Ten-day Aadi Bazaar exhibition opens in Visakhapatnam
Tragic Incident at Chhath Ghat in Patna: Four Teens Drown in Punpun River
A tragic accident during Chhath preparations in Patna left four teens submerged in the Punpun River, with three still missing. Tragic Incident at Chhath Ghat in Patna: Four Teens Drown in Punpun River
Govt. gives renewed push for development of 25 sector-specific industrial parks in A.P.
The parks have been strategically planned across the State integrating them with Visakhapatnam-Chennai, Chennai-Bengaluru and Hyderabad-Bengaluru Industrial Corridors, catering to data centres, aerospace and defence, hardware manufacturing, solar and other sectors
BJP chief Nitin Nabin reflects on how Chhath keeps Bihar's traditions alive across generations
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 15 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President Nitin Nabin reflected on the deep-rooted cultural and emotional significance of Chhath Mahaparva, describing it as a timeless tradition that connects generations and keeps Bihar's rich heritage alive. Participating in the festival's commencement rituals at Digha Ghat in Patna, where he took a holy dip in the Ganga and offered prayers, Nabin highlighted how age-old customs, traditional folk songs and family practices passed down by grandmothers and ancestors continue to strengthen faith, preserve cultural values and reinforce a sense of collective identity. He also underlined how the festival, rooted in devotion, family unity, discipline and respect for nature, has travelled beyond Bihar to different parts of India and the world, carrying the state's cultural legacy across geographical boundaries. Nabin participated in the religious observances marking the commencement of Chhath Mahaparva, taking a holy dip in the Ganga at Digha Ghat in Patna on Friday and performing traditional prayers and rituals. During his visit to the ghat, the BJP Chief reflected on the deep-rooted cultural, spiritual and social significance of Chhath, describing it as much more than a religious festival. He said the Mahaparva represents Bihar's rich civilisational heritage, collective faith and traditions that have been carefully preserved and passed down through generations. Emphasising the emotional connection people share with the festival, the BJP Chief added that Chhath brings families and communities together while strengthening their bonds with their ancestors and cultural roots. The traditional folk songs associated with the festival, he said, serve as a reminder of the generations that have kept these customs alive. Through these songs and rituals, the memories of grandmothers and great-grandmothers continue to find expression in contemporary family life. The BJP Chief noted that the traditions handed down by previous generations are not simply religious practices but an important means of transmitting faith, values and cultural identity. The distinctive atmosphere of Chhath, where families participate collectively in preparations and worship, reflects a rare combination of devotion, discipline and togetherness. Nabin also underlined the values that make Chhath unique, including cleanliness, purity, self-discipline, family unity and respect for nature. According to the BJP Chief, the festival encourages people to maintain a sense of harmony with their surroundings and recognise the importance of natural resources in sustaining human life. Highlighting its spiritual dimension, Nabin said Chhath embodies deep reverence for Lord Bhaskar (the Sun God) and Maa Ganga. At the same time, the festival expresses gratitude towards farmers and agricultural workers whose efforts ensure food for society. This combination of religious devotion, environmental consciousness and appreciation for human labour gives the festival a wider social message. Sharing his personal association with the tradition, the BJP Chief said he had grown up witnessing Chhath celebrations and that the festival had remained an inseparable part of his family's life since childhood. He recalled how the Chhath ghats along the Ganga in the Patliputra region had been closely connected with his family and community for generations. He said his family had traditionally visited these very ghats to offer Arghya, making the riverbank an important part of their religious and cultural memories. The experience of witnessing the Ganga in its vastness during the festival, he added, further deepens the spiritual connection people share with the sacred river. The BJP President also said that Chhath has travelled far beyond Bihar, carried across the country and overseas by people from the state who have settled in different parts of the world. Wherever the Bihari community has established its presence, it has continued to preserve and celebrate this distinctive tradition. Referring to celebrations in New York and New Jersey, as well as the observances at Mumbai's Girgaon Chowpatty and along the Yamuna in Delhi, Nabin said the growing reach of Chhath reflects the strength and continuity of Bihar's cultural heritage. He noted that people from different regions have also embraced the festival, giving it a wider social presence while retaining its traditional character. He said the celebrations taking place in different cities and countries demonstrate how cultural traditions can transcend geographical boundaries. Despite living far away from their native places, people continue to remain connected to their roots through Chhath, preserving the customs and values inherited from their families. Nabin also described the four-day observance as a source of renewed spiritual energy and inner strength. He said the discipline, devotion and collective participation associated with the festival inspire people to fulfil their everyday duties and responsibilities with renewed commitment throughout the year. The festival, he added, offers a meaningful message not only to Bihar but also to the entire country and the world. Its emphasis on family relationships, social harmony, environmental respect, cleanliness and gratitude makes Chhath a distinctive tradition with universal relevance. The BJP Chief's participation in the rituals at Digha Ghat thus reflected both his personal attachment to the festival and its larger significance as an enduring symbol of Bihar's cultural identity.
