From water temperature and brewing time to why milk should never enter the cup, a senior steward at Kolkatas iconic tearoom walks us through the delicate ritual of preparing Darjeeling tea in a city otherwise devoted to strong roadside chai.
West Bengal Chief Minister Announces Investigation into GTA Corruption
Kolkata, May 20: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Wednesday that an investigation into alleged corruption within the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) will commence. The GTA is an autonomous body that manages civil affairs in the hilly regions of Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong in North Bengal. The announcement was made during an administrative ... Read more West Bengal Chief Minister Announces Investigation into GTA Corruption
Northern Bengal Voters Show Continued Trust in BJP, Says Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
Kolkata, May 20: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated on Wednesday that voters in Northern Bengal have consistently shown their trust in the BJP since 2019. During a visit to Siliguri in Darjeeling district, the Chief Minister chaired an administrative meeting concerning eight districts in Northern Bengal. Speaking to the media before the meeting, ... Read more Northern Bengal Voters Show Continued Trust in BJP, Says Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
Kolkata swelters as Meteorological department forecasts heavy rain in North Bengal
Heavy downpour is likely over the sub-Himalayan districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar from May 21 to 25
Celebrating Himalayan Heritage: DHR Literature Festival 2026 Launched
Guwahati, May 20: The Northeast Frontier Railway successfully hosted the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Literature Festival 2026 to celebrate the industrial heritage of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and the rich oral and literary traditions of the Himalayan region. Officials announced this on Tuesday. The four-day festival, held from May 15 to ... Read more Celebrating Himalayan Heritage: DHR Literature Festival 2026 Launched
PM Touches Feet Of 97-Year-Old Makhan Lal Sarkar In Bengal: Who Is He?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi honoured a 97-year-old man at the swearing-in ceremony of Suvendu Adhikari in Kolkata this morning. In a grand gesture, PM Modi hugged and touched his feet. This person is Makhan Lal Sarkar, who lives in Siliguri and was one of the seniormost state leaders during the BJP's initial days. Sarkar was the aide of Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, said Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya. Mookerjee was killed in a mysterious way in a Kashmir jail. Sarkar, who was part of his last journey, has graced us with his presence today, he added. PM Modi honours veteran BJP leader Makhanlal Sarkar ahead of oath-taking ceremony at Brigade Parade ground pic.twitter.com/GoigITiy8f - NDTV (@ndtv) May 9, 2026 Bhattacharya further recalled that Sarkar was arrested by Delhi Police for singing a patriotic song when the Congress was in power. He was taken to court and asked to apologise. But he refused. Sarkar told the judge he didn't commit any crime; that he had only sung a song. The judge wanted to listen to the song, so he sang it again in the court. The judge then asked the police to get Sarkar a first class ticket back home and give him Rs 100 for his journey, said the Bengal BJP chief. Makhan Lal Sarkar - A BJP Veteran Sarkar was the first BJP district president of the Siliguri organisational district and a companion of Shyama Prasad Mookerjee on his historic Kashmir tour. At the age of 97, he remains one of the early grassroots figures associated with the nationalist movement in post-Independence India. In 1952, he was arrested in Kashmir while accompanying Mookerjee during the movement to hoist the Indian tricolour there. After the formation of the BJP in 1980, he became the organisational coordinator for West Dinajpur, Jalpaiguri, and Darjeeling districts. Within just one year, he helped enroll nearly 10,000 members. From 1981 onward, he served continuously for seven years as district president, an exceptional achievement at a time when BJP leaders generally could not remain in the same organisational position for more than two years.
Siliguri Election Results 2026 News: Siliguri, a vital commercial hub in West Bengal's Darjeeling district, held its Assembly elections on April 23, 2026. The constituency, encompassing Siliguri city and its suburbs, saw a voter turnout of 77% in 2021, with Sankar Ghosh of the BJP defeating Omprakash Mishra. In 2016, Asok Bhattacharya of the CPI(M) won with an 81% turnout.
More Indians need to become tea-totallers
A Kolkata tea seller showcases a rare Darjeeling tea. This highlights the unique qualities of Darjeeling tea, often overlooked. Like Champagne, Darjeeling tea faces climate change and competition. More Indians should appreciate this heritage beverage. Better marketing is needed to elevate Darjeeling tea's global standing.
