third attack on police personnel in Bihar in the past five days. Earlier, two assistant sub-inspectors were killed in separate incidents in the Munger and Araria districts while on duty. The increasing number of attacks on police officers has raised concerns among law enforcement officials. Leader of Opposition and former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav criticized the government over the incident. Sharing the video on social media, he wrote, Yet the CM is unmoved. 20 NDA , , pic.twitter.com/WP2OOHPUQH Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) March 15, 2025 Yadav further alleged that over 60,000 people have been killed in Bihar in the past 20 years and claimed that the highest number of police personnel deaths occurred during Chief Minister Nitish Kumars tenure. He accused the Chief Minister of failing to maintain law and order, stating, He has been holding the home department ever since he took over the reign of Bihar about two decades ago. But he is now unable to look after the department. The police have assured strict action against those responsible, and investigations are underway to identify all individuals involved in the attack.

Five Policemen Injured in Mob Attack in Bihar's Bhagalpur

Third police assault in five days; incident occurred during a brawl investigation in Kahalgaon

Severe groundwater contamination detected in over 30,000 rural wards in Bihar: Report

PATNA: Bihar is grappling with severe groundwater contamination, with 30,207 rural wards exposed to unsafe drinking water that poses serious health risks, according to a new report. The report, which was recently tabled in the assembly as part of the Bihar Economic Survey (2024-25), highlighted the presence of arsenic in groundwater in 4,709 such wards, fluoride in 3,789 wards and iron in 21,709 wards. Around 26 per cent of the rural wards in 31 districts, out of a total of 38, have groundwater sources affected by arsenic, fluoride and iron contamination beyond permissible limits, the state's Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) said in the study. The affected wards are located in Buxar, Bhojpur, Patna, Saran, Vaishali, Lakhisarai, Darbhanga, Samastipur, Begusarai, Khagara, Munger, Katihar, Bhagalpur, Sitamarhi, Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Gaya, Nalanda, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Jamui, Banka, Supaul, Madhepura, Saharsa, Araria and Kishanganj districts. We are aware of the fact. Sensing the gravity of the situation, the state government has decided to make rural Bihar 'hand pump-free' and provide safe drinking water to people in the rural areas under the 'Har Ghar Nal ka Jal' scheme, PHED Minister Niraj Kumar Singh told PTI. The government is also implementing multi-village schemes (MVS) to improve water quality in the state, he said. Under the 'Har Ghar Nal ka Jal' scheme, PHED is providing safe drinking water to 83.76 lakh families in rural areas, he said, adding, potable water is also being made available to families in the 30,207 rural wards where the contamination is high. The state government is already working on a plan to use river water for drinking purposes. In September 2024, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar laid the foundation stone of a Rs 1,347-crore project for the supply of water from Sone river for drinking purposes in Aurangabad, Dehri and Sasaram cities after necessary treatment, the minister said. The scheme will use the water of Son river, ending the dependence of these cities on groundwater, he said. The project is likely to be completed in two years. In 2023, the CM dedicated the ambitious Ganga Water Supply Scheme (GWSS) or the 'Ganga Jal Apoorti Yojana' to the people of Gaya, Rajgir and Nawada. Under the scheme, people in these districts are provided an uninterrupted supply of clean and safe drinking water, Singh said. Dr Manoj Kumar, a leading gastroenterologist in Bihar, told PTI, The high level of chemical contamination in groundwater is certainly a matter of concern. The authorities must identify the source of contamination and take appropriate steps. Besides, camps should also be organised in the affected wards on a regular basis to make people aware of the adverse effects of consumption of contaminated groundwater. The authorities should come out with standardisation and classification of the quality of water used for drinking purposes. Kumar said drinking water quality standards should describe the quality parameters. Water may contain many harmful constituents, yet there are no recognised and accepted standards for drinking water in the country. The type of contaminant and its health effects vary depending on the water source, he said. The health impacts of water contamination can vary from a bout of stomach infection to terminal illnesses like cancer, Kumar said. The methods of purification depend on specific contaminants in a person's water source. Therefore, detailed water quality standards must be introduced by the authorities concerned, he added.