'There can hardly be a greater way to worship nature': Nitin Nabin on Chhath Puja celebrations
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 15 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Nabin on Sunday wished devotees on the third day of the Chhath Puja festival, as rituals of offering 'arghya' to the setting Sun took place across the country. The BJP Chief, along with his family, performed the Chhath Puja rituals at his residence in Patna. Speaking to reporters here, Nabin said: We have offered prayers to Mother Earth and to Lord Bhaskar (the Sun God), to the setting sun. Tomorrow morning, with the rising of Lord Bhaskar, we will offer the second arghya (ritual offering). This is our tradition. We pay our respects both to the setting sun and to the rising sun. This great festival of faith is the tradition and culture of Bihar. Today it is being celebrated with great enthusiasm across the state as well as throughout the country. Also, wherever people from Bihar live around the world, they are celebrating it with equal fervour, he added. According to the BJP Chief, the 'Chhath Puja' festival symbolises cleanliness, purity, sanctity, and discipline. There can hardly be a greater form of worship of nature than this. Bihar is among the leading states in worshipping nature through reverence for the Sun God and Mother Ganga. Today, we can proudly say that our culture, our customs, and our traditions fill us with a sense of pride and honour, Nabin asserted. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also wished countrymen on the sacred occasion, praying for goodwill and harmony to prevail in the society. Taking to his official X account, the Prime Minister said: Heartfelt wishes to all fellow citizens for the evening offerings of the great festival of Chhath. May this sacred occasion, dedicated to the worship of nature, bring renewed awareness and vitality to everyone, and further strengthen goodwill and harmony in society. May the grace of the Sun God illuminate everyone's life. Glory to Mother Chhathi! he added. The four-day festival will conclude on Monday morning with the offering of arghya to the rising Sun. Devotees observing the festival are undertaking a rigorous 36-hour Nirjala fast without consuming even water and are immersed in the worship of Lord Surya. On Saturday, Chhath devotees performed the Kharna rituals and prepared prasad, including rasiya, kheer and puris, using traditional methods. The offerings were cooked on clay stoves fuelled by mango wood, maintaining the age-old customs associated with the festival.
Padukone Engineer Dies in Road Accident While Travelling to Bengaluru
Padukone Engineer Dies in Road Accident While Travelling to Bengaluru 26-Year-Old Killed in Motorcycle Accident Near Channarayapatna Kundapur: A 26-year-old engineer from Chungigudde in Byndoor taluk died in a road accident near Channarayapatna in Hassan district while travelling to Bengaluru on his motorcycle for work. The deceased has been identified as Akshay N. Hebbar (26), [] The post Padukone Engineer Dies in Road Accident While Travelling to Bengaluru appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Orders Everywhere, Enforcement Nowhere
Delhis air is at its worst around Diwali, and this year was no different. On November 9, the day after the festival, the citys AQI stood at 368, with 15 monitoring stations in the severe zone . Crackers had been burst well past the 10 pm deadline the Supreme Court had set. Even before Diwali, Rohini had touched 484 . And within a day of allowing certified green crackers for two days, the Court was already expressing concern over reports that every kind of cracker was on sale openly . None of this should surprise anyone who follows these orders. Each year the Court finds that its earlier order was not enforced, and each year it responds by loosening the order. I want to set that out in some detail, because it tells us whether the Court checks the executive or only supervises it. A right the Court wrote itself The Court has never lacked in flagging the principles. In Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991), it held that the right to life under Article 21 includes pollution-free water and air. Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum (1996) added the precautionary principle: prevent harm before it happens, and make the developer show that the activity is safe. In November 2024 , the Court repeated that the right to live in a pollution-free atmosphere is fundamental, and its 2026 Diwali order says the same. Ten Novembers The firecracker litigation began in 2015 as Arjun Gopal v. Union of India . After Diwali in 2016, PM2.5 levels were about 29 times the WHO standard, and Delhis AQI crossed 700, as the Court later recorded . On November 11, 2016, it suspended all firecracker licences in the NCR, but left bursting itself alone because that would be hard to monitor . From the start, the Court was drafting around what the authorities could manage. In 2017, the licences were returned in September and suspended again in October, with Justice Sikri remarking that it was not a cracker-free Diwali . In October 2018, the Court allowed green crackers for two hours, from 8 to 10 pm, with the police to enforce its order. On Diwali night, AQI reached 642, and Delhi Police registered 579 cases . In October 2021, the Court made senior officials and police personally liable if banned crackers were found in their area. The morning after Diwali that year, AQI was 454; in 2023 it was 438 . In November 2024, the Court told the Delhi Police that its enforcement was an eyewash . The Delhi governments position was that the ban was to be enforced by the police . A full ban followed in December 2024, and in April 2025 the Court refused to relax it . Six months later, on October 15, 2025, it relaxed it anyway, as a trial. The morning after Diwali that year, AQI was 350. What the orders admit The October 2025 order concedes much of the argument. The Court said the ban had not really stopped the bursting, that conventional crackers were being smuggled in, and that QR codes meant to identify green crackers were being sold to unregistered manufacturers. It recorded being told that Delhis AQI in 2018 and in 2024, the year of the ban, was not much different. It recorded that the Delhi government and the Centre both wanted the ban relaxed. The Court said commercial interests and the festive spirit should take a back seat when health is at stake. Paragraph 17 of the order shows this most clearly. The Solicitor General, putting forward the