Liquor worth Rs 40 lakh seized in Gaya
Monk life project: Western seekers pursue ancient wisdom
Bodh Gaya has blossomed into a vibrant center for those yearning for a deeper understanding of monastic life through the 'Monk Life Project India'. This transformative program, which began its journey in Thailand, has welcomed participants from 23 different countries.
Bihar cabinet clears three new departments to drive youth jobs, higher education push
RANCHI: The newly formed Bihar cabinet on Tuesday approved the creation of three new departments to ensure better and effective implementation of its schemes and policies, aimed at providing jobs and employment opportunities to one crore youth over the next five years. For this purpose, three new departments, youth, employment and skill development, higher education, and civil aviation. have been created. These are in addition to the existing 45 government departments, cabinet secretariat departments additional chief secretary (ACS) Arvind Kumar Chaudhary told the media in a post-cabinet briefing. A total of 19 decisions were taken at the meeting chaired by chief minister Nitish Kumar. Notably, CM Nitish Kumar had on December 5 announced the creation of three new departments as part of his governments target to generate one crore jobs and employment opportunities in the next five years. Taking to X, CM Nitish said, We set a target to provide jobs and employment to one crore youth in the next five years (202530). For this, it is necessary that maximum youth of the state be given training for skill development and quality higher and technical education. Youth, Employment and Skill Development has been created for the all-round development of youth by equipping them with skills to improve employability. The higher education department will ensure quality education in the state, while the civil aviation department will focus on the expanding aviation sector and enhancing air travel services, the ACS said. The cabinet also rechristened the animal and fisheries resources department as the dairy, fisheries and animal resources department. Similarly, the labour resources department will now be known as the labour resources and migrant workers welfare department. The art, culture and youth department has been renamed art and culture department, Chaudhary added. DA hiked for employees, pensioners under 5th & 6th pay The cabinet approved a five per cent hike in dearness allowance (DA) for employees, pensioners, and family pensioners drawing salary or pension under the 6th Pay Commission. The DA has been increased from 252% to 257%, effective July 1, 2025. Similarly, DA for those under the 5th Pay Commission has been increased by eight per cent, from 466% to 474%, also effective July 1, 2025. New Directorate of MSME formed In another decision, the cabinet approved the industries departments proposal to rename the Directorate of Technical Development as the Directorate of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise (MSME) to strengthen the sector and make it globally competitive, the ACS said. Directorate of Mines & Geology reconstituted The cabinet also reconstituted the Directorate of Mines and Geology into two separate directorates the Directorate of Mines and the Directorate of Investigation. The Directorate of Mines has been further divided into two deputy directorates: mines and security. The restructuring is expected to speed up investigation processes, Chaudhary said, adding that certain posts have been created for the purpose. Gaya Ji & Munger declared Civil Defence Districts The disaster management departments proposal to declare Gaya Ji and Munger as Civil Defence Districts was approved. Fourteen posts have been created to support the move, which will strengthen strategic and internal security and improve response to natural and man-made disasters. The cabinet also approved the appointment of Mohammad Imdad Raza on compassionate grounds. Raza is the son of BSF Sub-Inspector late Mohammad Imtiyaz, who was martyred during Operation Sindoor. Other decisions The cabinet sanctioned Rs 400 crore for payment of electricity dues of urban local bodies to the two power distribution companies North Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd and South Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd -- for FY 202526. It approved the Bihar Dastavej Lekhak Anugyapti (Sanshodhan) Niyamawali 2025 (Bihar Deed Writers Licence Amendment Rules 2025), under which leprosy-affected persons will be eligible to obtain licences as deed writers. The move aims to support their social and financial empowerment. The finance departments proposal to sign an MoU with the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSEIL) to empower youth and run the Student Skilling Programme was cleared. An MoU with the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Ltd (NIIFL) was also approved for assistance in various state projects. The cabinet approved a corpus fund of Rs 15 crore for the Valmikinagar Tiger Reserve Foundation/Trust. The foundation will utilise the amount for conservation and management activities. It also approved the constitution of the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park Management and Development Society, which will oversee the parks upkeep. Additionally, the cabinet approved the Bihar Electronic Order (Issuance, Execution and Disposal) Rules 2025 and the Bihar E-Sakshya Prabandhan Niyamawali 2025 (Bihar E-Evidence Management Rules 2025). The e-summon rules will streamline digital processes, while the E-Sakshya rules cover electronic evidence, video conferencing, digital signatures, and the management of witness testimony under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
ASI Finds Pillar Inscription Of 13th Century At Gandamcharla Village In Prakasam District
The inscription is written in Telugu language and belonged to the 13th century. It gives the eulogy of the chief and records the gift of the village Maraduru and also some lands for conducting the service to the god Sringadevara by Gangaya Sahini.
Bihar government to set up 100 fast-track courts to dispose of pending cases
PATNA: Bihar deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, who is also holding the portfolio of home department, on Sunday announced that 100 fast track courts (FTCs) would be established in Bihar for speedy disposal of pending cases in the courts. The fast track courts aim to reduce the burden on the judiciary and provide due attention and time to cases of a sensitive nature. Chaudhary said that these fast-track courts would lessen the burden on courts considerably, considering that more than 18 lakh cases were pending in various courts of the state. He informed eight fast-track courts have been proposed in Patna, while four courts each will be established in Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur. Home Minister said that three fast-track courts each would be set up in Nalanda (Biharsharif), Rohtas (Sasaram), Saran (Chapra), Begusarai, Vaishali (Hajipur), East Champaran (Motihari), Samastipur, and Madhubani. Similarly, two fast-track courts each will operate in West Champaran (Bettiah), Saharsa, Purnea, Munger, Nawada, Jehanabad, Arwal, Aurangabad, Kaimur (Bhabua), Buxar, Bhojpur (Ara), Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Siwan, Gopalganj, Supaul, Madhepura, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar, Banka, Jamui, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, and Khagaria. In addition, it is proposed to establish one fast-track court each in the Naugachhiaand Bagaha sub-divisional courts. Chaudhary said, cases jointly identified by the district magistrates and superintendents of Police will be disposed of on a priority basis. A large-scale recruitment of personnel will also be undertaken for the establishment of a total of 100 fast-track courts across 38 districts and sub-divisions of the state. A total of 900 positions are proposed for each court, comprising eight types of posts -- bench clerk, office clerk, stenographer, deposition writer, data entry operator, driver, process server, and peon or orderly. As many as 79 courts will be specially set up for the speedy disposal of cases pending under the Arms Act. Bihar government was of the opinion that quick resolution of serious cases like those under the Arms Act would improve law and order in the state, Chaudhary added.
Bihar plans CISF-style force to protect industrialists as state launches major investment push
PATNA: The Bihar government is considering the creation of a specialised police unit on the lines of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to boost investor confidence and attract large-scale investments to the state. Industries Minister Dilip Kumar Jaiswal said on Sunday that a proposal to establish the Bihar Industrial Security Force (BISF) would soon be sent to the state government. The new force would be tasked with providing dedicated security to major industrialists and investors. The government will ensure complete security and safety for investors so that they can set up industrial units without any fear. We are ready to provide land for industries. The government will take care of all investors and industrialists, Jaiswal told reporters. The announcement comes a day after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar chaired a high-level review meeting with top administrative officials to discuss the states industrial development plans. This was the first such meeting since the new government took office in November. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, Industries Minister Jaiswal, senior bureaucrats and departmental heads attended the meeting. Nitish later shared details of the discussions on X, noting that the industries department will organise investors meets across major commercial centres in India and abroad to draw large industries to Bihar. The goal, he said, is to place Bihar among the countrys top five investment-friendly states in the coming years. Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit presented a five-year roadmap aimed at positioning Bihar among the top-performing states, with an investment target of Rs 50 lakh crore over the next five years. The meeting reviewed a comprehensive industrial development blueprint, including plans for new manufacturing clusters, sector-specific parks and expanded skill training. Key decisions included promoting Ease of Doing Business reforms, establishing five mega food parks, developing 10 industrial parks and creating 100 MSME parks over the next five years. Work is being fast-tracked on the Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) at Dobhi in Gaya, spread over 1,700 acres. Additionally, 31 new industrial parks covering 14,036 acres across 29 districts are planned, 10 of which will be sector-specific, including parks dedicated to textiles and pharmaceuticals. The state has allocated Rs 26,000 crore for the next phase of industrial development. Emphasising the importance of rapid industrialisation, Nitish said large investments were essential to accelerating economic growth and generating employment in the state.
Faith, Law & Accountability: A New Way Forward for Muslim Personal Law in India
Khata hamari bhi hai, haal-e-dil hamara bhi, Jo barbaad ho gaya hai, woh ghar hamara bhi. Debates around Muslim personal law have resurged from the Supreme Courts verdict on instant triple talaq to the ongoing review of Talaq-e-Hasan. This brings forth one essential question: Can Muslims in India honour Sharia while upholding the Constitutions supremacy? [] The post Faith, Law & Accountability: A New Way Forward for Muslim Personal Law in India first appeared on .
Panchamasalis to protest silently before Suvarna Soudha on Dec. 10
In a bid to raise their demand for 2A reservation again, members of Lingayat Panchamasali community will stage a silent protest during the winter session in Belagavi on December 10.
