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West Bengal Government to Highlight Achievements on 100 Days in Office

Kolkata, August 17: The West Bengal government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, is set to celebrate its first 100 days in power on Tuesday. Preparations are underway to showcase the accomplishments of the new state administration. Sources from the Nabanna state secretariat indicate that the first achievement to be highlighted by Chief Minister Suvendu ... Read more West Bengal Government to Highlight Achievements on 100 Days in Office

Morningstar 17 Aug 2026 4:05 pm

Securing the maritime commons: India

Indias maritime tradition is the worlds oldest, with an unparallelled continuity since the Neolithic Age [9th Millenium BCE]. Golbai Sasan, a Neolithic site on the east coast of India in Odisha state, has provided invaluable archaeological evidence of ship-building activities and sea faring forays. During the Sindhu-Saraswati era [3300-1300 BCE], India had developed a mature sea-faring tradition based on maritime trade. The ancient port of Lothal in Gujarat, constructed around 2300 BCE, is an outstanding example of maritime infrastructure. It had docks, tidal locks and jetties for ships. Sophisticated trade networks and infrastructure linked India with contemporary civilizations in Mesopotamia, Egypt and China. Vedic era, texts and archaeological evidence suggest early boat-building activities for coastal fishing and commerce. The Rig Veda mentions about Sataritara or the galley with hundred oars. This sea-faring tradition helped develop cartography and study of monsoon-based sailing, using stars for navigation. This rich maritime tradition was consolidated during the Mauryan Empire (324187 BCE) which institutionalized maritime administration by setting up a Department of Waterways and Navigation, headed by the Navadhyaksha (Superintendent of Ships) who regulated shipbuilding, sea trade, and port operations. Ancient Indias greatest strategic thinker Kautilya, wrote a whole chapter in the Arthashastra dedicated to maritime affairs, underlining its strategic importance. In the post-Mauryan period, Roman records show extensive trade with new ports in southern India. Around 30 inscriptions in Tamil-Brahmi, Sanskrit and Prakrit have been identified inside the rock-cut tombs in Egypt's Valley of the Kings in Luxor, from the 1st and 3rd centuries CE. Indian merchants left graffiti as evidence. Hoards of Roman gold coins have been discovered in various sites in southern India. Government of India The Delhi Sultanate, established by Muslim invaders, maintained limited naval forces, for riverine warfare and coastal operations rather than large-scale oceanic campaigns. The Mughal rulers also continued to maintain a navy primarily for security and support to the territorial military. The focus was inwards for the empires expansion. During the 13th century CE, Indias maritime power and commerce reached a peak during the Pala Empire in East India and the Cholazh empire in South India. Under the Cholazh dynasty [9th --13th century CE], large fleets sailed to Sri Lanka, the Maldives and parts of Southeast Asia, including ports in the Srivijaya Empire in Indonesia, spreading Indian religion and cultural influence in South-East Asia. The advent of the Europeans led to the marginalization of Indias maritime control and commerce. Despite British colonial rule, India retained its shipbuilding tradition and continued to build ships. By the 19th century CE, the British monopolized sea-borne commerce, controlling key ports like Bombay (Mumbai) and Calcutta (Kolkata). India became a source for manpower and material. The Royal Indian Marine [1892 CE)] and the Royal Indian Navy (1934 CE) developed with Indian sailors manning both Navy and Merchant ships. Upon gaining Independence in 1947, India inherited a meagre 33 ships and 538 naval officers to protect a coastline of 7,517 kms, 1,280 islands, 14,500 kms of potentially navigable waterways. Indias geographical location makes it proximate to major Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs) in the Indian Ocean. With limited maritime capabilities, India avoided entanglement in the bipolar world order and promoted the concept of the India Ocean as a Zone of Peace. After independence, India gave priority to coastal defence and integration of the Princely States. Burdened with land wars in 1948, 1962 and 1965, India was forced to divert resources to the Army and Air Force at the expense of the Navy. India began gradually rebuilding its maritime sector and shipbuilding industry. As Indias economy grew, more resources were provided to the Navy and development of ports, vital for maritime commerce and national security. By the 1990s, the Indian Navy was deployed for UN peace-keeping operations, evacuations of Indian nationals during the war on Iraq and anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. The Navys blue-water capabilities expanded to support maritime security and international sea-borne commerce, aiming to secure the maritime commons. Currently, the maritime arena faces a wide array of challenges - climate change threats, cyclones, sea level rise, human security challenges such as illegal migration, trafficking, piracy, illegal fishing, pollution and sea-bed mining. The strategic overhang of the maritime factor has driven Indias maritime strategy, providing security to around 90% of Indias sea trade. The ongoing war in Iran has highlighted the effort to weaponization of international shipping channels - Hormuz - in violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea III [UNCLOS]. Almost one-third of sailors in the global shipping industry are Indians. Some have lost their lives in the indiscriminate attacks on ships transiting the Hormuz and Bab-al-Mandab. Providing security to international shipping will require diplomacy and dialogue and also a more powerful Navy, to shape a more cooperative geopolitical order. Indias indigenous shipbuilding capabilities have been ramped up. Indias maritime strategy is focussed on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) which is critical for global trade flows - two-thirds of the worlds oil shipments, one third of its bulk cargo and half of its container traffic. 