case of the Union and the Delhi government, made a fervent plea to the child in all of us to lift the ban. The bench said it would desist and suppress any such instinct. A few paragraphs later, it called the amicus curiae a lone voice whose concerns were of utmost significance, and then allowed the sale of green crackers from October 18 to 20 as a test case. The plea to the child in us was turned down in one paragraph and, in substance, accepted soon after. The governments that were meant to enforce the ban asked for it to be eased, and the Court agreed. The 2026 order goes further. The Court found that the measures had failed mainly due to poor implementation, and that the States had not complied with its October 15, 2025 directions, which had requested to monitor air quality and submit the reports. It also found that the full ban was helping illegal sales. So it moved to regulating green crackers, with QR codes, sealed boxes, designated sale points and security deposits from traders. This is where I part ways with the Courts reasoning. A ban that is not enforced testifies to the failure of the executive. The Courts answer has been to relax the ban, as the executive had asked for it. The 2025 relaxation was called a test case and was to be reviewed after three weeks. The States did not comply, the Court noticed, and the same experiment has been repeated this year. I could not find any public account of what the first test showed. The Court also keeps promising consequences. In 2021, it threatened personal liability for officials. This year it threatened contempt if compliance affidavits are not filed by December 14, with a hearing scheduled for December 16. The reports I came across do not mention any officer actually facing either. And the Court itself observed that bursting crackers would certainly cause pollution . Green crackers cut particulate emissions by 30% to 80%, depending on the formulation, according to NEERI as recorded in the Courts order. That is less pollution, not none, and Delhis winter air has little room for even a reduced dose. Not only Delhi The same habit shows up elsewhere. In the Aravalli case, the Court accepted a 100-metre definition recommended by a government committee, despite its own amicuss warning . It stayed the order only after public protest. In March 2026, it declined to stop the BMC from removing over 45,000 mangroves, and asked for annual reports on restoration. A report is a promise to inspect later, while a mangrove is gone the day it is cut. The Andhra Pradesh High Court, hearing a challenge to the Google-Adani data centre in Visakhapatnam, let work continue at the developers own risk . That case is still pending, so it is too early to say what has failed. But the trees being cut at the site will not come back if the petitioners win. The Courts side The judges know that a total ban can be impossible to enforce. It would only encourage black market to sell crackers illegally. The court is quite aware about it. Regulated sales with QR codes gives the police something concrete to check. Firecrackers are also only one source of Delhis winter pollution, alongside stubble burning, vehicle emissions and dust. The Court has summoned the Delhi Police, stayed its own Aravalli order, and previously refused relaxations. And it has no police force of its own to enforce its order. But that last point cuts both ways too. If the Court cannot enforce its orders, it should be careful about issuing orders that depend entirely on the executive for its implementation. And if it keeps issuing them, it should explain why such orders could not be implemented. What a real check would look like Name the officers responsible for implementing the order. Test compliance reports against independent data before easing anything. Do not relax a ban in the same year the Court found it was not enforced. Article 21 mandates that the right to life means a right to breathe clean air. The Court itself has expanded the scope of right to life in such broad terms and it cannot helplessly watch its own order getting violated with impunity.
Visakhapatnam: BTech Student Dies After Failing in Subjects
The deceased was identified as Venkata Ramcharan. According to reports, he was under severe mental stress after failing in a few BTech subjects.
Chhath Puja Preparations in Patna: Ghats Cleaned and Decorated for Evening Offerings
Patna gears up for Chhath Puja with cleaned ghats and bustling markets as devotees prepare for evening offerings. Chhath Puja Preparations in Patna: Ghats Cleaned and Decorated for Evening Offerings
J&K can draw lessons from Bihars GCC incentives to generate jobs
Srinagar, Nov 14:Bihars decision to offer capital incentives of up to Rs 50 crore to companies setting up Global Capability Centres (GCCs) has brought into focus the policy choices facing Jammu and Kashmir, where the government has begun institutional preparations to attract technology-driven investments but is yet to put in place a dedicated incentive framework for the sector. Bihars GCC Policy 2026 offers a package of financial incentives, including capital expenditure assistance of up to 30 per cent of eligible fixed capital investment, subject to a ceiling of Rs 50 crore. It also provides for reimbursement of 50 per cent of eligible lease rentals, 25 per cent of power bills and 50 per cent of cloud infrastructure expenses for five years, subject to the policys conditions and limits. The policy further provides employment-linked incentives, with higher reimbursement for employees domiciled in Bihar. An additional incentive is available for units established outside Patna and Danapur, while companies committing to at least 500 direct jobs may be considered for customised packages. The policy, notified by Bihars Information Technology Department in January 2026, is aimed at positioning the state as a destination for high-value technology, research, innovation and business services operations. For Jammu and Kashmir, the Bihar model offers a possible template at a time when the Union Territory is seeking to diversify its economy and create employment opportunities for educated youth. An industry assessment comparing Bihar and J&Ks economic and talent profiles argues that the two regions offer different advantages. Bihar has a considerably larger economy and graduate output, while J&K has a more educated population, a higher per-capita income and a substantial pool of young people seeking employment. The assessment places Bihars projected Gross State Domestic Product at Rs 10.97 lakh crore for 2025-26, against Rs 2.86 