The India Meteorological Department issued a fresh weather alert for the nation. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in eleven states including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Coastal districts of West Bengal will receive heavy showers until June twenty-fourth. Northern districts of West Bengal could experience heavy downpour from July twenty-sixth to twenty-ninth. Light to moderate rain is forecast for sub-Himalayan districts over the next few days.
From Assam to Nilgiri: How regional teas are becoming premium brands
India's tea market is shifting towards premium products and regional diversity. Gen Z and millennials are driving this growth, seeking authenticity and unique flavors. Regional teas from Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri are gaining new recognition. Changing lifestyles and modern retail are expanding tea consumption and accessibility. Innovation and heritage are key for the industry's future growth.
Darjeeling toy train accident goes viral after taxi driver claims train was on 'wrong side'
A taxi driver argued with a toy train pilot after a minor collision occurred. The driver claimed the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was on the wrong side of the tracks. Authorities found the vehicle was parked illegally and negligently near the railway line. The taxi was seized and a case was registered against the driver. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway continues to celebrate its heritage and tourism growth.
7 places in India that feel like Europe during monsoon
India has places that look and feel startlingly European when the monsoon arrives. From Coorg's misty coffee estates to Darjeeling's fog-drenched colonial streets and Spiti's cliff monasteries, these seven destinations offer rolling green hills, cool air and dramatic skies. No passport, no long flight, and no currency exchange needed.
Darjeeling tea industry seeks Centre's support amid deepening financial stress
Darjeeling's famed tea industry is facing severe financial strain due to aging bushes, climate woes, and labor shortages, leading to a significant production drop and falling prices. Industry leaders are urging the government for targeted interventions, including a sustainable pricing framework with a Minimum Sustainable Price, and the extension of agricultural and welfare schemes to bolster the sector's long-term viability and resilience.
Guardians of Indigenous Medicine: Tribal Ethnomedicinal Practices of North-East India
Saikat Kumar Basu & Suparna Sanyal Mukherjee The North-East Indian region, comprising Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim, represents one of South Asias richest biocultural landscapes. Biologically and anthropologically linked to the Darjeeling Himalayas of West Bengal, the region is characterised by dense forests, high rainfall, varied altitudes, and exceptional biodiversity. []
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari unveils North Bengal roadmap on first Darjeeling hills visit
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has unveiled a comprehensive development plan for North Bengal. He assured residents of the Darjeeling hills that all central government welfare and development schemes will be delivered effectively. Adhikari stated his government's commitment to transparency in recruitment and inclusive growth across the region. Infrastructure, jobs, and public services will be strengthened.
Monsoon likely to enter north Bengal in three-four days, says IMD
Heavy rainfall is likely over the next two days in the sub-Himalayan districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar
Monsoon Likely To Enter North Bengal In Three-Four Days: IMD
KOLKATA, Jun 8: The IMD on Monday said the southwest monsoon is likely to arrive in West Bengals sub-Himalayan districts like Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Jalpaiguri within the next three to four days. The northern districts of the state are already experiencing pre-monsoon rain with heavy downpour predicted over the next few days. The conditions are favourable for advancement of southwest monsoon into some parts of sub-Himalayan West Bengal within the next three to four days, missing the normal entry date [] The post Monsoon Likely To Enter North Bengal In Three-Four Days: IMD appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Four rescued after car plunges into Teesta River near Sevoke; four dead
NDRF Siliguri teams have successfully rescued four individuals from the Teesta River. The car plunged into the water near Sevoke and Kurseong in Darjeeling district. Among those rescued was a seven-year-old girl. The rescued persons were in critical condition. The incident occurred on Friday, with rescue operations commencing immediately. Further details are awaited regarding the accident and the victims.
West Bengal CM meets Darjeeling hill leaders, acts tough on GTA corruption
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that the West Bengal government will seek benefits Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana (PMCSPY) which the previous government did not subscribe to.
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
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.
Bengal Polls: BJP Leading In 8 Seats, TMC In 2; BGPM Ahead In Kalimpong
KOLKATA, May 4: The BJP was leading in eight assembly constituencies while the TMC was ahead in two, according to early trends available on the Election Commission website, as counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections was underway on Monday. The Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM), an ally of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the Darjeeling hills, was leading in Kalimpong. As per EC data, BJP candidate Lakshmi Kanta Sau was leading in Jhargram with 5,156 votes, ahead [] The post Bengal Polls: BJP Leading In 8 Seats, TMC In 2; BGPM Ahead In Kalimpong appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
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
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 Addresses Local Issues and Promises Solutions: MP Raju Bista
Darjeeling, April 21: The political atmosphere in Darjeeling, West Bengal intensified on the last day of election campaigning as Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a large public gathering. This rally was held just before the first phase of voting, which is crucial for the BJP. During the event, party leaders and local allies emphasized ... Read more Amit Shah Addresses Local Issues and Promises Solutions: MP Raju Bista
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
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
Will resolve Gurkha issues as a priority once BJP comes to power in West Bengal, says Amit Shah
The issue of permanent political solution to the Gurkha issue, which essentially means that the administrative control of the Darjeeling hills should wrest with the Gurkha people, has dominated the politics of the Darjeeling hills for several decades since the 1980s
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
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.
Five-Way Contest in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong for West Bengal Elections
Kolkata, March 31: The West Bengal assembly elections are set to take place next month, with voting occurring in two phases across 294 seats. Most constituencies will witness a four-cornered contest, but the three hill seats of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong will see a five-way battle. In these regions, the main political players include the ... Read more Five-Way Contest in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong for West Bengal Elections