BJP Leader Raju Bista Predicts 170-180 Seats in West Bengal Elections
Gangtok, April 26: Raju Bista, the Lok Sabha MP from Darjeeling and a prominent BJP leader, expressed confidence on Saturday that the party could secure between 170 to 180 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. He attributed this optimism to a significant shift in voter sentiment. Bista made these remarks while reviewing preparations ... Read more BJP Leader Raju Bista Predicts 170-180 Seats in West Bengal Elections
West Bengal Phase 1 elections: EVM glitches, violence disrupt polling in several areas
Voting began in West Bengal's assembly elections amid disruptions. Electronic Voting Machine glitches caused delays at several polling stations across districts like Murshidabad, Purba Medinipur, Cooch Behar, Malda, and Darjeeling. Overnight violence was also reported from some areas, with incidents of crude bomb hurling and attacks on political workers. Security forces are present.
International Delegates Praise Voting Arrangements in West Bengal Elections
Kolkata, April 23: The first phase of voting in the West Bengal Assembly elections is underway across 152 seats in 16 districts. During this time, international representatives visited several polling stations in Darjeeling district on Thursday, inspecting the ongoing voting process alongside officials from the Election Commission of India (ECI). The polling stations visited by ... Read more International Delegates Praise Voting Arrangements in West Bengal Elections
Assembly polls: Voting begins in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu
Voting began on Thursday in 152 constituencies in the first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections, amid unprecedented security arrangements and a high-stakes battle that could shape the direction of the entire contest. Polling started at 7 am with voters queueing up outside booths in districts ranging from Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the north 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 .
Political Tensions Rise Over I-PAC Case as Harsh Vardhan Shringla Criticizes Mamata Banerjee
Darjeeling, April 22: Rajya Sabha member Harsh Vardhan Shringla has launched a sharp attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He referenced the Supreme Courts comments regarding the I-PAC case, stating that the court has indicated that CM Banerjee has jeopardized democracy. Shringla emphasized the importance of this issue for the public, especially with ... Read more Political Tensions Rise Over I-PAC Case as Harsh Vardhan Shringla Criticizes Mamata Banerjee
Amidst the high-pitched campaign for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly polls, tea garden workers have turned out to be an important constituency for political parties; the districts of Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling have about 20 seats, where the fate of the candidates depends on their support to tea garden workers.
Amit Shah Issues Warning to TMC Amidst Womens Safety Concerns in Darjeeling
Darjeeling, April 21: On the final day of campaigning for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a rally in Darjeeling. He criticized the TMC government, stating that under Mamata Banerjees rule, mothers and sisters have faced significant oppression. Shah remarked that numerous false cases have been filed ... Read more Amit Shah Issues Warning to TMC Amidst Womens Safety Concerns in Darjeeling
BJP to resolve decades-old Gorkha issue within 6 months of forming govt in Bengal: Shah
KURSEONG (WB), Apr 21: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said the decades-old Gorkha issue will be resolved within six months if the BJP forms the government in West Bengal. He said no party other than the BJP could find a solution acceptable to the Gorkhas. Addressing an election rally at Kurseong in Darjeeling district, Shah said the BJP understands the concerns and aspirations of the Gorkhas and would work towards a settlement on their terms. Within six months [] The post BJP to resolve decades-old Gorkha issue within 6 months of forming govt in Bengal: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Nepal duty checks hit border bazaars from Dharchula to Darjeeling, spark protests
Shah To Restart WB Campaign From Darjeeling
Mr Shah will later fly to South Bengal where he will address three rallies one each at Kulti in Burdwan West, Salboni in West Midnapore and Chandipur in East Midnapore in the afternoon: Reports
Darjeeling hills to witness multi-pronged contest on diverse issues in 2026 Assembly polls
While the BJP-GJM alliance and the Trinamool-BGPM alliance are clashing head-on, a new hill party by local entrepreneur Ajay Edwards is also making its presence; along with the pertinent issue of Gorkhaland political situation, the issues of development and corruption may sway the electorate this election season
ECI rolls out Democracy Express in Darjeeling to drive voter awareness
The Election Commission of India organised a voter awareness campaign in North Bengal. The iconic Darjeeling toy train was used to encourage participation in elections. A 'Democracy Express' also traveled through Darjeeling, spreading messages of peaceful and fair elections. Cultural programs and a walkathon were part of the outreach. First-time voters were honored.
