Tripura: Second phase of Census 2027 to begin on January 25
Guwahati: The second phase of Census 2027 in Tripura will be conducted from January 25 to February 28, 2027, to gather demographic, social and economic information about the states population, an official said on November 14. Tripura Census Operations Director Ratan Biswas said residents would also have the option of completing self-enumeration between January 10 [] The post Tripura: Second phase of Census 2027 to begin on January 25 appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Class 9 student stabs mother, jumps to death from high-rise
Guwahati: A class 9 student allegedly stabbed his mother and ended his life by jumping from the terrace of a multi-storey building here, police said on Saturday, November 14. The student of a private school in Assams Guwahati allegedly attacked his mother with a sharp weapon, inflicting serious injuries to her neck, at their residence 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 .
Dreams of children must remain at heart of everything we do: Himanta Sarma on Children's Day
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 14 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Saturday extended his greetings to young ones on Children's Day, saying that their happiness, dreams and aspirations must remain at the heart of every effort undertaken by society and the government. Taking to social media platform X, the Chief Minister said the Assam government is working to provide children with a stronger foundation and a brighter future through improvements in education, sports and other areas crucial to their overall development. The happiness, dreams and aspirations of our children must always remain at the heart of everything we do, Sarma said in his message. From classrooms to playgrounds, we are working to give every child in Assam a stronger foundation and a brighter tomorrow, he added. Extending his love and best wishes to children across the state, the Chief Minister said that nurturing the younger generation remains central to building a stronger and more prosperous Assam. Children's Day is celebrated across India on November 14, the birth anniversary of the country's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. The day is marked by special programmes in schools and educational institutions, with a focus on children's welfare, education and development. In Assam, the state government has in recent years placed emphasis on strengthening school infrastructure, improving access to education and encouraging greater participation of students in sports and other extracurricular activities. The Chief Minister's message underlined the importance of creating an environment where children can pursue their ambitions and realise their potential. Sarma has repeatedly maintained that investment in education and youth development is critical to the state's long-term progress. His Children's Day message also reflected the government's focus on providing better opportunities to the younger generation and ensuring that children from different backgrounds have access to the resources needed for their growth and development. As Assam moves forward, the hopes and aspirations of its children will continue to shape the state's journey towards a brighter future, the Chief Minister said, extending his warm wishes to children on the occasion.
Himanta Sarma to visit Kaziranga accident site as death toll rises
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 14 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will visit the site of the devastating road accident near Kaziranga on Saturday morning and meet the families affected by one of the worst road tragedies in the state. The latest reports said the death toll has risen to 26, while around 20 others sustained injuries. Several of those injured were rushed to hospitals, including the Jorhat Medical College and Hospital, for advanced treatment. The Chief Minister said he would personally visit the accident site to ensure that the affected families receive every possible assistance. I will visit the accident site tomorrow morning to meet the affected families and ensure they receive every possible support, from medical care for the injured to relief for those who have lost loved ones. They are not alone in this difficult hour, Sarma said in a post on X. The Chief Minister said that the state government stands with the bereaved families and prayed for the victims of the tragedy. The horrific accident took place at Rongajan near Kaziranga National Park in Golaghat district on Friday when a passenger mini-bus collided head-on with a container truck on National Highway-715. Many of the victims were reportedly students returning from their classes. Rediff The collision left the mini-bus badly mangled, prompting a massive rescue operation involving police, district administration officials and local residents. Initial reports suggested that the passenger vehicle was travelling at a high speed before the collision. Authorities have said a detailed enquiry will be conducted to ascertain the exact circumstances surrounding the accident and examine whether traffic and other safety norms were violated. Sarma had earlier expressed deep anguish over the tragedy and assured the best possible medical treatment for the injured. His visit on Saturday is expected to focus on reviewing relief measures, meeting bereaved families and assessing the treatment being provided to those injured in the devastating accident.
Guwahati: Student Stabs Mother, Dies By Suicide
A class 9 student in Guwahati allegedly stabbed his mother, causing serious injuries, before ending his own life by jumping from a multi-storey building. The incident occurred on Friday night, and the mother is currently in critical condition. Police have registered a case and are investigating the motive behind the tragic attack.
Assam accident: Autopsy of 26 bodies on Saturday
Guwahati: The postmortem of the bodies of 26 people who died in a collision between a minibus and a container truck in Assams Kaziranga will be conducted on Saturday, November 14, minister Ranoj Pegu said. The condition of seven of the 18 injured people remained critical, said Pegu, who was deputed by Chief Minister Himanta 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 .
Railway Board orders mandatory braking tests after Assam derailment
The Railway Board has instructed all zones to conduct brake feel and brake power tests after train handover, following a probe that linked a malfunctioning main braking system to the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailment near Guwahati.
Manipur CM Khemchand Singh stresses need for passenger train service to Guwahati to ease travel difficulties Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday emphasised the need to introduce a passenger train service connecting the state with Guwahati, saying it would greatly benefit the people of the landlocked state, particularly in view of the [] The post Manipur CM Khemchand Singh stresses need for passenger train service to Guwahati to ease travel difficulties appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Railways Board asks zones to ensure braking tests after train handover following Assam derailment
New Delhi, Nov 13: Following the derailment of the Kolkata-Sairang Express near Guwahati, the Railway Board has asked all its zones to ensure that the running crew conducts a braking test after taking the handover of a train in accordance with the laid-down procedure. Additionally, Zonal Railways should conduct a safety drive from 12-11-2026 to [] The post Railways Board asks zones to ensure braking tests after train handover following Assam derailment first appeared on Highland Post .
Manipur Chief Minister Advocates for Passenger Train Service to Guwahati
Manipurs Chief Minister emphasizes the need for a train link to Guwahati to enhance connectivity and ease travel for residents. Manipur Chief Minister Advocates for Passenger Train Service to Guwahati
Lalremsiami Hmar Zote becomes first from Mizoram to receive Arjuna Award
Guwahati: Lalremsiami Hmar Zote has become the first sportsperson from Mizoram to receive the Arjuna Award. President Droupadi Murmu presented the honour to the 26-year-old Indian womens hockey player at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Friday. Lalremsiami was among 17 athletes selected for the Arjuna Award 2025 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and [] The post Lalremsiami Hmar Zote becomes first from Mizoram to receive Arjuna Award appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Wiki Loves Birds initiative seeks to document Assam
Guwahati: Every bird photographed, every species identified and every observation recorded can help tell a larger story about Assams rich natural heritage. Bringing this idea into focus, a two-day community-led initiative in Golaghat sought to connect bird enthusiasts, conservationists and photographers through avian documentation and open-access knowledge sharing. Titled Birds, People & Open-Knowledge, the initiative [] The post Wiki Loves Birds initiative seeks to document Assams rich avian heritage appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Nomination papers for Council polls scrutinised in Assam
Guwahati, Nov 13: The nomination papers filed by candidates for the elections to the Mising Autonomous Council (MAC) and Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council (SKAC), scheduled to be held on November 30, were scrutinised on Thursday. Of the 163 nomination papers filed for the Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council elections, 163 were accepted. Of these, 130 nomination []
Assam: Wild elephant found dead near Jagiroad with two bullet marks on head
Guwahati: A wild elephant was found dead with two bullet marks on its head at Silchang near Jagiroad in Assams Morigaon district on Friday, prompting suspicions that it may have been shot by poachers. According to local residents, the elephant had strayed from the Khulahat forest area in search of food and reached a paddy [] The post Assam: Wild elephant found dead near Jagiroad with two bullet marks on head appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam Agriculture Minister sets Jan 15 deadline for 100 pc farmer registration
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 12 (IANS) Assam Agriculture Minister Pijush Hazarika on Thursday set a January 15 deadline for completing 100 per cent farmer registration in Dhemaji district, while reviewing the implementation of key agricultural schemes and inspecting innovative farming projects. During a day-long visit to the district, Hazarika inspected integrated farming, sunn hemp cultivation and oil palm projects before chairing a departmental review meeting at the District Commissioner's conference hall. Officials informed the Minister that Dhemaji has so far achieved 83 per cent of its farmer registration target. Expressing the need to bring all eligible cultivators under the registration process, Hazarika directed the department to ensure 100 per cent coverage by January 15. The Minister began his field visit at Arnai Chapori, where he inspected a 22-bigha integrated farm developed by progressive farmer Bhuban Pegu. The farm has adopted a diversified model involving areca nut, tomato, papaya and pineapple cultivation, along with poly-tank pisciculture. At Demow, Hazarika also reviewed sunn hemp cultivation and highlighted its potential in improving soil fertility and promoting green manure practices. He later visited oil palm and multi-crop horticulture farms developed by farmers Bamun Islary and Dilip Boro in the Dipa area and interacted with local cultivators to understand challenges facing agricultural activities. During the review meeting, the Minister issued a series of directions to officials, including the formation of more Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) and regular field-level 'Khet Bachao' awareness programmes. He also asked the department to expedite the identification of land required to meet oil palm cultivation targets and hold joint meetings involving the Fisheries and Agriculture departments to promote Makhana cultivation. Hazarika further directed officials to address bottlenecks faced by local agri-entrepreneurs seeking support under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF). Paddy procurement certificates were also distributed to several farmers during the programme. Cabinet Minister Ranoj Pegu, MP Pradan Baruah and MLAs Bhuban Pegu and Jibon Gogoi accompanied Hazarika during the visit.