Kya Se Kya Ho Gaya: Cong Takes Dig At Modi Govt Over New US National Security Strategy
New Delhi, Dec 6: In a swipe at the Modi government over the new US National Security Strategy, the Congress on Saturday said it marks a notable shift in the American approach to Pakistan, and avoids the explicit criticism that defined the 2017 Donald Trump-era strategy document, which openly accused Islamabad of supporting militants targeting US partners. The opposition party also pointed out that the document reiterates US President Donald Trumps claim that he settled the raging conflict between India [] The post Kya Se Kya Ho Gaya: Cong Takes Dig At Modi Govt Over New US National Security Strategy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'Kya se kya ho gaya...': Congress takes dig at Modi as US softens line on Pakistan
The Congress party has criticised the Modi government regarding the new US National Security Strategy. They note a change in America's stance on Pakistan, with less direct criticism compared to the 2017 document. The strategy also reiterates US President Donald Trump's assertion of resolving the India-Pakistan conflict. This shift has drawn sharp remarks from the opposition.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is actively broadening his support base beyond traditional Vokkaliga strongholds, engaging with Ahinda and Lingayat representatives. This strategic outreach coincides with Delhi police issuing a notice seeking his financial details in the National Herald case, a development his aides claim is politically motivated.
IndiGo flight chaos: Vietnamese tourists hire private bus to Mumbai
A cohort of 35 Vietnamese travelers found themselves in a gripping 24-hour struggle at Gaya Airport when their IndiGo flight to Delhi was unexpectedly cancelled. Left without lodging or financial recourse, they garnered support from kind-hearted locals and volunteers.
Kalamkaval Teaser: A Menacing Mammootty And A Haunting Mystery Take Centre Stage
Kalamkaval marks the directorial debut of Jithin K Jose and stars Rajisha Vijayan and Gayathri Arun alongside the two leads.
Rasgulla shortage turns wedding into a chair-throwing showdown
In Bodh Gaya, a wedding celebration took an unexpected turn when a lack of rasgullas ignited a fierce altercation between the families. The groom's relatives argue that the dessert shortage was the trigger for the uproar, while the bride's family insists that unresolved dowry negotiations were the real cause, leading to injuries and a stalled ceremony.
When RaGa resonated at the Royal Albert Hall
Ranjani and Gayatri take Carnatic music to the iconic stage for the Darbar Festival.
Video: Chairs, Kicks, Punches Fly After 'Rasgulla Shortage' At Bihar Wedding
A wedding in Bihar's Bodh Gaya descended into a chaotic battlezone between the bride and the groom's families over shortage of rasgulla.
11-day Tipitaka chanting begins in Bodh Gaya
When Prem, bank peons son, defeated his mentor in 1990 state elections
From humble beginnings as the son of a bank peon, Prem Kumars ascent to Speaker of the Gaya MLA is nothing short of inspiring. Battling financial hardships early on, he navigated through the political landscape with grace and integrity, garnering widespread admiration.
From teen in RSS shakha to Speaker's Chair: Bihar BJP leader Prem Kumar's long journey
PATNA: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Prem Kumar was elected unanimously as Bihar Assembly Speaker on Tuesday, a day after he filed his nomination papers for the post. Pro-tem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav announced Kumars election as the 18th Speaker of the Bihar Assembly. Soon after the formal announcement, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and leader of Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav escorted 70-year-old Prem Kumar to the Speakers chair amid clapping from both treasury and opposition benches in the House. This is the first time since 2015 that the Speaker has been elected unopposed. Prem Kumar, who won for a record ninth time from Gaya Town assembly constituency, later said that he would give equal treatment to the ruling dispensation and the Opposition in the House. For the chair, both Treasury and Opposition benches are equal. There will be no disparity at all, he added. He said that the House should be a place for meaningful discussions that contribute to Bihars development. Later chief minister Nitish Kumar and LoP Tejashwi Yadav congratulated Prem Kumar for being elected as new Speaker. Nitish said, I request all the members to cooperate with him in the smooth conduct of the House. Before his election as Speaker, Kumar had served in various capacities, including as minister and LoP since 1990. Prem Kumars political journey started from Dulhinganj locality of Gaya town where he used to attend RSS sponsored shakhas. Hailing from the Dhanuk caste, which is part of the OBC, Prem Kumar later became a member of the Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). His schoolmate Prabhat Kumar Sinha recalled that Prem Kumar was sent to jail during the 1974 movement. After spending eight months in Gaya central jail, he was released on bail. However, he continued his fight against the Emergency imposed by the Congress in 1977. After the Emergency, he joined the BJP and was appointed as district general secretary of Gaya. He worked for strengthening the party at block and panchayat levels, which drew senior leaders attention, and he was fielded as the BJP candidate from Gaya in the 1990 assembly polls. He emerged victorious in the elections and since then he has never lost from the seat. It is hard to believe that a teen-aged boy who used to attend RSS sponsored shakhas in the premises of Mahavir High School and Azad Park is now Speaker of the Bihar Vidhan Sabha. It is a journey full of dedication, perseverance and organisational skill, said Rakesh Kumar, a resident of Gaya.
BJP leader Prem Kumar unanimously elected Speaker of Bihar assembly
PATNA: Veteran BJP leader Prem Kumar was on Tuesday unanimously elected as the Speaker of the Bihar assembly. Pro-tem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav informed the House that Kumar was the only candidate whose name figured for the post. Thereafter, he was declared unanimously elected following a voice vote. As per custom, Kumar, who recently won the Gaya Town seat for a record eighth term, was escorted to the Chair by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav.
Anti-encroachment drive in Gaya faces scepticism amid allegations of cosmetic action
BJP leader Prem Kumar set to be elected unopposed as Bihar assembly Speaker
PATNA: Former minister and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Prem Kumar, who has won the Gaya Town seat for the ninth consecutive term in recent Bihar polls, is set to be elected as Speaker of Bihar legislative assembly unopposed. Kumar filed his nomination papers for the post of assembly Speaker on Monday in the presence of Nitish, Samrat, Vijay and others. The Opposition did not field any candidate against Kumar, paving the way for the latters election as Speaker unopposed. He was officially proposed by the ruling NDA MLAs for the post of coveted post. A formal announcement about him being elected unopposed will be made on Tuesday. JD(U) leader Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, LJP(RV) MLA Raju Tiwari and RLM MLA Madhav Anand were also present at the time of filing nomination papers. Meanwhile, the first session of the 18th Bihar assembly also started with the oath of newly-elected MLAs. Pro-tem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav, appointed by Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, conducted the oath-taking ceremony inside the House. Several MLAs from the Mithilanchal region, including minister Arun Shankar Prasad, as well as singer and Alinagar legislator Maithili Thakur, who is the youngest in the House, took oath in Maithili, while some of the MLAs belonging to the minority community and Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM opted for Urdu. Katihar MLA and senior BJP leader Tarkishore Prasad, Sonbarsa JDU MLA Ratnesh Sada, and a few others took their oath in Sanskrit. Lok Janshakti Party (RV) legislator Vishnu Deo Paswan took the oath in English. The MLAs appointed as ministers in the new Cabinet were the first to take oath, followed by RJD MLA and former deputy chief minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav and others. Bihar agriculture minister and BJP Ramkripal Yadav hugged Tejashwi after taking the oath, highlighting his close and cordial relationship with him and his father Lalu Prasad. Before joining BJP in 2014, Ram Kripal was with RJD for more than three decades. This is the first session of the Assembly in which the proceedings will be conducted through the digital medium instead of using paper for the purpose. Tabs connected with Wi-Fi have been installed on the desks of all MLAs in the House. They would be later trained in the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA), which is the digital platform for the state legislatures in the country.
Sri Lankas opposition walks out of Parliament over floods disaster
COLOMBO, Dec 1: Sri Lankas main opposition party, the SJB, walked out of Parliament here on Monday to protest the Governments refusal to extend the session to discuss the aftermath of the Cyclone Ditwah disaster that left over 300 dead. Kabir Hashim, from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), said they wanted to place on record the lack of preparedness of the Anura Kumara Dissanayake-led government despite pre warnings of severe weather hitting the island. The National Peoples Power (NPP) [] The post Sri Lankas opposition walks out of Parliament over floods disaster appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sans master plan, Gaya fast becoming a concrete jungle
Gaya's growth is in limbo, hindered by an aging master plan from the 1960s that has long outlived its usefulness. This unbridled expansion has resulted in significant gaps in vital services for the community. A revitalizing new plan is on the horizon, but the wait extends to another year, alongside a distinct strategy for Bodh Gaya.
