Rohan Bopanna returns to action, will represent Gurgaon Grand Slammers in TPL
Argentina's world No. 60 Roman Burruchaga, representing the Kolkata Thunder Blades, will be the highest-ranked singles player in the league
Taslima Nasrin In Kolkata, Says Will Stay For Durga Puja Next Year
I will certainly be here next year. I absolutely love the Puja celebrations here; it feels like a grand art exhibition, Taslima Nasrin said.
Kolkata: WB CEO Uploads SIR-Axed Voters List, Urges Eligible Voters to Enrol
The office of the Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal has released the list of voters whose names featured in the Absentee, Shifted, Dead, Deleted category during the SIR and urged left out eligible voters to submit Form 6 for enrolment.
JPC to reach out to youth, institutions on Education Bill
The panel, headed by BJP MP D Purandeswari, has held consultations in Kolkata, Goa and Bengaluru to understand what students and young people want from higher education institutions and the proposed new regulatory framework.
EMI pinch for homebuyers, developers bank on market resilience
Calcutta High Court refuses relief to man over Bangladeshi wifes entry
The Vibrant Tradition of Durga Puja in Kolkata: Significance of the White and Red-bordered Sari
Discover the cultural significance of the red-bordered white sari during Durga Puja in Kolkata, a festival rich in tradition and artistry. The Vibrant Tradition of Durga Puja in Kolkata: Significance of the White and Red-bordered Sari
State declares college governing bodies
Airport mosque: State opposes plea for Friday prayers interim order
NCERT teaches students how to click with caution, navigate e-threats
No Form 6 relief for those whose appeals are pending before tribunal, clarifies Bengal CEO
Trial judges interaction with child must before custody decision, orders Cal HC
State approves merger of Madrasah Commission with WBSSC
Server yet to come back to life, KMC extends property tax rebate deadline
WBPSC announces clerkship exam
Chancellors nominees asked to safeguard university autonomy
Hotel worker abducted and assaulted near New Market
WBHIDCO to appoint sculptor for 125-ft Syama Prasad Mookerjee statue
Young aquatics prodigy sets two national records at CISCE championship
State approves Rs 23.4 crore for BMC road, drain projects
Cops want bus drivers to be liable for traffic violations
Indian Museum exhibition to trace evolution of Durga worship
Call off strike: HC to lawyers
App Cab Driver Found Dead in Kolkata, Investigation Underway
A cab drivers body was discovered in Kolkata with signs of violence, prompting a police investigation into the mysterious circumstances. App Cab Driver Found Dead in Kolkata, Investigation Underway
Bengal CM promises BJP win on all 42 LS seats in 2029
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 7 (IANS) Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday, while speaking at Vadnagar in Gujarat, the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, the people of West Bengal would gift PM Modi victories for BJP candidates from all 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state. He made the statement while speaking at an event in Vadnagar marking 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public administrative journey, first as Gujarat Chief Minister and subsequently as Prime Minister. In West Bengal, I am trying to replicate the kind of development work that has been achieved in Gujarat, Adhikari said. He added that PM Modi had taught 1.4 billion people the mantra of Nation above all, and claimed that welfare of the poor and the curbing of terrorism had been achieved under PM Modi's leadership. Speaking on the occasion, Adhikari also launched sharp attacks on both the former Left Front government and the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal. First the Left Front and then the Trinamool Congress were in power in West Bengal, Adhikari said. He alleged that the two political formations together had created a threat to the country's security and claimed that more than three lakh Bangladeshis had been expelled from Gujarat after entering India through the Indo-Bangladesh border in West Bengal. According to Adhikari, during the Trinamool regime in West Bengal, around 600 km of the international border with Bangladesh effectively remained open. He further said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had promised in an election manifesto that land would be provided to the Border Security Force within 45 days of the BJP coming to power in West Bengal. Adhikari claimed that the commitment had been fulfilled and asserted that PM Modi had guaranteed the development of West Bengal. He also claimed that, after 50 years, a nationalist government had finally been formed in West Bengal.
