Bihar womans memoir becomes lesson in Kerala class VI textbook
KOCHI: Never had 22-year-old Dharaksha Parveen, a migrant woman from Bihars Darbhanga district, dreamt that one day a brief memoir she wrote would be made into a lesson and that too in Kerala General Education Departments Class VI Malayalam textbook. But that has happened! In the 2025-26 academic year, Class VI students throughout the state will study her lifes journey from Bihar as a 10-year-old to a Malayalam teacher in the school where she mastered the language. Speaking to TNIE , Dharaksha, who arrived in Kerala 12 years ago in 2013, says, My father came before us. For him, Kerala has been home for the past 25 years. We now live at Muppathadam Thandirikkal Colony in a rented house. According to her, the events that led to her writing getting selected for the Malayalam textbook happened after a small piece of news appeared in a vernacular daily in 2023. Narayanan Mash from Palakkad happened to come across the news. It was a story about a function held at GHS Binanipuram, where I now teach craft and also Malayalam under the Roshini project, she says. Narayanan Mash contacted Jayashree teacher associated with the Roshini project at my school. She sent him my location and address. He, along with his team, came to my house and held discussions with me for an entire day. It was during the discussions that he asked me to write something in Malayalam for a book, says Dharaksha. She agreed and wrote a piece in a letter format addressed to her friend in Bihar. In the letter, I talked about my life in Kerala, achievements, important events and the people here. I sent the write-up to Narayanan Mash. It was then edited and finally selected as a lesson in the Class VI Malayalam textbook after thorough scrutiny, she adds. According to her, the friend she addressed her letter to is a girl she studied with in Class VII in Darbhanga. She is now married. That would have been my fate too if I hadnt come to Kerala. When I arrived and joined Class V at GHS Binanipuram, it was difficult for me to study. The medium was Malayalam. But after I began going for classes under the Roshini project, I began to grasp the language. I depended heavily on pictorial books and put in double the effort, says Dharaksha. Now, she not only speaks Malayalam fluently but also teaches the language to other migrant children under the Roshini project. How did that come about? Dharaksha says, After completing Plus-II, I applied for a post with the Roshini project. I aced the qualifying test and interview to get the teaching post. She now aims to build a house for her parents. I want to do that before I get married. Normally, it is considered the responsibility of the sons. But I want to change that. As to whether she will go back to Bihar, Dharaksha says, Never. I will settle down here. Even my parents are not interested in going back. There is no future for us in Bihar. Both my brothers also have the same plans.
Doctor among 2 held in Bihar for NEET-UG 25 exam fraud
PATNA: The Samastipur Police in Bihar arrested two individuals, including an MBBS doctor, for impersonation and fraud during the NEET-UG examination conducted on Sunday. Three mobile phones, a car and Rs 50,000 in cash were recovered from their possession. Investigating officers are ascertaining whether the arrested have links with NEET-UG 2024 examination paper leak kingpin Sanjeev Mukhiya, currently lodged in the Beur central jail near Patna. Mukhiya, who was carrying a bounty of Rs 3 lakh, was arrested from Patna last month. Sanjay Kumar Pandey, ASP, Samastipur, said that a police team detained two individuals who were sitting in a car parked outside an examination centre in Mohanpur. Police officials noticed that their mobile phones contained the admit cards of various candidates. During interrogation, the duo admitted to having replaced weak candidates with scholars (impersonators) in various examination centres in Samastipur and other places to enable them to score well and get admission to medical colleges. They would charge anything between Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 5 lakh. One of them introduced himself as Dr Ranjeet Kumar, a government doctor posted at Begusarai divisional jail, while his associate Rambabu Malik is a native of Darbhanga. ASP Pandey said, Their links with NEET-UG 2025 paper leak kingpin Sanjeev Mukhiya are being ascertained. The Bihar polices economic offences unit alerted all DMs and SPs to keep vigil at examination centres. Deputy Inspector General, EOU, Manavjeet Singh Dhillon said that S K Faiz was arrested from Araria on Sunday after it was established that he was collecting money from candidates to provide them with question papers for the NEET-UG 2025 examination. Faiz, a resident of Islam Nagar in Araria district, had created a Telegram channel to connect with candidates and ask for money in lieu of question papers. One Arvind Kumar, a native of Aurangabad district, was arrested in Odisha for his links to the NEET exam racket. How it unfolded May 4 10.30 PM: A car was spotted moving from one exam centre to another 10.35 PM : District police control room alerts police stations in the urban areas 10.55 PM : Two people travelling in the car spotted near Mohanpur bridge 10.57 PM: A police team rushes to the spot where car is parked 11 PM: Individuals in the car brought to police station for questioning 11.20 PM: Members of SIT quiz the detainees in police lock-up 2 PM to 5 PM: Exam conducted May 5 11 AM :Both accused produced before court, sent in 14-day judicial custody