Bihar government on high alert after bird flu spread, eggs temporarily removed from mid-day meal menu

PATNA: Alarmed over the spread of Avian Influenza, the Bihar government has directed the officials of the education department to stop the supply of eggs served to government schools under the Mid-Day Meal scheme. Sahila, Director of Primary Education and MDM, said, We have asked the officials concerned to stop the supply of eggs with immediate effect. An alert was issued by union fisheries, animal husbandry and dairy ministry to Bihar government over increasing bird flu incidents. Sahila added that district education officers and district programme officers have also been asked to comply strictly with the order. They have been directed to supply seasonal fruits like Apples and Bananas instead of eggs. The supply of eggs will be reinstated once the situation turns normal, the director told TNIE over the phone on March 13. In addition, the government has stressed the need of an awareness campaign to check the spread of bird flu. The consumption of eggs may prove fatal for people due to infection, a senior health department official said. As per the rules, eggs are provided to students from classes I to VIII. Vegetarian students are served Bananas and Apples in MDM. The bird flu was first noticed at a poultry farm at the Indian Institute of Agriculture Research (ICAR)-Research Complex for eastern region in Patna on February 27. The samples were sent to the Bhopal-based National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, which tested positive. Bird flu has been confirmed so far in Patna, Bhagalpur and Nawada districts. The lack of a testing lab in Bihar has left the officials of the concerned department worried. The proposal to set up a testing lab has been pending with the union government for more than four years. The lack of testing lab facility has forced us to send the sample either to Bhopal or Kolkata, rued an official from State Animal Husbandry and Fisheries department. The department had sanctioned Rs.14.92 crore in the financial year 2023-24 for setting up such a testing lab in the state. An official who preferred anonymity said that though a team from the National Dairy Development Board visited Patna a couple of months ago, no developments are in sight.

Bhagalpur firecrackers unit blast: SC junks NGT order on asking DM to compensate victims

The Bench directed the tribunal to issue notice to the Bhagalpur district magistrate and seek addresses of the kin of the dead and the injured

SC overturns NGT's Rs 20 lakh compensation order in Bhagalpur Blast Case

SC sends case back to NGT for fresh consideration after ruling that proper procedures were not followed

Nitish Kumar expands Cabinet, inducts seven new faces from BJP

PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday expanded his cabinet with the induction of seven new faces, all from the alliance partner BJP. The development comes three days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bhagalpur where he transferred the 19th instalment of PM Kishan Samman Nidhi to bank accounts of farmers and inaugurated several development projects. All the seven MLAs were sworn in as ministers at a simple function held at Raj Bhawan. Governor Arif Mohammad Khan administered the oath of office and secrecy to the newly inducted ministers in the presence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Speaker of Bihar assembly Nand Kishore Yadav, deputy chief ministersSamrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha besides other ministers of the Nitish Kumar cabinet. Those who were inducted as ministers in the much-awaited expansion includeSanjay Sagaogi (Darbhanga Town), Jibesh Mishra (Jale), Dr. Sunil Kumar (Biharsharif), Raju Kumar Singh (Sahebganj), Krishna Kumar Mantu (Amnour), Motilal Prasad (Riga) and Vijay Mandal (Sikti). The expansion assumed significance in the wake of assembly elections due in October-November this year. Hours before the expansion of cabinet, revenue and land reforms department minister Dilip Jaiswal resigned from the post of minister on the directive of the central leadership of the party. His resignation was accepted, paving the way for the induction of the seventh minister in the cabinet. With the induction of seven new ministers, the strength of the new cabinet has gone upto 36 in the 243-member Bihar legislative assembly. Earlier, there were only 30 ministers, including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Several ministers, including Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, Nitish Mishra and Mandal Pandey were holding additional charge of two or more than two departments. Sources said that the departments would be allocated to the newly inducted ministers shortly. With Wednesdays cabinet expansion, the number of ministers from BJP quota in the 243-member Bihar assembly has gone upto 21 while its ally Janata Dal (United) has 13 ministers. Of the 21 ministers from BJP quota are two deputy chief ministersSamrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha. One Independent MLA is also a minister. Regional and caste factors played a crucial role in the selection of names of MLAs elevated to ministers in poll-bound Bihar. The ruling BJP has tried to woo voters of Mithilanchal and Simanchal region by giving prominence to its MLAs in the new cabinet expansion. Among the newly inducted ministers, two MLAs come from Upper castesRajput and Bhumihar. In addition, two are from the Vaishya community and the remaining three from Koeri-Kurmi (EBC). Since assembly elections are only eight months away, peoples representatives from Upper castes, Vaishya and EBC categories have been given representation in the new cabinet expansion, a political analyst said. He said that Wednesdays cabinet expansion is crucial in strengthening the BJP's influence in the state politics while ensuring smooth coordination with its major ally--JD(U), ahead of elections. The expansion took place a day after BJP president J P Nadda called on CM Nitish at his 1 Anne Marg residence. Dilip Jaiswal, however, will continue to serve as state chief of the BJP. In BJP there is a principle of one person, one post. I quit the post of minister under the partys policy, Jaiswal said, adding that he has been given the responsibility of the state partys affairs.