40 nations are on its littoral having nearly 40% of the worlds population. Despite the importance of the maritime commons, there are limited security structures that can police this space. Naval ships are bound by restrictions to act against offending or rogue merchant vessels. In 2015, India adopted the SAGAR doctrine [Security And Growth for All in the Region]. This strategy seeks to enhance Indias role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region [IOR] and a first responder in humanitarian and disaster related assistance. India has gone further from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR (Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions), which extends the maritime domain from the regional and security approach into economic diplomacy, technological connectivity and environmental sustainability and maritime domain awareness. MAHASAGAR aims to support technological connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region, relying on joint Naval exercises, sharing data and encouraging peaceful settlement of maritime disputes, Supporting these policy moves is SAGARMALA which supports port-led development initiative to modernize and build ports and manage the shift to more efficient transport coastal and waterway networks to trigger industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable coastal development. International Maritime Bureau To enable international and regional cooperation to secure the maritime commons, India organized the 2016 International Fleet Review (48 navies participated) and biennial MILAN exercises (47 nations participated in 2024) to build cooperation and interoperability. The IOR is monitored by the Information Fusion Centre [IFC] and naval operations across several maritime theatres have helped in combatting piracy, providing safe passage to international cargo ships humanitarian operations. 28 partner nations and international organizations have joined India in tracking maritime traffic, piracy, and illegal activities in the IOR. This strategic shift bolsters maritime security, utilizing the Indian Navys growing blue water deployments. Joint exercises with different navies for maritime security, like the annual Malabar exercises with QUAD partner countries Australia, Japan and USA are conducted periodically. The Indian Navy has spearheaded maritime diplomacy through capacity building, joint exercises, plurilateral conferences, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Search and Rescue (SAR) activities [Tsunami and Earthquake]. Big power competition is increasing in the IOR, requiring greater vigilance on maritime security. To avoid conflict, India has advocated A free, open, secure and safe Indian Ocean as a shared goal for securing the maritime commons, as envisaged in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea III [UNCLOS]. Currently, Despite military strikes, commercial navigation through Hormuz remains closed. Iran has weaponized its geography to disrupt one of the worlds most important energy chokepoints, keeping global energy markets under constant pressure and prolonging a worldwide economic shock. Post-Iran war, global power equations will shift decisively to the maritime domain an interconnected world depends on maritime routes, energy corridors, digital infrastructure and financial systems. Nations would now also attempt to control digital nodes, cable landing stations, undersea cable runs, data centres and satellite networks. Amb Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty Eastern Eye Indias comprehensive plan to strengthen its maritime sector was long overdue. India's vast coastline and strategic location in the IOR creates vulnerabilities and exposes it to maritime security threats. Indias maritime reforms and modernization drive mark a pivotal step toward achieving Maritime India Vision 2030 and aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Sustainable Development Goals 14 India has tasked its Navy through Operation Sankalp, to provide escorts for merchant vessels, conduct maritime surveillance across the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden, and protect sea lines of communication [SLOC] vital to Indias economy and energy security. India will have to undertake autonomous actions and where ever possible and synchronize actions to secure SLOC. Operation Sankalp is focussed on protecting Indian shipping, preserving freedom of navigation for Indias supply lines and avoiding any regional involvement. Indias policy of strategic autonomy precludes joining any formal coalitions, keeping diplomatic channels active with individual countries in the conflict region. To upgrade its capacity to secure the maritime commons, India is addressing infrastructure gaps, sustainability challenges, workforce inequities and building a truly blue water Navy, with nuclear deterrence capabilities. India aims to become a global maritime hub and a leading maritime power in the next 2-3 decades, to enable it to play a significant player in ensuring the security of the maritime commons. **** [The author, a retired diplomat, served as secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Earlier, he served as Indias High Commissioner to Bangladesh and Ambassador to Thailand.]