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and gram sabhas across the country today, from Bihars Madhubani district, marking National Panchayati Raj Day. The PMs address, to be held in Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat under Jhanjharpur block, is expected to begin at 11.45 am. According to a press communique issued by the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone and inaugurate a slew of development projects worth Rs 13,480 crore during his visit. In addition, PM Modi will flag off the Amrit Bharat Express and the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail on the occasion. He will also confer the Special Category National Panchayat Awards 2025. However, as a mark of respect following the recent terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, there will be no ceremonial felicitation of the Prime Minister or other dignitaries during the event. A native of Bihars Rohtas district, Manish Ranjanan Intelligence Bureau official posted in Hyderabadwas among those killed in the attack. This is PM Modis first visit to any state since the Pahalgam terror strike, and his second since February this year. His visit to Madhubani, located in the culturally significant Mithilanchal region, comes months ahead of the assembly elections in Bihar, scheduled for October-November. Political observers view the visit as an attempt to consolidate voter support for the NDA, which secured 60 per cent of seats in north Bihar during the 2020 assembly elections. The Election Commission has already begun preparations, with a two-day training and capacity-building programme for Booth Level Officers (BLOs) from Bihar commencing on Wednesday. Meanwhile, security has been stepped up in Madhubani and neighbouring districts. Personnel from the state Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have been deployed in the region to monitor the activities of sleeper cell operatives. A senior police officer said, Security agencies are ready to deal with any exigency. Search operation has been launched in Madhubani and Darbhanga districts as part of the policing. The two neighbouring districts have a history of providing shelter to operatives of sleeper cells of various terror groups.
Bihar Teen, Presumed Dead And Cremated Over Month Ago, Returns Home Alive
A 17-year-old boy, who was presumed dead and cremated more than a month ago, has returned alive in Bihar's Darbhanga district, officials said on Friday.
At least 25 killed in lightning strikes, hailstorms in several districts of Bihar
The IMD has issued an orange alert for a number of districts, including Darbhanga, East Champaran, Nalanda and Patna; forecast heavy rainfall April 10 and April 11
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.
Clash between two communities in Bihar's Darbhanga, 6 arrested
According to police, the incident took place when people belonging to another community started pelting stones from rooftops at people returning from the Kalash Shobha Yatra.
Stones thrown at devotees of Kalash Shobha Yatra in Bihar's Darghanga; four arrested
PATNA: Tension gripped Bihars Darbhanga after a clash erupted during Shobha Kalash Yatra on the first day of Chaiti Ramnavami on March 30. Four people have been arrested. The trouble erupted after devotees were pelted with stones from the rooftops of nearby buildings when they were returning home after taking part in the Kalash Shobha Yatra. Several women received injuries in the stone pelting. The stone pelting on the devotees escalated tension at the village. Alok Kumar alias Vikas Kumar, former mukhiya of Kewatgama village, said that police personnel from adjoining police stations have been deployed at the village to prevent any untoward incident. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Darbhanga, J Jagunath Reddy said that the situation was well under control. Additional police forces have been deployed at the village as a precautionary measure, he added. The SSP said that the station house officer (SHO) of Kusheshwarsthan police station has been asked to keep a surveillance on the movement of outsiders at the village. The SHO Rakesh Kumar said, People have been asked to maintain restraint. We are alert and keeping a close surveillance on the situation. Rumour mongers will be dealt with sternly, he said. Locals said that a clash had broken out at the village during the Holi festival. However, the situation was brought under control due to timely intervention of the police. Last week, DGP Vijay Kumar held a high-level meeting at the police headquarters and issued instructions to maintain law and order situation during EID and Ramnavami.
