The Times of India

In a dramatic turn of events, Saif Khan, aged 31, was captured by Patna Police in Begusarai following a brazen Rs 20 lakh heist. The cash management professional was ambushed at gunpoint by three assailants on a motorcycle near AN Path.

On March 27, Patna comes alive with the spirit of Ram Navami! Thrilling Shobha Yatras will be parading through the city, filled with color and joy, as 52 puja committees unite in celebration. Iconic sites like the Mahavir Temple are pulling out all the stops, from unique prayer sessions to delicious prasad ready for the masses.

In a recent address, State Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar brought to light the timeless principles of truth and non-violence, originally advocated by Mahatma Gandhi during the historic Champaran Satyagraha. He pointed out that these ideals were pivotal in confronting the injustices faced by farmers under colonial rule and continue to inspire citizens in their fight against contemporary injustices.

Attention Bihar residents! Brace yourselves for a shift in your electricity bills starting April 1, as new Time of Day (ToD) pricing comes into play. Power will be more economical between 9 am and 5 pm but will rise significantly from 5 pm to 11 pm for homes. Businesses and industries should expect an even sharper hike in rates.

In Khagaul, the local art scene is buzzing with excitement as artists embrace a newfound sense of financial security due to the 'Mukhyamantri Kalakar Pension Yojana'. With monthly pensions of Rs 3,000 now flowing into their hands, creators can focus solely on their craft.

NH-22 in Gaya is synonymous with danger as reckless driving and blatant traffic violations have turned the road into a perilous zone. With the rise in head-on collisions, despite existing dividers, it's alarming that a former MLA reported 88 fatalities in just one year. Unlicensed drivers and overloaded vehicles contribute significantly to this crisis.

A man lost his life after being struck by the Patna-Howrah Vande Bharat Express at Barh railway station. The incident occurred on platform number 2. He was taken to Barh Sadar Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. The deceased's identity remains unestablished. Railway authorities have urged passengers to maintain a safe distance from platform edges.

Bihar farmers will now benefit from the Centre's approval to procure masoor dal at Minimum Support Price (MSP) for the 2026 Rabi season. This initiative, aimed at boosting farmer income, will see 32,000 metric tonnes of masoor purchased at Rs 6,700 per quintal.

In response to the busy summer travel season, Indian Railways has rolled out additional special train services linking Bihar with both Delhi and West Bengal. Key routes such as Barauni-New Delhi, Darbhanga-New Delhi, and Patna-Howrah will be operational until June 1.

A 32-year-old man, Hasan Raza Khan, tragically died after a violent land dispute erupted in Rohtas district. Beaten severely with sticks and other objects, he succumbed to his injuries at Sasaram Sadar Hospital. Police have detained three suspects and are investigating the ongoing land conflict that led to this fatal assault.

Bihar's Special Vigilance Unit launched an operation targeting Sheohar's Deputy Development Commissioner, Brijesh Kumar, in a case involving disproportionate assets. The investigation revealed a staggering Rs 1.84 crore in illicit assets, far surpassing his disclosed earnings. Authorities seized properties tied to his wife's name during the raid, which intensified focus on possible concealed wealth and questionable financial dealings.

Bihar's rural development department is launching a comprehensive social audit of all MGNREGA projects at the panchayat level. With central funding secured, district-level societies will conduct third-party assessments to ensure transparency, curb corruption, and verify that funds are effectively utilized for rural infrastructure and livelihood projects, benefiting the intended recipients.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar launched development projects worth Rs 689 crore in Rohtas and Kaimur districts, emphasizing his vision for a prosperous Bihar. He highlighted progress in water supply, roads, education, and healthcare, urging continued public support to maintain development momentum. The Samriddhi Yatra aims to monitor projects and ensure effective implementation for transforming Bihar.

In a drive to safeguard food security amidst the looming threat of climate change, agricultural authorities gathered in Pusa. Emphasizing the need for climate-resilient farming techniques, they called for innovative approaches to crop breeding and advanced water management strategies as ways to tackle the challenges posed by extreme temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns.