Bihar: Schoolboy shot in Kharagpur; police detain suspects
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 7 (IANS) A schoolboy was shot while riding on a bike in Kharagpur in West Midnapore district on Wednesday. The student is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kolkata and is reported to be in a critical condition. The injured boy has been identified as Akshay Jha. According to local sources, he was riding on the pillion seat of a bike in the railway area of Old Settlement, Ward No. 20, in Kharagpur at around 11.30 a.m. on Wednesday. Shots were allegedly fired at the moving bike, and one of the bullets hit Akshay in the chest. He was taken to a local hospital in serious condition and was later shifted to Kolkata for advanced treatment. The rider of the bike said he did not know why the shooting took place or who fired the shots. On the other hand, residents claimed that no one heard the sound of firing. As a result, there is confusion over how, when and why the shooting took place. Police are investigating the matter. Personnel from Kharagpur Town Police Station are trying to ascertain the motive behind the incident. However, police said they were certain that a shooting had taken place. The initial investigation suggests that the firing occurred during a dispute between two groups. As a result, several suspects have been detained for questioning. Local councillor D. Basanti said the injured student is the son of an employee of the Railway Health Department. I went to the railway hospital after receiving the news, Basanti said. He added that he learnt that miscreants had fired two shots, one of which hit the minor on the left side of his chest. Basanti further claimed that, at the time of the incident, two persons were riding a scooter without a number plate. He also expressed the suspicion that the intended target might have been Sagar Kumar, the son of Prasad and a friend of Akshay. According to Basanti, the two had gone out for refreshments when the incident occurred. He further claimed that Prasad belonged to the Srinu Naidu group and that both Prasad and Srinu had died in separate firing incidents in the past. Meanwhile, West Midnapore Superintendent of Police Papiya Sultana said there were two groups in the area and a firing incident had taken place between them. She said five people had already been arrested and seven police teams had been formed to investigate the case. The Superintendent of Police added that footage from all CCTV cameras in the area was being collected and analysed.
Bengal: Mithun Chakraborty appointed advisor to Information & Cultural Affairs Dept
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 7 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Mithun Chakraborty was officially appointed on Wednesday as Advisor to the West Bengal Information & Cultural Affairs Department. The state government issued an official notification on Wednesday announcing the appointment. The notification also clarified that the post carries a status equivalent to that of a state Cabinet Minister. An indication in this regard was given by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari last month while addressing a programme marking the birth centenary of Bengali screen legend Uttam Kumar. An official notification on the matter was issued by the state government on Wednesday evening. The notification stated that the appointment takes immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders. The notification, signed by the state's Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Agrawal, said that Chakraborty was appointed by order of the Governor and with the approval of the competent authorities. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari is himself in charge of the Information & Cultural Affairs Department. However, from the notification issued on Wednesday evening, it is not clear what responsibilities Chakraborty will perform as Advisor to the department. Chakraborty, a former Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member, had severed all ties with Trinamool and also resigned from the Rajya Sabha after several leaders of the party were named in the multi-crore Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund controversies. He later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has since played an important role in campaigning for BJP candidates in various elections, especially the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections earlier this year.
Bengal: Roadshow for Extended Port Gate System held at Balagarh
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 7 (IANS) The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPA) formerly Kolkata Port Trust together with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), hosted the Balagarh Road Show for Development of Extended Port Gate System at Balagarh, West Bengal, at The Bengal Club in Kolkata on Wednesday. The Extended Port Gate System is being considered one of eastern Indias most significant port opportunities. Subrata Gupta, advisor to West Bengal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari, was the chief guest at the occasion, which was attended by Rathendra Raman, chairman, SMPA. The programme was attended by major trade partners including Adani, JSW Infrastructure, IWAI and leading logistics companies. The deputy chairman and other senior officers of SMPA were also present. Balagarh is a unique example of centre-state coordination, Gupta said. He said that rail, road and waterways connectivity is being provided by the central government, while industrial land is being made available by the state. Environmental clearances have already been obtained, he mentioned, saying that the project will be a big boost for trade and industry in West Bengal. Through a coordinated effort by the central and state governments, Raman, Chairman, said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently laid the foundation stone for the IWT Terminal and Road Over Bridge at Balagarh. The project will decongest the Kolkata Dock System (KDS), he said. Being waterways-based, it will be environment-friendly and sustainable, he added. Balagarh is located 85 km upstream of KDS on the River Hooghly. SMPA is using a natural island on the river to create a loading and unloading hub for both incoming and outgoing cargo. It will have jetties for barges and storage facilities. There will also be road and rail connectivity. The idea is to use barges to move cargo arriving at the Netaji Subhas Dock or Kidderpore Dock under KDS to the island. The cargo can then move further north by road or rail. Outgoing cargo, loaded on trucks or trains, can also be unloaded at Balagarh and taken to the facility, from where barges would be used to take it directly to the port. In this way, trucks will no longer have to enter the city limits. As it is, there are restrictions on the movement of trucks to prevent traffic jams during office and school hours. The Balagarh project would allow movement of cargo at all times. It will also provide direct and indirect employment in the region. The cost of the project is Rs 538.20 crore, and it will have a capacity of 2.7 MTPA.
App cab driver's blood-splattered, tied body found inside vehicle in Kolkata
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 7 (IANS) The body of a man, with a blood-stained face and legs tied, was recovered from a parked app cab in Kolkata's Entally area on Wednesday, and police are probing the mysterious death. Police have barricaded the area and launched an investigation into the matter. According to the police, locals became suspicious when they saw an app cab parked for a long time in the area. Despite calling out, there was no response, and the police were informed. Officers from Entally police station arrived and found the door of the app cab locked from the inside. A local mechanic was called, and the door lock was broken to find a body inside the vehicle. Police took the body into their custody and sent it to a hospital for autopsy. The deceased's name was identified as cab driver Bhagwan Prasad Gupta, 45. An investigation was launched, with Lalbazar (Kolkata Police headquarters), Homicide, and Intelligence Department officials reaching the spot. CCTV footage from the area around the crime scene is being examined. Police suspect that he may have been murdered but have not officially announced anything. Efforts are being made to contact the deceased's family, relatives, and close friends. Police are also searching for the last person Gupta was seen with on Tuesday night. According to police sources, they are also investigating whether he had any enmity with anyone and all possible angles are being explored.