lakh crore for J&K. However, J&Ks per-capita GSDP is estimated at Rs 2,06,189, compared with Bihars Rs 76,490, although the figures relate to different financial years. J&Ks services sector accounts for around 61 per cent of its Gross State Value Added, providing a potential economic base for technology and business services operations. The talent indicators also present a mixed picture. The assessment cites J&Ks literacy rate at 82 per cent, against Bihars 74.3 per cent, while the gross enrolment ratio in higher education stood at 21.5 in J&K and 17.7 in Bihar during 2023-24. Bihar, however, has a much larger graduate output, estimated at around 5.85 lakh in 2022-23. J&Ks smaller graduate pool is offset, to some extent, by its higher literacy and enrolment indicators. A key concern highlighted in the assessment is the employment situation in J&K. It cites an urban youth unemployment rate of 32 per cent among people aged 15-29 during July-September 2024, compared with the national average of 15.9 per cent. The figure is based on the Periodic Labour Force Surveys quarterly urban measure and should be read in that context. The assessment argues that this underutilised talent pool could become an advantage if global companies are encouraged to establish operations in the region. GCCs undertake a range of functions for multinational companies, including software development, financial services, data analytics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, research and business operations. They can therefore generate employment beyond conventional call-centre and back-office roles. J&Ks policy challenge The Government has taken initial steps towards developing a GCC ecosystem. Following the two-day J&K GCC Summit held at IIM Jammu on October 9 and 10, the General Administration Department constituted an apex committee under the chairmanship of NIIT Chairman Rajendra Singh Pawar through Government Order No. 1683-JK(GAD) of 2026 dated October 28. The committee has been tasked with identifying prospective companies and GCC operators, assessing policy and infrastructure requirements, preparing a time-bound action plan and aligning academic and skill-development programmes with industry needs. The institutional mechanism provides a platform for coordinating the initiative. However, the challenge will be to translate the committees mandate into a clearly defined policy, investor-ready infrastructure and measurable employment outcomes. The industry assessment identifies ready-to-use office space as one of the immediate requirements. It notes that the Kashmir site of the proposed IT park remains at the land stage, limiting the regions ability to offer plug-and-play facilities to companies looking to begin operations within a predictable timeframe. For global investors, financial incentives alone are unlikely to determine the choice of location. Reliable power, high-speed internet, data security, uninterrupted connectivity, business continuity arrangements and access to specialised talent are equally important. What J&K can borrow from Bihar The assessment, which includes recommendations by Faizan Kanth, Founder, CEO and Managing Director of SSGSERV, proposes a package of 12 measures for a dedicated J&K GCC policy. These include capital subsidies of up to 30 per cent of eligible expenditure on land, buildings and equipment, capped at Rs 50 crore per unit; a 50 per cent lease rental subsidy for at least three years; support for cloud, telecom and internet costs; and reimbursement of 25 per cent of energy bills. It also recommends employment-linked salary reimbursement of 50 per cent for J&K domicile hires and 30 per cent for other employees, with an additional incentive for womens employment. The proposed framework calls for 50 per cent reimbursement of skill certification costs, up to Rs 50,000 per employee, support for patent and trademark expenses, and reimbursement of quality and security certifications such as ISO 27001. Other suggestions include a single-window approval mechanism with decisions within 45 days, stamp duty exemption on GCC leases and purchases, and customised incentives for companies committing to at least 300 direct jobs. The assessment also recommends an additional 10 per cent incentive for units established outside the municipal limits of Srinagar and Jammu. It proposes that the government ensure at least two independent fibre routes with service-level guarantees and position Srinagar as a secondary or disaster-recovery location for GCCs operating in major cities. These are industry recommendations and do not constitute incentives already approved by the Jammu and Kashmir Government. The distinction is important. Bihars policy provides a notified framework with defined eligibility conditions, while the proposed J&K package remains a set of recommendations that would require government examination, financial assessment and formal approval. From policy announcement to actual jobs The comparison also suggests that J&K need not attempt to replicate Bihars strategy in every respect. Bihars larger graduate base and economic scale make it suited to attracting centres requiring a large workforce. J&K, on the other hand, could initially focus on smaller, specialised GCCs employing a few hundred to a few thousand people in areas such as software engineering, financial services, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data analytics. The assessment argues that J&Ks relatively higher literacy, services-led economy and underutilised educated workforce could support such a model. It also identifies the regions comparatively low crime indicators as a factor that could be presented to investors assessing workforce mobility and operational risks.
Andhra Governor Congratulates Jyothi Yarraji on Receiving Arjuna Award
The 27-year-old Jyothi Yarraji from Visakhapatnam has established herself as one of India's leading track and field athletes, particularly in the 100m hurdles.
Andhra Pradesh inks 9 MoUs for Rs 4,100 crore space-defence push
At the 31st CII Partnership Summit in Visakhapatnam on 12-13 November 2026, the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board signed nine MoUs covering rocket engines and test beds, satellites, missiles, explosives, aerospace manufacturing, flight training and heliports. Eight of them propose investments totalling Rs 4,100 crore and 6,865 direct jobs on about 1,472 acres in Sri Sathya Sai, Tirupati, Nellore and Visakhapatnam. The ninth is a five-year strategic partnership with Pawan Hans to develop and operate heliports across the State.