Clash Erupts in Darbhanga During Chaiti Navratra Procession
Six arrested after violence breaks out over alleged stone-pelting incident; police maintain strict vigil
ED raid on Bihar chief engineers residence yields crores in cash
PATNA: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted searches at the residential premises of Bihar Building Construction Departments chief engineer, Tarini Das, in connection with a money laundering case linked to a tender scam. The raids were carried out at multiple locations linked to Das, including his residence in Purnendu Nagar near Phulwarisharif. The operation, which began early in the morning, was still ongoing at the time of filing this report. Sources revealed that crores of rupees were recovered from Dass house, prompting officials to requisition four cash counting machines to the chief ministers residence to tally the seized money. Das, who retired from service in October last year, was reinstated to his previous post under unclear circumstances. He has been accused of facilitating tenders for contractors in exchange for substantial sums of money. The fresh searches are connected to the EDs ongoing investigation into a money laundering case involving IAS officer Sanjeev Hans, who was arrested last year and remains lodged in Beur Central Jail in Patna. Hans was charged under relevant sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Former RJD MLA Gulab Yadav was also arrested in connection with the same case from a resort in New Delhi. The Patna Police had seized a substantial amount of wealth belonging to Yadav, which was later handed over to the Special Vigilance Unit. The EDs action has sparked a political row, with Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav launching a scathing attack on the NDA government led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The officials are plundering public money as the CM is mentally not stable, he told the media. There is no control over the officials in the Nitish Kumar government. Money is taken for transfers and postings. Everybody is aware of how government offices are functioning in Bihar these days. But these illegal practices will stop when RJD comes to power, he asserted. Meanwhile, BJP MLA from Darbhanga and State Revenue and Land Reforms Minister Sanjay Saraogi defended the governments stance, asserting that the crackdown demonstrated a commitment to good governance. Those found to be involved in corruption will not be spared, whosoever they may be, he said. He, however, added, No one is being framed or spared. The government is maintaining zero tolerance on corruption.
NCC Share Price Hits Nearly Two-Month High After Rs 1,480-Crore Order Win
NCC will redevelop the Darbhanga Medical College & Hospital and other buildings at Laheriasarai, Darbhanga.
Rajiv Ranjan is a computer engineer who hails from a small village in Darbhanga district, Bihar. He has worked in American companies with salary packages in lakhs. However, he is now leading an FPC of 853 farmers, which is generating a turnover of crores. His story is both inspiring and astonishing.
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 mayor's holi break call to accommodate Jumma prayers triggers row
PATNA: A woman mayor in Bihar on Wednesday demanded a two-hour break during Holi celebrations on March 14 to facilitate Jumma (Friday's) prayers, stoking a fresh controversy in the state. The mayor of Darbhanga, Anjum Ara, who is associated with Nitish Kumar's JD(U), suggested that Holi celebrations should be stopped between 12:30 pm and 2 pm on March 14, which coincides with Jumma (Friday's) prayers. We have a solution to the possible conflict over the matter. The Holi celebrations should be stopped for two hours so that Jumma prayers can be performed without any hassle, said the mayor, adding that the timing of Jumma prayers cannot be extended. She also requested that Holi revelers avoid mosques or prayer sites during this period. Hours after her statement went viral on social media, JD(U) minister Ashok Kumar Choudhary said that she should be expelled from the party if she is still associated with it. Choudhary, considered close to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, stated that such a statement should have been avoided. BJP MLA from Bisfi, Haribhushan Thakur Bachaul, slammed Mayor Anjum Ara over her Holi advocacy, accusing her of having a 'terrorist mentality.' He asserted that Holi celebrations should continue without interruption and warned of strict action if anybody attempted to disrupt th celebrations. The mayor of Darbhanga is a woman of a Ghazwa-e-Hind and a terrorist mentality. Her family has a long history of this, he said, adding, Why are leaders of RJD, Congress, and Left parties silent about the mayor's statement? BJP MLA from Darbhanga town, Sanjay Saraogi, who is a minister in the Nitish Kumar cabinet, also echoed similar sentiments and said that the mayor's statement was not acceptable. Talking to media persons, Saraogi said that people should respect all religions. Sanatan Dharma gives a message of love, affection, and brotherhood, he added. Following the criticism, the mayor later expressed regret over her remarks. I apologize if my statement has hurt the sentiments of anybody, she said in a statement released on Wednesday. She, however, demanded action against those who tried to drag her family into controversy by making false accusations.