easterneye 17 Aug 2026 3:13 pm

'I Got Into A Rabbit Hole': Brook Opens Up On His Backlash In IPL 2023

Indian Premier League: England white-ball captain Harry Brook has opened up on the criticism he faced during his underwhelming and only Indian Premier League season with the Sunrisers Hyderabad. He was being criticised for his innings prior to his century against Kolkata Knight Riders and said he felt glad to shut up the supporters who were slagging me off. Brook mustered only 190 runs in the 2023 season despite having scored a masterful hundred. However, his form dipped thereafter, and he found himself in a pressure cooker. Brook has now reflected on the only season he was part of in the lucrative league, highlighting that he got into a troublesome situation. I got into a little bit of a rabbit hole with scrutiny and social media when I was at the IPL, Brook told BBC Sport. It didn't help me as a person on the field or off the field. I decided to, not stay away from social media, but also not go out of my way to look at it. The England skipper turned his attention to the optimism from that criticism, as he feels that people wanted him to do better. On the other hand, I actually feel it's a little bit of a compliment if people are giving me scrutiny and have an opinion about my game. I know it's not a nice thing to see people slagging you off, but it means people care and people think I can put in a better performance than I have done that day, he said. Brook has now reflected on the only season he was part of in the lucrative league, highlighting that he got into a troublesome situation. I got into a little bit of a rabbit hole with scrutiny and social media when I was at the IPL, Brook told BBC Sport. It didn't help me as a person on the field or off the field. I decided to, not stay away from social media, but also not go out of my way to look at it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking on his exile from the league, Brook said he does ot really have regrets about it. Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 17 Aug 2026 12:58 pm

Incessant rain pours misery on Kolkata, adjoining areas; waterlogging, traffic snarls disrupt life

Owing to incessant rain since August 16, many thoroughfares in Kolkata and its adjoining Salt Lake and Howrah got waterlogged.

The Hindu 17 Aug 2026 12:54 pm

IMD issues red warning as Bay of Bengal depression brings heavy rainfall to Odisha

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded multiple rainfall alerts after a depression formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas early Monday. According to the IMDs morning bulletin, the system intensified from a wellmarked low pressure and was centred near coastal West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh, close to Kolkata. At 5:30am, [] The post IMD issues red warning as Bay of Bengal depression brings heavy rainfall to Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .

Pragativadi 17 Aug 2026 11:11 am

SC Delhi thrash Raengdai 5-1, set up Durand Cup semis against East Bengal

SC Delhi produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat debutants FC Raengdai of Manipur 5-1 on Sunday and set up a semifinal clash against Kolkata heavyweights East Bengal in the Durand Cup. After Chongtham Kishan Singh's (9th) stunning long-range strike had put Raengdai ahead in the first half, substitute Joseph Sunny's (57th, 67th) second-half brace turned the game around. Rodriguinho (82nd), Juan Sebastian Pena (90+3) and Augustine Lalrochana (90+8) were the other SC Delhi goal scorers in the quarter-final match. In Kolkata, a first-half header from PV Vishnu saw East Bengal FC edge past a spirited Indian Army FT side 1-0 in another quarterfinal. The East Bengal versus SC Delhi semifinal will be played at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on August 19. In Ranchi's Birsa Munda Stadium, it was FC Raengdai who took the lead in spectacular fashion against SC Delhi. Chongtham Kishan Singh unleashed a bullet of a shot from around 20 metres that dipped late, st

Business Standard 17 Aug 2026 10:47 am

7 killed in fire at hotel near Tarapith Temple in Bengal

Hotel officials claimed the fire was caused by a short circuit. A woman from Kolkata, who managed to escape the blaze, recalled the panic inside the hotel.