Enthusiasm Surrounds Chhath Puja Celebrations in Patna as Leaders Join Festivities
Chhath Puja festivities in Patna saw leaders like Chirag Paswan participate in rituals, spreading goodwill and celebrating nature. Enthusiasm Surrounds Chhath Puja Celebrations in Patna as Leaders Join Festivities
Jewellery worth Rs 16 lakh, cash stolen from house in Patnas Rajiv Nagar
Kharna brings families together, fills homes with festive aroma
Deo Surya Mandir gets Rs14-crore facelift on Chhath
Vizag Marks National Library Week With Focus On Reading Culture
The 59th National Library Week celebrations began at the District Central Library (DCL) in Visakhapatnam on Saturday: Reportsa
No ticket? No problem: People hit the road for Chhath
CM inspects Patna Sahib link road, orders timely completion
Patna Chhath devotees walk farther as Ganga shifts away from city
Devotees opt for rooftop Chhath amid rush at ghats
Six-lane Ganga bridge should be named after Lalu Prasad, demands his daughter Rohini Acharya
The 9.76 km cable-styled bridge would connect Kacchi Dargah of Deedarganj area of south Patna district to Bidupur near Hajipur in adjoining Vaishali district through Raghopur riverine area
Fake govt nameplate on SUV used for liquor smuggling in Begusarai, 3 held
UP Man Arrested at Bhubaneswar Airport for Holding 3 Passports Under Fake Identities
Bhubaneswar Airport Police have arrested a 34-year-old resident of Uttar Pradesh for fraudulently obtaining three valid Indian passports using forged documents, different names, and altered dates of birth. The major immigration fraud came to light during routine immigration checks at the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) after the accused arrived from Bangkok, Thailand. The accused [] The post UP Man Arrested at Bhubaneswar Airport for Holding 3 Passports Under Fake Identities appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
3-Day Karthikotsavam To Begin At Yadagirigutta Temple On Nov. 20
Festival from November 20 to 22 to feature Koti Pushparchana, a musical concert by R.P. Patnaik and classical dance performances.
Bihar Celebrates Chhath Festival with Tradition and Devotion at Nitin Nawins Residence
The Chhath festival was celebrated with reverence at Nitin Nawins home in Patna, attended by dignitaries including the Governor and Chief Minister. Bihar Celebrates Chhath Festival with Tradition and Devotion at Nitin Nawins Residence
Wife, lover planned driver's murder in Bihar's Bihta; police cracked case within 48 hours
Gaya admin initiates safety measures for Chhath
Buxar couple keeps Chhath traditions alive in US
Child Care Unit opened at Dwaraka Bus Station on Childrens Day in Visakhapatnam
Registry office clerk shot dead in Araria
A.P. attracts major investments at CII summit in Visakhapatnam
HSL-Cyient DLM pact to boost indigenous marine electronics; MEIL and fabrIQ commit 43,700 crore to projects expected to generate over 1.06 lakh jobs
The Centre has granted in-principle approval to a 30,000-crore shipbuilding cluster at Dugarajapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. Spread across 3,488 acres, the proposed project aims to build ships with an annual capacity of 1.2 million gross tonnes.
Railways boosts security at 12 major stations for Chhath
17-year-old boy found murdered in Samastipur orchard
Yarlagadda calls on Former President Ram Nath Kovind in Visakhapatnam
Bihar Assembly Speaker Reviews Chhath Festival Preparations in Patna
Bihar Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar inspects Chhath ghats in Patna, praising arrangements for devotees ahead of the festival. Bihar Assembly Speaker Reviews Chhath Festival Preparations in Patna
DM, SP inspect Chhath ghats in Buxar
2 held for assaulting ASI during raid on gambling den in Patna
Woman nabbed with ganja at Gaya station
Waste to wealth: Khalwa panchayat sets example in rural waste management
15-year-old girl found dead at Darbhanga makhana factory
Man, son arrested for murder in Buxar village
Bihar cops wife shot dead at home in Khagaria; domestic dispute suspected
Gaya admn initiates safety measures for Chhath
AI data centre eyes recycled water supply from Digha STP
AP Plans Visakhapatnam Entertainment Hub, Rana Daggubati to Partner with State
The proposal was discussed during a live podcast featuring Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh and Rana Daggubati at the CII Partnership Summit 2026
Digital Innovations Enhance Chhath Puja Preparations in Patna
Patnas district administration introduces a digital app for Chhath Puja, ensuring safety and convenience for thousands of devotees. Digital Innovations Enhance Chhath Puja Preparations in Patna
Man Beats Elder Sibling to Death in Balangir
A late-night domestic quarrel turned into a fatal tragedy in Odishas Balangir district after a man allegedly beat his elder brother to death inside their home. The incident, which took place in Balipata village under the Patnagarh police station limits, has sent shockwaves through the local community. Police identified the deceased as Bhuban Majhi and [] The post Man Beats Elder Sibling to Death in Balangir appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Chhath 2026 | Chhath Mahaparv: Sea Of Devotees Flocks To Patna's Digha Ghat For Sacred Rituals
A massive gathering of devotees was witnessed at Patna's Digha Ghat as Chhath Mahaparv celebrations continued with deep devotion and fervour. Thousands of worshippers assembled on the banks of the Ganga to offer prayers to the Sun God and observe the sacred rituals of one of Bihar's most revered festivals.
Traders Flag 50% Hike In Airfares Amid Wedding Season, Seek Centre's Help
The current fares include Rs 18,000 for Delhi-Patna, Rs 20,000 for Delhi-Darbhanga, Rs 15,000 for Delhi-Mumbai and Rs 16,000-Rs 18,000 for Delhi-Bengaluru.