Commercial LPG supply in Bihar has been boosted to 50% following supply chain improvements. Rural domestic consumers will now receive refills every 25 days, down from 45, to ensure fair distribution. Officials lauded district magistrates for their effective management and transparent communication, while strict action against black marketing and irregularities was ordered.

Renowned Thai Buddhist monk, Somdet Phra Thirayanamuni, graced the Buddha Cancer Medical Centre in Patna with his presence, praising the compassionate care provided to those in need. In a gesture of generosity, he donated five ICU beds and initiated the construction of a new facility, offering heartfelt prayers for the patients.

Bihar's Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha has declared the mass leave by revenue department staff illegal, demanding their return by Wednesday 5 PM. He warned of strict disciplinary action, including salary deductions and break in service, for continued absence. Sinha emphasized the disruption to public services and administrative functioning, especially during the CM's outreach program on land reforms.

In Patna, the vibrant energy of Chaiti Chhath filled the air as devotees poured their hearts into the evening 'arghya' ritual, honoring the retreating sun. Crowded ghats and tranquil makeshift ponds transformed into sacred spaces, with worshippers crafting traditional offerings like thekua and ladua.

After spending 141 days behind bars, JD(U) MLA Anant Singh, affectionately known as Chhote Sarkar, made a triumphant return to Mokama, met by a sea of supporters and a celebratory convoy. He emphasized his intention to seek blessings and reconnect with his constituents, steering clear of political maneuvers.

Authorities in Patna are ensuring a safe Ram Navami celebration with a 40-foot Lord Ram idol. Power supply will be cut along procession routes, and low-hanging cables are being addressed. Officials inspected the route, focusing on crowd management, medical facilities, and road repairs.

In Patna, the vibrant Bengali community is joyfully partaking in 'Basanti Pujo', a cherished springtime homage to Goddess Durga, which heralds the dawn of the festive season long before autumn arrives. This time-honored celebration thrives at Pucca Bari, Bangali Akhara, and Patna Kalibari, showcasing intricate rituals, communal feasts, and vibrant cultural displays.

Bihar's Deputy CM announced a significant project to construct 44 four-storey residential buildings across 21 jails, costing Rs88.90 crore. This initiative aims to provide rent-free accommodation for senior prison officials and family housing for wardens, enhancing living facilities and the work environment for jail staff. Construction is set to begin this financial year.

Bihar police have busted an interstate drug ring, arresting five individuals in Patna and Darbhanga. Authorities seized over 345 grams of heroin, valued at approximately Rs 68 lakh, along with vehicles and gold. The network spans Bihar and Assam, with some arrested individuals having prior convictions.

Defying limited resources, Nasreen Praveen from West Champaran secured third rank in Bihar Intermediate Arts. Daughter of a tailor, she studied at her maternal village school, supplementing with online classes. Nasreen's success highlights rural potential, inspiring many. She aims to become a judge, encouraging village students to pursue dreams with dedication.

Patna's Jayprakash Narayan International Airport is set for a major upgrade, commencing full night operations from March 29th. The Summer 2026 schedule will see an increase in flight movements to 96 daily, including new direct flights to Navi Mumbai. This expansion aims to boost connectivity and passenger convenience.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar launched development projects exceeding Rs 405 crore in Jehanabad and Arwal. He highlighted significant progress in infrastructure, education, and healthcare since 2005, contrasting it with the past. Future plans include establishing model schools, upgrading health centers, and setting up a sports center of excellence.

On the 95th anniversary of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru's martyrdom, CPI (ML) in Ara paid homage. A massive anti-war and anti-imperialism march was also held, highlighting global peace threats and resource conflicts. Leaders urged democratic forces to unite against war and imperialist intervention, emphasizing the martyrs' enduring inspiration for justice and equality.

Bihar's Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav urged youth to be architects of India's future at Dr C V Raman University's convocation. He emphasized innovation and skill development. The event also saw the launch of an AI Literacy Meet and Hindi technical textbooks, alongside motivational addresses and the release of university reports and publications.