Bihar legislature's winter session likely to be stormy, newly elected MLAs to take oath on Dec 1
PATNA: The Winter Session of the Bihar legislature, beginning from Monday, is likely to be stormy as the Opposition is expected to raise issues related to promises made to people by the National Democratic Alliance during the recently concluded assembly elections. Issues like one crore jobs, financial aids of Rs 2 lakh each to women associated with Jeevika and opening of new sugar factories and closed units will dominate the five-day session of the state legislature being held after the formation of a new government. The issue of setting up industrial units will also be raised. The winter session assumed significance as the ruling NDA won 202 seats in the election, while the Oppositions seat tally reduced to 35. Of the 35, 25 are from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) alone. It does not matter how many members are in the Opposition bench. The opposition will play its role as usual, said RJD MLA Bhai Virendra. The five-day winter session of state legislature will begin on Monday. On the first day, Pro-Tem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav will administer oath to all 243 members, followed by the election for the Speaker on December 2. The state assembly will adopt a largely paperless system, with newly installed tablets allowing members to submit questions and motions digitally. Power of Six! How the NDA succeeded in hitting the MGB out of the park in Bihar polls BJP leader Prem Kumar is likely to file a nomination for the post of Speaker on the first day itself. If more than one candidate files nominations, the election for the Speaker will be held on December 2. If Prem Kumar, an eight-time MLA from Gaya town, is elected uncontested, then the BJP will be able to retain the Speakers post. In the previous assembly, Nand Kishore Yadav of the BJP served as Speaker in the House. Governor Arif Mohammad Khan will address a joint session of the state legislature on December 3. On December 4, MLAs and MLCs will debate on Governors address, and the government will reply. On December 5, both Houses will present the second supplementary bill and the Appropriation bill. After that, the winter session will come to an end. On Saturday, RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav was elected as the leader of the Opposition in the Bihar assembly, at a meeting of the Opposition legislature party held at the 1 Polo Road residence of the RJD leader. Congress MLAs were not present at the legislature party meeting held for the first time after the elections. Meanwhile, first-time MLAs are enthusiastic about their oath-taking ceremony and formally becoming members of the Lower House. We are more enthusiastic about oath oath-taking ceremony. We will enter Bihar Vidhan Sabha as its member for the first time, said Anand Mishra, a first-time BJP MLA from Buxar.
Rangayana to conduct weekend theatre festival from Nov. 30
Srikanth to take on Gunawan in the final
Both players battle past their opponents to make it to the summit clash; Unnati and Tanvi bow out; facile victory for Treesa-Gayatri duo
Over 20k Buddhist devotees to attend Tipitaka chanting in Bodh Gaya
Bodh Gaya is set to welcome an immense flow of devotion as it prepares for the 20th International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony. Anticipating over 20,000 attendees from 10 different countries, this grand event will take place from December 2-12 at the revered Mahabodhi Mahavihara. Throughout the celebration, monks and followers will join in harmony to recite ancient Buddhist scriptures.
ED Searches 15 Locations in NMC Bribery Case
The entities from Telugu states include Gayatri College in Visakhapatnam, related to Dr Hari Prasad and Ankam Rambabu of Hyderabad
Wherever there is tragedy, Rakhi Sawant will jump on to it to grab media attention. Rakhi made a snarky comment on Dharmendra's demise, and it has left netizens irked.
Pocso case: Court acquits Lingayat mutt head
A Chitradurga court acquitted Murugha Mutt head Shivamurthy Muruga Sharanaru and two others in a sexual assault case involving two minor girls. This acquittal pertains to one of two POCSO cases registered against the seer and others. The investigation into a second case remains stayed by the high court.
Gaya to be made traffic jam-free zone: MLA
In Gaya, MLA Prem Kumar passionately addresses the citys chronic traffic woes, drawing from his own frustrating encounters on the roads. His comprehensive strategy involves moving markets to less congested areas, clearing out illegal encroachments, and strategically placing traffic signals and CCTV cameras for better monitoring.
Holders Gayatri-Treesa enter second round
Syed Modi International Lucknow, Nov 25: Indias womens doubles pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand progressed to the second round of the USD 240,000 Syed Modi International Super 300 tournament here on Tuesday. The defending champions overcame Malaysias Cheng Su Hui and Tan Zhing Yi 19-21, 22-20, 21-9 in a hard-fought opener. It was []
JollyGayatri enter Syed Modis pre-quarters with gritty win
Taking to his X handle, 'Master Blaster' Sachin Tendulkar paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary actor and 'He-Man' of Bollywood, Dharmendra.
JD(U) leader Narendra Yadav appointed Pro-tem speaker of Bihar Assembly
BJP leader, Prem Kumar, who won from Gaya town for the ninth time, may be elected as Speaker
Hundreds take part in presentation of saare to Krishna river
Around 400 women volunteers carry saris from Gandhi Bomma Centre in the town to the riverbank at Nagayalanka
Bihars comeback king: Nitish Kumar to swear in for 10th term, NDA gears up for fresh power play
JD(U) supremo Nitish Kumar is set to take oath as Bihars chief minister for a record 10th time today, days after the NDA secured a decisive victory in the assembly elections. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled at Patnas historic Gandhi Maidan, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several top NDA leaders are expected to attend. In addition to the main stage, several pandals have been erected to accommodate VIPs, while elaborate security arrangements have been put in place, with over three lakh people anticipated to be present, according to a senior BJP leader. Kumar submitted his resignation as the outgoing chief minister to Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Wednesday. He was accompanied by Union Minister Chirag Paswan, RLM chief Upendra Kushwaha, and Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. State BJP chief Dilip Jaiswal told reporters that the governor accepted the resignation and asked Kumar to continue as caretaker CM until the new government was formed. Ahead of the ceremony, Nitish Kumar on Thursday took to X to share his thoughts, I, Nitish Kumar, swear by God This sentence is a symbol of the unwavering faith and self-confidence of crores of Biharis. Today, from the historic Gandhi Maidan, this voice will echo once again, and Bihar will embark on a new journey of development, he wrote. He extended his congratulations and best wishes to all Biharis on the occasion, calling it a historic moment for the state. Earlier, JD(U) had shared a post stating, History is about to be made in Bihar. Honorable Nitish Kumar ji will take the oath for the post of Chief Minister, a symbol of Bihar's development and trust. Bihar will write another new chapter of development; this moment will be a moment of pride for all Biharis. Let us all witness this historic moment. Following meetings of newly elected MLAs, Kumar was elected leader of the NDA legislature party. Senior BJP leader Samrat Choudhary was chosen as the partys legislature leader, with Vijay Kumar Sinha appointed deputy leader. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, appointed as central observer by the BJP for the legislature party election in Bihar, was present at the meeting, alongside Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and former Union Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, who were co-observers for the process. Lobbying among NDA allies to finalise cabinet berths continued throughout the day. Sources said the new Bihar Cabinet is expected to include 16 ministers from the BJP and 14 from JD(U), including CM Nitish Kumar. Consensus has reportedly been reached among NDA partners to appoint BJPs Prem Kumar as Assembly Speaker, with the Deputy Speakers post likely going to JD(U). Sources indicate that five to six new faces are expected in the cabinet from the main NDA constituents BJP and JD(U). Umesh Singh Kushwaha, JD(U) state chief and Mahnar MLA, is likely to be inducted. While JD(U) is expected to retain most of its current ministers, the BJP may bring in a few new faces. Smaller allies LJP(RV) led by Union Minister Chirag Paswan, HAM-S led by Jitan Ram Manjhi, and RLM led by Upendra Kushwaha will also get representation. The LJP(RV) is expected to get three berths, HAM-S and RLM one berth each. In total, 16 BJP ministers, 14 JD(U) ministers, and CM Nitish Kumar will take oath on November 20. JD(U) leaders likely to be part of the cabinet include Bijendra Prasad Yadav, Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Shrowan Kumar, Sunil Kumar, Lesi Singh, Sheila Mandal, Madan Sahni, Ratnesh Sada, Mohammad Zama Khan, Jayant Raj, Umesh Singh Kushwaha, Ashok Chowdhary, Rahul Kumar Singh, Sudhanshu Shekhar, Kaladhar Prasad Mandal, and Panna Lal Singh Patel. Outgoing BJP ministers expected to continue include Samrat Choudhary, Prem Kumar, Mangal Pandey, Vijay Kumar Sinha, Nitish Mishra, Renu Devi, Jibesh Kumar, Neeraj Kumar Singh, Janak Ram, Hari Sahni, Kedar Prasad Gupta, Surendra Mehta, Santosh Kumar Singh, Sunil Kumar, and Motil Lal Prasad. Potential new faces from BJP include former IPS officer Anand Mishra (elected from Buxar), Rana Randhir, Gayatri Devi, and Vijay Kumar Khemka. JD(U) leaders highlighted that, given the partys sharp rise in MLA count since 2020, more cabinet berths were expected this term. In the outgoing government, BJP had 15 ministers, JD(U) 12 including CM Nitish Kumar, HAM-S had one, and one Independent minister. The NDA stormed back to power in Bihar, winning 202 seats in the 243-member assembly. BJP secured 89 seats, JD(U) 85, LJP(RV) 19, HAM 5, and RLM 4. Meanwhile, Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor described his decision not to contest the Bihar polls as a mistake, noting that his party received less than 4% of votes. In an interview with NDTV , he said, My decision not to contest polls can be considered a mistake. We have to do a lot to achieve a satisfactory result. I had never expected that our party would get less than 4% votes in the assembly polls. Kishor also asserted his commitment to future electoral efforts, stating, I will not back down without winning Bihar. I dont know how much time it will take.