CTI flags 50 pc rise in airfares ahead of Chhath Puja, wedding season; seeks fare cap
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has written to Union Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, urging the government to take immediate steps to regulate rising airfares and put a stop to what it described as arbitrary pricing by airlines. The trade body has demanded that the government introduce an upper cap on airfares, alleging that ticket prices have surged by nearly 50 per cent in the last 15 days, making air travel increasingly unaffordable for the common people during the Chhath festival and the upcoming wedding season. CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal said that the sharp increase in airfares was affecting not only businesspeople but also middle-class families and ordinary passengers who were planning to travel during the festive and wedding seasons. Goyal said the wedding season is scheduled to begin on November 20, while the Chhath festival is already underway. Millions of people want to travel to their hometowns to celebrate the festival and attend weddings, but the steep rise in ticket prices is forcing many to reconsider their travel plans. According to a survey conducted by the CTI, airfares on several routes from Delhi have nearly doubled compared to their levels a few days ago. The current fares include Rs 18,000 for Delhi-Patna, Rs 20,000 for Delhi-Darbhanga, Rs 15,000 for Delhi-Mumbai, Rs 16,000-Rs 18,000 for Delhi-Bengaluru, Rs 11,000 for Delhi-Ahmedabad and Rs 11,000-Rs 15,000 for Delhi-Hyderabad. Goyal said these routes had much lower fares just a few days ago, adding that the sudden increase was putting an additional financial burden on passengers, particularly those travelling with families. The CTI has put forward five demands to the Civil Aviation Ministry to address the issue. First, it has sought immediate government intervention to regulate airfares and prevent airlines from charging excessively during festivals and the wedding season. Second, it has demanded an upper fare cap on every route to ensure that no airline charges passengers beyond a prescribed maximum limit. Third, the organisation has called for a transparent fare-fixing mechanism based on distance and kilometres travelled. It said ticket prices should reflect the distance covered, as flights operating over 500 km and 1,500 km cannot be charged at similar rates. Fourth, the CTI has urged the government to increase flight frequency on high-demand routes, particularly Delhi-Patna, Delhi-Darbhanga, Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Bengaluru. Lastly, it has called for the introduction of two to three new airlines in the country to promote competition in the aviation sector and provide passengers with more affordable travel options.
Patna-bound flyers Chhath plan comes crashing down as SpiceJet cancels flight
Four-day Chhath festival begins in Bihar with Nahay Khay
Out of 103 ghats in Patna, 90 have been declared safe for devotees, while 13 have been termed unsafe
Four-day Chhath festival begins in Bihar with Nahay Khay
Out of 103 ghats in Patna, 90 have been declared safe for devotees, while 13 have been termed unsafe
Naidu Honours GVMC Team, Lauds Vizags Cleanliness Ranking
Naidu said delegates, investors and industrialists from India and abroad had appreciated Visakhapatnams cleanliness, greenery and natural beauty.
Navy, security agencies hold coastal defence drills off Visakhapatnam
Three members of family die by suicide over land dispute in Vaishali
House catches fire in city; no injuries reported
NDA plans booth-level outreach for PMs prog
Police identify over 1 lakh mule bank accounts in Bihar
PMC completes Chhath arrangements at 102 arghya sites across city
Indias 'Buried' 8,571-Crore Bet: Biggest-Ever Strategic Oil Reserve To Survive Next 'Choke'
India is building its largest strategic oil reserve in Odisha. The Chandikhol facility will store four million tonnes of crude and cost an estimated Rs 8,571 crore. The project is being developed as Hormuz disruptions expose Indias dependence on vulnerable maritime routes. India imports more than 88 per cent of its crude oil, making supply shocks a direct economic risk. Its existing strategic reserves at Visakhapatnam, Mangaluru and Padur hold about 5.33 million tonnes, covering roughly 9.5 days of national demand. Chandikhol will expand that emergency buffer by around 80 per cent. The UAE is also storing crude in India, while Saudi Arabia is developing storage in Singapore and using facilities in Japan and South Korea. The message is clear: oil security is now about storage, access and time. This report explains Indias Odisha oil plan and why Hormuz changed New Delhis energy calculations.
Consumer panel orders SBI to release seven FDs
CII summit to create employment opportunities for Andhra youth: TDP's Peethala Sujatha
Peethala Sujatha, Chairperson of the AP Women's Co-operative Finance Corporation, on Friday said the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) investment summit in Visakhapatnam would boost Andhra Pradesh's development and create employment opportunities for the state's youth. Addressing the media, Sujatha said domestic and international investors had shown confidence in the leadership of Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu and IT Minister Nara Lokesh. She expressed confidence that the investments would accelerate growth across sectors and generate employment opportunities in the state. She also criticised YSRCP leaders for allegedly spreading misinformation about the summit through social media, saying the opposition was unable to accept the coalition government's achievements. Comparing the current summit with the one held during the previous YSRCP government, Sujatha alleged that the earlier event had failed to attract investments or create employment opportunities. She said former C...