Bihar mayor's '2-hr Holi break' for namaaz call sparks row
The mayor of Darbhanga, Bihar, has sparked a controversy by suggesting a two-hour break in Holi celebrations to accommodate Friday prayers during Ramzan. Her proposal has drawn criticism from a BJP MLA, who accused her of calling for 'Ghazwa-e-Hind'. Meanwhile, other politicians have condemned the mayor's suggestion and emphasized the need for communal harmony.
Bihar mayor seeks two-hour break during Holi to facilitate Namaaz; BJP calls her terrorist
A fresh controversy over Holi and Friday namaaz during Ramzan erupted in Bihar with the mayor of Darbhanga town advocating a wo-hour break in celebration of the festival of colours to facilitate the Muslim prayers. The proposal was mooted by Anjum Ara at a meeting of the peace committee in the north Bihar town recently. Later, while interacting with reporters, she said, My plea was that the time of 'jumma namaaz' cannot be deferred. So, let there be a two-hour break, from noon to 2 pm, during which Hindus shall avoid places in the vicinity of mosques. This would enable people from both faiths to carry out their respective practices without any hassles. We understand that Holi comes only once in a year. But we also need to keep in mind that for Muslims, it is the holy month of Ramzan, the mayor added. Her remarks drew an angry response from HariBhushan Thakur Bachaul, a BJP MLA from the adjoining district of Madhubani, who was recently in news for asking Muslims to stay indoors if they had a problem with Holi. Talking to reporters on the state assembly premises, he said, Where are the self-proclaimed secularists who were attacking me? The mayor of Darbhanga is a woman of Ghazwa-e-Hind and a terrorist mentality; the family she belongs to has a long history of this. They are trying to ignite a fire, and that fire will not be ignited, and the strictest action will be taken against such people; the Holi celebration will not stop. There will not be a break for even a minute... Holi will be celebrated in a grand manner, he added. Thakur also warned of a pratikaar (retaliation) against those who first partitioned the country and are now intruding into the social life of Hindus. He also sought investigation into shady (sandigdh) record of Ara and her family, who are said to be supporters of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U), a BJP ally. However, senior JD(U) leader and minister Shravan Kumar said, The administration is not supposed to tell the people when and how to celebrate a festival. These decisions are best left to the society and the administration must always concentrate on maintaining rule of law. He also disapproved of the remarks by Bachaul, saying, Elected representatives must never use a language that hurts a section of the society. RJD MLA Bhai Virendra, whose party is considered the first choice of Muslims in Bihar, felt the mayor of Darbhanga had come up with a response to the polarising tactics of the likes of Bachaul, who are hell-bent upon destroying 'Ganga Jamuni tehzeeb' (communal harmony). Meanwhile, the Mayor has apologised, expressing regret over her statement. I regret my earlier statement, and since morning, I have received various kinds of responses. Some people called me Bangladeshi, some called me a traitor. I would like to request the media to investigate thoroughly about me, and if any convincing evidence is found, I welcome any strict action that should be taken against me, Ara said. People are free to think what they want, but my only intention was to ensure that Darbhanga remains peaceful. In this context, I made my statement, but if anyone's feelings were hurt, I apologise for that, she added. (With inputs from PTI and ANI) Uttar Pradesh minister suggests Muslim men cover themselves with tarpaulin on Holi
A Mayor In Bihar Urges 2-Hour Pause In Holi For Friday Prayers, Sparks Row
Darbhanga Mayor Anjum Ara has sparked controversy by requesting a two-hour pause in Holi celebrations on Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., citing respect for Jumme ki Namaz (Friday prayers).