Rediff 17 Aug 2026 9:52 am

Gold, silver prices today, 17 August: Check retail rates of 24K, 22K gold, 999 silver in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata

Gold and silver prices today, 17 August: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.

Livemint 17 Aug 2026 9:29 am

Bengal hotel fire: 7 charred to death in Birbhum, several critically injured

A massive fire erupted at Hotel Bideshinii in Tarapith early Monday morning. Five guests were killed and several others critically injured in the devastating blaze. The fire quickly engulfed the hotel, trapping many guests who were asleep. Firefighters rushed to the scene and brought the flames under control. Injured individuals were transported to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital.

The Times of India 17 Aug 2026 8:29 am

Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India

Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India Kolkata: Two Nepalese citizens were apprehended with undeclared gold and silver, by troops of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) along the India-Nepal border in West Bengal, officials said. The Border Intelligence Team (BIT) of the 41st Battalion of SSB near Panitanki [] The post Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Mangalorean 17 Aug 2026 8:07 am

Gold Rate Today: What Are 24K And 22K Prices In Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata Today?

Silver 999 fine was at Rs 2,37,270 per kg at India level. Silver 925 sterling was at Rs 2,19,475 per kg. Notably, Silver prices have rallied 106.3% over the last one year.

NDTV 17 Aug 2026 6:51 am

East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Narrow Win

Kolkata, August 16: East Bengal FC secured a place in the semifinals of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup by defeating Indian Army FT 1-0 in a quarterfinal match held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Sunday. The only goal of the match came from PV Vishnu in the 38th minute with a header. From ... Read more East Bengal FC Advances to Semifinals with Narrow Win

Udaipur Kiran 17 Aug 2026 12:00 am

Reflector, Paint: KP Starts Overhauling 4k Guard Rails

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 11:46 pm

Filmmaker Raja Sen passes away at 70

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 11:40 pm

Outrage in Kolkata After Young Man Dies Due to Alleged Medical Negligence

Kolkata, August 16: Family members have accused the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata of negligence following the death of a young man. The incident occurred on Sunday, prompting the family to take to social media, urging West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and State Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee to investigate and reform ... Read more Outrage in Kolkata After Young Man Dies Due to Alleged Medical Negligence

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 11:40 pm

Help Develop Lansdowne Market, Set Politics Aside: Minister

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 11:39 pm

Deadline extended but server glitch plagues LPG e-KYC

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 11:36 pm

Stray-feeding row: Woman gets acid attack threat

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 11:35 pm

Heavy rain likely today as low pressure intensifies

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 11:35 pm

Sealdah-Barasat AC local to go till Bangaon from Thurs

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 11:17 pm

SC Delhi Set Up Durand Cup 2026 Semi-Final Against East Bengal

SC Delhi produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat debutants FC Raengdai of Manipur 5-1 on Sunday and set up a semifinal clash against Kolkata heavyweights East Bengal in the Durand Cup.

NDTV 16 Aug 2026 10:47 pm

West Bengal Launches Ayushman Bharat Scheme Amid Political Controversy

Kolkata, August 16: The West Bengal government has officially launched the Ayushman Bharat scheme, and Minister Agnimitra Paul expressed her happiness regarding this initiative. She also criticized the Congress party over the Vande Mataram controversy. As of August 16, the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) has commenced in West Bengal. This scheme will ... Read more West Bengal Launches Ayushman Bharat Scheme Amid Political Controversy

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 10:35 pm

Man injured in assault over parking

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 10:27 pm

Bhatpara shooters target businessmans home

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 10:26 pm

Entally PS gate locked amid late-night BJP faction feud

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 10:21 pm

First Registration Under Ayushman Bharat Scheme in West Bengal Marks New Era of Cashless Healthcare