'Advantage Assam' promises turning into projects on ground: CM Sarma
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 12 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Thursday that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government is translating investment commitments made during the Advantage Assam 2.0 summit into projects on the ground, as the state steps up its push to emerge as a major industrial and investment destination in the Northeast. The Chief Minister added that nearly Rs 3 lakh crore worth of investments announced at the summit are already taking shape across Assam. In a post on social media platform X, CM Sarma said he had recently inaugurated an eco-friendly AAC blocks manufacturing unit in Tinsukia, describing it as another step towards delivering on the commitments made during Advantage Assam 2.0. We are turning every announcement at #AdvantageAssam 2.0 into reality, the Chief Minister said, adding that the new industrial unit reflected the state government's focus on converting investment proposals into operational projects. The Assam government has been aggressively pursuing an industry-led growth strategy, positioning the state as a gateway to the Northeast and a key investment destination in eastern India. The Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit, organised earlier this year, was a major part of this strategy, with the state government seeking investments across sectors ranging from infrastructure, energy and manufacturing to technology, tourism and agriculture. The state government has also highlighted improvements in connectivity, industrial infrastructure and the overall business environment as key factors driving investor interest in Assam. Chief Minister Sarma has repeatedly said that the focus is not limited to attracting investment announcements but on ensuring their implementation and creating employment opportunities for the state's youth. The latest project in Tinsukia also underlines the state government's efforts to expand industrial activity beyond Guwahati and other traditional urban centres, taking new manufacturing and investment opportunities to different parts of the state. The state government has in recent years rolled out several initiatives aimed at improving ease of doing business and attracting both domestic and global investors. With investment proposals now moving towards implementation, the Assam government is seeking to demonstrate that the Advantage Assam 2.0 summit was not merely a platform for signing agreements, but a roadmap for accelerating industrialisation, generating jobs and strengthening the state's economy.
Petrol Pumps Across Guwahati Observe 24-Hour Shutdown, Meghalaya Sees Rush
Long queues formed at several petrol pumps in Meghalaya near the Assam border, while heavy traffic built up as motorists from Guwahati crossed the state boundary.
Arunachal: Four family members dead, one missing after massive fire in Parsi-Parlo
Guwahati: Four members of a family, including three children, died after a fire engulfed Parsi-Parlo town in Arunachal Pradeshs Kurung Kumey district early Thursday. Deputy Commissioner Cheechung Chukhu said the victims were a woman, her two sons and her daughter. Her husband remains missing, and the toll could rise, he added. The fire destroyed 19 [] The post Arunachal: Four family members dead, one missing after massive fire in Parsi-Parlo appeared first on NorthEast Now .
No more Forest role for M.K. Yadava, Assam govt tells Gauhati High Court
Guwahati: The Assam government on Thursday informed the Gauhati High Court that it would not extend the contractual engagement of retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer M.K. Yadava as Special Chief Secretary (Forest), or engage him in any other capacity under the Forest Department. The government also informed the court that Yadavas third extension as [] The post No more Forest role for M.K. Yadava, Assam govt tells Gauhati High Court appeared first on NorthEast Now .
IIT Guwahati Field Engineer Recruitment 2026
Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati), Research and Development Section, has released the official notification for the post of Field Engineer. The last date to apply online is 19 November 2026. Candidates can apply through the official website, iitg.ac.in.
Rely On Seam, Not Swing, Nabi Reveals Rohit, Kohli's Advice NZ
In New Zealand: India pacer Auqib Nabi said the advice he got from Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill was to rely on seam movement rather than swing while bowling with the white-ball in New Zealand, citing that their reasoning was batters at the highest level are good enough to handle the moving ball. Nabi, 30, has taken two wickets in his four ODIs so far - both coming in Indias rain-affected victory over New Zealand in Wellington. Before that, he warmed up for the series with figures of 3-69 and 3-28 for India A against New Zealand A in Lincoln. Actually, this is my first time bowling in New Zealand. So its a little different here. You have to depend more on the seam movement because the top level batsmen can play the swing. So that was their feedback. If you do a scrambled seam ball or hit the deck, there is a chance to get more wickets here, Nabi said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the fourth ODI, with India 2-0 up after the third match was lost to rain in Hamilton. In September, Nabi fulfilled a dream by making his debut for India in the second ODI against the West Indies in Guwahati, but on a flat pitch, he was smashed for 84 runs without taking a wicket. In New Zealand, where pitches have been familiar, Nabi said conditions in New Zealand were not very different from what he is used to at home in Jammu & Kashmir. I think its similar in terms of weather because we have similar weather there as well. Its just that the opposition is a little different. This is an international level, that is a domestic level. For the rest, you get similar kinds of wickets. Nabi said the strong standard of domestic cricket grind helped him make the step up at the international level. Yes, there was a lot of benefit because our domestic level is very high. So if you do well there, you will usually do well here as well. So there was a lot of benefit from it. Not having express pace, Nabi said, would not make him doubt his strengths. Obviously, if you have pace, then its very good. But my skill, I back it. I have done well there. Here, I have come on skill. Obviously, if there is pace, then it is a plus factor. But I back my skill. What I have done well domestically will be useful here as well. He said discipline was essential, whatever the nature of the pitch is. Pressure, as in, whatever wicket you are, you have to bowl a good ball, whether its a helpful surface or a flat wicket. Your motive is to bowl the ball in good areas. Hopefully, when there is an advantage from the wicket, you have to put a lot of attention in that as well because you can get hit for runs on that as well, if you are not disciplined. He added that the pacers regularly share notes, especially on how to bowl on the drop-in pitches used in New Zealand. Yes, we bowlers talk to each other about how to bowl on which wicket. Because there are a lot of drop-in wickets here, Arshdeep or Anshul or any senior bowler, we talk to each other about which balls can be bowled here on the wickets. So we talk to each other. Nabi admitted that his white-ball call-up had caught him by surprise. My record is good. I have played white-ball for J&K as well. To be honest, I wasnt expecting a call in white-ball. I was expecting a call in red-ball (which came via the series against Sri Lanka in August). Nonetheless, its a good opportunity for me to show my skills. Nabi called playing for India the realisation of a dream and said the ongoing series was a platform for newcomers to present their case for 2027 Mens ODI World Cup spots. Yes, of course I am very happy to represent my country. It has always been my dream. So yes, its a good opportunity for all the newcomers to show their talent and make their case for the World Cup. He also had a message for young cricketers from regions with limited infrastructure aspiring to play for India. Of course, its a big thing to play for India. Anyone who starts playing cricket from any region has the same motive and goal - to play for their country. It was the same for me. Anyone who talks to me that they dont have facilities, I tell them that no matter how limited your facilities are, you have to work hard for it. The only thing a player has to do is work hard. Everything else falls into place. I tell them to work hard, no matter what. Nabi will remain with the squad for the two-match Test series, which starts on November 19, and felt that experience would be valuable. Its good for all of us. We will get more experience on how to play red-ball games. Its a good experience to stay with the team. We will learn a lot. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Arunachal: New Begonia species discovered in Upper Siang
Guwahati: A small flowering plant growing beside a perennial stream in Arunachal Pradeshs Upper Siang district has turned out to be a species new to science, adding to the rich but still incompletely documented plant diversity of the Eastern Himalaya. Named Begonia siangensis, the plant was discovered during a floristic exploration of the Siang River [] The post Arunachal: New Begonia species discovered in Upper Siang appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Passengers face inconvenience in Guwahati after train services hit