Gujarats vanishing temple: The Lord Shiva temple that sinks and rises twice a day
A unique temple in Gujarat's Kavi Kambo village submerges twice daily. Known as the Gayab Mandir, it reappears as tides recede. Legend says Lord Shiva's son Kartikeya established a Shivling here after defeating a demon. Visitors flock to witness this natural phenomenon. The best time to visit is during Shravan month or Maha Shivratri.
Bihar: BJP may retain Speaker; JD(U) Home
NEW DELHI/PATNA : Amid hard bargaining among NDA allies over plum portfolios in the new Bihar ministry on Tuesday, the Speakers post is expected to stay with the BJP, while Chief Minister Nitish Kumar may retain Home despite the BJP pressing him to part with it. Sources said on the names of two prominent BJP leaders for the position of Speaker have already been considered, one of whom will be finalised at Wednesdays BJP legislature party meeting in Patna. While earlier it was speculated that Chirag Paswans party might get a deputy CMs post, it now appears that the BJP would pocket both deputy CM posts, with the party considering appointing new faces for that position. Initially, the JD(U) wanted the Speakers post. It however, yielded and then pitched for a deputy CMs post. Prem Kumar, an eight-time BJP MLA from Gaya Town, is the frontrunner for the post of Speaker. Potential candidates for the deputy CM include Mangal Pandey, who has the backing of the RSS and served as health minister in the outgoing government, and Sanjiv Chaurasia or Vijay Kumar Sinha. After a three-hour meeting JD(U) leaders had with home minister Amit Shah, a formula for ministerial berths was agreed in principle. Apart from the CM, the ministry will have 16 from the BJP, 14 from JD(U), three from Chirags LJP(RV) and one each from Jitan Ram Manjhis Hindustani Awam Morcha and Upendra Kushwahas Rashtriya Lok Morcha. Nitish visited Gandhi Maidan to inspect preparations of the oath-taking ceremony on November 20. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and others are expected to attend. Nitish to resign today Nitish will resign as head of the outgoing govt on Wednesday to start the formal process of forming a new government, which will take its oath of office the following day.
Pay Up Rs.110 Cr BSNL Dues, All Government Deptartments Told
The lowest bill yet to be paid to BSNL was from the Gayatri Cooperative Urban Bank Limited under the finance ministry which owed BSNL Rs.143.
Bus Jal Gayi, Driver Bach Gaya: Hyderabadi Eyewitness On Saudi Bus Crash
In a viral video, reportedly recorded close to the crash site, a man is heard narrating the chain of events to somebody on the call.
Before Lalu Yadav's second eldest daughter Rohini Acharya made bombshell allegations on family and announced quitting politics, reports claim that RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav and Rohini Acharya allegedly engaged in a heated argument following Mahagathbandhan's debacle in Bihar Elections.
Bihars must-visit UNESCO World Heritage sites for culture lovers
Bihar boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Mahabodhi Mahavihara at Bodh Gaya and Nalanda Mahavihara. Bodh Gaya marks Buddha's enlightenment, while Nalanda was a renowned ancient university attracting scholars globally. These sites, reflecting rich spiritual and intellectual heritage, continue to draw visitors interested in history and culture.
International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony to begin at Bodh Gaya in December
NEW DELHI, Nov 15: The annual Tipitaka chanting ceremony and a commemorative walk symbolically retracing the footsteps of the Buddha from Jethian Valley to the sacred bamboo grove of Venuvana at Rajgir is set to take place in December in Bihar, according to officials. The spiritual gathering at Bodh Gaya will be organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, and the Light of Buddha Dharma Foundation International (LBDFI), US. The International Tipitaka Chanting [] The post International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony to begin at Bodh Gaya in December appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bangalore Gayana Samaja to host 55th music conference from November 16-23
Daily seminars have been scheduled fromNovember 17 to 22 at 10 a.m.and junior concerts are scheduled from4.15 p.m. to 5.30 p.m., followed by main concerts from6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Bihar Assembly Elections: NDA falls one short of a full ministerial sweep
As the ruling NDA steamrolled the Mahagathbandhan to retain power in Bihar, all but one of the 25 state ministers in the fray secured their seats. Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both from the BJP, won Tarapur and Lakhisarai assembly seats. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar , who has been a member of the legislative council (MLC), did not contest the assembly elections. Altogether 15 ministers from the BJP had contested the polls and emerged victorious. Agriculture minister Prem Kumar, a BJP veteran, retained Gaya Town for an eighth consecutive term, a record equalled by his JD(U) cabinet colleague Bijendra Yadav (Supaul). Another minister Raju Kumar Singh, who had been elected from Sahebganj in 2020 on a ticket of Vikassheel Insan Party and later defected to the BJP, retained the seat. He contested the assembly segment this time on a saffron party's ticket. Sanjay Saraogi (Darbhanga) and Nitin Nabin (Bankipur) retained their seats for a fifth consecutive term. Other BJP ministers, who emerged victorious, were Renu Devi (Bettiah), Nitish Mishra (Jhanjharpur), Neeraj Kumar Singh 'Bablu' (Chhatapur), Kedar Prasad Gupta (Kurhani), Jibesh Kumar (Jale), Krishnanandan Paswan (Harsidhi), Vijay Kumar Mandal and Krishna Kumar Mantoo (Amnour) and Sunil Kumar (Bihar Sharif). However, Sumit Kumar Singh, who had been elected in 2020 as an independent candidate and inducted into the state cabinet, failed to retain the Chakai assembly seat when he sought reelection on a JD(U) ticket. Singh lost by a margin of nearly 13,000 votes to RJD candidate Savitri Devi, whom he had defeated five years ago from Chakai in the Jamui district. Son of late Narendra Singh, a former state minister and a close aide of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Sumit had held the science, technology and technical education portfolio in the outgoing government. Victorious JD(U) ministers included Sheela Kumari (Phulparas), Leshi Singh (Dhamdaha), Ratnesh Sada (Sonbarsha), Madan Sahni (Bahadurpur), Vijay Kumar Choudhary (Sarairanjan), Jayant Raj (Amarpur), Shrawon Kumar (Nalanda) and Mohd. Zama Khan (Chainpur). The ruling NDA decimated the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar on Friday to retain power, reaffirming Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's enduring appeal and dealing a body blow to the Congress and ally RJD. The massive scale of the victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) can be gauged from the fact that its two main constituents--BJP and JD(U) -- clocked a nearly 85% strike rate in 101 seats each they had contested. The alliance secured a 200 paar win for a three-fourths majority in the 243-member Bihar assembly with the BJP emerging as the single largest party. Power of Six! How the NDA succeeded in hitting the MGB out of the park in Bihar polls
Bihar Results LIVE: These Bihar Ministers Became MLAs In 1990, Now Headed To 9th Straight Win
They became MLAs in 1990, when Tejashwi Yadav was three months old. Since then, they have won every election in Bihar from the same seats. BJP's Prem Kumar and JDU's Bijendra Prasad Yadav are now set for ninth straight win from Gaya Town and Supaul
Bihar: On the Margins of Indias Energy Transition
In Gaya district, Mahadalit families still cook on smoky wood fires even as biogas plants rise nearby under the Gobardhan scheme.
Mridul Tiwari opens up about the how the makers are trying their best to protect 'their people', and even exposed their tactic that led to his elimination.
Gaya Town Election Results 2025: Will BJP's Prem Kumar hold his fort again in Assembly Elections?
Gaya Town Election Results 2025: As per the latest trends, Bharatiya Janata Party's Prem Kumar is leading in the Gaya Town constituency and seemingly winning the seat again.
Complete Ban On Victory Rallies: Gaya Ji DM On Bihar Elections
Strict code of conduct for Bihar
Gaya Town result 2025: In BJP's Prem Kumar vs Congress' Akhaury Onkar Nath, check who is winning
Gaya Town constituency sees a familiar contest as BJP's Prem Kumar, MLA since 1990, faces Congress's Akhaury Onkar Nath again. Kumar, a strong contender with support from Kanu and EBC communities, aims to defend his seat. Jan Suraaj's Dhirendra Agarwal enters the fray, potentially influencing the outcome.
Rangayana plans to stage play in Kalaburagi on parental neglect
Apart from the 1975 iconic blockbuster Sholay directed by Ramesh Sippy, Big B and Dharam paaji also delighted their fans with on-screen jodi in the 1975 comedy drama Chupke Chupke and the 1980 action thriller Ram Balram.