Voter Awareness Walkathon in Darjeeling Engages Community Enthusiastically
Kolkata, April 17: A vibrant celebration of democracy unfolded in Darjeeling, West Bengal, on Friday morning. Under the Election Commissions SVEEP (Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation) initiative, a voter awareness walkathon was organized, attracting enthusiastic participation from both youth and senior citizens. According to the Election Commissions SVEEP X handle, A large crowd gathered ... Read more Voter Awareness Walkathon in Darjeeling Engages Community Enthusiastically
Voter Awareness Walkathon Celebrated in Darjeeling
Kolkata, April 17: A vibrant celebration of democracy unfolded in Darjeeling, West Bengal, on Friday morning. Under the Election Commissions SVEEP (Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation) program, a lively awareness walkathon took place, attracting enthusiastic participation from both youth and senior citizens. According to the Election Commissions SVEEP X handle, A large crowd gathered ... Read more Voter Awareness Walkathon Celebrated in Darjeeling
Amit Shah Criticizes Mamata Banerjee for Ignoring Darjeeling Issues
Kolkata, April 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Wednesday that the West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has rejected three proposals to discuss the issues faced by the residents of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong over the past year and a half. Due to inclement weather, Shahs helicopter could not land ... Read more Amit Shah Criticizes Mamata Banerjee for Ignoring Darjeeling Issues
Will prioritise resolving Gorkha issue, withdraw cases against leaders after winning Bengal: Shah
Kolkata, Apr 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday that once the BJP assumes power in West Bengal, it will prioritise resolving the Gorkha issue in Darjeeling and withdraw all cases registered against community leaders and workers for violent agitations in the past. Shah, who was unable to reach the upper reaches of Lebong in the Darjeeling hills on account of unfavourable weather conditions, addressed the gathering through a recorded video message. I am deeply regretful of not [] The post Will prioritise resolving Gorkha issue, withdraw cases against leaders after winning Bengal: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Amit Shah to Address Four Rallies in West Bengal Amid Upcoming Elections
Kolkata, April 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will address four public rallies in West Bengal on Wednesday, coinciding with the Bengali New Year. This comes as the state prepares for two phases of assembly elections later this month. Shahs schedule begins at 11:30 AM with a rally at Lobong Ground in Darjeeling district. He ... Read more Amit Shah to Address Four Rallies in West Bengal Amid Upcoming Elections
Shah Assures 'Constitutional Solution' To Gorkhaland
We will find out a constitutional solution to the Gorkha issue in Darjeeling without making any partition of Bengal. We will also build four big cities in North Bengal: Amit Shah
Villagers in Bengal Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Darjeeling, April 14: As the assembly elections approach in West Bengal, political parties are actively campaigning across the region. Leaders are visiting villages, assuring voters that all promises will be fulfilled upon their victory. However, residents of Haatighisa, a small village near Naxalbari in the Darjeeling district, express a different sentiment. They demand a government ... Read more Villagers in Bengal Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Amit Shah Promises Political Solution for Darjeeling Without Separating from Bengal
Kolkata, April 14: Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Tuesday that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) forms a government in West Bengal following the upcoming assembly elections, a permanent political solution will be provided for the hilly regions of Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong, without separating them from the state. He emphasized, We will ... Read more Amit Shah Promises Political Solution for Darjeeling Without Separating from Bengal
Residents of Bengal Village Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Darjeeling, April 14: As the assembly elections approach in West Bengal, political parties are intensifying their campaigns. Leaders are visiting villages, promising voters that all their commitments will be fulfilled upon victory. However, residents of the small village of Hatighisa, located near Naxalbari in the Darjeeling district, express a different sentiment. They demand a government ... Read more Residents of Bengal Village Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Gorkhaland back in focus as Darjeeling Hills brace for tight Bengal poll battle
North Bengal's hill constituencies are set for a tough election. The BJP, allied with GJM, faces TMC's partner BGPM. A new force, IGJF, is also emerging. The demand for Gorkhaland remains a key issue. Voters recall past promises. Alliances are crucial for resources in this region.
Addressing an election rally at Naxalbari in the Siliguri subdivision of Darjeeling district, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee slammed the BJP for causing misery to the people by enforcing an ill-planned SIR.
TMC's Rs 300 tea wage pledge draws cautious industry response over sector viability
The Trinamool Congress pledged to increase tea garden worker wages to Rs 300. Industry stakeholders express caution, citing the sector's financial struggles. They emphasize the need for consultations involving employers, unions, and the government. The Darjeeling tea industry faces challenges from rising costs and cheaper imports.
West Bengal Assembly elections 2026: Trinamool Congress candidates list
Addressing a press conference in Kolkata, Mamata Banerjee said the remaining three seats in the Darjeeling hills will be contested by Anit Thapa-led Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM).
Its Mamata vs. Suvendu again; Trinamool to contest 291 seats in Bengal polls
Ms. Banerjee said her party will contest 291 of the 294 seats. The remaining three seats will be contested by our ally, Anit Thapa-led BGPM, in the Darjeeling hills, she said
Trinamool Congress revealed its candidate list for the West Bengal Assembly elections, contesting 291 out of 294 seats. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will run from Bhabanipur, while allies will contest three seats in Darjeeling. The party expressed confidence in retaining power with a significant majority, aiming for over 226 seats.