Arunachal: New flowering plant species discovered in Changlang district
Guwahati: A rare flowering plant found in the remote forests of Arunachal Pradesh has been identified as a new species, adding to Indias botanical diversity and extending the known western distribution of the genus Disporopsis into the country. Named Disporopsis crispata, the newly described species was discovered in Vijoynagar, Changlang district, at an altitude of [] The post Arunachal: New flowering plant species discovered in Changlang district appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday distributed appointment orders to around 529 candidates selected through three recruitment examinations, urging them to uphold integrity, accountability and dedication in public service. The appointment orders were handed over during a ceremony at the DK Convention Centre. The selected candidates had cleared the Junior Engineer Common [] The post Arunachal: Pema Khandu distributes appointment orders to 529 candidates selected through recruitment exams appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Arunachal: Anti-dam activist Tajong Talom detained again shortly after getting bail
Guwahati: Anti-dam activist Tajong Talom, who opposes the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh, was taken into police custody again shortly after being released from Pasighat Sub-Jail on Wednesday, November 11. Talom, a youth from Pasighat, had been detained on October 24. He was released from jail at around 4.30 pm after [] The post Arunachal: Anti-dam activist Tajong Talom detained again shortly after getting bail appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Meghalaya: Hailstorm catches Shillong residents by surprise, covers vehicles in white
Guwahati: Residents of Shillong witnessed an unusual weather phenomenon on Wednesday as rain accompanied by a hailstorm covered parts of the city with small hailstones, creating a brief snow-like landscape. The hailstorm hit the city between 11 am and noon after dark clouds gathered overhead. Heavy rainfall followed, with hailstones falling across several localities. The [] The post Meghalaya: Hailstorm catches Shillong residents by surprise, covers vehicles in white appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Derailment video shows pilots' frantic bid to stop train
A viral video from the engine cab of the Kolkata-Sairang Express, which derailed near Guwahati, shows the loco pilot and assistant loco pilot struggling to stop the train despite applying all brakes. While the crew member in panic stated brake pressure wasn't dropping, experts note the gauge showed zero pressure, indicating a potential functional error in the braking system that prevented the train from stopping.
Assam to get advanced healthcare innovation institute; Rs 546-crore project announced
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 11 (IANS) Assam is set to establish a first-of-its-kind Advanced Healthcare Innovation Institute (AAHII), bringing doctors, engineers and scientists under one roof to develop affordable and indigenous healthcare technologies, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Wednesday. Sharing details of the ambitious project on social media platform X, Sarma said the institute would focus on translating scientific research into practical medical solutions, including robotic surgical systems, affordable MRI scanners and insulin pumps manufactured in India. What happens when a surgeon and an engineer share a corridor? A robotic surgical arm. An MRI scanner small hospitals can afford. An insulin pump made in India, the Chief Minister said. The Assam Advanced Healthcare Innovation Institute, scheduled to open in December 2027, is already delivering on its larger vision of promoting innovation-driven healthcare solutions, he added. The Rs 546-crore project will comprise two interconnected facilities a dedicated Research and Development Building and a 410-bed multi-speciality postgraduate teaching and research hospital. According to details shared by the Chief Minister, the R&D facility will be a six-storeyed centre dedicated to research and thematic programmes. It will house specialised facilities for health-technology innovation and development and provide a collaborative ecosystem for the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, clinicians and industry partners. The adjoining multi-speciality hospital will have 410 beds and offer postgraduate teaching and research facilities along with multi-speciality clinical care. The hospital is also expected to serve as a real-world setting for testing and validating new medical technologies developed through the institute. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and medical application by encouraging closer collaboration between researchers, healthcare professionals and technology experts. With the proposed institute, Assam is seeking to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure while emerging as a hub for medical research and innovation in the Northeast. The project is expected to promote indigenous healthcare technology, potentially reducing dependence on expensive imported medical equipment and making advanced treatment solutions more accessible to smaller hospitals and patients. The AAHII, the Chief Minister said, represents a new frontier in healthcare innovation, bringing scientific discovery and medical applications closer together.
Arunachal: Deputy CM Chowna Mein seeks Northeast-specific funding norms for urban development
Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has called for urban development policies and funding norms tailored to the Northeasts difficult terrain, scattered settlements and high infrastructure costs, stressing that conventional population-based parameters fail to capture the regions civic needs. Addressing a regional workshop on the implementation of 16th Finance Commission grants for Urban [] The post Arunachal: Deputy CM Chowna Mein seeks Northeast-specific funding norms for urban development appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Guwahati: CID arrests bank service point operator over 'mule' accounts
Assam CID's Cyber Cell has arrested a man who ran an HDFC Bank customer service point in Jalukbari. Police say he opened bank accounts in people's names without their consent, and that the accounts were used to receive money from cyber fraud.
Several coaches of Kolkata-Sairang Express derail near Guwahati, 4 injured
More than 300 passengers from West Bengal were on board the Kolkata-Sairang Express that derailed near Assam's Guwahati on Wednesday, prompting railway authorities to set up helpdesks at several stations to assist them, an official said. Four persons suffered minor injuries after five coaches and the engine of the train derailed at Digaru in the morning, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said earlier in the day. Our data shows that over 300 passengers travelled from West Bengal, covering stations like Kolkata, Naihati, Krishnanagar, and the Malda and Katihar Divisions, who were heading beyond Guwahati, an Eastern Railway official said. We are assisting them. Helpdesks have been set up for the passengers and their families, he said. There is no report of any fatality in the incident, he said, adding that officials from the Eastern Railway rushed to the accident site. The helpdesks have been set up at Sealdah, Alipurduar, Naihati and Berhampore Court stations to provide .
Train Driver Reports Possible Brake Failure Before Derailment Near Guwahati
A chilling video purportedly captures the moments leading up to the derailment of the Kolkata-Sairang Express near Guwahati on Wednesday morning, with the locomotive's driver heard reporting a possible brake failure moments before the train hits barricades with a loud thud.
GMCH Guwahati completes 100 complex liver, pancreas surgeries
Gauhati Medical College and Hospital has completed 100 hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) procedures under its Liver Transplant and HPB programme, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Wednesday. The milestone comes weeks after the hospital's first liver transplant.
Train Kept Moving For A Km After Derailment: Pantry Manager Recalls Assam Horror
Four people sustained minor injuries after five coaches and the engine of the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailed near Digaru on the outskirts of Guwahati on Wednesday.
Assam: 6 Coaches of Sairang-Kolkata Express Train Derails, 4 Injured
Four persons suffered minor injuries after five coaches and the engine of the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailed at Digaru near Assam's Guwahati on Wednesday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said. Sarma, in a social media post, said that all the passengers were
A chilling video showing the moments before the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailment near Guwahati has surfaced, capturing the locomotive driver's conversation moments before the train went off the tracks. In the footage, recorded from inside the...