Indias Agriculture Budget showed sixfold increase in 10 years: Dr Jitendra

Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Feb 24: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today lauded the remarkable strides made in Indias agricultural sector, highlighting a sixfold increase in the Union agriculture budget, from Rs 21,933.50 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1,27,290 crore in 2025-26, during 10 years of the Modi Government. Dr. Jitendra Singh made these remarks while addressing the disbursal of the 19th installment of the PM KISAN scheme in Bhagalpur, Bihar. He virtually joined the meeting at Krishi Vigyan Kendra [] The post Indias Agriculture Budget showed sixfold increase in 10 years: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

PM Modi's Monday: Breakfast in MP, lunch in Bihar and dinner in Assam

PM Narendra Modi embarked on a whirlwind tour across three states, starting his day at the Global Investor Summit in Madhya Pradesh, promoting the state as an investment hub. He then traveled to Bhagalpur, Bihar, to address a public gathering and distribute PM-Kisan funds, and concluded in Guwahati, Assam, witnessing a traditional dance performance.

PM Modi hails Bihar CM Nitish Kumar as 'ladla' CM in NDA unity display

During Narendra Modi's visit to Bhagalpur, Bihar, he and CM Nitish Kumar showcased the NDA's unity, with Modi praising Kumar as Bihar's 'Ladla' Chief Minister. Modi released 22,000 crore under the PM Kisan scheme, benefiting over 75 lakh farmers in Bihar. Modi targeted the opposition, highlighted farmer welfare schemes, and announced development projects in Bihar.

Rs 22,000 Cr credited to 9.8 Cr Farmerss accounts under PM Kissan Nidhi

CM Omar attends Live Streaming of PMs Address at SKUAST-K BHAGALPUR, Feb 24: More than Rs 22,000 crore was transferred into the bank accounts of 9.8 crore farmers across the country as Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday released the 19th installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. The PM also inaugurated several developmental [] The post Rs 22,000 Cr credited to 9.8 Cr Farmerss accounts under PM Kissan Nidhi appeared first on Northlines .

PM Modi's Makhana Endorsement In Bihar After Budget Push: 'I Eat It 300 Days A Year'

PM Modi was welcomed and felicitated with a massive garland made of fox nuts during his visit to Bihars Bhagalpur.

CM Omar Abdullah Attends Live Streaming Of PMs Address On PM-KISAN Scheme At SKUAST-K

SRINAGAR, Feb 24: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah attended the live streaming of Prime Minister Narendra Modis address from Bhagalpur, Bihar, marking the release of the 19th installment of the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana. The event was held at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Shalimar Campus. As Chief Guest, the Chief Minister joined participants, including Minister for Agriculture Production Javaid Ahmad Dar, Members of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly representing Hazratbal, Sonawar and Chanapora constituencies, as well [] The post CM Omar Abdullah Attends Live Streaming Of PMs Address On PM-KISAN Scheme At SKUAST-K appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Over Rs 22,000 Cr Transferred Into Accounts Of 9.8 Crore Farmers As Modi Releases PM Kisan Installment

BHAGALPUR, Feb 24: More than Rs 22,000 crore was transferred into the bank accounts of 9.8 crore farmers across the country as Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday released the 19th installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. The PM also inaugurated several developmental projects in Bihar. Modi was accompanied by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at an event here. Several Union ministers, MPs and MLAs and officials of the state as well central ministries were also present on the [] The post Over Rs 22,000 Cr Transferred Into Accounts Of 9.8 Crore Farmers As Modi Releases PM Kisan Installment appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Envious of spiritual gatherings: PM Modi slams RJD chief Lalu Prasad over Maha Kumbh remark