Row erupts in Bihar over mayor's call for 'break' during Holi to facilitate namaaz
A fresh controversy has erupted in Bihar over Holi celebrations coinciding with Friday namaaz during Ramzan. Darbhanga mayor suggested a two-hour break in Holi festivities to facilitate Muslim prayers, drawing angry reactions and calls for retaliation from BJP MLA Hari Bhushan Thakur Bachaul.
'Jumma Time Cannot Be Extended': Darbhanga Mayor Anjum Ara Issues Controversial Appeal Ahead Of Holi
SpiceJet Flight from Hyderabad to Darbhanga Cancelled Due to Technical Issues
Flight SG 766 Delayed and Cancelled After Sunset Restrictions at Darbhanga Airport
Tension grips Patna University campus after bomb explosion ahead of students' union election
PATNA: Patna University witnessed heightened tension on Wednesday after a crude bomb explosion near Darbhanga House, damaging a professors car just weeks before the student union elections scheduled for March 29. The incident occurred amid a violent clash between two student groups, leaving students in shock. Locals reported that over 30 individuals were involved in the altercation, allegedly over campus supremacy. Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Diksha Bhawre confirmed that a crude bomb was hurled at the car of Professor Laxmi Narayan, head of the culture department. Though Narayan was unharmed, his vehicle sustained damage. The professor was inside a classroom when the explosion occurred. CCTV footage from nearby houses is being reviewed to identify those responsible, and action will be taken based on evidence, said ASP Bhawre. VIDEO | Bihar: A clash erupted between two groups at Darbhanga House in Patna University earlier today. Heres what ASP Diksha Bhaware said. ... We received the information today that a sutli bomb was fired and a car has been damaged in that. We are analysing the camera pic.twitter.com/r2Y9XU9ZDr Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 5, 2025 Sources said the vehicle belonged to professor Laxmi Narayan, head of the culture department. However, Prof. Narayan stated that the explosion was unrelated to him, as he was delivering a lecture when the incident occurred. My vehicle was parked outside the building where I was teaching. The incident may be linked to tensions surrounding the upcoming student elections, he said, adding that he has filed a complaint regarding the damage. A police team from Pirbahore police station visited the scene, collected evidence, and launched an investigation. Patrolling has been intensified as a precaution. We are closely monitoring student activities following the explosion, a police officer from Pirbahore station said.
Anam Zafar becomes the first MANUU student to get All India Rank 1 in UGC NET JRF
Hyderabad: Here is an amazing story of a single mother and her only child who brought tears of joy to her eyes by securing the First rank in the UGC-NET JRF examination. Anam Zafar, 25, secured the 100 percentile in the examination. Her mother, Rehana Khatoon, lives in Chandanpatti village, Darbhanga district in Bihar. When 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 .
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.