Emergency Brake Not Working: Video Captures Moment Train Derails In Assam
The coaches derailed at Digaru near Assam's Guwahati on Wednesday morning, officials said.
'Emergency brake not working': Video captures moments leading to Assam train derailment
A chilling video captures the moments before the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailed near Guwahati, with the driver heard reporting a red signal and a non-functional emergency system before the locomotive hits barricades with a loud thud. The locomotive and five coaches derailed at Digaru railway station on Wednesday morning. No injuries or casualties were reported.
Six coaches of Kolkata-Sairang Express derail near Digaru in Assam, passengers safe
Guwahati: Several coaches of the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailed near Digaru railway station in Assam early Wednesday, after the loco pilot reportedly failed to control the trains speed while giving precedence to another train. All passengers are safe and no injuries have been reported, Northeast Frontier Railway said. The train, travelling from Sairang near Mizorams Aizawl [] The post Six coaches of Kolkata-Sairang Express derail near Digaru in Assam, passengers safe appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Six coaches and the engine of the Sairang-Kolkata Express derailed near Digaru in Assam on November 11. Several passengers are feared injured; rescue operations are underway.
Kolkata-Sairang Express Derails in Assam, Injuring Multiple Passengers
A train derailment near Guwahati leaves several passengers injured as rescue operations are underway. Kolkata-Sairang Express Derails in Assam, Injuring Multiple Passengers
Train Accident Near Guwahati: Kolkata-Sairang Express Derails
Guwahati, November 11: A significant train accident occurred near Guwahati early in the morning, involving the Kolkata-Sairang Express. The incident, which took place around 6:54 AM, resulted in Train Accident Near Guwahati: Kolkata-Sairang Express Derails
Seven coaches of Kolkata-Sairang Express derail near Guwahati, several passengers injured
Seven coaches and the engine of the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailed near Digaru, outside Guwahati, on Wednesday morning. Some passengers are reportedly injured. The cause of the accident and the number of casualties are yet to...
Assam Train Accident | Several Injured After 6 Coaches Of Kolkata-Sairang Express Derail In Assam
A major train accident was reported in Assam this morning after seven coaches of the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailed near Digaru, on the outskirts of Guwahati. According to preliminary information, the passenger train travelling from Mizoram towards Kolkata derailed along with its locomotive. Several passengers are reported to be injured, some critically. The accident took place in the early hours today. Detailed information about the cause of the derailment, the exact number of injured passengers and the extent of damage is yet to be ascertained.
Diwali noise in Guwahati: Panbazar silent zone hits 81.7 dB
Assam Pollution Control Board readings show noise in the Panbazar silent zone rose sharply on Diwali night, while commercial Ganeshguri was quieter than in 2024. Cracker sellers report weak sales.
Assam to spend Rs 200 crore on 'Ayushman Asom' scheme
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 10 (IANS) The Assam Cabinet on Tuesday approved an allocation of Rs 200 crore for the implementation of the Ayushman Asom scheme, aimed at strengthening healthcare protection and ensuring continued benefits for more than 40 lakh families in the state. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the decisions were taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by him at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Dispur. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Sarma said the government was continuing its efforts to expand access to healthcare and provide greater financial security to families across Assam. The Rs 200 crore allocation for Ayushman Asom is expected to ensure the continuity of healthcare benefits under the state's health protection framework. The scheme is aimed at making healthcare services more accessible to a large section of the population. In another significant decision, the Cabinet enhanced the one-time ex-gratia assistance payable to the families of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan employees who die while in service. The financial assistance has been increased from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 7.5 lakh, a move the government said would provide greater support to bereaved families during difficult times. The Cabinet also approved the integration of Krishna Kanta Handiqui Government Sanskrit College in Guwahati with Kumar Bhaskar Varma Sanskrit and Ancient Studies University in Nalbari. According to the Chief Minister, the move is aimed at strengthening Sanskrit education, promoting traditional learning and creating greater academic opportunities for students. The decisions come as the Sarma-led government continues to focus on welfare delivery and reforms in the education and healthcare sectors. The Chief Minister said the Cabinet decisions reflected the government's commitment to strengthening public services and extending support to different sections of society. The allocation for Ayushman Asom is particularly significant given the scheme's wide coverage, with more than 40 lakh families expected to benefit from the strengthened healthcare protection framework. The enhanced ex-gratia assistance, meanwhile, provides an additional financial safety net for the families of Samagra Shiksha employees in the event of an untimely death.
From farm preservation to earthquake safety, Arunachal turns to earth sciences
Guwahati: In a state where difficult terrain, limited market access and natural hazards pose persistent challenges to rural development, a new geothermal-powered drying facility in Dirang, Arunachal Pradeshs West Kameng district, aims to turn the earths natural heat into an economic resource for farmers. Science and Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul inaugurated the facility on Tuesday, [] The post From farm preservation to earthquake safety, Arunachal turns to earth sciences appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam Cabinet clears Rs 108 crore for free college admissions
The Cabinet also raised ex-gratia for families of Samagra Shiksha staff who die in service to Rs 7.5 lakh, set aside Rs 200 crore for Ayushman Assam and approved merging a Guwahati Sanskrit college into a Nalbari university.
The Cabinet cleared a proposal to involve IIT Guwahati's Research Park in developing Teaching-Learning Materials (TLM) for students of Grades 1 and 2.
Assam mulls project to reclaim land lost to changes in Brahmaputra
Guwahati, Nov 10: The Assam government is considering a major project to reclaim land lost to changes in the course of the Brahmaputra River over the years. In this regard, chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday visited Kayantol at Hajo in Kamrup district, and Sonka at Mayong in Morigaon district to assess the feasibility []
Assam govt to spend Rs 108.81 crore for free college admissions: CM Sarma
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 10 (IANS) The Assam Cabinet on Tuesday approved Rs 108.81 crore under the Pragyan Bharati Scheme to compensate colleges providing free admission to more than 1.5 lakh first-year undergraduate students during the 202627 academic year. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the decision was among several key proposals cleared by the Cabinet at its meeting held at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Dispur. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Sarma said the government's initiatives were aimed at ensuring that financial constraints do not become a barrier to higher education while also improving the quality of learning in schools. Under the Pragyan Bharati Scheme, participating colleges extend free admission benefits to eligible students. The Cabinet's approval of Rs 108.81 crore will compensate the institutions for the financial support provided to students. The decision is expected to benefit over 1.5 lakh first-year undergraduate students across Assam and further the state government's push to expand access to higher education. In another important decision, the Cabinet approved the development and procurement of Teaching-Learning Material (TLM) kits through the Research Park of the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. The initiative is aimed at improving experiential learning in schools and reforming the existing procurement mechanism for educational materials. According to the government, the new TLM kits will be designed to make classroom learning more interactive, student-friendly and conducive to holistic development. The move is expected to strengthen the quality and effectiveness of school education by encouraging greater participation and practical learning among students. Sarma said the government was focused on strengthening Assam's education ecosystem from schools to higher educational institutions. The Cabinet decisions underline the government's emphasis on combining financial assistance with academic reforms, particularly at a time when access, affordability and quality remain key challenges in the education sector. The free admission support is expected to ease the financial burden on thousands of families, while the IIT Guwahati-linked initiative seeks to bring innovation and improved learning tools into classrooms across the state.