Unsafe arecanuts seized in Kolar, legal action initiated
Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) officers intercepted a vehicle, which was transporting the consignment from Assam via Kolkata to destinations including Kolar, Bengaluru, Palakkad, Tirupati, Chittoor, Punganur and parts of Tamil Nadu.
India Women Footballers Face Stern Russia Test In Kolkata
India will look to put their emerging generation of women's footballers through a stern test when they take on 27th-ranked Russia in the first of two international friendlies.
'Conversation With Abhishek Nayar Helped Me A Lot,' Says Shreyas Iyer After Maiden T20I Ton
BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium: India captain Shreyas Iyer credited his long-time mentor and former Indian assistant coach Abhishek Nayar for helping him improve and correct his mistakes and produce a match-winning performance after smashing his maiden T20I century against West Indies in the opening game of the five-match series on Tuesday. Iyer struck an unbeaten 102 off just 43 balls, including 10 fours and six sixes, as India chased down 172 in only 14.4 overs to take a 1-0 lead at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium. The knock came at an important juncture for Iyer, who had been struggling to convert starts into substantial scores and had breached the 50-run mark only twice since taking over as Indias T20I captain in June. Reflecting on his innings in a BCCI video, Iyer revealed that a recent conversation with Nayar, who has shared a long-standing coach-mentor relationship with him through Mumbai domestic cricket, Kolkata Knight Riders and the national team setup, proved valuable. I had a brief interaction with Abhishek Nayar in that period where we were talking about cricket. I think that conversation with him helped me a lot in todays performance, Iyer said in a video released by BCCI. The India skipper said the key to his innings was preparing himself before every delivery and finding his rhythm early. The key that I observed in my batting today was setting myself before the delivery of the ball, and that worked perfectly. So creating that momentum and rhythm was essential at the start of the innings, and it worked out pretty well, he said. Nayar has earlier worked closely with Iyer on technical aspects of his batting as well as during different phases of his comeback in domestic and international cricket. Iyer also spoke about the challenge of returning from Japan and immediately adapting to the demands of international cricket. Im very happy; its a great start. And especially coming after Japan, forming a solid XI here. It was kind of challenging, but I must say that thats what we look for when we are playing at this level. We love challenges, and we want to make sure that we are at the top of our game and leave the excuses aside, he said. Iyers century was the fastest by an Indian against the West Indies in T20Is and made him the third Indian captain to score a century in the format after Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav. With India now leading the series 1-0, Iyer said the teams immediate objective was to maintain the momentum and complete a series victory. I would be extremely happy if we win the series. Obviously we started on a great note, and if we finish with a victory going forward in the next four games, that is what our main goal and target is at the moment, he said. Iyers century was the fastest by an Indian against the West Indies in T20Is and made him the third Indian captain to score a century in the format after Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Watch: Kolkata district Congress stages Raj Bhavan protest over alleged vote theft
Brookfield enters India logistics realty market with Rs 4,300-cr ESR portfolio deal
Spread across more than 400 acres in six metro clusters, the portfolio comprises eight Grade A parks across major gateway cities including Mumbai, Pune, Delhi NCR, Chennai and Kolkata. The operating portfolio is 98% leased and caters to a diversified mix of key logistics and industrial occupiers.
India Women's Football Team To Face Russia In Friendlies
India's women's football team, the Blue Tigresses, will play two international friendlies against 27th-ranked Russia in Kolkata. These matches serve as a crucial test for India's young squad, with an average age of 23, as they prepare for next year's AFC Women's Asian Cup. Head coach Crispin Chettri views this as an opportunity for emerging players to prove themselves against a stronger opponent.
Indias green economy could support 1.3 crore jobs by 2035: iFOREST
India vs Uruguay: Ticket prices slashed to 99 to boost Salt Lake Stadium turnout
Ahead of the India vs Uruguay friendly in Kolkata, ticket prices for some sections have been reduced to just 99, with discounted and complimentary tickets also offered to boost attendance at Salt Lake Stadium.