Makhana will take over the world of superfoods in future, says Shivraj Chouhan
Union Minister interacts with makhana producers in Darbhanga, promises that the Centre is preparing the framework of the Makhana Board by listening to them
Patna HC Raps Bihar Police Over Lax Probe In US-Based Minors Sexual Abuse Case
The case originates from a writ petition filed by Angela Lee Hicks, the mother of the victim, against a resident of Darbhanga, accusing him of stalking and sexually abusing her daughter. The girl was born in Mussoorie, India, and she was 13 years old at the time of the commission of the offence
PATNA: Shockingly, a village panchayat in Bihar's Saharsa district had asked the family members of a 14-year rape survivor belonging to the Scheduled Caste to settle the matter by receiving Rs 1.11 lakh as compensation from the accused. The issue came to light after the news reached the superintendent of police, Saharsa, Himanshu Kumar on Wednesday after the accused's family refused to pay the 'compensation' fixed by the panchayat for the girl's marriage. Taking serious note of the incident, SP asked the Station House Officer (SHO) of Mahishi police station to lodge a formal complaint and initiate action against the accused. The victim's mother told the police that the incident took place on the night of January 5 when her minor daughter had gone to a nearby field to attend nature's call. Taking advantage of the situation, the 21-year-old accused held her captive, took her to a house and raped her. When searched for, she was found in the house where the tormentor allegedly committed the crime. She was taken back to her home late in the night and the next morning the matter was brought to the notice of the panchayat. The accused is also a native of the same village to which the rape victim belongs to. The panchayat members held a meeting and decided to pay Rs.1.11 lakh as compensation to the victim's family. The accused confessed to the crime and agreed to pay the compensation fixed by the panchayat. A month passed by, but nothing happened on this front. In her complaint to the police, the girl's mother said that she and her relatives were abused and misbehaved when they visited the accused Ratan Mukhiya's house for compensation. The accused's family refused to abide by the panchayat's directives and also threatened to sue in a false case. Finding no help from the panchayat, she decided to report the matter to the SP, who took serious note of the incident. Yes, the victim's mother turned up to my office and submitted a written complaint, which has been forwarded to the SHO concerned for necessary action, he told this reporter over the phone on Wednesday. When contacted, the SHO of Mahishi police station Amarnath said that the girl's statement had been recorded and she would be sent for medical examination. He revealed that five persons have been named as accused in the complaint. The offender Ratan Mukhiya, who is a neighbour of the victim, absconded after the incident. We will also investigate whether the panchayat had issued any directive to the accused to settle the matter, the SHO added. In another incident, a 50-year-old man was arrested in Darbhanga district for raping a six-year-old girl in Darbhanga district. SP, Rural, Alok said that the accused Mahakant Paswan has been sent to jail. The victim has been admitted to the Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) as her condition is stated to be serious.
Bihar MPs raise key demands in Rajya Sabha
NEW DELHI: Two MPs from Bihar raised demands for the state in particular and other demands in general in the Rajya Sabha on Friday. JDU MP Sanjay K Jha urged the Centre to consider a proposal to rename the Darbhanga airport after a renowned poet of the Mithila region, namely Vidyapati. He raised the issue in the Rajya Sabha during Zero Hour, informing the House that the Bihar government had written to the Ministry of Civil Aviation in 2020, requesting the renaming of Darbhanga airport. He further said it had been proposed that Darbhanga airport should be renamed as 'Kavi Kokil Vidyapati Airport'. On 22 December 2020, the Nitish Kumar government had written a letter to the then Civil Aviation Minister, requesting the airport be renamed after Vidyapati, as the Bihar Assembly and Legislative Council had already passed resolutions in this regard. In Bihars Mithilanchal region, Vidyapati was a 15th-century poet, a scholar from north Bihar, and a polymath who wrote in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Apabhramsha, and Maithili. He is popularly known as 'Maithil Kavi Kokil' (the poet cuckoo of Maithili). Similarly, Manoj Jha, a Rajya Sabha MP from Bihars main opposition party, RJD, urged the Centre on Friday to take urgent steps to address rising income inequality. He said that the growing disparity in earnings was not just a challenge for the economy but also a threat to social stability. Raising the issue during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, the RJD MP further said the middle- and lower-income groups were witnessing a decline in their earnings, while the income of the rich was rising. Income inequality is affecting several aspects of our lives. The income of the millionaires and the billionaires is rising... We have no complaint with that, but there is a parallel, sharp decline in the incomes of the middle- and lower-income groups, especially the unorganised sector, Jha said. He added, saying, Post-Covid, this trend has become faster. The elite class' income has increased, but in comparison, the marginalised group, the working class, is witnessing a decline in their earnings. He asserted that income disparity affected the economy as well as social stability. It also affects democracy. Because when capital becomes concentrated, it influences politics. And when capital starts dominating politics, it is our collective responsibility to get out of it, he said.