Kolkata, August 16: The first patient registration under the Ayushman Bharat scheme was successfully completed in West Bengal on Sunday. The registration took place at the Medicare General Hospital in Kotulpur, Bankura district. This marks the beginning of a new era of cashless and accessible healthcare services for the people of the state. According to ... Read more First Registration Under Ayushman Bharat Scheme in West Bengal Marks New Era of Cashless Healthcare

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 8:49 pm

Mamata Banerjee Expresses Grief Over the Death of Former TMC MLA Ashish Banerjee

Kolkata, August 16: Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed profound sorrow on Sunday over the passing of Ashish Banerjee, a former MLA and Deputy Speaker of the West Bengal Assembly. In a post on the social media platform X, Mamata Banerjee conveyed her deep sadness and distress regarding Ashish Banerjees demise. The TMC ... Read more Mamata Banerjee Expresses Grief Over the Death of Former TMC MLA Ashish Banerjee

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 8:34 pm

Indian Chain Wins East Zone Bridge

Indian Chain, an unfancied team, secured a dominant victory over favourites Formidables in the team event at the fifth Balarampur Chini East Zone Bridge Championship in Kolkata, also winning a significant prize purse.

Rediff 16 Aug 2026 8:23 pm

Bengal CM denies BJP role in attack on CJP volunteer, father

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari denied any role of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers in the attack on a Cockroach Janta Party volunteer that led to his fathers death. Adhikari on Sunday, August 16, dismissed the allegations made by the CJP volunteer Shaik Abdul Hafeezand said that those named in the first information 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 .

The Siasat Daily 16 Aug 2026 7:08 pm

Allegations of Land Grab Against Kolkata Businessman Joy Kamdar

Kolkata, August 16: A new complaint has been filed against Kolkata businessman and real estate promoter Joy Kamdar. Earlier this year, Kamdar was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for his alleged involvement in multiple land grab cases. This time, Joy and his brother Tushar are accused of defrauding individuals by promising them a share ... Read more Allegations of Land Grab Against Kolkata Businessman Joy Kamdar

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 6:49 pm

Ashish Banerjees Suicide May Involve Blackmail Pressure: CM Suvendu Adhikari

Kolkata, August 16: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated on Sunday that the suicide of former state minister and ex-assembly deputy speaker Ashish Banerjee may have been influenced by some form of blackmail pressure. CM Adhikari emphasized this angle, indirectly hinting that the late leader had decided to support a rebel faction led by ... Read more Ashish Banerjees Suicide May Involve Blackmail Pressure: CM Suvendu Adhikari

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 6:34 pm

'I Am A Very Minor Artiste': Mithun Chakraborty Takes Dig At Kolkata Film Festival Snub

Mithun Chakraborty has been invited to the Moscow Film Festival

NDTV 16 Aug 2026 5:57 pm

Abhishek Banerjee Blames BJP for Ashish Banerjees Suicide

Kolkata, August 16: Abhishek Banerjee, the General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress and MP from Diamond Harbour, took to social media on Sunday to hold the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the media responsible for the suicide of former West Bengal minister and ex-Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee. Referring to the suicide note found with the ... Read more Abhishek Banerjee Blames BJP for Ashish Banerjees Suicide

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 5:49 pm

Mamata Banerjee Expresses Grief Over Ashish Banerjees Passing, Highlights Political Pressures Impact on Mental Health

Kolkata, August 16: Former Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former minister and ex-Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee. She stated that his death deeply unsettles her. The mental and emotional pressures he faced in his final days have made this tragedy even more painful. In a post ... Read more Mamata Banerjee Expresses Grief Over Ashish Banerjees Passing, Highlights Political Pressures Impact on Mental Health