Forest land diversion row: Assam activist seeks probe into allegations against M.K. Yadava
Guwahati: Assam-based environmental activist Rohit Chowdhury has approached the Union Environment Ministry against Assams Special Chief Secretary (Forest) M.K. Yadava, alleging that the state government has failed to submit a report sought by the Centre on the alleged illegal diversion of forest land in three reserve forests. In a complaint to the Union Ministry for [] The post Forest land diversion row: Assam activist seeks probe into allegations against M.K. Yadava appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Autonomous council polls: Dry days declared in 11 districts of Assam
Guwahati, Nov 10: The Assam excise department has declared dry days in 11 districts of the state in view of the Mising Autonomous Council and Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council elections. According to the order issued by the departments commissioner and secretary, the sale, distribution and consumption of liquor and other intoxicating substances have been strictly []
Sheikh Hasina will face execution if she returns to Bangladesh, prosecutor says
Guwahati: A Bangladeshi prosecutor who secured the death sentence against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina said on Tuesday that she would face execution if she returns to the country, as she reiterated her plan to go back in December from India, where she is living in exile. Md Aminul Islam said Hasina had exhausted her [] The post Sheikh Hasina will face execution if she returns to Bangladesh, prosecutor says appeared first on NorthEast Now .
CM Sarma charts Assams two-pronged strategy against river erosion
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 10 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday outlined his government's two-pronged strategy to tackle the state's persistent riverbank erosion crisis, saying the focus would be on protecting vulnerable areas through stronger embankments while putting newly formed land to productive use. In a post on X, Sarma said Assam loses an estimated 8,000 hectares of land every year to riverbank erosion, even as siltation in different parts of the state leads to the formation of new tracts of land. Our strategy has two parts: strengthening embankments to protect vulnerable areas from erosion, and developing newly formed land for productive use in agriculture and tourism, the Chief Minister said. Sarma said he visited two such sites on Tuesday to review the progress of ongoing work and examine plans for developing the newly formed land. Riverbank erosion remains one of Assam's most persistent environmental and humanitarian challenges. Every year, large stretches of agricultural land and human settlements along the Brahmaputra and its tributaries face the threat of being washed away, forcing thousands of families to relocate. The issue has also emerged as a major political challenge for successive governments, particularly in riverine and char areas, where erosion can permanently alter village boundaries and destroy livelihoods. The BJP-led state government has increasingly sought to combine conventional flood and erosion-control measures with a development-oriented approach towards land created through the Brahmaputra's changing course. While embankments and other protection works are aimed at preventing further loss of land and protecting vulnerable populations, the proposed development of newly emerged land could open opportunities for farming, tourism and other economic activities. Sarma's latest remarks underline the government's attempt to shift the policy conversation beyond disaster management and towards the economic potential of Assam's dynamic riverine landscape. The Chief Minister's visit also comes at a time when the state government is pushing major infrastructure and tourism projects across Assam, while continuing to face the annual challenge posed by floods and erosion. For communities living along the Brahmaputra, however, the effectiveness of the strategy will ultimately be measured by whether stronger protection works can prevent the recurring loss of homes, farmland and livelihoods.
BBCI Guwahati: 9 Consultant / Senior Resident posts, Haematolymphoid Unit
Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute (BBCI), Guwahati - Tata Memorial Centre, Department of Atomic Energy. Last date 2026-11-15. Contractual project posts in the Paediatric and Adult Haematolymphoid Unit at BBCI, Guwahati: Consultant 'E'/Assistant Professor (Pathology) 2 posts (DM Oncopathology/Haematopathology, or MD/DNB Pathology with 3 years' experience; age 45; Rs 1.40-1.52 lakh); Consultant 'D'/Senior Resident (Pathology) 2 posts (MD/DNB; age 40; Rs 1.28-1.40 lakh); Consultant 'D'/Senior Resident (Critical Care) 4 posts (MD/DNB Anaesthesia, Critical Care, General Medicine, Paediatric Oncology or Pulmonary Medicine; age 40); Consultant 'D'/Senior Resident (Radiation Oncology) 1 post (MD/DNB Radiation Oncology/Radiotherapy; age 40). Initial term six months, extendable and co-terminus with the project. Apply online only via the TMC portal by 15 November 2026, 5:30 pm IST; shortlisted candidates will be called for interview or written test.
Assam: DRI foils elephant tusk trafficking bid; suspects flee
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 10 (IANS) The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has foiled an alleged wildlife trafficking attempt near Guwahati and seized two elephant tusks weighing around 3.7 kg after five suspects allegedly fled the scene while brandishing sharp weapons, officials said on Tuesday. Acting on specific intelligence about the movement of elephant tusks, DRI officers intercepted the suspected trafficking operation near the Sonapur Toll Gate, around 27 km from Guwahati, on November 5. According to officials, the DRI team spotted five suspects travelling on two two-wheelers at around 5.40 p.m. One of the suspects was carrying a bag suspected to contain wildlife contraband. When the officers moved to intercept them, the suspects allegedly attempted to escape and threatened the pursuing personnel with sharp-edged weapons, including a Khukri and a Dao. The suspects eventually abandoned the bag and fled into a nearby village, officials said. A subsequent examination of the bag led to the recovery of two elephant tusks measuring 29 inches and 30 inches in length. The combined weight of the seized tusks was approximately 3.7 kg. The recovered tusks were seized under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and later handed over to the Assam Forest Department for further investigation and necessary legal action. Elephant tusks are among the wildlife articles subject to stringent protection under Indian law. Elephants are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, while international commercial trade in elephant ivory is heavily restricted under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The seizure highlights continuing concerns over wildlife trafficking in the Northeast, a region that shares international borders and has frequently been identified as a transit corridor for illegal trade in protected species and wildlife products. The DRI said it remains committed to tackling wildlife trafficking through intelligence-based operations and coordination with other enforcement and forest agencies. Further investigation is underway to identify and trace those involved in the alleged trafficking network.
DRI seizes 3.7 kg elephant tusks near Guwahati; five suspects flee
Assam: IIT Madras, Gauhati University researchers develop new method to pinpoint monsoon arrival
Guwahati: A spell of rain does not necessarily mean the monsoon has arrived. Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and Gauhati University have developed a new method to identify when the monsoon establishes itself over a particular location, distinguishing sustained rainfall linked to the larger weather system from short-lived local showers. [] The post Assam: IIT Madras, Gauhati University researchers develop new method to pinpoint monsoon arrival appeared first on NorthEast Now .
CM Sarma reiterates commitment to womens welfare, empowerment in Assam
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 10 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday reiterated his government's commitment to protecting women from social evils and ensuring that welfare benefits reach eligible beneficiaries, saying no barricade should prevent women from reaching him or realising their aspirations. In a post on X, the Chief Minister said, We are making sure that our sisters don't fall prey to social evils and are able to get all welfare benefits. I am always there to help them realise their goals and no barricade can stop them from reaching me. The remarks reflect the Himanta Biswa Sarma government's continued political emphasis on women-centric welfare and economic empowerment, which has emerged as a major pillar of the BJP-led government's outreach in Assam. Over the past few years, the state government has rolled out and expanded several initiatives targeting women across different sections of society. The flagship Orunodoi Scheme provides financial assistance to eligible women beneficiaries, with the latest version of the programme extending support to more than 37 lakh women across Assam. The government has described the scheme as a key instrument for improving financial security and strengthening the socio-economic position of women. Another major initiative is the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan, aimed at promoting entrepreneurship among women associated with self-help groups. Under the programme, eligible beneficiaries receive seed capital, followed by further financial support and bank-linked assistance based on the utilisation of funds. The government has said the initiative is designed to help women build sustainable livelihoods and create a new generation of economically independent Lakhpati Baideus. More than 17 lakh women had benefited under the programme across several Assembly constituencies by early 2026, according to reports. The Assam government has also pushed initiatives such as 'Nijut Moina', focusing on supporting the education of girl students, alongside broader measures including free education and social welfare assistance. CM Sarma has repeatedly projected women's financial independence, education and protection from social practices as central to his government's development agenda. His latest post comes as the BJP-led government seeks to consolidate its women-focused welfare outreach, with CM Sarma underlining that the state administration would remain accessible to women seeking support and opportunities to achieve their goals.