PATNA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a blistering attack on RJD chief and former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad for his remarks on Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh and said that people of Bihar would not forgive the latter for making a mockery of such a mega spiritual congregation. Without taking the name of Lalu, PM Modi said that they are envious of spiritual congregations to such an extent that they dont spare even Maha Kumbh. Those who are envious of Ram Temple dont miss the opportunity to abuse such congregation despite the fact that spiritual congregation is an embodiment of unity, he said. PM Modi was addressing a public meeting at Bhagalpur in Bihar after disbursing over Rs 22,700 crore in the bank accounts of about 9.8 crore farmers across the country under PM Kisan Samman Yojna. Over 75 lakh farmers from Bihar have also benefitted from the scheme. In a veiled attack on RJD, PM Modi called Lalu chara chor and said that people who let loose a reign of terror (jungle raj) in Bihar earlier were trying to spread hatred in the society. Modi also described Maha Kubh a symbol of harmony. Earlier RJD supremo had created a controversy by calling Maha Kumbh faaltu (meaningless). In response to a media query, Lalu had said, Kumbh ka koi matlab hai. Faaltu hai Kumbh? (Is there any meaning of Kumbh? It is just meaningless). Lalus reactions came following a stampede at Delhi railway station in which more than 18 people were killed and several others were wounded. Nine of the victims belonged to Bihar. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar later announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of those killed in the stampede. Speaking on the occasion, Modi announced that a central university would be set up in Bhagalpur to revive old glory of the place and its cultural heritage. Our government at the centre is working on a detailed project to develop Vikramsheela University, he said and asked Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to expedite the process in that direction. Calling Nitish Ladla CM, PM Modi said that Bihar was developing under the leadership of Nitish Kumar and Centre would continue to assist the latter in making Bihar a developed state. On the other hand, Nitish expressed his gratitude to Modi for taking care of Bihar in every aspect.

PM Kisan 19th Installment Released: Farmers Receive Amount with Just One Click

BHAGALPUR, BIHAR: The 19th installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme was released today, February 24, 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while in Bhagalpur, Bihar, pressed a button, and at that moment, farmers across the country started getting money in their bank accounts. A total of 9.80 crore farmers received this installment, with Rs 22,000 crore transferred directly to their accounts. If you are a beneficiary of this scheme, check your bank message to confirm the payment. Who Is Not Eligible for This Scheme? Not all farmers can get the benefits of this scheme. Those who have a government job or receive a pension of Rs 10,000 or more per month are not eligible. Farmers who own commercial or institutional land are also excluded. Additionally, individuals who file income tax returns or those in professions like politics, law, medicine, or engineering cannot avail of this scheme. PM Modis Address to Farmers While releasing the 19th installment, PM Modi spoke at a public rally, saying, It is my pride to transfer this money directly to the accounts of our hardworking farmers from the sacred land of Bihar. He highlighted his governments dedication to farmers welfare, emphasizing that farmers, women, youth, and the poor are the pillars of the country. He further stated, As soon as I pressed the button, I saw farmers checking their mobile phones with joy. This installment also includes payments to 75 lakh farmers from Bihar. Subsidized Urea and Increased Milk Production PM Modi also spoke about how the NDA government has ensured that farmers get urea at lower prices. He pointed out that farmers need good seeds, affordable fertilizers, irrigation facilities, and protection from natural disasters. Earlier, farmers struggled with these issues. But our government has made things better, he said. He also noted that milk production has increased significantly due to government efforts. A Special Welcome in Bhagalpur As PM Modi arrived in Bhagalpur, he was honored with a garland made of 'makhana.' He reached the event venue in an open vehicle, waving at the cheering crowd. Before arriving, he traveled from Purnea to Bhagalpur by helicopter, where he was welcomed by Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and other leaders. Despite the stage being nearby, he chose to travel a short distance by road, engaging with people along the way.