68.79% Turnout marks final phase of Bihar Assembly polls
PATNA: The enthusiasm of Bihars voters touched a new high on Tuesday as the state recorded its highest-ever voter turnout of 68.79% in the second and final phase of the Assembly elections. Voting took place for 122 constituencies across 20 districts, completing polling for all 243 seats. In the first phase, Bihar registered a turnout of 65.08%. The second phase, however, saw even greater participation, pushing the overall turnout across both phases to 66.9%nearly 10% higher than in the last Assembly polls. Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Singh Gunjiyal said that figures from about 2,000 polling booths were still awaited, and the final percentage could rise further. Nearly 3.74 crore voters, including 1.95 crore men and 1.74 crore women, were eligible to vote at 45,399 polling stations, most of them in rural areas. More than half of the electorate (2.28 crore) was aged 30-60. Only 7.69 lakh were in the 18-19 age group. Women turned out in large numbers once again. Voters in the Muslim-dominated Seemanchal region also participated actively, while Maoist-affected areas in Rohtas, Gaya, and Jamui reported heavy turnout without incident. Significantly, no polling station was relocated in any of the Naxal-hit districts. The high-stakes contest is mainly between the ruling BJPJD(U)-led NDA and the RJDCongress Mahagathbandhan, with Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party seen as a potential spoiler. The AIMIM of Asaduddin Owaisi is also contesting several seats in Seemanchal. Prominent candidates in the fray include JD(U) veteran Bijendra Prasad Yadav, who is seeking ain eighth consecutive win from Supaul, BJP leader Prem Kumar, who has held the Gaya Town seat since 1990. Others are Renu Devi of BJP (Bettiah), and JD(U)s Leshi Singh (Dhamdaha). Minor clashes were reported in Nawada and Araria districts, but police quickly brought the situations under control. Over 1,600 companies of central and state armed police were deployed to ensure peaceful polling. Authorities said 590 people were arrested for disrupting the process, while 844 illegal weapons were seized. The counting of votes will take place on November 14.
2 Maoist-hit villages vote for first time since 47
SASARAM: What is common to Rehal village in Rohtas district and Pichhulia village in neighbouring Gaya? Voters of the two Maoist-affected villages exercised their franchise for the first time after Independence. Polling stations were set up at Rehal, situated on the Kaimur Plateau, for the first time. It was like a dream come true for me when I cast my vote at a polling booth located at Rehal government primary school, said Pramod Oraon, a local resident. Oraon in his early 50s is all praise for the Election Commission (EC) for setting up the booth for the second phase of the assembly elections. Polling and security personnel earlier refused to visit the village for security reasons. On February 15, 2002, a young DFO, Sanjay Singh, was killed by Maoists at Rehal for his tough action against mining mafia. Since then, security personnel stopped visiting the village. Earlier people had to go down to the plains to vote. For the first time polling booths have been up at the village, Oraon he told this reporter. Shyam Narain, 60, a former Pipardiha panchayat head, said, People of Rehal participated in the democratic process this time without fear. Security arrangements have been made by the EC and district administration for peaceful polling. Rehal is part of Chenari constituency. People mostly from Yadav, Oraon, Ravidas and Kharbar communities reside at the village, which till recently lacked basic amenities like electricity and drinking water. Panchayat head Yogendra Oraon said that so far, no party has given ticket to tribal candidates despite Chenari being a reserved seat. ADG (HQ) Kundan Krishnan said, In Gaya, voters of Maoist-hit Pichhulia village in Chakarbandha area participated in the democratic process for the first time after Independence.
Woh Chala Gaya: Delhi Blast Victim Supported Family Of 4, Sister's Kids
Aaj woh chala hi gaya (Today, he is gone), wailed one of 35-year-old Jumman Mohammed's family members at the mortuary where the Delhi suicide blast victim's body was kept.
Bihar Election 2025 voter turnout: 14.55% recorded by 9 am as final phase underway
Voting for the second and final phase of the Bihar Assembly elections commenced across 122 constituencies on Tuesday morning. By 9 am, the state recorded a voter turnout of 14.55%, with Gaya leading at 15.97%. This final phase involves over 1,302 candidates, and the results will be declared on November 14.
Former IAS officer U. Sagayam approaches Madras High Court seeking police security
Justice A.D. Jagadish Chandira seeks the response of the Director General of Police by November 24
Fresh faces, land of Sita, Seemanchal: Key battles shaping Bihar elections phase 2
After a record 64.66% voter turnout in the first phase of the Bihar elections, the state is gearing up for the second phase, where political temperatures are set to rise. A total of 122 constituencies across 20 districts will go to the polls, featuring a mix of ministers, celebrities, and first-time contenders. Each seat carries its own local narrative and power equation. This phase will see 1,302 candidates, including 136 women, contesting roughly 10% of the total. In the 2020 assembly polls, the BJP won 42 of these seats, followed by the RJD with 33, JD(U) 20, Congress 11, and Left parties five. Below are key constituencies to watch: Chakai: Sumit Kumar Singh (JD(U)) vs Savitri Devi (RJD) Bihars Science and Technology Minister Sumit Kumar Singh is eyeing another term, this time as a JD(U) candidate under the NDA. Known for frequently shifting parties, he first entered the assembly in 2010 as a JMM candidate and made a comeback in 2020 as an Independent. His rival, RJDs Savitri Devi, previously won the seat in 2015. The constituencys sizeable Santhal tribal population adds complexity, with Alijaveth (Elizabeth) Soren commanding loyal support despite never winning. Adding to the mix is Chandan Kumar Singh, a philanthropist-turned-Independent, who initially backed Chirag Paswan before contesting on his own. Jamui: Shreyasi Singh (BJP) vs Mohammad Shamsad Alam (RJD) Shooter-turned-politician Shreyasi Singh seeks a second term as the BJP candidate. A gold medallist and member of a powerful political family, she defeated RJDs Vijay Prakash in 2020 by over 41,000 votes. This time, the Grand Alliance has fielded Mohammad Shamsad Alam against her. Lauriya: Ran Kaushal Pratap Singh (VIP) vs Binay Bihari (BJP) Ran Kaushal Pratap Singh, the richest candidate this election, has drawn attention in Lauriya with declared assets of 368.98 crore and his wifes 131 crore. He faces BJPs Binay Bihari, the sitting MLA. Bihar elections 2025: Voting begins for second phase, State on high alert after Delhi explosion Gaya Town: Dhirendra Agrawal (Jan Suraaj Party) vs Prem Kumar (BJP) vs Akhaury Onkar Nath (Congress) Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party has fielded Dhirendra Agrawal, a three-time former MP from Chatra, against BJPs Prem Kumar, who has held Gaya Town for eight consecutive terms. Agrawal, son of former RSS South Bihar chief Daya Prakash, represents Kishors attempt to project Jan Suraaj as a credible alternative. Congress has nominated Akhaury Onkar Nath. The wider Gaya district is key to Kishors experiment, where his party has also fielded ex-NDA figures in several seats. Phulparas: Sheela Kumari Mandal (JD(U)) vs Subodh Mandal (Congress) In Madhubanis Phulparas, Transport and Communication Minister Sheela Mandal is defending her seat. Known for her grassroots presence, she stirred controversy in 2020 after remarks comparing freedom fighters Veer Kunwar Singh and Ramphal Mandal triggered caste-based debate. She now faces Congresss Subodh Mandal. Amarpur: Jayant Raj Kushwaha (JD(U)) vs Jitendra Singh (Congress) Young cabinet minister Jayant Raj Kushwaha, son of former MLA Janardan Manjhi, is seeking re-election from Amarpur. A BBA graduate, he narrowly beat Congresss Jitendra Singh in 2020 and was later inducted into Nitish Kumars cabinet. The two face each other again this year. Dhamdaha: Leshi Singh (JD(U)) vs Santosh Kumar (RJD) In Purnias Dhamdaha, veteran JD(U) leader Leshi Singh, Bihars Food and Consumer Protection Minister, is eyeing another term. A consistent winner since 2000, she retained her seat in 2020 by about 34,000 votes. RJDs Santosh Kumar is her challenger this time. Kargahar: Ritesh Ranjan Pandey (Jan Suraaj) vs Santosh Mishra (Congress) vs Vashishth Singh (JD(U)) Popular Bhojpuri actor-singer Ritesh Pandey, known for hits like Balma Bihar Wala and Hello Kaun , is contesting from Kargahar under Jan Suraaj. He faces Congresss Santosh Mishra and JD(U)s Vashishth Singh. Pandeys entry surprised many who expected Prashant Kishor himself to contest from this seat. Chhatapur: Neeraj Kumar Singh Bablu (BJP) vs Dr Vipin Kumar Singh (RJD) Neeraj Kumar Singh, popularly known as Bablu, and cousin of late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, is contesting again from Chhatapur in Supaul district. Currently Bihars Environment and Forest Minister, he gained prominence after vocally demanding justice for Sushant in 2020. He now faces RJDs Dr Vipin Kumar Singh. Bettiah: Renu Devi (BJP) vs Washi Ahmad (Congress) Former Deputy Chief Minister Renu Devi, currently Minister for Animal and Fisheries Resources, seeks re-election from Bettiah. A long-time BJP figure who began her political career in 1981 through social work, Devi has risen through the ranks of the BJP Mahila Morcha since 1988. She faces Congresss Washi Ahmad this time. Muslim women vote in large numbers in first phase of Bihar polls after SIR exercise Sitamarhi: Sunil Kumar Pintu (BJP) vs Sunil Kumar (RJD) Sunil Kumar Pintu, a four-time MLA and former MP, is contesting again from Sitamarhi. Pintu, who also heads the Shri Bhagwati Sita Tirtha Kshetra Samiti, wields significant cultural and political influence His campaign was hit by controversy after an alleged private video resurfaced online a clip he dismissed as an old opposition trick. Despite this, he has the BJPs full backing, with Amit Shah campaigning for him. He faces RJDs Sunil Kumar. Chainpur: Mohammad Zama Khan (JD(U)) vs Brij Kishor Bind (RJD) vs Balgovind Bind (VIP) In Chainpur, Minority Affairs Minister Mohammad Zama Khan faces opposition from both allies and rivals. Khan, who won in 2020 as a BSP candidate before joining JD(U), has faced criticism from sections of the Muslim community over the Waqf Bill controversy. The