Gaurav Gogoi flags accountability in Delhi AQI data row
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 10 (IANS) Congress Deputy Leader in the Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi on Tuesday raised the issue of political accountability amid a growing controversy over gaps in Delhi's air pollution monitoring data during a period of extremely high pollution. Taking to social media platform X, the Assam Congress leader said, We need politicians that are accountable to the people of India on the most important public concerns. Gogoi's remarks came against the backdrop of reports that air quality monitoring stations in the national capital witnessed gaps in PM2.5 data after pollution levels surged to exceptionally high levels. The reports have triggered a political and public debate over the transparency and reliability of pollution monitoring systems, particularly when Delhi is battling its annual air quality crisis. According to reports based on pollution monitoring data, several stations recorded sharply rising particulate matter levels before PM2.5 readings became unavailable during crucial hours. The missing data has raised questions over whether the monitoring infrastructure is equipped to accurately record extreme pollution episodes. While authorities and experts have cited possible technical reasons for the data gaps, the episode has provided fresh ammunition to the opposition, which has repeatedly accused governments of failing to address Delhi's recurring pollution emergency with adequate urgency. Gogoi did not directly name the BJP-led Central government or the Delhi administration in his post. However, his remarks appeared to underline the Congress' broader political attack that governments must remain answerable to citizens on issues directly affecting public health and daily life. Delhi's pollution crisis has remained a major political flashpoint, with governments at the Centre and in neighbouring states often trading blame over stubble burning, vehicular emissions, construction dust and industrial pollution. As the national capital once again grapples with hazardous air quality, the controversy surrounding missing pollution data has added another dimension to the debate -- whether governments and public agencies are being sufficiently transparent and accountable during a public health crisis. Gogoi's intervention is likely to further sharpen the political debate over Delhi's toxic air and the responsibility of governments to provide citizens with reliable information on the risks they face.
NFRs RPF rescues eight children, assists two women during childbirth
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 9 (IANS) The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) rescued eight children, including six boys and two girls, from different locations across its jurisdiction and provided assistance to two women during childbirth, railway officials said on Monday. The RPF also apprehended four persons and made recoveries valued at approximately Rs 2.08 crore during various operations, the officials added. NFRs Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that the eight children were rescued at Rangiya, New Bongaigaon, Katihar (in Bihar), New Jalpaiguri (in North Bengal) and Guwahati railway stations between November 4 and 6. During the same period, RPF personnel provided medical assistance to two women who gave birth aboard trains at Agartala and Lumding. Sharma said that the RPF personnel and the Sashastra Seema Bal rescued a girl aboard at Rangiya and handed her over to the Government Railway Police on November 4. At New Bongaigaon, personnel rescued another girl and placed her in the care of the Sakhi One Stop Centre. Teams also rescued one boy each at Katihar, New Jalpaiguri and Guwahati on November 4. On November 6, the RPF personnel rescued two more boys at Rangiya and one at New Jalpaiguri. All six boys were entrusted to child protection agencies for further care, the CPRO said. In another incident on November 4, RPF personnel at Agartala assisted a passenger who gave birth to a boy aboard a train. An ambulance took her to hospital in Agartala for further care. On November 5, a lady head constable and a team from the Railway Protection Force assisted a passenger who gave birth to a baby girl aboard a train at Lumding Railway Station. In separate security operations, the teams apprehended four persons in four cases. They recovered four pistols and four magazines at Badarpur, four pieces of fake gold valued at approximately Rs 20,000 at Harmuti, 1.031 kilograms of brown sugar valued at approximately Rs 2 crore at New Jalpaiguri and a stolen mobile phone valued at approximately Rs 17,000 at Kamakhya, near Guwahati. Other recoveries included 13.06 kilograms of ganja valued at approximately Rs 6.80 lakh and 449 bottles of liquor. A further 6,750 litres of liquor were seized at Katihar. Northeast Frontier Railway remains committed to safeguarding children and providing timely assistance to passengers through close coordination with police, healthcare providers and child protection agencies, an official statement said. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), headquartered at Maligaon near Guwahati, operates across the Northeastern states as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of North Bihar.
Woman's Body Chopped Into Pieces In Guwahati, Accused Arrested 6 Days Later
The accused, Pradip Taye, a resident of Dhemaji who worked as a driver in the Khanapara area of Guwahati, allegedly killed Jeena Baishya on November 1. Her body was found in a drain near Ganesh Mandir in Khanapara on November 7.
NFR's RPF rescues eight children, assists two women during childbirth
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) rescued eight children, including six boys and two girls, at various railway stations between November 4 and 6. During the same period, RPF personnel also assisted two women who gave birth aboard trains at Agartala and Lumding. According to an official release, the children were rescued at Rangiya, New Bongaigaon, Katihar, New Jalpaiguri and Guwahati railway stations. On November 4, RPF personnel, along with the Sashastra Seema Bal, rescued a girl aboard Train No. 15628 Down at Rangiya and handed her over to the Government Railway Police. At New Bongaigaon, another girl was rescued and placed in the care of the Sakhi One Stop Centre. On the same day, teams rescued one boy each at Katihar, New Jalpaiguri and Guwahati. On November 6, two more boys were rescued at Rangiya and one at New Jalpaiguri. All six boys were entrusted to child protection agencies for further care. In another incident on November 4, RPF personne...
BSNL records 31.7% call drop rate in Tinsukia-Guwahati rail route test
The News Mill
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 9 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has reiterated his government's emphasis on expanding connectivity across the Brahmaputra, with plans for additional bridges expected to reshape transportation and economic activity in several parts of the state. At a gathering in Lahowal in Dibrugarh, Sarma referred to the proposed bridge connecting Morigaon and Darrang across the Brahmaputra, saying that the project would be planned keeping in mind the importance and requirements of the region. He said infrastructure development should be guided by the needs of the local population and the economic potential of the areas being connected. The BJP government has increasingly projected bridge construction as one of its major development achievements in Assam, particularly in comparison with the infrastructure record of previous Congress governments. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a December 2025 address, said that only three major bridges had been built over the Brahmaputra in the six to seven decades after Independence, while four new mega bridges had been completed during the preceding decade. CM Sarma had earlier claimed that six bridges had been built over the Brahmaputra during the BJP's decade in power, compared with three during the Congress's nearly six decades of rule. He had also said that construction was underway on another six bridges. The major projects associated with the BJP period include the Dhola-Sadiya or Bhupen Hazarika Setu, inaugurated in 2017, and the Bogibeel road-cum-rail bridge, inaugurated in 2018. The second Saraighat bridge was also completed and dedicated to the nation during this period, although construction of some projects had begun under earlier governments. The Dhola-Sadiya bridge provides connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, while Bogibeel has strengthened road and railway connectivity between Dibrugarh and Dhemaji. The Centre has also supported a series of new projects. These include the Dhubri-Phulbari bridge, the Gohpur-Numaligarh bridge and the Palashbari-Sualkuchi bridge. The 2018 government announcement listed the first three as proposed projects at different stages of Detailed Project Report preparation. The scale of the proposed expansion is significant for a state where the Brahmaputra divides large geographical areas and affects the movement of people, goods and agricultural produce. However, the comparison between the Congress and BJP periods requires a distinction between bridges completed, projects inaugurated, and construction initiated. Some infrastructure projects inaugurated after 2014 had received approval or begun construction during the previous government. With the BJP government continuing to emphasise infrastructure development, the proposed Morigaon-Darrang connection and other bridge projects could become important additions to Assam's connectivity network. The government is expected to face scrutiny over project timelines, expenditure and completion, even as it presents bridge construction as evidence of a faster pace of development in the Northeast.