PM Modi transfers over 22,000 cr transferred into accounts of 9.8 crore farmers

The Prime Minister also inaugurated several developmental projects in Bihar. Mr. Modi was accompanied by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at an event in Bhagalpur

Watch: PM Modi gets felicitated with Makhana garland in Bhagalpur

Tejashwi Yadav claims PM Modi's Bihar visit aimed at election management, Paswan hits back

PATNA: RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Monday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bihar was primarily intended to issue instructions for effective management of assembly elections in the state, which are due later this year. The former deputy CM claimed he had predicted, soon after the Delhi assembly elections, that the PM would turn his focus to Bihar. The PM is not coming here with any solutions to the state's problems of unemployment and poverty. Bihar continues to be the most backward state in the country despite being under NDA rule for 20 years, alleged Yadav, who is now the leader of the opposition. I had said soon after the Delhi assembly results that now the PM and his top aides will make a beeline for Bihar since this is the only state where polls are scheduled this year. Modi is coming to Bhagalpur to issue instructions to some people for suitable management of the elections, said Yadav, without elaborating further. The RJD leader took pride in the fact that his party won the most seats in the last couple of elections. In 2020, when the RJD-helmed Mahagathbandhan missed getting a majority by a dozen seats, Yadav had alleged that the results were managed in favour of the NDA by the state's pliant bureaucracy. A poster put up near the RJD office reminded Modi of his earlier unfulfilled promises. Borrowing lyrics from a popular Bollywood song, the poster carried the slogan, Poochhti hai janata, kya hua tera vaada, vo kasam vo irada. However, Union minister Chirag Paswan, who heads the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), took exception to Yadav's charge that the PM's visit was linked to assembly elections. The Hajipur MP pointed out he PM had visited Jamui and Darbhanga last year when there were no elections. He comes to Bihar because he is concerned about the state, as was evident from the Union Budget presented recently. And why does the RJD leader blame NDA for the plight of the state? Does he not remember that his party had ruled Bihar for three back-to-back terms, which was known for lawlessness and economic stagnation, asked Paswan.

Tejashwi Yadav accuses BJP of deceiving Bihar's people, targets PM Modi ahead of his Bhagalpur visit

PM Modi to release 19th instalment of PM-KISAN scheme in Bhagalpur on February 24

Apart from the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi event in Bhagalpur, PM Modi will also address a public rally at the Airport Ground, besides interacting with farmers from several districts.

'Shower of lies': RJD chief Lalu Prasad says PM's Bhagalpur visit for business, not Bihar

PATNA: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo and former Bihar CM Lalu Prasad commented that PM Modi will make false promises during his visit to Bhagalpur on Monday to derive political mileage in upcoming assembly elections. Turning to his social media account X Lalu said, Aaj phir Jhooth aur jumlo ki barsaat hogi (Lies and gimmicks will shower in Bihar again). To buttress his point, RJD chief said that several projects of the union government would be launched from Bhagalpur to befool people of Bihar. , #Bihar Lalu Prasad Yadav (@laluprasadrjd) February 24, 2025 He alleged that Bihar would gain nothing from the PMs visit. He is visiting Bihar for his interest. Its his business. There will be no impact with his visit. NDA will not be able to form next government in Bihar. Tejashwi will form the next government, he told the media. Reacting to RJD supremos remarks, JD(U) MLC and chief spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said, Bihar is progressing under double engine government. Its not going down well in Opposition camp. Thats why they are making such ridiculous statements. Neeraj said that the people of Bihar have already made up their mind not to give any opportunity to those involved in knee-deep corruption. Only those who have politically been aligned can make such statements, JD(U) spokesperson said. Congress leader Alka Lamba plans strategy to dethrone NDA govt in Bihar election Earlier, leader of the opposition in Bihar assembly Tejashwi Prasad Yadav raised a voice of dissent, calling out the Centre and state government for its failure to deliver on promise made to state. There will be no election in the country this year. The only election will be held in Bihar, he added. He said the elections in Delhi have already concluded. We have already said that everyone will go to Bihar and people will flock to Bihar. Their only destination will be Bihar, he had told the media, referring to PMs visit to Bhagalpur. He lamented that the state was at the bottom in several key development indices despite being a double engine government. Bihar gave these people an opportunity to run double engine government for about 20 years. Narendra Modi has been PM for last 11 years and Nitish has been serving as CM for 20 years. But state remains at the bottom in several key development indices, he asserted. To drive home his point, Tejashwi cited the example of states per capita income, investment and farmers income. Bihar still ranks lowest in the per capita income and investment. Bihar ranks lowest in farmers income. Bihar is number one in terms of unemployment, migration and poverty, he added. He recalled PM Modis promises to revive sugar mills in Champaran in north Bihar and accused him of betraying people of Bihar in the union budget. Assembly elections are due to be held in October-November. PM Modi is set to kickstart the election campaign from Bhagalpur by launching and dedicating several projects on Monday. Lalu Prasad promises jobs in Bihar ahead of PM Modis Visit to Bhagalpur; BJP, JD(U) hit back

PM Kisan Yojana: PM Modi to release 19th instalment of PM KISAN in Bhagalpur today

PM Modi will also address a public rally ahead of the 2025 Bihar elections at the Airport Ground.