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Vice President Highlights AI and Semiconductor Investments as Pillars of Future Growth
Vice President CP Radhakrishnan emphasizes the importance of AI and semiconductor investments at the CII Partnership Summit in Visakhapatnam. Vice President Highlights AI and Semiconductor Investments as Pillars of Future Growth
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Meeting CM wont soften my stand: PK
Leaders must address rising public aspirations: CM Naidu
Digital Desk | Visakhapatnam, Nov 13 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has stressed the need for ongoing engagement between governments and the public, saying leaders must address rising public aspirations. He said leaders must regularly listen to public concerns, understand rising aspirations, and build trust through effective communication and delivery. In a fireside chat hosted by journalist Palki Sharma on Friday on the second day of the 31st CII Partnership Summit here, he said governments must either meet people's expectations or clearly communicate what they can achieve and within what timeframe. He was responding to a question on public protests, dissent and the balance between law enforcement and people's right to express their concerns. He believes that a lack of trust develops when people's aspirations rise but leadership performance fails to match them. He cited developments in Europe as an example of how growing expectations and a trust deficit can lead to public disturbances. On the situation in India, he said the country has so far maintained a positive environment but must continue working to preserve it as public aspirations increase. Chandrababu Naidu emphasised that personal wealth alone cannot bring happiness unless society as a whole is happy. Calling for collective responsibility, he said politicians, industry leaders, academicians and parents must work together to address people's expectations. He also highlighted the growing influence of technology and social media, observing that in the past, only major organisations and prominent personalities could shape public opinion, whereas today everyone has the power to become an influencer. He said governments and leaders must recognise this changing reality and remain responsive to every section of society. The TDP chief praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, describing him as a strong leader with a positive understanding of technology and development. He said his five decades of political experience had allowed him to work with several Prime Ministers, beginning with Indira Gandhi, and that he had also played a role in the selection of Prime Ministers in the past. Responding to a question on his influence as an NDA alliance partner in the functioning of the Union government, CM Naidu said he had found PM Modi particularly receptive to technology-related discussions. He recalled that earlier, when he spoke about technology, many leaders did not fully understand its importance, whereas PM Modi not only understood the subject but also guided him on how to take technological initiatives forward. He mentioned that Andhra Pradesh ranks second in the country, after Goa, in access equality, according to a study by O.P. Jindal Global University, despite ranking 13th in per capita income. He said the ranking reflects the government's efforts to ensure that essential facilities and welfare benefits reach the last mile. Highlighting the government's Super Six welfare initiatives, he said nearly 63 lakh families receive monthly financial assistance of 4,000, 6,000, 10,000 or 15,000, based on their economic conditions and specific needs, including old age, physical disabilities and bedridden conditions. He also outlined other welfare measures, including 15,000 annually for each eligible school-going child from Class 1 to 12 under the Thalliki Vandanam scheme, credited to the mother's account. Under the farmer assistance programme, the Centre's 6,000 annual support is supplemented with 14,000 by the state, taking the total assistance to 20,000 per farmer annually. He further highlighted three free LPG cylinders annually for women and free bus travel for nearly 85 lakh women across the state.
BJP President Nitin Naveen Celebrates Chhath Puja at Patnas Digha Ghat
Nitin Naveen marks the beginning of Chhath Puja in Patna, highlighting its cultural significance and connection to Bihars heritage. BJP President Nitin Naveen Celebrates Chhath Puja at Patnas Digha Ghat
Oppn fails to grasp need for delimitation: Chirag
PM to inaugurate Nitish Setu in Bihar on Nov 21
Nagula Chavithi celebrated with religious fervour across Visakhapatnam
Three die as car hits sand-laden truck in Katihar
Andhra Pradesh has enough water, power to meet needs of data centres, says Naidu
The proposed facilities will require around 3.50 TMCFT of water while the State can supply up to 100 TMCFT to Visakhapatnam mostly through Polavaram project, alternatives like desalination and emerging air-cooling technologies are also available, says Chandrababu Naidu
Andhra Pradesh plans film and creator economy hub in Visakhapatnam
Actor-producer Rana Daggubati pledges to work with the State government and industry stakeholders to develop an integrated entertainment ecosystem in the city
Meeting Bihar CM won't change my political stance: Prashant Kishor
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 13 (IANS) Jan Suraaj, founder and Bankipur MLA Prashant Kishor, has clarified that his recent meeting with Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary was purely a matter of social and political courtesy and would not affect his political opposition to the BJP leader. Speaking to journalists in Patna on Friday, Kishor said social and political decorum should be maintained whenever people meet, but such interactions should not be interpreted as a change in political positions. Our culture teaches us to maintain social and political etiquette when we meet someone. My meeting with Samrat Chaudhary will not turn someone who failed Class 7 into a PhD holder. I have previously described him as a criminal. Just because I met him once does not mean I will start portraying him as a saint or sage, Kishor said. Commenting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Bihar on November 21, Kishor said the Prime Minister should address the state's fundamental problems rather than limiting his announcements to infrastructure projects such as roads and railways. He pointed out that Bihar had recently witnessed severe floods affecting around 50 lakh people. During the Assembly election campaign, he said Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had promised a permanent solution to the state's recurring flood problem under a BJP-led government. Kishor demanded that the Prime Minister present a concrete roadmap during his November 21 visit, explaining when Bihar would become free from the recurring threat of floods and when the problem of large-scale migration would be addressed. Roads and trains alone cannot ensure the well-being of the people of Bihar. The Prime Minister should explain when the state will get a permanent solution to floods and when migration will end, he said. Asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's allegations of phone tapping, Kishor remarked that surveillance of telephones had been taking place for a long time. Referring to the Pegasus controversy, he said his name had also figured on a list released during the episode. Phone tapping has been happening for a long time. My name was also on the list released during the Pegasus controversy. Many people's phones are tapped. This is the reality, and people have to accept it, he said. Earlier, Kishor visited different localities of his Bankipur Assembly constituency on Friday, coinciding with Nahay-Khay, the first day of the four-day Chhath festival. He toured Krishna Puri (Ward 21), Anand Puri (Ward 22), S.K. Puri (Ward 23), Pehalwan Ghat (Ward 24) and other neighbourhoods. He also visited Buddha Colony in Ward 26 and Langar Toli Gali and Nala Road in Ward 27. During the visits, he interacted with Chhath devotees and residents and extended his greetings on the occasion of the festival.