Festivals strengthen India's cultural heritage and social harmony: Assam Guv
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 9 (IANS) Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Monday said that festivals play a vital role in preserving India's rich cultural heritage while strengthening the bonds of affection, togetherness and social harmony among people. The Governor made the remarks while attending a Diwali Milan Samaroh at the Shree Gauhati Gaushala on Sunday evening. He was accompanied by the First Lady of Assam, Kumud Devi. Interacting with the office-bearers and members of the institution, Acharya highlighted the significance of festivals in bringing communities together and promoting the values of service, cooperation and mutual harmony. He said that India's cultural traditions have survived and flourished through generations because of the collective spirit reflected in its festivals and social institutions. The Governor extended his greetings and best wishes to the members and office-bearers of the Shree Gauhati Gaushala on the occasion of Diwali. Acharya also appreciated the institution for organising the celebration and acknowledged its contribution towards preserving and promoting the country's cultural ethos and heritage. He said institutions such as gaushalas have an important role in connecting society with its cultural roots and values, while also serving as a bridge between the country's past, present and future. The Diwali Milan programme brought together members and well-wishers of the institution as part of the festive celebrations. The Governor's visit came amid Diwali celebrations across Assam, with religious and cultural organisations hosting community programmes to mark the festival of lights. During the interaction, Acharya emphasised that festivals are not merely occasions for celebration but also provide an opportunity to reinforce the values of compassion, cooperation and collective responsibility. The Governor expressed hope that the spirit of Diwali would continue to inspire people to work towards peace, harmony and social unity. He also lauded the efforts of Shree Gauhati Gaushala in carrying forward traditions associated with India's cultural heritage and contributing to the preservation of its social and cultural values.
Chokpot region set for development push: Meghalaya CM
Digital Desk | Shillong, Nov 9 (IANS) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday said the long-neglected Chokpot region in the state was set for a major transformation as he laid the foundation stone for a Rs 136-crore road project aimed at boosting connectivity and economic activity in South Garo Hills. Addressing a public gathering at Chokpot, Sangma said the district had remained behind other parts of Meghalaya in terms of infrastructure and development for several years, but the situation was changing under the present NPP-led government. The Chief Minister said successive governments and legislators had tried to secure approval for the Chokpot-Kharukol road but failed to obtain the required sanction. The present government, he said, succeeded in getting the project approved in coordination with the Union Ministry of Rural Development. Thanking Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Sangma said the Rs 136-crore project was among only two proposals approved for Meghalaya and had received the highest priority from the state government. The 46.08-km road will connect Chokpot Bazar with NH-217 at Siju before extending towards Kharukol, benefiting 14 villages and a population of nearly 5,800. Sangma said the new route would provide a shorter connection from Chokpot towards Shillong and Guwahati while improving access to several tourist destinations across western South Garo Hills. The project includes widening the road to intermediate-lane standards and construction of nine RCC bridges, besides culverts, drains and protection structures. Work has already begun at one section of the project. Besides passenger movement, the road is expected to facilitate transportation of coal, limestone and agricultural produce such as ginger, turmeric and arecanut. Highlighting Chokpot's future potential, Sangma said the town would emerge as an important junction linking South and West Garo Hills. He said the government would pursue its development across sectors including healthcare, education, business and the economy. The Chief Minister also said the government was exploring further connectivity projects under the second phase of PACE and assured residents that he would personally assess the condition of the Chokpot-Sandong road.
Digital Desk | Guwahati/Agartala, Nov 9 (IANS) After Assam, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has begun introducing electric train services on a full-fledged basis in Tripura following the successful completion of several trial runs of electric locomotives in the state, officials said on Monday. On July 4, the NFR introduced the first-ever Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train service in the Northeast region, connecting Tripura with southern Assam. Train number 20502 Anand Vihar--Agartala Tejas Rajdhani Express ran successfully on electric traction from end to end last week, an NFR official told IANS. He said that, in a phased manner, long-distance express trains hauled by electric locomotives would now be operated in Tripura, making it the second state in the Northeastern region after Assam to have such services. Equipped with modern passenger amenities, the MEMU train has a carrying capacity of 3,600 passengers and connects Agartala with Karimganj in neighbouring Assam. The NFR official said that the train, which was earlier operating as a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU), has now been successfully upgraded to a Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU), marking a significant technological advancement following the electrification of the railway route. Unlike DEMU trains, MEMU services operate on electric traction, making them more environmentally friendly, energy-efficient and economical to operate. According to NFR officials, the environment-friendly MEMU train is equipped with several modern passenger amenities, including LED lighting, 12 stainless steel coaches, bio-toilets, a GPS-based passenger information system displaying details of the next station and platform, a public address system, CCTV surveillance, and several other advanced facilities. Tripura Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath told IANS that the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Ltd. (TSECL) has completed 100 per cent electrification of the state's 271-km railway network. He recalled that the first train reached Dharmanagar in northern Tripura in 1964, while it took another 44 years for railway connectivity to reach the state capital, Agartala, in 2008. Rail connectivity was further extended to Sabroom in southern Tripura in 2019, marking another significant milestone in the expansion of the state's railway network. Nath said that after Narendra Modi assumed office as Prime Minister in 2014, the broad-gauge conversion project in Tripura was completed, replacing the earlier metre-gauge railway line. He also noted that the international railway link connecting Agartala with Akhaura in Bangladesh was completed in 2023. The present state and Central governments are committed to ensuring development and accelerating the state's progress, Nath had said. The broad-gauge railway network from Churaibari, along the Tripura-Assam border, to Sabroom, near the India-Bangladesh border, now spans 271 km. All related development and expansion works were completed within seven years, the minister said. Under the Centres Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, redevelopment work is currently underway at four railway stations in Tripura -- Agartala, Udaipur, Kumarghat, and Dharmanagar. Tripura is currently connected to several major cities in the country, including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Firozpur, and Patna, through various long-distance express train services. Meanwhile, the Lumding-Badarpur mountainous section in Assam is the only rail link connecting Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, and southern Assam with the rest of the country, making it one of the most vital and strategically important railway corridors in the Northeast. (Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujitchakrabortyne@gmail.com)
Delhi-Varanasi-Guwahati: India's North Bullet Train Corridor Plan | Route, Stops & Travel Time
Indias proposed North Bullet Train Corridor is set to connect Delhi with major cities across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Assam, extending up to Guwahati. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has shared indicative travel times, including 59 minutes between Delhi and Agra, 3 hours and 33 minutes between Delhi and Varanasi, and around six hours between Delhi and Siliguri. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said the Delhi-Guwahati journey could take less than eight hours. The proposed route also includes the strategically important Chicken Neck corridor. However, the project remains at the planning stage, with its final alignment, stations, construction schedule and detailed project report yet to be finalised.
Rs 11.5 Crore Army Supply Fraud Busted In Assam
Assam Police have dismantled an interstate financial fraud network that swindled a Guwahati-based company, Global Traders, out of over Rs 11.5 crore. The fraudsters impersonated Army suppliers and officers using forged documents. One alleged mastermind, Harsh Agarwal, has been arrested from Siliguri, West Bengal, and over Rs 2 crore has been frozen as investigations continue.