PM Kisan Yojana: PM Modi to release 19th instalment of PM KISAN in Bhagalpur

PM Kisan Yojana News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Bhagalpur to release the 19th instalment of Kisan Samman Nidhi and address a public rally ahead of 2025 Bihar elections. The event, also attended by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, aims to gather support from around 5 lakh farmers.

BJP preparing to use PM's Bihar visit to kickstart poll campaign

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Bihar's Bhagalpur district to participate in a farmers' programme. He will release the 19th instalment of PM KISAN, providing over 21,500 crore in direct benefits to more than 9.7 crore farmers nationwide. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan engaged with makhana farmers prior to the visit.

Lalu Prasad promises jobs in Bihar ahead of PM Modis Visit to Bhagalpur; BJP, JD(U) hit back

PATNA: A day before Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Bihars Bhagalpur, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief and former Chief Minister Lalu Prasad promised that people of Bihar would no longer have to migrate to other states for jobs if his party is voted to power in the upcoming assembly elections. Shramiko ka bal, Rashtriya Janata Dal, Lalu posted on his official social media handle, X, on Sunday. He stated that industries would be set up to generate employment opportunities within the state, ensuring that migration would stop automatically. Lalus promises are aimed at appealing to the youth ahead of the assembly elections due in October-November. Earlier, he urged people to elect Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav as the next Chief Minister, citing his youth and vision for Bihars development. As Bihars main opposition party, the RJD has decided to corner the ruling NDA government on issues such as unemployment, migration, inflation, and the deteriorating law and order situation. The party also claims that women from marginalized communities are being neglected by the current administration. Meanwhile, Tejashwi Yadav launched an attack on PM Modi ahead of his Bhagalpur visit. He and his ministers visit Bihar only during elections. What has he done for the state? If he couldnt grant Patna University central university status in 11 years, what more can we expect from him? Tejashwi questioned. Reacting to Lalu Prasads poll promises, JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar dismissed them, calling Lalu a laughingstock for claiming he would provide jobs to people. Yes, the kidnapping industry will certainly flourish again if RJD comes to power, he remarked, adding that voters would not be swayed by hollow promises. The BJP, a key NDA ally, also criticized Lalus statement, alleging that his sole focus is making his son Tejashwi the Chief Minister. He has no concern for Bihars development. The 15-year rule of Lalu-Rabri is an open secret, BJP leader Prabhakar Mishra said. NDA leaders countered RJDs employment claims by asserting that out of 10 lakh government jobs, 9 lakh have already been provided. Similarly, they claimed that the NDA government has created 21 lakh job opportunities in Bihar, exceeding the initial target of 12 lakh. During his visit to Bhagalpur, PM Modi will release the 19th installment of the PM Kisan Yojana and inaugurate several development projects across Bihar. Over 9.7 crore farmers will receive direct financial benefits amounting to more than 21,500 crore under the scheme. With election season approaching, both RJD and NDA have intensified their campaigns, setting the stage for a heated political battle in Bihar.

NDA ready for early Bihar elections, says JD(U) leader amid PM Modis upcoming visit