Repo rate hike may raise costs, but real estate demand to stay resilient
Real estate companies in West Bengal on Wednesday said the RBI's 25-basis point repo rate hike could increase borrowing costs for homebuyers and developers, but maintained that the rise is unlikely to impact demand in the long term. The Reserve Bank of India raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.50 per cent on Wednesday, its first increase in nearly four years. The RBI has increased the repo rate after three years As a result, interest rates of banks and financial institutions on housing and construction loans will increase. This will have some adverse impact on real estate, CREDAI West Bengal president Sushil Mohta said. Primarc Projects MD Siddharth Pansari said the hike may make home loans marginally more expensive, but is unlikely to have a major impact on genuine homebuyers. In Kolkata, people are buying homes with a long-term view, and their decisions are increasingly driven by the right location, better quality and the lifestyle a home offers. There m
Employees State Insurance Corporation Medical College Kolkata (ESIC Medical College Kolkata) Recruitment 2026 for 24 posts of Teaching Faculty for Super Specialty Department (Professor, Associate Professor, Assistant Professor). The Walk-in on 13-10-2026. For detailed information please visit ESIC Medical College Kolkata official website.
Employees State Insurance Corporation Medical College Kolkata (ESIC Medical College Kolkata) Recruitment 2026 for 61 posts of Teaching Faculty. The Walk-in on 14-10-2026 and 15-10-2026. For detailed information please visit ESIC Medical College Kolkata official website.
ESIC Medical College Kolkata Senior Resident Recruitment 2026 - Walkin for 85 Posts
Employees State Insurance Corporation Medical College Kolkata (ESIC Medical College Kolkata) Recruitment 2026 for 85 posts of Senior Resident. The Walk-in on 03-11-2026 and 04-11-2026. For detailed information please visit ESIC Medical College Kolkata official website esic.nic.in.
Air India, Singapore Airlines announce expansion of commercial cooperation
Air India and Singapore Airlines on Wednesday announced an expansion of their commercial cooperation to provide more flight options for travellers between India and Singapore. The expansion is part of the initiatives under the Commercial Cooperation Framework Agreement inked in January this year. From October 15, both airlines will offer travellers a wider range of itinerary and flight options through their respective booking channels. This covers 126 weekly flights between Singapore and eight Indian cities: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, Air India said in a release on Wednesday. At present, an eligible Air India-operated codeshare flight booked through SIA must include an SIA-operated flight, and vice versa. This requirement will be removed from October 15, allowing travellers to book eligible flights between India and Singapore operated by either airline on a standalone basis through each other's booking channels. Currently, an ..
Remarkable journey from village to global stage: CM Yogi on PM Modis 25-year public service
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Oct 7 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday described Prime Minister Narendra Modis completion of 25 years in public service as a historic journey from a small village in Gujarat to the global stage, saying the milestone was a matter of pride for every Indian. Addressing the Seva Jyoti Yatra - Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Sabha at Patel Park in Hazratganj, Lucknow, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, Today is a day of pride for every Indian, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is completing 25 years of dedicated public service. On this occasion, on behalf of the people of Uttar Pradesh, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and greetings to the Honourable Prime Minister. I also extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the people of the state and every party worker on this momentous occasion. Brothers and sisters, such an occasion is rarely witnessed when a person who emerged from a small village in Gujarat goes on to lead India at the global level, he added. CM Yogi said that PM Modi had completed 25 years of continuous service, first as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and subsequently as the Prime Minister of India. On this day in 2001, Narendra Modi, who is now the Prime Minister, took the oath of office and secrecy as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. At that time, Gujarat was facing a severe crisis. The entire country was concerned about the devastation caused by the disaster in Gujarat, he said. This is a remarkable coincidence, and today marks 25 years of that journey. It is a journey from the village to the global stage. It is a journey of transformation in the lives of every citizen of India and of building an India that has instilled confidence in the minds of its youth, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said. He said the journey had also focused on providing security for women, improving the lives of farmers and strengthening employment opportunities for the youth. If we look back at India 12 years ago, it was considered a Fragile Five economy, among the weakest economies in the world. Indias per capita income was also among the lowest in the world. But today, we can proudly say that India has succeeded in securing a place among the top five economies globally, CM Yogi said. Highlighting the transformation in Indias infrastructure and connectivity, he said, Today, India has an excellent connectivity network. Remember, there was a time when railway speeds were limited to around 80 kilometres per hour. There were delays due to the lack of electrification. A freight train could take several days to travel from Kolkata to Delhi. Passenger trains and freight trains were forced to run on the same tracks. Today, India has broad-gauge railway networks, electrification and dedicated freight corridors for transporting goods. Through the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors, freight movement will take place separately, while passenger trains are moving forward in a new direction, he added. CM Yogi said Indian Railways was now offering world-class facilities through Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat and Namo Bharat trains. Speaking about financial inclusion and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), the Chief Minister said the Jan Dhan Yojana had helped ensure that government benefits reached beneficiaries directly. When PM Modi started opening Jan Dhan accounts, people said, Look, by merely opening accounts, the poor are being made a fool of. This was not a joke; it was a strike against the corruption of the Congress and the INDI alliance, Yogi said. Today, through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), you can see that the money released from Delhi or Lucknow goes directly into the accounts of the poor, women, farmers, youth and workers, ensuring that the benefits reach them directly, he added.