TMC to contest 291 of 294 seats in Bengal polls, confident of winning over 226, says Mamata Banerjee
We will contest 291 of the 294 seats. The remaining three seats will be contested by our ally, Anit Thapa-led BGPM, in the Darjeeling hills, Ms. Banerjee said, while announcing the names of candidates
Darjeeling DM transferred days after protocol lapse row during President Murmus visit
The administrative reshuffle came hours after reports surfaced that the Home Ministry was considering seeking the services of the two officers in connection with the controversy surrounding the Presidents visit
Chief minister Mamata Banerjee however rejected the Centre's requisition, transferred Mr Mishra from the post of Darjeeling DM and brought him into her fold.
Darjeeling district officials had raised alarm over lack of arrangements at venue
In the absence of the Chief Minister and Governor, the Minister-in-Waiting should have received the President according to protocol, officials said
Mamata should resign over protocol breach at President Murmus Darjeeling event: BJP
PM Modi had insulted the President by remaining seated with veteran BJP leader L.K. Advani while President Murmu stood next to them, says the West Bengal CM, holding a dharna against the SIR in Kolkata
Watch: Political row after President Murmu questions West Bengal govt over Santal Conference
A political controversy erupted in West Bengal after President Droupadi Murmu expressed disappointment over arrangements at the International Santal Conference 2026 in Darjeeling district.
Protocol lapses at President event: Centre seeks response from West Bengal government
President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday (March 7, 2026) expressed disappointment with the West Bengal government for changing the venue of the International Santal Conference in Darjeeling district and not adhering to the desired protocol to receive her at the event
Any disrespect to President Murmu deeply regrettable, unacceptable: Edappadi Palaniswami
On March 7, President Droupadi Murmu expressed disappointment with the West Bengal government for changing the venue of the International Santal Conference in Darjeeling district and not adhering to the desired protocol to receive her at the event.
CM Mohan Majhis reaction came close on the heels of rare public displeasure expressed by President Droupadi Murmu over shifting of venue for the International Santhal Conclave in Darjeeling
President Murmu criticises Bengal Government for protocol failures at Darjeeling event
The State Government had also changed the venue of the International Santhal Conference, where the President was participating, citing fears of congestion
Santals contributions to freedom struggle not given due recognition: Prez
Darjeeling (WB), Mar 7: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday said the contributions of the Santals to the countrys freedom struggle have not received due recognition, and asserted that the names of several legends belonging to the community were not deliberately included in history. After inaugurating the ninth International Santal Conference at Bidhannagar in Siliguri in West Bengals Darjeeling district, she stressed the need for education for Santal children. I know how much the Santals have contributed to the countrys freedom [] The post Santals contributions to freedom struggle not given due recognition: Prez appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Kolkata weather: Kolkata and its adjoining areas are likely to receive light rain with thunderstorms on Tuesday, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia, North and South 24 Parganas, Purba and Paschim Midnapore and Jhargram will also see rainfall today. In north Bengal, light to moderate rain is likely in Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Jalpaiguri on Monday and Tuesday.
Award For BJP MP, Language Push: Trinamool's Rajbanshi Outreach Before Polls
The Rajbanshis are a scheduled caste community concentrated in North Bengal, especially in districts like Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, Malda, and Murshidabad.
Rebel BJP MLA Bishnu Prasad Sharma joins TMC ahead of West Bengal polls
West Bengal election: Sharma had repeatedly voiced support for the demand for a separate Gorkhaland state, arguing that the Darjeeling Hills require focused administrative attention and development.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Gets Its First Woman Traveling Ticket Examiner After 145 Years
It reflects the increasing participation of women in railway services and marks a new milestone on one of the country's most renowned heritage routes.
In 145 years, Darjeeling toy train gets first woman TTE
Sarita Yolmo has been assigned tour duty on the narrow-gauge World Heritage Site railway line linking New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling in West Bengal
EU FTA provides huge opportunities in India for non-alcoholic beverage exports: French firm Richeerz
Amidst the effervescent world of beverages, Richeerz, a French sparkling tea brand, is keenly eyeing the thriving Indian non-alcoholic drinks sector. The recent free trade agreement between India and the EU has unlocked fresh pathways for collaboration and trade. Known for their exquisite Darjeeling tea imports, Richeerz is ready to bubble over with their sparkling tea exports to India.
Surajkund swing tragedy revives grim history of ride, ropeway accidents in India
A recent giant swing collapse at Surajkund Mela in Haryana has reignited concerns over amusement ride safety across India. This incident follows a string of accidents at parks and ropeways nationwide. Past events include a Darjeeling ropeway failure in 2003, a Kankaria Park pendulum crash in 2019, and a Trikut ropeway collision in 2022.
Darjeeling Toy Train Service Hits Record Revenue Of Rs 24.6 Crore In 2025
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) toy train service is one of the most popular tourist attractions in West Bengal.