PATNA: A day after Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar completed his 'Pragati Yatra', JD(U) leader and cabinet minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary on Saturday said the ruling NDA was prepared for elections at any time. His remarks have added weight to the Opposition's concerns about the possibility of early assembly elections in Bihar. NDA is ready anytime. It is up to the Election Commission to decide when to hold elections. The scheduled time for the assembly elections in the state is October-November, Chaudhary, a close confidant of Nitish, told the media. The JD(U) leaders statement has gained significance ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Bhagalpur on 24 February, where he will disburse the 19th instalment of the Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana among farmers. The Prime Minister is also expected to address a public meeting during his visit. Chaudhary claimed that the Opposition was well aware that there was o substitute for Nitish Kumar. He added, The 'Pragati Yatra', covering all 38 districts, has generated much enthusiasm and re-energised people in favour of the NDA. The Opposition camp is aware of this fact. Thats why they are speaking the language they can. He further stated that the yatra had given the Chief Minister an opportunity to assess the ground reality of the states development and welfare schemes. During 'Pragati Yatra', the CM received feedback from people as well as representatives about the governments thrust on 'development with justice', he said. The timing of Nitish Kumars yatra and the public response to his governments welfare initiatives have reportedly encouraged the ruling alliance to consider early assembly elections. Additionally, recent electoral victories in Haryana, Maharashtra, and Delhi have boosted the morale of NDA leaders and workers. Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, has repeatedly stated that early polls in Bihar cannot be ruled out. The possibility of early elections in Bihar cannot be ruled out, RJD spokesperson Mritunjay Tiwari said, echoing similar sentiments expressed by leaders of the grand alliance. Political analysts believe that Chaudharys remarks should be taken seriously, as the NDA may opt for early elections to maintain its winning momentum. Early elections may benefit the NDA, as the Opposition is yet to begin its preparations, a political observer noted. PM Modis visit to Bhagalpur is seen as a strategic move by the NDA, possibly paving the way for early polls in Bihar.

PM Modi to Visit MP, Bihar, and Assam for Three Days from Sunday

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Assam for three days starting Sunday. During his visit, he will take part in various development programs, including an investment summit in Bhopal and a financial aid distribution event for farmers in Bhagalpur. On Sunday, in Madhya Pradesh, he will lay the foundation stone for the Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute in Chhatarpur. The next day, he will officially open the Global Investors Summit in Bhopal. In Bihar, on Monday, PM Modi will release the 19th installment of the PM-KISAN scheme, providing financial assistance to farmers. He will also launch several development projects before heading to Assam. On Monday evening, he will attend Jhumoir Binandini, a cultural event in Assam. The next day, he will inaugurate the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit in Guwahati. According to the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), the two-day Global Investors Summit in Bhopal will help position Madhya Pradesh as a top investment destination. The summit will include sessions on industries such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, transport, logistics, tourism, and MSMEs. Special discussions will also focus on partnerships with countries from the Global South, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The event will feature three major exhibitions: an auto show, a textile and fashion expo, and an exhibition on One District-One Product (ODOP) to highlight local craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Representatives from over 60 countries, along with Indian policymakers and business leaders, will attend. As part of the PM-KISAN scheme, more than 9.7 crore farmers across India will receive Rs.21,500 crore in direct financial aid. The Bihar event will celebrate the formation of the 10,000th Farmer Producer Organization (FPO), which helps farmers collectively market and sell their products. PM Modi will also open the Centre of Excellence for Indigenous Breeds in Motihari and launch a new milk processing plant in Barauni, which aims to support three lakh dairy farmers by providing an organized market for their products. The Jhumoir Binandini event in Assam will be a grand cultural program featuring 8,000 dancers performing the traditional Jhumoir dance of Assams tea tribes and Scheduled Tribes. This event marks 200 years of Assams tea industry and industrialization. The investment summit in Assam will include seven ministerial sessions, 14 special discussions, and an exhibition showcasing the states economy, industrial growth, and trade opportunities. Over 240 exhibitors will participate in the event.

PM Modi To Visit MP, Bihar, Assam For Development Initiatives, Global Investors Summit

The three-day visit, starting Sunday, will see the Prime Minister attending several events, including the release of the 19th instalment of cash assistance to farmers in Bhagalpur

PM KISAN Yojna 19th installment: PM Modi to release funds on THIS date, check eligibility and eKYC process

During the Bhagalpur visit, PM Modi is also expected to launch various state development initiatives, apart from participating in agricultural programmes.

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

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.

Bihar: Mentally Challenged Man Beats Two People To Death In Bhagalpur, Mob Lynches Him

Senior police officers met family members of the deceased on Saturday. Villagers informed the police that Chotu Kumar was mentally challenged.

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.

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.

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.

Veteran activist Tapan Bose passes away

Bose campaigned for dialogue in Kashmir, Naxal areas; made documentary films on Jharkhand situation, Bhopal gas tragedy victims, Bhagalpur blindings; stood against post-Godhra violence, Babri Masjid demolition

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.

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.