Gold and silver prices today, 7 October: 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.
SOS to PMO after 'orders from above' hold up 300 raw petroleum coke trucks at Assam-Bengal border
Petrol, Diesel Prices On October 7: Check Fuel Rates In Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata And More
Despite movements in international crude prices, petrol and diesel rates in major Indian cities remained unchanged on Wednesday, October 7.
MU names provisional list for men
The Department of Sports, MU has shortlisted 30 players who will be attending the university team trial selection for participation in the East Zone Inter University Volleyball M Tournament 2026 27 to be held at Adamas University, Kolkata from October 27 to 31 The players who have been selected provisionally based on their performances in the recently held MU Inter University meet are as follows Attackers Ph Anjar of Mayai Lambi Col, MD Jasad of Mayai Lambi Col, Redeemson Rongmei of MU, Yaiphaba Huidrom of MU, Leishemba Moirangthem of Manipur Institute of Technology, Ningombam Nicholson Meitei of Nambol L S Col, RK Sanalemba of Imphal Col, Kh Chingkheinganba of Biramangol Col, Themso Ningsen of Biramangol Col, Khoisnam Nelson of Liberal Col, Laishram Rajshaksena of Liberal Col, Wangkhem Sunil of Thoubal Col and W Ibrahim of Thambal Marik Col Setters L Manimatum of Mayai Lambi Col, Oinam Samananda of Nambol L S Col, S Chalamba of Imphal Col, Wairokpam Jackson of Thoubal Col, H Rohit of Imphal Col and K Abinash of Thambal Marik Col All Rounders Oinam Mukta of Thambal Marik Col, N Leo of Thambal Marik Col, Hashan Buya of Thambal Marik Col, Athokpam Ichikhunba of Thoubal Col and Leimapokpam Ronando of Thoubal Col Center Blockers N Amar of Thoubal Col, H Heramani of Mayai Lambi Col and O Arnold of Thambal Marik Col Libero Thangjam Basanta of Liberal Col and G Rohit Sharma of Thambal Marik Col Universal N Anish of Thambal Marik Col The players were further instructed to report at the MU Volleyball Court on October 8 at 11 am with full kits for the selection trial Institutions which could not participate in the MU Inter Col tournament due to lack of requisite number of team members may nominate 3 players of their institution on or before October 7 to participate in the trial selection, said an office order issued in this regard Source The Sangai Express
Zeeshan Ansari set to return to UP Ranji squad after six-year gap
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Oct 7 (IANS) After years of being on the fringes of Uttar Pradesh cricket, Zeeshan Ansari is set to make his return to the Ranji Trophy squad after a gap of six years, marking another significant chapter in the leg-spinners remarkable resurgence. The 26-year-old, who last played a Ranji Trophy match for Uttar Pradesh in 2020, has been named in the state squad for the upcoming season after forcing his way back into the reckoning with a standout domestic campaign. IANS has learned that the selectors have shown faith in him and the squad will be officially announced soon. The squad, led by Karan Sharma, includes Rinku Singh, Aradhya Yadav, Aryan Juyal (WK), Madhav Kaushik, Adarsh Singh, Sidharth Yadav, Prashantveer, Kartik Yadav, Ansari, Vansh Choudhary, Yash Dayal, Kunal Tyagi, Priyam Garg, Abhinandan Singh and Kartik Tyagi. Abhishek Goswami and Chikara have been named as stand-by players. It makes Ansaris return even more remarkable considering the way his career seemed to drift following his first-class debut for Uttar Pradesh against Railways on October 6, 2017. Ansari was considered a promising young leg-spinner, as he was part of Indias squad for the 2016 Under-19 World Cup along with Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan. State-level opportunities were few, his progress stagnated, and he had to look elsewhere. Beyond regular play in local tournaments in Lucknow, Ansari also played league cricket in Kolkata and was often seen around the Uttar Pradesh dressing room as a net bowler. Until the beginning of 2025, his proximity to the state team rarely translated into opportunities on the field. Ansari's big breakthrough came in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he proved to be one of the most effective bowlers for Uttar Pradesh. A leg-break and googly bowler, he took 21 wickets in eight matches at a stunning 16.52 apiece, always the man to break partnerships and come through in pressure situations. He was a constant threat with his ability to change pace and flight and bowl the googly at opportune moments, especially on surfaces that were becoming more batsman-friendly. Interestingly, despite making his state debut in the 2017-18 season, the last Vijay Hazare Trophy was Ansaris first domestic 50-over competition. His white-ball emergence therefore came relatively late in a career that had begun nearly a decade earlier. The 21-wicket campaign not only revived his Uttar Pradesh career but also pushed him into the national selectors vision. He was subsequently fast-tracked into the India A squad for the two unofficial Tests against Sri Lanka A later this month. That call-up highlighted the unusual trajectory of Ansaris career. While he has attracted significant attention through white-ball cricket in the last three years, his red-ball credentials remain relatively limited. Ansari has played only five first-class matches, including Ranji Trophy appearances for Uttar Pradesh, and has taken 17 wickets. His best figures are 3/33, which came against Tripura. His return also comes at a time when the pool of specialist wrist-spinners available for red-ball cricket has become relatively thin. A look at the leading wicket-takers from the last Ranji Trophy season underlines the selectors dilemma. Mayank Mishra, Siddharth Desai, Shahbaz Ahmed, Kumar Kartikeya, Arjun Sharma, Vishal Jayswal and Saurabh Kumar - all slow left-arm orthodox bowlers - featured among the top 10 wicket-takers, with J&K seamer Auqib Nabi leading the charts with 60 wickets. There was only one leg-break bowler among the top 10: Karnataka veteran Shreyas Gopal, who finished third with 48 wickets. The scarcity of wrist-spinners becomes even more evident when the next group of leading wicket-takers are considered. Between 11 and 20, there were two off-spinners - 33-year-old Saransh Jain, who is with India A, and domestic stalwart Jalaj Saxena - alongside pace bowlers Mohammed Nidheesh of Kerala and Sunil Kumar of J&K. The remaining names in that bracket were left-arm orthodox spinners Sagar Udeshi, Shams Mulani, Amit Shukla, Nachiket Bhute, Parth Rekhade and Anukul Roy. In all, 13 of the 20 bowlers in that broader group were left-arm spinners, while the only leg-break bowler in the top 10 was no longer in contention for India. That shortage has created an opening for a bowler like Ansari, whose ability to turn the ball both ways and operate as an attacking wrist-spinner offers a different dimension. For Ansari, however, the journey back to the Ranji setup is about much more than filling a statistical gap. His career appeared to be losing momentum after his early promise with Indias Under-19 team, but his persistence through local cricket, league cricket, net-bowling opportunities and limited state chances eventually brought him back into the spotlight. The 21 wickets in the Vijay Hazare Trophy became the catalyst. Now, after six years away from the Ranji fold, Ansari has another opportunity to establish himself in the red-ball format that once provided his first platform in senior cricket. His inclusion in the Uttar Pradesh squad, followed by the India A call-up, represents a rapid rise for a player who only recently found himself outside the states immediate plans. From an India Under-19 prospect in 2016 to a net bowler struggling for a state opportunity, and now an India A-bound leg-spinner preparing for a Ranji return, Ansaris career has taken an unexpected turn. The next challenge will be to translate his white-ball resurgence into sustained success with the red ball -beginning with Uttar Pradesh, where his first-class journey started on October 6, 2017.
Kolkata High Court Mandates Licensing for Animal Sales in West Bengal
The Kolkata High Court has ruled that animal sales in West Bengal require proper licensing, ensuring compliance with wildlife protection laws. Kolkata High Court Mandates Licensing for Animal Sales in West Bengal
In Rejinagar, police detain last times winner hours after by-election starts
Ease of voting becomes a divide between 2 Nandigram blocks
EQT, Emami, Balaji Wafers join a 5500 cr war
New Delhi | Mumbai: Swedish private equity firm EQT Partners, Emami Ltd and Balaji Wafers have joined the fray to acquire Crax snacks owner DFM Foods, competing alongside other strategic and private equity suitors such as ITC, ChrysCapital and TPG, according to people with direct knowledge of the development.Talks are in early stages and non-binding bids for the deal are expected by the end of October. Advent International, which started the process to sell its entire 96.63% holding in Noida-based DFM Foods in July, seven years after acquiring the stake, expects to close the sale process by December. The potential deal is likely at a valuation of 5,000-5,500 crore, said one of the persons, who did not wish to be identified.134749429The development comes at a time when hyper-local and online-only rivals are chipping away at the market share of large snack makers such as PepsiCo, Parle and ITC Foods.We are exploring the possibility of buying into DFM Foods, Balaji Wafers' founder and managing director Chandu Virani said, confirming the negotiations.If finalised, the deal will come months after US private equity firm General Atlantic acquired a 7% stake in Balaji Wafers for 2,500 crore in January at a valuation of 35,000 crore.Queries emailed to Emami, ITC, Advent International, TPG and ChrysCapital remained unanswered until press time. EQT's spokesperson declined to comment.Advent International-which acquired a majority stake in DFM Foods from WestBridge Capital in 2019 for $118.8 million and later delisted it in January 2023-has mandated Avendus Capital and EY for the deal.DFM Foods reported net sales of 916 crore for 2025-26, regulatory filings showed up from 705.8 crore in the previous year.Both Emami and ITC are present in packaged snacks. Their interest in DFM Foods stems from their aim of capturing the youth segment for snacking, as well as deepening penetration in regional markets, said an industry executive.Kolkata-headquartered Emami expanded into packaged snacks-stepping beyond its mainstay edible oils, staples and personal care businesses-for the first time in August under its group entity, Emami Agrotech Ltd, with the launch of its WeMe snacking brand. Meanwhile, ITC operates multiple snack brands, including Yoga Bar protein bars, Bingo chips and Right Shift multigrain snacks and breakfast mixes.DFM Foods, established in 1984, manufactures potato chips, namkeens and millet snacks under brands such as Crax, Curls, Fritts and Natkhat.India's consumer sector witnessed a decline in deal-making activity during the April-June quarter, with deal volume falling sharply amid a more selective investment environment, according to Grant Thornton Bharat's latest Consumer Dealtracker released in July. However, total deal value remained resilient at $981 million, underscoring continued investor confidence in long-term, consumption-led growth, according to the tracker. It added that investors remained selective, focusing on wellness, personal care, food processing and digital-first consumer brands.The consumer sector saw 97 deals worth $981 million in the June quarter, a decline of 34% quarter-on-quarter in terms of deal volume and 33% in deal value, as per the tracker.