'The Vvaan' actor Sidharth Malhotra on Chhath Puja celebration: Some stories stay with you
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 13 (IANS) Actor Sidharth Malhotra wished everyone on the auspicious occasion of Chhath Puja. It must be noted that Chhath plays a crucial role in his latest release 'Vvaan', co-starring Tamannaah Bhatia. On Friday, Sid took to his social media account and shared a nostalgic note, reflecting on the impact the movie had on him. Sidharth wrote on Instagram, Some stories stay with you long after the cameras stop rolling, and Vvaan has truly been one of them. Working on a film so deeply rooted in our heartland folklore and traditions gave me a closer understanding of how powerfully faith and cultural traditions bring generations together. (sic). To see audiences across the country connect with and appreciate this authentic representation of Chhath Puja, bringing its faith and traditions to Hindi cinema for the first time, feels truly special. Wishing everyone celebrating a very Happy Chhath Puja. (Folded hand emoji), he added. Previously, Tamannaah also shed light on how she prepared for the 'Chhathi Maiya' song from 'The Vvaan' She shared that she has always had a deep connection with Chhathi Maiyya. Tamannaah said, I have always held a deep reverence for Chhath Puja. Before we started shooting for the song, I spent time studying and understanding the significance of the ritual and how it is performed in Bihar and Patna. Honestly, I was stunned to learn the power it holds. The strong connection I felt with Chhathi Maiyya is something I cannot put in words. I found myself feeling deeply connected to her. Made under the direction of Deepak Mishra, the story for 'The 'Vvaan' has been provided by Arunabh Kumar. Manu Anand is on board the team as DOP and Visual Director. Produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Arunabh Kumar and Niraj Kothari, 'The Vvaan' reached the audience on September 25 this year.
Water shortage won't hinder Visakhapatnam data centre growth: Naidu
Andhra Pradesh CM says the Polavaram project can supply up to 100 TMC of water annually to Visakhapatnam, enough to meet the needs of its expanding data centre industry
Andhra Pradesh to build unique space economy ecosystem, says minister Lokesh
Digital Desk | Visakhapatnam, Nov 13 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh on Friday expressed confidence that Andhra Pradesh, unlike other states, will build a unique space economy ecosystem. Speaking at a session on India's New Space Economy on the second day of the CII Partnership Summit 2026 in Visakhapatnam, Lokesh said the space economy was at the beginning of an exciting phase, with enormous opportunities yet to be explored. The Minister said Andhra Pradesh had created a strong sense of excitement around the space economy and was positioning itself differently from other states. He emphasised that a thriving industrial ecosystem could not be developed merely through incentives or freebies, but required collective efforts and collaboration among all stakeholders. He highlighting the growing opportunities for startups, entrepreneurs and research institutions. He stressed the importance of bringing together thought leaders, entrepreneurs and academia to create a sustainable and vibrant space industry ecosystem. According to him, close collaboration among these groups would be essential to identify opportunities, encourage innovation and translate emerging ideas into successful ventures. Expressing confidence in the state's vision, Lokesh said that Andhra Pradesh was committed to turning its ambitions into reality. The Minister added that Andhra Pradesh would work towards building a distinctive and thriving ecosystem for the space economy through collective leadership, entrepreneurship and academic collaboration. Addressing college students on the emerging opportunities in the space economy, Lokesh noted how state governments can contribute to a sector largely governed by the Central government. He said Andhra Pradesh is adopting a systematic approach to developing sector-specific ecosystems by identifying key industries, mapping all stakeholders and attracting investments and companies to the state. He emphasised the need for strong vertical and horizontal integration to build a comprehensive space industry ecosystem. Vertical integration involves attracting sub-component manufacturers, suppliers and vendors who support major space companies such as Skyroot in developing and launching their rockets. Lokesh said that a significant number of these supporting companies are Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which play a crucial role in strengthening the supply chain. Citing an example, he mentioned meeting an MSME exhibitor that had manufactured a shield for a rocket. Explaining horizontal integration, Lokesh said it involves bringing academia and industry together by revamping academic curricula, encouraging research and strengthening testing and certification facilities through Centres of Excellence. He highlighted the collaboration with IIT Tirupati to establish a Centre of Excellence in the energy sector, particularly in view of the growing cluster of ingot, solar wafer and solar cell manufacturing companies in the region. Lokesh also stressed the need for a dedicated national policy to develop an integrated space industry ecosystem and said state governments should proactively identify and attract companies such as Skyroot. He called for a systematic approach to identifying the entire value chain, including component manufacturers, suppliers and vendors, and bringing them together within a common industrial ecosystem.
Odisha Forms Commission to Review SEBC Representation in Local Bodies
In a significant step towards ensuring equitable representation of Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBCs) in local self-government institutions, the Government of Odisha has constituted a dedicated Commission under the chairmanship of Justice Pramath Patnaik (Retd.), in accordance with the directions of the Supreme Court of India. The Commission has been entrusted with the responsibility [] The post Odisha Forms Commission to Review SEBC Representation in Local Bodies appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
RWD assistant engineer held for Rs 1 crore extortion threat to senior
Namasthe World Signs 36.24-Crore MoU With Andhra Pradesh
Proposed apparel, handloom and toy manufacturing centres to create 1,050 jobs in Kurnool and Visakhapatnam; Union Minister Piyush Goyal unveils Namasthe World Calendar.