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 5:40 pm

Raja Sen, National Award-winning Bengali filmmaker, dies in Kolkata at 71

Raja Sen National Awardwinning Bengali filmmaker dies in Kolkata at

India Today 16 Aug 2026 4:01 pm

US man visits Kolkata street shop, stunned by Rs 80 coffee and cartoon deal

US man visits Kolkata street shop stunned by Rs coffee and cartoon deal

India Today 16 Aug 2026 3:16 pm

National award-winning Bengali film director Raja Sen passes away

Kolkata, Aug 16 (IANS) Veteran Bengali film director Raja Sen passed away on Sunday at a Kolkata hospital. He was 70. The three-time National Award-winning director was admitted to SSKM Hospital three days ago and breathed his last at 10 a.m. Sen was married to Papiya Sen and is survived by two daughters, Subhasree Sen []

bhaskarlive 16 Aug 2026 2:32 pm

Three Arrested in West Bengal for the Murder of Congress Leader and Son

Kolkata, August 16: In a shocking incident in Nadia district, West Bengal, police have arrested three individuals in connection with the murder of Congress leader Anisur Rahman and his 24-year-old son, Abu Sufiyan. Among those detained is Fatima Bibi, the head of the Haranagar Gram Panchayat, who is affiliated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The ... Read more Three Arrested in West Bengal for the Murder of Congress Leader and Son

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 2:30 pm

Raja Sen dies at 70: Three-time National Award-winning filmmaker passes away

Legendary Bengali filmmaker Raja Sen departed this world on Sunday at the age of seventy. Renowned for his exceptional contributions to cinema, he was a proud recipient of three National Film Awards. Sen was receiving treatment for health issues at Kolkata's SSKM Hospital. His journey in the industry began in television before making a significant impact in feature films. He leaves behind his beloved wife and two daughters.

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 1:52 pm

Congress observes

Congress observes black day in Bengal over murder of party leader and his son Kolkata: The West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee (WBPCC) was observing a black day throughout the state on Sunday to protest the murder of a party leader and his son at Bethuadahari under Nakashipara Police Station in Nadia district. The incident happened [] The post Congress observes black day in Bengal over murder of party leader and his son appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Mangalorean 16 Aug 2026 1:26 pm

Bengali Filmmaker Raja Sen Dies At 71 In Kolkata

The filmmaker was first admitted to a private hospital after sustaining an injury to his lower back

NDTV 16 Aug 2026 1:12 pm

Veteran filmmaker Raja Sen dies at 71 after prolonged illness

Veteran Bengali filmmaker Raja Sen, best known for his National Award-winning debut film Damu, died at 71 at SSKM Hospital in Kolkata on Sunday after prolonged illness. Sen, who worked across Bengali cinema, television and documentaries for decades, had been undergoing treatment for multiple complications involving his lungs, heart and kidneys.

The Economic Times 16 Aug 2026 12:50 pm

Asish Banerjee, former Bengal Minister and Trinamool leader, found dead in party office

A note was found claiming he was not involved in corruption and that attempts were being made to malign him; his body has been sent for autopsy

The Hindu 16 Aug 2026 11:06 am

Veteran Bengali filmmaker Raja Sen critically ill, on ventilator

Veteran Bengali filmmaker Raja Sen (70) has been admitted to the state-run SSKM Hospital in Kolkata, reported PTI.

NewsBytes 16 Aug 2026 10:12 am

Body of Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee Found in Office

Kolkata, August 16: The body of Ashish Banerjee, a senior politician and former MLA of the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, was discovered on Sunday in his office located at his residence in Rampurhat, Birbhum district. The police have sent the body for an autopsy, and the cause of death remains unknown. Authorities stated that ... Read more Body of Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee Found in Office

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 9:14 am

Former Bengal deputy speaker Asish Banerjee found hanging at TMC office

Ashis Banerjee, former deputy speaker of West Bengal assembly, was found dead. His body was discovered hanging at a Trinamool Congress office in Birbhum. Police have sent the body for a post-mortem examination to determine the cause. Banerjee had served as deputy speaker while Mamata Banerjee was chief minister. He was a five-time MLA from Rampurhat constituency.