KMC procures 28 bio-toilets ahead of Puja
Kolkata gets 4th CNG station for buses
India Falls to Uruguay 1-6 Despite Thapas Goal in Kolkata
Indias national football team suffered a disappointing 1-6 defeat to Uruguay, despite Anirudh Thapas goal, in Kolkata on October 6. India Falls to Uruguay 1-6 Despite Thapas Goal in Kolkata
Hand towels, bed sheets, blankets among most stolen items from Eastern Rly AC coaches
Cancer care in state set for infrastructure boost with 750 more beds in 2 years
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Tensions Rise in West Bengal as Rahul Gandhis Protest Faces Criticism
Tensions escalate in Kolkata as Tapas Roy criticizes Rahul Gandhis protest, questioning his credibility against PM Modi. Tensions Rise in West Bengal as Rahul Gandhis Protest Faces Criticism
KMC restores 'nearly dead' water body near New Alipore
India show potential with Anirudh Thapa's goal, crumble in second half as Uruguay win 6-1 in Kolkata
Indias international break ended on a disappointing note as they were beaten 6-1 by Uruguay at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Tuesday. Anirudh Thapa scored Indias only goal in the first half, but Uruguay responded with five further strikes after the hosts had briefly restored parity. Maxi Araujo scored twice for the visitors, while Darwin Nunez, Rodrigo Zalazar, Juan Sanabria and Rodrigo Aguirre also made the scoresheet.
Football Friendly: Thapa Scores But India Suffer Heavy Defeat Against Uruguay
India's national football team suffered a 6-1 defeat against two-time former world champions Uruguay in an international friendly in Kolkata.
Graffiti row erupts at SRFTI after police advisory
KP starts final round of pre-puja checks with citys Christmas capital
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Evening rain sends shoppers scurrying for cover, leaves puja organisers worried
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Uruguay Outclass Plucky India 6-1 In Salt Lake Friendly
Uruguay defeated India 6-1 in a friendly at Kolkatas Salt Lake Stadium, with India showing promise early before the visitors dominated the second half.
Abhishek security scale-down: What was the urgency, asks HC
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Khardah BJP extortion row, late-night bomb attack leave 5 people injured
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Aditya Kumar Halwasiya of Kolkata is India's fastest wealth creator, with an 859% increase, reaching 18,800 crore. He ranks 193 after rising 939 places.
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India vs Uruguay: Salt Lake Stadium sees promising turnout after Brazil game
India take on Uruguay in Kolkata, with fans returning to Salt Lake Stadium after the massive turnout for the Brazil friendly. Ticket prices were slashed to 99 in some sections as organisers looked to boost attendance.
West Bengal Bypolls: Nandigram Records 79.39% Voting, Rejinagar 78.42%; MLA Humayun Kabir Arrested
Kolkata, October 6 (Udaipur Kiran): By-elections in West Bengals two high-profile and sensitive Assembly constituencies, Nandigram in East Midnapore and Rejinagar in Murshidabad, concluded on Tuesday amid tight security. According to preliminary Election Commission figures, voter turnout remained high, with 79.39% polling recorded in Nandigram and 78.42% in Rejinagar. Despite heavy security arrangements, reports of ... Read more West Bengal Bypolls: Nandigram Records 79.39% Voting, Rejinagar 78.42%; MLA Humayun Kabir Arrested
Lightning Stops India-Uruguay Football Match
An international friendly football match between India and Uruguay in Kolkata was halted for 34 minutes due to lightning and thunder. The score was 1-1 when play was suspended, with Anirudh Thapa scoring for India and Darwin Nunez for Uruguay.
The high-voltage FIFA friendly between India and Uruguay has been paused after the hydration break at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. There was some confusion between the fans when the players didnt return to the field and after which, it was announced that the lightning in the nearby area has forced the match to come to a standstill. As per FIFAs regulations, the match will now be paused before it restarts again sometime. Similar things happened during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
India vs Uruguay Football LIVE Score Updates: India have equalised against Uruguay, with Anirudh Thapa scoring the equaliser, in their blockbuster friendly in Kolkata.