RJD has fielded Brij Kishor Bind, while the VIP has nominated Balgovind Bind, resulting in a three-cornered contest. Parihar: Gayatri Devi (BJP) vs Ritu Jaiswal (Independent) vs Smita Purbe (RJD) In Sitamarhis Parihar, three women are in the fray. The seat, near the Ma Janki temple at Punaruadham, gained national attention after Amit Shah announced its 800 crore renovation plan. Sitting MLA Gayatri Devi (BJP) is seeking a third consecutive win. In 2020, she narrowly defeated Ritu Jaiswal (RJD) by about 2,000 votes. Denied a ticket this time, Ritu is contesting as an independent, while the RJD has fielded Smita Purbe, daughter-in-law of veteran leader Ram Chandra Purbe. The Seemanchal Equation The politically sensitive Seemanchal region comprising Purnea, Araria, Kishanganj, and Katihar will be a crucial battleground in this phase. Home to a large portion of Bihars 17% Muslim population, Seemanchal has seen intense campaigning from all major parties, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and Rahul Gandhi. In 2020, the BJP won eight of the regions seats, JD(U) four, Congress five, CPIML and RJD one each, while AIMIM won five before four of its MLAs joined the RJD. Friendly Fire Several constituencies will witness intra-alliance clashes within the Grand Alliance. In Narkatiaganj, Congresss Shashwat Kedar Pandey faces RJDs Deepak Yadav, while the NDA has fielded BJPs Sanjay Pandey. In Kahalgaon, Congresss Praveen Singh Kushwaha takes on RJDs Rajnish Bharti, with JD(U)s Shubh Anand Mukesh representing the NDA. In Pipra, CPI(ML)s Anil Kumar faces CPI(M)s Rajmangal Prasad, while BJPs Shyambabu Prasad Yadav contests for the NDA. Bihar polls: Legacy, family feuds and fresh faces shape key battles in Phase 1
RJD rebel sets up a battle of three women in land of Sita
SITAMARHI: Bihars women power has been a subject of animated discussion during the assembly election campaign, but the Parihar assembly constituency in Sitamarhi district stands out as three women are in the fray. Its a contest among three influential women in the constituency, close to Maa Janki temple near Punaruadham, which caught nations attention after Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation for renovation of the temple at `800 crore. The seat is now held by BJP MLA Gayatri Devi, who is seeking re-election to make a hat-trick. She defeated Ritu Jaiswal of the RJD by a margin of about 2000 votes in 2020 polls. In 2010, Gayantris husband Ram Naresh Yadav had won from Parihar that came into existence after delimitation in 2008. In 2015, Gayatri as a BJP nominee defeated Ram Chandra Purbe, then RJD state chief. In 2020, she retained the seat. Ritu Jaiswal, RJD womens wing state president, is contesting as a rebel (Independent) as the party denied her ticket and fielded Smita Purbe, daughter in-law of Ram Chandra Purbe, from the seat. Rita had unsuccessfully contested 2019 Lok Sabha election from Sheohar. I decided to contest the election on the demand of my supporters and residents, who give me love and affection. How can I forget their fight for me in the previous assembly election which I lost by a slender margin, she told this reporter during her campaign. Smita is trying to restore her father-in-laws legacy who represented neighbouring Sonbarsa many times. She is mainly relying on RJDs traditional MY (Yadav-Muslim support base) combination. Both Smita and Ritu belong to Vaishya community with a sizable population in the constituency. Gayatri, a Yadav, has put RJDs Yadav voters in a fix. I have supporters among Yadavs who will vote for me, she said, adding that the fight between Ritu and Smita has brightened her victory chances. Ritu started her political journey as a Singjvahini panchayat chief after quitting her job in Delhi. Married to a civil servant, she chose to stay in village. Muslim voters are by and large in favour of RJDs Smita. Had RJD fielded Ritu Jaiswal, she would have won, said Mohammad Javed of Indarba village. Migration, unemployment, and floods are key issues. Roads are in good condition, electricity is available 24x7 and there a Kendriya Vidyalaya. But lack of job and job opportunities are the major problems here, said RBP Sinha, a retired engineer of Sithihara village.
All eyes on Bihar women voters as final phase campaigning winds up
NEW DELHI/PATNA : CAMPAIGNING for the second and final phase of the Bihar Assembly elections concluded on Sunday evening, capping nearly a month of intense canvassing and clamorous exchanges between the ruling NDA and the opposition Mahagathbandhan. Polling will take place on November 11 across 122 constituencies in 20 districts, marking the decisive round of a high-stakes contest. The first phase on November 6 saw a record voter turnout of 65.08 percent, the highest in the states history, with women outnumbering men at poll booths. The turnout of women voters in this phase may well decide whether, as many put it, Rajnitik badlav ki hawa chali ya nahi (if a political wind of change has blown). Among key seats going to polls in this phase are Chakai, from where JD(U) minister Sumit Kumar Singh is seeking re-election, BJP MLA Shreyasi Singhs Jamui, JD(U) minister Leshi Singhs Dhamdaha, and BJP minister Neeraj Kumar Singhs Chhatapur. In the second and final phase of Bihar Assembly elections, all eyes are on women voters 1.74 crore of them out of 3.70 crore total electorsare expected to play a crucial role in shaping the outcome. Women voters have certainly become a segment that could determine the fortunes of both the ruling NDA and the opposition Mahagathbandhan (MGB), said Ravi K Sinha, a Patna-based political analyst. Both alliances have aggressively courted women voters. Nitish Kumar has leaned on elfare schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, under which `10,000 was directly credited to over two crore women to promote financial independence. During his 71 rallies, the chief minister framed his campaign around womens empowerment and safety, contrasting his record with the Jungle Raj years under the RJD. Tejashwi Yadavs campaigns sought to link womens vote with the twin concerns of unemployment and rising prices.Women account for nearly 47% of Bihars electorate. According to Election Commission figures, 1,302 candidates, including 136 women, are contesting the final phase, which covers 19 constituencies reserved for Scheduled Castes and two for Scheduled Tribes. Sashastra Seema Bal forces have been roped it to tighten security in districts bordering Nepal, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand untill polling ends. Eleven ministers are in the fray in the final phase, including Bijendra Prasad Yadav (Supaul) and Prem Kumar (Gaya Town), each seeking a ninth consecutive term. Other prominent contestants include Renu Devi, Nitish Mishra, Leshi Singh, and Mohammad Zama Khan.
Casual vs diligent on roping in Manjhi
Dashrath Manjhis new house has a visitor. A surprise political visitor. Not the one you would have expected if you knew the prequel to this story. But its the sequel that can contain clues to the difference between Indias two national parties. Yes, the man who moved mountains in life can move politics even in deaththough not as much as he would have liked. Whos Dashrath Manjhi? For those who somehow missed out, hes the man who cut through a mountain all on his own, with a hammer and chisel, over 22 years. His wife had died because medical care was 70 km away by road, though just over the mountain in reality. He swore that such a fate should never befall anyone again. And kept his word. Town is now just a kilometre away from his Gehlaur village. He was feted belatedly as the Mountain Man, a postage stamp was issued in his name, films were made about his lifea documentary, a Hindi movie, even a couple of Kannada films. But the destitution had not changed. When Dashrath died, in 2007, home was still a thatched-roof hut. The lot of many among his Mahadalit community of Musahars, and millions of others in Bihar. Then came Rahul Gandhi. It was revealed a few months ago that the Congress leader had quietly without any fanfare or publicity, without even being asked sponsored a five-room pucca house for the Manjhi family. Media briefly hailed the Good Samaritan act, then forgot all about it. Bihar had much more compelling business to attend to. There was the SIR, Rahuls own yatra in the run-up to a hotly contested assembly election. A sidelight there was that Rahul had come visiting Gehlaur again. Bhagirath Manjhi, Dashraths sixty-something son, was the one who had invited him for his first visit. That time Bhagirath had not asked for any favour. This time he did. He wanted a Congress ticket to contest the election. Rahul assured him one. It made eminent sense too. The Congress was now speaking up for Dalit rights with a new force. What better way to illustrate it than to have Dashraths son contesting under its flag? Come candidate selection time, Bhagirath went to Delhi, camped for four days. What came next was the usual Congress self-goal. Party apparatchiks denied him a ticket. When we visit Gehlaur, along the road that Dashrath built, this new pucca house as we said has a visitor. Its an MLA from Chhattisgarh. Some tangible discomfort at encountering us, and a hasty exit ensued. Bihar polls essentially a local wrestling match We could not confirm who it was, but it was a BJP politician, touching base, trying earnestly to swing Bhagirath towards their side. Whether it eventually meets with success or not is beside the point. It shows the difference in approach: casual on one side, and utmost diligence on the other. Not an inch that can be harvested is left barren. This little story unfolding in a remote corner of Gaya may remain a political aside. Bihar holds the unique distinction of being the only major Indian state besides Tamil Nadu to not be directly ruled by a national party for decades. (Not counting post-division Andhra Pradesh, pre-diminution J&K and West Bengal, where the Left at least used to be a national force at the time.) The buzz among seasoned observers, after the bumper turnout in the first phase of voting on November 6, is that Bihar has stayed true to that form. That this is essentially a local wrestling match, with the national parties being dominated once again by regional ones. Whether that analysis stays intact or not in the final analysis is a different matter. That is subject to how the second phase of polling goes in eastern Seemanchal, due to vote on Tuesday. But within that larger picture, if a tiny part of the mountain moves, do not be surprised if the BJP plays it up. It takes a hammer and a chisel and one piece of rock at a time.