The Times of India 16 Aug 2026 8:36 am

Congress Leader Calls for Apology from RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Kolkata, August 16: Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has questioned RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, stating that he should apologize to the nation. In a conversation with reporters, Chowdhury highlighted that the tricolor flag has not been hoisted at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur for the past 52 years. He urged Bhagwat to publicly express regret, ... Read more Congress Leader Calls for Apology from RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 3:15 am

West Bengal: Trinamool Leader Arrested Amid Extortion Allegations

Kolkata, August 16: Shyamal Mitra, a former member of the Mayor-in-Council of the Howrah Municipal Corporation and a leader of the Trinamool Congress, has been arrested by police in the New Town area of Kolkata. The police reported on Saturday that Mitra, a close associate of former state minister Arup Roy, faces multiple charges, including ... Read more West Bengal: Trinamool Leader Arrested Amid Extortion Allegations

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 2:44 am

Bhubaneswar-Kolkata IndiGo flight on Aug 13 cancelled after pilot detects technical snag

An IndiGo flight from Bhubaneswar to Kolkata was cancelled on August 13. The pilot detected a technical issue while passengers were boarding the aircraft. All 56 passengers were safely escorted back to the arrival area. The cancellation caused some passenger agitation which was quickly managed by airport personnel. Airlines continue to prioritize technical checks before any flight departure.

The Economic Times 16 Aug 2026 12:33 am

Bengal: Part of house collapses in Kolkata

Kolkata, Aug 15 (IANS) A part of a fourstorey house on Dacres Lane in central Kolkata collapsed on Saturday. A major accident was averted as the bar and restaurant in the house were closed on Independence Day. Dacres Lane in the Esplanade area is famous for roadside eateries offering pocketfriendly food. Some of the houses []

bhaskarlive 15 Aug 2026 11:32 pm

Indigo Flight Canceled Due to Technical Glitch at Bhubaneswar Airport

Bhubaneswar, August 15: On August 13, an Indigo flight scheduled to depart from Bhubaneswar to Kolkata at 4:30 PM was canceled after a technical issue was detected by the pilot during boarding. The flight was canceled with passenger safety and operational precautions in mind. Following the cancellation, all 56 passengers were safely returned to the ... Read more Indigo Flight Canceled Due to Technical Glitch at Bhubaneswar Airport

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 11:30 pm

Partial Collapse of Four-Story Building in Kolkata Averted Major Disaster

Kolkata, August 15: A portion of a four-story building unexpectedly collapsed on Saturday in Dakraces Lane, located in the heart of Kolkata. Fortunately, due to Independence Day, the bar and restaurant within the building were closed, preventing a major disaster. Dakraces Lane, known for its affordable and popular eateries, typically attracts a large crowd of ... Read more Partial Collapse of Four-Story Building in Kolkata Averted Major Disaster

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 11:19 pm

Bridge Championships: Alok's IV Advances

Alok's IV, led by Alok Daga, secured the top position in the eight-round Swiss League of the East Zone Bridge Championships in Kolkata, advancing to the pre-quarterfinals. Several other teams also qualified, with initial pre-quarterfinal leads established by Bangur Cement, Tornatae, Conquerors, and Deepadhar, among others.

Rediff 15 Aug 2026 10:50 pm

Eggs Thrown at TMC Youth Leader During Independence Day Flag Hoisting in Kolkata

Kolkata, August 15: During an Independence Day flag hoisting event on Saturday, eggs were thrown at Upasana Chaudhary, a youth leader affiliated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Mamata Banerjee. The incident occurred at Ashutosh College in Kolkata. Upasana expressed her anger over the egg-throwing incident, alleging that outsiders attempted to disrupt the event ... Read more Eggs Thrown at TMC Youth Leader During Independence Day Flag Hoisting in Kolkata

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 10:24 pm

Humayun Kabir Launches Wall Art Campaign for Son Ahead of Rejingar By-Election

Kolkata, August 15: Humayun Kabir, the president of the Aam Janata Udayan Party (AJUP) and MLA from Nawada, has initiated a wall art campaign in the Rejingar Assembly constituency of Murshidabad district. This move comes as the region prepares for the upcoming by-election. Although the Election Commission has yet to announce the by-elections for the ... Read more Humayun Kabir Launches Wall Art Campaign for Son Ahead of Rejingar By-Election