India vs Uruguay LIVE: Uruguay Score After India's Penalty Blunder, Strong Start Wasted
India vs Uruguay Football LIVE Score Updates: Uruguay have taken a 1-0 lead against India in their blockbuster friendly in Kolkata, despite a positive start from the hosts.
Kolkata Football: Empty Stands Despite Price Cuts
Despite significant efforts including slashed ticket prices and complimentary passes, Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium saw a disappointingly low turnout for India's friendly matches against Brazil and Uruguay, raising concerns about fan engagement in Indian football, even with legendary players like Diego Forlan present.
Railways Announces KolkataVadodara Weekly Special via Sasaram and Dehri-on-Sone
Bengal CM to attend GJM's foundation day event in Darjeeling tomorrow
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 6 (IANS) Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari is likely to attend the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha's (GJM) foundation day programme in the North Bengal hills on Wednesday. If all goes well, he will be the main speaker at the GJM's big rally in Darjeeling, said a state government official on Tuesday. According to the official, preparations for the Chief Minister's visit to Darjeeling have also started. It may be noted that GJM president Bimal Gurung and general secretary Roshan Giri met the Chief Minister in Kolkata last September. The political situation in the hills was discussed in the meeting held at the ground tent of the Public Works Department. At that time, Gurung and Giri invited the Chief Minister as the chief guest at the morcha's foundation day function. Government sources said that after accepting the invitation, the Chief Minister told them that the situation is different if the party's central leadership calls him to Delhi for some urgent work. Otherwise, he will definitely attend the event in Darjeeling. According to the sources, the Chief Minister's presence at Wednesday's event is almost certain, keeping with that promise. It is believed that the Chief Minister's speech on the political future and development of the hills, as well as the GJM leadership at the event, may become important. Gurung-led Gorkha Janmukti Morcha is currently an alliance partner in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the Centre. In this year's Assembly elections, GJM supported BJP candidates in several seats where it has influence in the North Bengal hills and plains. Its influence was also evident in the election results. BJP won several seats in North Bengal by a large margin. The lotus has bloomed in all three Assembly seats in the hills - Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong. Due to this political equation, the Chief Minister's participation in the GJMs foundation day event is considered significant in political circles. As a result, the Chief Minister's visit is also being seen as a message of the state government's new political equation with the hills. The Chief Minister is scheduled to return to Kolkata on Wednesday after attending the event in Darjeeling. Before the visit, the state's Transport Minister Arjun Singh went there to inspect the situation in the hills. Arjun Singh was also present at the GJM leadership meeting with the Chief Minister in Kolkata in September.
Kolkata clay, Gen Z spirit & women rights: Chennai gets ready for Durga Puja
Bengal bypolls: Candidate from Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool faction seeks re-polling in Rejinagar
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 6 (IANS) Rabiul Alam Chowdhury, the candidate from Mamata Banerjee-led Mamata All India Trinamool Congress, on Tuesday wrote a letter to the Election Commission of India (ECI) seeking cancellation of the ongoing bypolls at Rejinagar Assembly constituency in West Bengal's Murshidabad district and had also demanded repolling there. Chowdhury is the second candidate for the Rejinagar seat to demand repolling there. Earlier in the day, the Congress candidate for the Rejinagar bypolls, Mohammad Abdullahil Kafi, had also raised the same demand and even staged sit-in-demonstration in front of the Rejinagar Police Station in support of his demand. However, the BJP candidate from Rejinagar, Shankharav Sarkar denied allegations of electoral malpractices there on Tuesday. The voting at Rejinagar is taking place in a festive mood. People were able to vote freely and peacefully after a long time, standing in line. We (BJP) were ahead in the campaign and will be ahead in the counting as well. The Opposition will say a lot. But the reality is different, Sarkar said. Meanwhile, the average polling percentage at Rejinagar and Nandigram Assembly constituencies in East Midnapore district had continue to be quite high at 70.54 per cent till 3 p.m., which, according to the sources from the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) had been quite high for bypolls. Till 3 p.m. the polling percentage at Rejinagar stood at 69.29 per cent, while at Nandigram the figure was even higher at 71.79 per cent. Considering that the polling will be till 6 p.m., It can be comfortably said that the final average polling percentage will be well above 80 per cent, a CEO's office source said. He also added that because of the pleasant weather throughout the day, the voter's enthusiasm was high even between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., the period which the voters generally avoid because of heat. Meanwhile, after receiving a detailed report from the Murshidabad district administration regarding the arrest of Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) founder-cum-legislator, Humayun Kabir, earlier on Tuesday, the CEO's office had forwarded the report to the ECI's headquarters in New Delhi. It is learnt that in the report it had been said that Kabir was arrested for violating election rules.