Bihar polls: Tejashwi Yadav reiterates job pledge in Nawada, Gaya
Patna: RJD leader and Mahagathbandhans chief ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav addressed a rally at the ITI ground in Nawada on Saturday, seeking support for alliance candidates in the districts five assembly seats. Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yadav claimed that 30 helicopters had been deployed to follow him. He said Bihar would not lag and 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 .
Congress ticket eludes Mountain mans son
GAYA(BIHAR): Bhagirath Manjhi, son of Bihars legendary Mountain Man Dasarath Manjhi, is disappointed he didnt get a Congress ticket to fight the elections despite an assurance from Rahul Gandhi. During Rahul Gandhis visit to Gehlour village in Gaya district in August, he had promised Bhagirath a party ticket, raising hopes among locals that the Congress would honor the legacy of the man who cut through a mountain to connect his isolated village. I stayed in Delhi for four days and submitted all documents, but did not get a ticket, Bhagirath told the paper while sitting near his fathers memorial. However, Bhagirath, who joined the Congress in January in Rahul Gandhis presence, said he still holds no grudge: He gave us a home. I only wish he had given me a chance, too. Bhagirath, now in his late sixties, had sought to contest from Barachatti or Imamganj constituencies, both with a sizeable Manjhi population. Had the Congress given me a ticket, the party would have set an example, he said. Residents of Gehlour, now renamed Dasarath Nagar, voiced their discontent. People know him and respect his fathers legacy, said a youth.
Tejashwis favourite CM is Stalin, whose party compares Biharis with bidis: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday criticised RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav for calling Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin his favourite CM, alleging that the DMK had previously insulted Biharis by comparing them to bidis. Someone asked Lalus son who his favourite CM is. He said Stalin, do you know who he is? His party compares Biharis with bidis. His party insults Biharis and disgraces them. Tejashwis favourite is this CM, Shah claimed at a rally in Bhagalpur. He also accused the DMK of opposing the construction of the Ram Temple and insulting Sanatan Dharma. The remarks come after Stalin last week criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his alleged comments that DMK leaders harassed workers from Bihar, asking the PM to avoid cheap politics targeting Tamils ahead of elections. Shah also targeted the broader opposition, saying the RJD-Congress combine had no development agenda for Bihar. Lalu-Rahul-Rabri have not done anything for the poor, except patronising infiltrators who are taking away jobs, foodgrain, and other resources, he said. He described the Mahagathbandhan as a thagbandhan, lacking both policy direction and unity. Tejashwi Yadav says Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj will have no impact on Bihar polls Addressing security concerns, Shah alleged that Maoists reigned supreme in Bihars Gaya, Aurangabad, Jamui, and other districts during Lalu Prasads tenure as Chief Minister and credited the current government with eliminating Naxalism. If you want to prevent jungle raj, vote for the NDA, he said. In this Naxal-affected area, around 150 Naxals had hijacked the Dhanbad-Patna Express, killing three people. The area was completely under Naxal control. But now, thanks to PM Modis efforts, it is Naxal-free. Earlier, voting used to end by 3 PM; now, people can vote till 5 PM, Shah said. He also took a dig at Lalu Prasad Yadav, claiming that if the Mahagathbandhan comes to power, it would create a new department called Apaharan (kidnapping). He also criticised the Congress leadership, alleging that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi did not have the courage to respond to repeated terror attacks during the UPA regime. Shah further promised a series of development initiatives in Bihar if the NDA retains power. Speaking at rallies in Jamui and Bihpur, he announced plans for an electric vehicle manufacturing cluster, a defence corridor, world-class expressways, new highways, medical and engineering colleges, and an investment of Rs 20,000 crore in pisciculture. He also reiterated support for the construction of a grand temple dedicated to Goddess Sita in Bihar. On the political front, Shah warned voters about potential law-and-order issues under an RJD government. No one can prevent riots in Bhagalpur if the RJD wins the Bihar polls. You have to decide whether you want the kidnapping industry in Diara or the development of tourism, he said. BJP leaders, who cast votes in Delhi, also voted in first phase of Bihar polls: Rahul Gandhi
VIP inflow floods Patna airport in election season, private jets cost 6 lakh per flying hour
PATNA: With election campaigns in full swing, Patnas Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport is witnessing an unprecedented surge in air traffic, with the facility operating well beyond its capacity. On average, 100 to 130 VIPs arrive daily, turning the airport into one of the busiest political transit hubs in the country. According to airport sources, 23 helicopters and 12 chartered aircraft have been cleared for continuous operations. After dropping off passengers, most chartered flights are sent to Gaya, Darbhanga, Varanasi, Lucknow or Ranchi to free up parking space, airport sources said. Top political leaders are flying in on private jets before switching to helicopters to criss-cross Bihar for campaign events. Of the total choppers available, 15 have been reserved for the BJP, while the rest are being used by the Congress, JD(U) and RJD, explained a source. The election season has triggered a windfall for private charter operators, many of whom have flown in aircraft from across India. Companies such as Club One Air, Air Charter and VSS are operating jets, while helicopter services are being provided by Pawan Hans, Maharaja Aviation, Red Bird Aviation, ACS Charter Services, Trans Bharat Aviation, Global Vectra and Aero Air Chartered Services. The going rate for a Falcon jet is 6 lakh per flying hour plus GST, an airport source said. A round trip between Patna and Delhi around 80 minutes each way costs over 18 lakh. For longer bookings, the rate drops slightly to 5.8 lakh per hour, the source added. These luxury jets are equipped with sofas, beds, washrooms and in-flight catering, offering the comfort of a private suite in the sky. Helicopters, meanwhile, cost 1.5 lakh per hour for single-engine models that seat four passengers and 2 lakh per hour for twin-engine versions. Global Flight Aviation Services, the agency managing ground handling, has been coordinating the constant stream of landings and departures. The first day was chaotic, an official admitted. Passenger details didnt always match the manifests, and a few VIPs had to wait for clearances. But the process has since been streamlined. Despite improved coordination, officials concede that Patna airport is stretched to its limit, with parking bays full and staff working round the clock. The crowded skies over Bihars capital reflect the intensity of the political battle.
CA ban gaya: Father gets emotional seeing son achieve dream
A father, unaware of what awaited him, returned home from work tired, a scene so universally relatable that it hits everyone with nostalgia. For a particular young man, however, it was a moment of joy and surprise, as it was the moment when he announced to his father that he had passed the final CA 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 .
Rahul Promises to Transform Bihar Into Manufacturing Hub
Addressing back-to-back rallies in Aurangabad and Gayaji, Mr Gandhi charged Mr Modi with promoting addiction to social media
Rahul Gandhi accuses PM Modi of distracting youth with social-media reels
Aurangabad: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the youth to remain busy in making social media reels, so that they stay distracted from pressing problems about education, health and employment. Addressing back-to-back rallies in Bihars Aurangabad and Gayaji, Gandhi charged the PM with promoting addiction to social media. 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 .
Why Aishwarya Rai rejected Aamir Khans blockbuster film
Mumbai: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is celebrated as one of the most beautiful and talented actresses in Indian cinema. Known for her grace, impeccable fashion sense, and powerful performances, she has mesmerized audiences across the globe ever since her debut in Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya opposite Bobby Deol. But did you know that Aishwarya was originally 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 .
Ramakrishna Mission Jammu holds programme
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 2: The Ramakrishna Mission, Jammu organized its annual Inter-School events 2025, drawing participation from 27 schools and 340 students of Classes 7 to 12. The three-day programme featured competitions in Painting, Short Skit, Drama, Elocution and Solo Singing, providing a platform for students to showcase creativity, talent and teamwork while promoting value-based education inspired by Swami Vivekananda. Judging panels included Ankur Kesar, Vikas Dogra, Rachita Dutta (Painting); Raman Gupta, Advocate Gayatri Jamwal, RJ Sarang (Drama); Brigadier [] The post Ramakrishna Mission Jammu holds programme appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Womans body found hanging in decomposed state at her house in Bengaluru
Bengaluru: A womans body was found hanging in a decomposed state at her rented house in the city, police said on Sunday. The incident occurred in Gayatri Nagar in north Bengaluru that falls under the jurisdiction of Subramanyanagar Police Station. The woman, aged around 25, was hailing from Davangere and an MBA graduate. She worked 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 .