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 10:04 pm

Avenues of professional reward opening up for artistes from tribal communities in Kerala

Eight artistes from Wayanad, four each from the Paniya and Kattunaika communities, attended a recent residential camp in Kolkata, West Bengal.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 7:38 pm

Kunal Ghoshs Surprise Appearance at Independence Day Celebration Sparks Political Speculation

Kolkata, August 15: Kunal Ghosh, a legislator from the Trinamool Congress, stirred political speculation by attending an Independence Day event organized by a rebel faction led by expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee in West Bengal on Saturday. Although Ghosh insisted that his attendance was entirely unplanned and devoid of any political motive, speculation continues to swirl ... Read more Kunal Ghoshs Surprise Appearance at Independence Day Celebration Sparks Political Speculation

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 5:25 pm

Veteran Bengali filmmaker Raja Sen admitted to SSKM Hospital in critical condition

Veteran Bengali filmmaker Raja Sen has been admitted to SSKM Hospital in Kolkata after his health deteriorated. Doctors are keeping the 70-year-old director under close observation, industry sources said on Saturday.

India TV 15 Aug 2026 5:11 pm

West Bengal Celebrates 80th Independence Day with Unity and Pride

Kolkata, August 15: On the occasion of Indias 80th Independence Day, the national flag was hoisted across the country. In West Bengals Assembly complex, State Industry Minister Tapas Roy raised the Tricolor and extended his greetings to the citizens on this significant day. After the flag hoisting, Tapas Roy spoke with news agencies, stating that ... Read more West Bengal Celebrates 80th Independence Day with Unity and Pride

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 4:49 pm

CM Suvendu Adhikari Calls for Political Unity to Build a Developed Bengal

Kolkata, August 15: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari urged political parties on Saturday to set aside their differences and unite for the comprehensive development of the state. CM Adhikari was addressing the 80th Independence Day celebrations organized by the state government at Red Road in central Kolkata. He emphasized Bengals historical legacy in the ... Read more CM Suvendu Adhikari Calls for Political Unity to Build a Developed Bengal

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 4:04 pm

Nurse found dead in washroom at Kolkata hospital, overdose angle under probe

Nurse found dead in washroom at Kolkata hospital overdose angle under probe

India Today 15 Aug 2026 2:21 pm

Kolkata Businessman Seeks Government Witness Status in Land Grab Case

Kolkata, August 15: Joy Kamdar, a businessman and real estate promoter from Kolkata, has reached out to a central agency to request government witness status in a land grab case. He was arrested earlier this year by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on charges related to multiple illegal land acquisition activities. According to sources, Kamdars lawyer ... Read more Kolkata Businessman Seeks Government Witness Status in Land Grab Case

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 12:30 pm

Bengal Bizman arrested by ED in land grab case seeks approver status

Kolkata, Aug 15 (IANS) Joy Kamdar, a Kolkata-based businessman and real estate promoter arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) earlier this year for his alleged involvement in multiple illegal land-grabbing cases, has approached the central agency seeking to become an approver in the matter. According to sources, Kamdars counsel has also filed a formal application []

bhaskarlive 15 Aug 2026 11:32 am

Death Threats: Sourav Ganguly Says Number Is From Kolkata

Ganguly, one of India's most celebrated cricketers and captains, was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame last month in recognition of his contribution to the sport.

Deccan Chronicle 15 Aug 2026 9:09 am

Large Cache of Gelatin Sticks Seized in West Bengal, One Arrested

Kolkata, August 15: Police in West Bengals Birbhum district conducted a raid in Rampurhat on Friday, uncovering a significant stash of gelatin sticks. According to a police officer from the district, a team from the Rampurhat police station acted on a tip-off and raided a private residence in the Bathan Para area of Ayas village. ... Read more Large Cache of Gelatin Sticks Seized in West Bengal, One Arrested

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 4:10 am

Refaay, Sohayla win PSA Challenger Tour, Kolkata

Third seed Refaay rallied to defeat top seed compatriot Mohamed Gohar 6-11, 11-7, 11-7, 11-4

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 2:45 am