Bihar achieves 100 per cent railway electrification, major infrastructure boost underway
NEW DELHI: Bihar has completed the electrification of all its railway tracks, marking a significant milestone in its infrastructure development. Alongside this achievement, over 58 new railway projects worth 86,458 crore are currently being implemented across the state. Addressing a press conference on Monday, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the extensive railway progress in Bihar, emphasising that in 2009-14, only 64 km of new rail lines were built, whereas from 2015-25, we have laid down 167 km of new rail lines in Bihar. The most notable achievement is that Bihar now has 100 per cent electrified rail routes. He further stated that since 2014, a total of 3,024 km of railway routes in Bihar have been electrified. Additionally, the installation of the anti-collision device Kavach has been completed on 1,783 km of railway tracks, with tenders in progress for an additional 924 km. The Union Budget for 2025-26 has allocated over Rs 10,000 crore to Bihar, which is set to hold elections for its 243-member legislative assembly later this year. The minister pointed out that while the UPA government allocated only Rs 1,132 crore for railway projects in Bihar between 2009-14, the current government has earmarked 10,066 crore for 2025-26. In Bihar, 12 Vande Bharat trains are now in operation, covering 15 districts with 22 unique stoppages. One Amrit Bharat Express also runs between Darbhanga and Anand Vihar Terminal, covering four districts with 11 unique stoppages, Vaishnaw announced. A total of 98 railway stations in Bihar are being redeveloped as Amrit stations, with work progressing on 85 of them. Key stations under redevelopment include Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Bapudham Motihari, Sitamarhi, and Darbhanga, with an estimated investment of Rs 1,555 crore. The minister also assured that Patna Junction, along with other major stations, will undergo redevelopment to enhance passenger services with modern amenities. He further noted that since 2014, Bihar has witnessed the construction of 1,832 km of new rail routescomparable to the entire railway network of Malaysia. Currently, 57 infrastructure and rail service projects are underway in the state, aimed at strengthening connectivity and improving rail services.
'Bihar achieves 100 percent electrification of railway tracks'
NEW DELHI: Bihar has achieved 100% electrification of its railway tracks, with over 58 new projects worth Rs 86,458 crore currently being implemented. In the Union Budget for 2025-26, Bihar, which is set to hold elections for its 243-member legislative assembly later this year, has been allocated over Rs 10,000 crore. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, speaking at a special press conference on Monday, stated that 57 infrastructure and rail service projects are underway in Bihar. He mentioned that 98 railway stations in the state are being redeveloped as Amrit stations, with work progressing on 85 of them. Highlighting the progress made under Prime Minister Narendra Modis tenure since 2014, Vaishnaw noted that 1,832 km of new rail routes have been constructed in Biharcomparable to the entire railway network of Malaysia. Comparing this with the previous UPA governments allocation during 2009-14, he pointed out that while only Rs 1,132 crore was allotted then, the current government has allocated Rs 10,066 crore for 2025-26. In 2009-14, only 64 km of new rail lines were built, whereas from 2015-25, we have laid down 167 km of new rail lines in Bihar. The most notable achievement is that Bihar has now 100% electrified rail routes, he asserted. Since 2014, a total of 3,024 km of rail routes have been electrified in Bihar, with Rs 86,458 crore invested in 57 ongoing projects, including new rail lines and other infrastructural developments. Vaishnaw also announced the installation of the anti-collision device Kavach on 1,783 km of rail routes, with tenders in progress for 924 km. In Bihar, now 12 Vande Bharat trains are in operation, covering 15 districts with 22 unique stoppages. One Amrit Bharat Express also runs between Darbhanga and Anand Vihar Terminal, covering four districts with 11 unique stoppages, he added. Among the 98 stations being redeveloped as Amrit stations, key locations include Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Bapudham Motihari, Sitamarhi, and Darbhanga, with an estimated cost of Rs 1,555 crore. Vaishnaw also assured that Patna Junction, along with other major stations, will undergo redevelopment to provide high-standard services with modern amenities.
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.