Gayatri Mantra On Indian Currency: Modi Govt To Release Special Coin On 150th Year Of Arya Samaj
This follows another significant gesture in recent months when a special coin was issued for the 100 years of RSS, with 'Bharat Mata' depicted for the first time on Indian currency
JD(U) expels 16 rebels, including sitting MLA, two former MLAs, ahead of Bihar Assembly polls
PATNA: Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumars Janata Dal (United) initiated disciplinary action against its 16 rebel leaders ahead of state assembly elections. A sitting MLA and two former MLAs are among the leaders who have been expelled from the party. Most of the leaders are contesting the election against candidates of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), of which JD(U) is a part of. The suspended leaders have been accused of being involved in anti-party activities and violating the partys ideology. Prominent among those who have been expelled are Gopalpur MLA Narendra Niraj alias Gopal Mandal, former MLC Sanjeev Shyam Singh and former minister Hemraj Singh. Gopal Mandal staged a dharna outside the chief ministers residence in Patna after he learned that the party was planning to drop him from the seat. He became more vocal after JD(U) fielded Bulo Mandal, a former Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader from Gopalpur. Later, Gopal Mandal filed his nomination as an Independent candidate from the same seat. After filing his nomination, Gopal appealed to the electorate to vote for him as he was a true follower of JD(U) ideology. Gopal Mandal also expressed his faith in Nitish Kumars leadership. However, it did not cut ice. JD(U) expels 11 leaders for anti-party activities in poll-bound Bihar Bulo Mandal filed his nomination from the Gopalpur seat. I have already launched my election campaign, said Bulo Mandal. Sanjeev Shyam Singh is fighting from the Gurua assembly seat in Gaya district as a candidate of Jan Suraaj Party. Similarly, Hemraj Singh is contesting the election from Katihar in the Seemanchal region as an Independent candidate. Two other MLAs against whom disciplinary action has been initiated areMaheshwar Prasad Yadav and his aide Prabhat Kiran. Both the leaders had criticised the JD(U) top leadership over the distribution of tickets in the upcoming assembly elections. Yadav, a former MLA, came out in the open against Komal Singh, who has been fielded from the Gaighat seat in Muzaffarpur district. The expulsions were announced in two separate communications issued, one on late Saturday and the other on Sunday. Earlier on Saturday, JD(U) expelled 11 leaders, including former minister Shailesh Kumar. Others include Sanjay Singh, former MLC, Shyam Bahadur Singh, former MLA, Ranvijay Singh, former MLC, MLA Sudarshan Kumar, Ashma Parveen, Amar Kumar Singh Luv Kumar, Divyanshu Bhardwaj, Asha Suman and Vivek Shukla. Meanwhile, former MLA Jai Kumar Singh has also expressed his displeasure over the selection of candidates for the 2025 assembly elections. Jai is contesting the election from Dinara as an Independent while Sudarshan Kumar is pitted against JD(U) nominee Pushpanjay Kumar on the Barbigha seat in Sheikhpura district. Homecoming Vote: Migrant workers returning for Chhath puja could decide Bihar polls
Homecoming Vote: Migrant workers returning for Chhath puja could decide Bihar polls
NEW DELHI: With nearly 70 lakh Bihari migrant workers returning home for the Chhath festival on October 2728, just a week before the first phase of Bihar Assembly polls, political experts expect a surge in voter turnout across the state's 243 constituencies. The Assembly polls will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11, with counting and results scheduled for November 14. According to estimates, around 2.5 to 3.1 crore Biharis work outside the state, including 8090 lakh who migrate annually for work as labourers, masons, mechanics, and other trades. The migrant workers coming home, mostly labourers and employees working in factories, construction sites, and offices across India, are being considered a decisive voter bloc. Many of them are likely to stay back and vote, especially in districts that recorded low polling in 2020. Both the NDA and Mahagathbandhan (opposition grand alliance) are urging migrant workers to stay back and vote, portraying it as a duty to ensure a better future for Bihar. The majority of those who come (for the festival) belong to Scheduled Castes and marginalised communities whose families benefit from government welfare schemes. Their womenfolk will certainly think of the NDA, not the RJD, claimed a BJP leader. However, RJD leaders disagreed, claiming that the migrant workers facing hardship in other BJP-ruled states would not vote for the NDA in Bihar. Those who face hardship outside Bihar due to unemployment and poor development under NDA rule will never vote for the NDA, said a senior RJD functionary. Those who feel humiliated or exploited in other states are less likely to vote for parties aligned with those governments, admitted a senior NDA leader, requesting anonymity. The NDA leader, however hoped that rust in Modi and the work done by Nitish Kumar may convince the migrant workers to back the JDU-led alliance. While the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan has made joblessness a central campaign issue, the ruling NDA has highlighted job creation and social welfare to counter the attack. Both camps are actively reaching out to returning migrants through local networks, community meetings, and WhatsApp groups. Districts such as Purnia, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Saharsa, Sitamarhi, Gaya, Jehanabad, Saran, Motihari, Jamui, Nawada, and Aurangabad all major hubs of outmigration are expected to see higher participation this time. Poll analysts believe the Kosi region, plagued by recurrent floods and high migration, could witness a sharp rise in voting, with nearly half of the returnees expected to stay through election day. Similar trends are anticipated in the Tirhut and Purnia divisions, depending on migrants ability to sustain themselves economically after Chhath. Waqf Act will be thrown into dustbin if INDIA bloc voted to power in Bihar: Tejashwi Yadav JD(U) expels 11 leaders for anti-party activities in poll-bound Bihar
Last week during the Bigg Boss 19 Weekend Ka Vaar episode, Amaal Mallik's father Daboo Malik appeared on the show and publicly warned his son to watch his words and not cross lines in anger.
Advertising legend Piyush Pandey passes away
Mumbai: Advertising legend Piyush Pandey, who gave Indian advertising its distinct character, passed away at the age of 70 on Thursday. Filmmaker Hansal Mehta and musician Ehsaan Noorani mourned the loss of the trailblazer who shaped Indian advertising. Hansal took to X and wrote: Fevicol ka jod toot gaya. The ad world lost its glue 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 .
Sri Lankas opposition wears black in Parliament to protest politicians murder
COLOMBO, Oct 23: Sri Lankas main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) on Thursday wore black in Parliament to protest what it termed the governments insensitive response to the killing of one of its local council chairmen. Lasantha Wickramasekera, who headed the Weligama local authority in the southern Matara district, was shot dead by an unidentified gunman in his office on Tuesday. The incident marked the first political killing since the National Peoples Power (NPP) government came to power a year [] The post Sri Lankas opposition wears black in Parliament to protest politicians murder appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NDAs Bihar push: Chirag Paswan and Samrat Chaudhary address supporters in Gaya
11th annual convention of Bhavaprachar Parishat in Dharwad from Friday
Ramakrishna Vivekananda Ashram is organising the convention at the Lingayat Bhavan till Sunday
Standing tall: The inspiring journey of a woman from Gaya
At just three feet tall, Rani has overcome challenges most would find overwhelming and emerged as a symbol of resilience. The post Standing tall: The inspiring journey of a woman from Gaya appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
Congress releases second candidate list for Bihar assembly polls
The Congress party on Saturday released its second list of candidates for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, announcing five additional names to contest from key constituencies across the state. This latest announcement adds to the 48 candidates declared in the partys first list. According to the second list released by the party, the Congress has fielded, Shaswat Kedar Pandey from Narkatiaganj, Qamrul Hoda from Kishanganj, Irfan Alam from Kasba, Jitender Yadav from Purnia and Mohan Shrivasta from Gaya Town. The Bihar Assembly elections for the 243-member House will be held in two phases. The first phase of polling is scheduled for November 6, followed by the second phase on November 11. Counting of votes is set to take place on November 14. The deadline for filing nominations for the first phase of the elections was October 17, while candidates vying for seats in the second phase must submit their nominations by October 20. pic.twitter.com/5HvUxaSf84 Congress (@INCIndia) October 18, 2025 Bihar polls: Congress claims seat-sharing issue among INDIA bloc partners resolved
Bihar elections 2025: Congress announces second list of 5 candidates; check here
The Congress on Saturday released its second list for the Bihar assembly elections, announcing candidates for Narkatiaganj, Kishanganj, Kasba, Purnia and Gaya Town assembly seats.
Andhra Pradeshs island villages struggle to make ends meet
Surrounded by the river Krishna and the Bay of Bengal, these villages in Krishna district can be reached by a lone punt which operates 22 times a day. Decline in business due to unpredictable weather and lack of basic amenities has forced many villagers to migrate to cities in search of work. Nellore Sravani visits Nagayalankas island villages to explore the reasons
Island villages struggle to make ends meet
Surrounded by the river Krishna and the Bay of Bengal, these villages in Krishna district can be reached by a lone punt which operates 22 times a day. Decline in business due to unpredictable weather and lack of basic amenities has forced many villagers to migrate to cities in search of work. Nellore Sravani visits Nagayalankas island villages to explore the reasons
HYDRAA Chief Inspects Desilting Works in Ameerpet
Over 45 truckloads of silt and debris have been removed from stormwater drains near Maitrivanam Junction and Gayatri Nagar.
Mujhe mulli kaha gaya, says SP MP Iqra Hasan condemns Shiva temple vandalism
Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Hasan, while addressing an all-male panchayat in Chapaur village of Saharanpur on Sunday, October 12, revealed that she was called a mulli amid tensions following the vandalism of a Shiva temple in the area. Condemning the incident, Hasan who represents the Kairana constituency said the destruction of any religious 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 .