DNA records, missing owners deepen questions over five Assam elephant transfers to Tamil Nadu
Guwahati: The transfer of five captive elephants from Assam to temples and religious institutions in Tamil Nadu has taken a more troubling turn, with questions emerging over their ownership, genetic origins and the credibility of the documentation used to facilitate their movement. What initially appeared to be a case of five elephants being donated to [] The post DNA records, missing owners deepen questions over five Assam elephant transfers to Tamil Nadu appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Arunachal: Sacred Buddha relics on display at Bomdila Monastery until November 13
Guwahati: The sacred bone relics of Gautama Buddha are being exhibited at TGL Monastery, also known as Lower Gompa, in Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh, from November 8 to 13. The special exposition aims to give Buddhist devotees and visitors an opportunity to offer prayers and pay their respects to the sacred relics of Shakyamuni Buddha. The [] The post Arunachal: Sacred Buddha relics on display at Bomdila Monastery until November 13 appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Guwahati schools shine at literary fest
Amid the glow of LEDs, Guwahati still reaches for diyas
Bangladesh: Law minister calls Hasina
Guwahati: Bangladeshs Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman has said the government is pursuing legal and diplomatic channels to secure the extradition of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina from India, describing her as a convicted criminal and reiterating Dhakas request under the bilateral extradition treaty. Speaking to journalists after inaugurating a training workshop in Dhaka on Sunday, [] The post Bangladesh: Law minister calls Hasina convicted criminal, reiterates extradition request to India appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam BJP marks Diwali with celebrations at Guwahati headquarters
The News Mill
Arunachal: Karateka Khya Tai Bengde wins gold at 2026 Commonwealth Karate Championship
Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh karate athlete Khya Tai Bengde has won a gold medal in the senior mens team kata event at the 12th Commonwealth Karate Championship 2026, held in Glasgow, Scotland. The championship took place from November 5 to 8, bringing together karate athletes from various Commonwealth nations. Bengde, son of Kajop Bengde, has also [] The post Arunachal: Karateka Khya Tai Bengde wins gold at 2026 Commonwealth Karate Championship appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Inter Zonal T20 Trophy: Pranavi Captain, Pooja in South Zone Side
Senior Womens Inter Zonal T20 Trophy is scheduled to be held in Guwahati, Assam, from November 24 to December 4
Missing Woman's Decomposed Body Found In Gunny Bag Near Guwahati Temple
A forensic official who examined the remains said the body was in an advanced stage of decomposition. The clothing and bangles on it suggested that it was a woman.
Guwahati cancer risk alarming, 1 in 4 likely to be affected by 74 yrs: Data
Experts Call For Healthier Lifestyle, Regular Screening
240 Black Softshell Turtle hatchlings released into protected water body in Assam
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 7 (IANS) In a significant boost to the conservation and recovery of the critically endangered Black Softshell Turtle (BST), locally known as Bormuria Kaso (Nilssonia nigricans), 240 hatchlings were released on Saturday into a protected waterbody under the Biswanath Wildlife Division in Assam. A senior forest official said that the release was jointly organised by the Wildlife Survival Alliance Foundation India (WSAFI) and the Biswanath Wildlife Division, in collaboration with Kaziranga Tiger Reserve and the Assam Forest Department, as part of the ongoing project titled 'Conservation and Recovery of Black Softshell Turtle in Assam'. The conservation initiative has been underway for nearly a decade. The Black Softshell Turtle, which was once declared 'Extinct in the Wild' in the early 2000s, has shown encouraging signs of recovery due to sustained conservation efforts, the official said. The species now has a stable population in the Brahmaputra-Kaziranga landscape, although it continues to be classified as 'Critically Endangered'. The historic Nagshankar Temple has played a significant role in the conservation programme. During the annual nesting season in March and April, eggs are collected from the temple pond premises and transported for artificial incubation at Biswanath Ghat under controlled conditions. This process helps minimise egg losses caused by predators, particularly mongooses, and improves hatching success. The hatchlings emerge during July and August and are subsequently shifted to a grow-out facility, where they are reared for around three months. During this period, they are fed fresh small fish to improve their body weight and strengthen their chances of survival after being released into their natural habitat. According to the official, since 2021, WSAFI, formerly known as TSA Foundation India, has released more than 1,000 Black Softshell Turtle hatchlings into the wild as part of its sustained efforts to rebuild the population of the threatened species in Assam. The release programme was attended by Naduar MLA Padma Hazarika, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Biswanath Wildlife Division, the concerned Range Officer, Nagshankar Temple Committee Secretary Rajib Barua, WSAFI Northeast Project Coordinator Upamanyu Chakraborty, Aditya Dey and Krishna Das. As part of the programme, the guests were felicitated with handwoven gamosas featuring turtle motifs. The gamosas were crafted by members of Kaso Sakhi, a local women's alternative livelihood group supported by WSAFI under its community livelihood initiative. The initiative seeks to promote sustainable alternative sources of income for local communities and reduce their dependence on river-based livelihoods, thereby linking biodiversity conservation with community participation and economic empowerment. Often referred to as the 'water vultures', softshell turtles play an important ecological role in maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems. As scavengers, they help remove organic waste and maintain the cleanliness of waterbodies, contributing to ecological balance. The latest release represents another important milestone in the long-running efforts to revive the Black Softshell Turtle population in Assam. It also highlights the importance of sustained conservation measures, scientific breeding and rearing practices, and community participation in protecting threatened aquatic species. With more hatchlings being successfully raised and released into protected habitats, the initiative has renewed hopes for the long-term survival and recovery of the species in its natural environment.
CM Saha to inaugurate three-day Diwali festival at 525-year-old Tripura Sundari temple tomorrow
Digital Desk | Agartala, Nov 7 (IANS) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha will inaugurate a three-day Diwali festival at the historic 525-year-old Maa Tripura Sundari Temple in Gomati district on Sunday, officials said on Saturday. The famous temple, located at Udaipur and regarded as one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, was built in 1501 by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya. Local MLA Abhishek Debroy and Gomati District Magistrate Rinku Lather said all arrangements for the annual festival had been completed. A Bhajan Sandhya and a drone show are among the major attractions scheduled for the inaugural day. Meanwhile, elaborate security arrangements have been put in place to manage the expected rush of devotees and visitors. Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Manchak Ipper and Anirban Das inspected the fairground and reviewed police deployment, traffic management, crowd control and emergency response measures. The district police chief monitoring the security aspects on a round-the-clock basis. As part of the security measures, the district administration has imposed a no-fly zone within a five-km radius of the temple from November 8 to 10. The restriction prohibits the operation of drones, manned and unmanned aircraft, and other aerial objects during the festival. However, aerial devices specifically authorised for use at the Diwali Mela have been exempted from the order. Meanwhile, fulfilling a long-awaited public demand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 22 last year inaugurated the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari temple and offered prayers at the Kali temple. A senior official of the Tourism Department said that under the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme of the Union Tourism Ministry, the 525-year-old Tripura Sundari temple has been redeveloped at a cost of more than Rs 54 crore. The Central government provided Rs 34.43 crore, while the Tripura government contributed Rs 17.61 crore towards the project. The temple, built in 1501 by the state's erstwhile king Maharaja Dhanya Manikya in Udaipur, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in the country and the third such shrine in eastern India after the Kali temple in Kolkata's Kalighat and the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati. After 517 years of monarchy, on October 15, 1949, the erstwhile princely state of Tripura merged with the Indian Union following an agreement signed between Kanchan Prabha Devi, the then regent Maharani, and the Governor-General of India.
Assam: 240 critically endangered Black Softshell Turtle hatchlings released in Biswanath
Guwahati: In a significant step towards conserving the critically endangered Black Softshell Turtle (BST), locally known as Bormuria Kaso (Nilssonia nigricans), 240 hatchlings were released into a protected waterbody under the Biswanath Wildlife Division in Assam. The release was carried out by the Wildlife Survival Alliance Foundation India (WSAFI) in collaboration with the Biswanath Wildlife [] The post Assam: 240 critically endangered Black Softshell Turtle hatchlings released in Biswanath appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Guwahati: Six handles, 11 hours: Army flags Pak-backed fake China incursion campaign
Extreme weather hits 92% of days in 2026, Assam among five worst-affected states
Guwahati: Extreme weather events are becoming increasingly frequent and severe across India, with at least one part of the country experiencing such events on most days of the year. Between 2022 and 2026, extreme weather was recorded on 86 to 99 per cent of days annually, according to a report by the Centre for Science [] The post Extreme weather hits 92% of days in 2026, Assam among five worst-affected states appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam OIL facility fire death toll rises to three
Two workers succumbed to their injuries at a private hospital in Guwahati on November 7
Assam OIL facility fire death toll rises to three
Two workers succumbed to their injuries at a private hospital in Guwahati on November 7
Guwahati prepares for Diwali and Kali Puja with themed pandals
The News Mill