SVU seizes Rs 1.87 crore assets from Bihar's Bettiah DEO in corruption probe
Patna: The Special Vigilance Unit (SVU), the anti-corruption wing of the Bihar Police, on Thursday conducted simultaneous raids at various locations linked to education department official Rajnikant Praveen, currently serving as the District Education Officer (DEO) of Bettiah in West Champaran district. The searches were carried out in Darbhanga, Madhubani, West Champaran, and Samastipur districts as part of a disproportionate assets case. The SVU began its operation at the DEOs office before moving to his residential premises. During the raid, bundles of currency notes were discovered hidden under beds in different rooms of his house. A currency-counting machine was requisitioned from a local bank to ascertain the exact amount of cash seized. The exact amount of cash will be determined after counting the bundles of seized currency notes, said a member of the raiding team. In addition to cash, the SVU stumbled upon documents revealing movable and immovable assets valued at Rs 1.87 crore. The DEOs wife reportedly runs a private school in Bettiah. Sources revealed that various teacher associations had lodged complaints against Praveen, alleging that he had amassed wealth through illegal means. However, these allegations were allegedly ignored for years due to Praveens proximity to influential figures. Praveen has been serving as DEO in Bettiah for over three years, having joined the state education department in 2005. The raids, which began in the early hours of Thursday after obtaining the necessary permissions, were still ongoing at the time of reporting. The operation has sent shockwaves through the education department, with at least 10 other officials reportedly under SVU surveillance over similar allegations. At least 10 officers of the education department are under the surveillance of the SVU, a senior officer said. Earlier, DEOs in East Champaran and Kishanganj districts also faced action following allegations of corruption. Sources indicated widespread complaints regarding irregularities in the procurement of furniture for government schools across the state. The Additional Chief Secretary of the education department, S. Sidharth, has ordered an inquiry into the involvement of employees accused of engaging in corrupt practices.
35% Trains Run Late in SCR Secunderabad Unit
Hyderabad: One in every three trains in the Secunderabad division of South Central Railways, including the famed Vande Bharat Express, have been running behind schedule in the last four months. Balakrishna and Ramana Ashok, residents of Uppuguda in the Old City, experienced one such delay on Friday. They travelled on a special train from Tirupati to Hyderabad, which was supposed to arrive at 6 am but reached the Cherlapalli nearly three hours late. Private employees, they had chosen this train to make it to their 9 am jobs, but the delay forced them to apply leave for the day. Businessman Raju Ojha, who frequently travels on the Darbhanga-Secunderabad Express, also had similar complaints. He said that the train was often late by three to five hours. He urged the authorities to ensure trains run according to schedule. A railway expert noted that during the last quarter of the financial year extending until March freight trains are prioritised to meet targets, which can lead to delays for passenger services. Passengers, especially those using the Secunderabad division, have raised concerns about late arrivals. The Secunderabad station handles about 180 trains per day, with a footfall of around 1.5 lakh, while the Nampally station sees between 20 and 30 trains, serving approximately 50,000 passengers daily. Shiv Kumar, a railway analyst, explained that running more trains than the available tracks and platforms exacerbated the issue. Ongoing development at the Secunderabad station often forced trains to stop at a distance for a while. Additionally, the third line work on the Balharshah-Vijayawada and pit line projects were further disrupting schedules. Kumar emphasised that doubling the single-track Guntur route, a key line, would help reduce these delays. Responding to a query on the late running of trains, an SCR official pointed out that trains would be marked as delayed in the statistics even if they were late by three minutes. He said the railways never compromised on safety, and the focus was on ensuring that all the required norms were met to operate the trains. The official said that SCR had taken up various development and modernisation works, including the installation of a system called; automatic block signalling, which was contributing to the slow movement of trains on certain sections. When complete, the automatic block signalling equipment would enable the trains to run faster. He said that line tripling work was being carried out on the Kazipet-Balharshah-Kondapalli route, which involved several technical aspects including installing overhead electric lines. Work was also going on at several spots to build under and overbridges. Railway data show : 2024 September: 28% late November: 35% late December: 38% late 2025 Till Jan. 15: 33% late
