The Times of India News

The Patna Metros much-anticipated underground Blue Line is racing towards its finish line, with a groundbreaking 7.9 km of tunneling set to wrap up by late 2026. With four state-of-the-art Tunnel Boring Machines hard at work, a major chunk is already completed. Once operational, this vital segment will seamlessly connect Rajendra Nagar to Patna Junction, revolutionizing the citys transport landscape.

In a significant boost to employment, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar handed out appointment letters to 2,390 new recruits at the State Power (Holding) Company. During the event, he explored the State Load Dispatch Centre, a groundbreaking facility in eastern India that guarantees uninterrupted power supply while promoting transparency.

In a major crackdown, Bihar's Special Vigilance Unit has revealed a treasure trove of assets connected to Gajadhar Mandal, the director of the building construction department. Recent raids across Patna and Bhagalpur have disclosed a staggering wealth of approximately Rs 3.72 crore, surpassing initial claims of Rs 2.82 crore in illicit gains.

In a significant operation, the Enforcement Directorate targeted Muzaffarpur, revealing a complex banking fraud that led to the theft of Rs 1.29 crore from PNB accounts. Criminal masterminds employed SIM swapping and digital manipulation techniques to carry out their scheme, with funds withdrawn at ATMs in Kolkata before being funneled into the fraudsters' accounts.

In an inspiring move towards agricultural innovation, Bihar has unveiled two pivotal programs: the Aquaculture Improvement Programme and the Dairy Transformation Project, in collaboration with the Gates Foundation. These initiatives are designed to revitalize the fisheries and dairy industries, empowering rural communities and increasing farmers' incomes through cutting-edge technology.

In light of the recent damage to Patna's Gandhi Maidan, organized physical training sessions have been suspended. Coaching centers are now required to shift their activities to the serene Ganga Ghats. To combat traffic issues in the vicinity of the Maidan, permits for commercial vehicles will also be revoked.

In a significant step towards improving local transportation, the railway ministry has approved plans for a vital road over bridge connecting Dighwara and Ambika Bhawani Halt. This ambitious Rs 124.78 crore project, which includes a pedestrian subway, is set to ease the notorious traffic bottleneck at a heavily used level crossing.

Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University in Pusa has been recognized with a distinguished award for its commitment to instilling patriotism and contributing to nation-building through various co-curricular initiatives. The accolade also celebrates Vice-Chancellor P S Pandey for groundbreaking programs like 'Deeksharambh,' aimed at enhancing students' national pride and personal growth.

In a shocking turn of events, a retaliatory shooting in Buxar has resulted in the death of Ramakant Pathak, alongside injuries sustained by Vijay Shankar Chaubey. An FIR has been filed naming six suspects, with the wounded party claiming that this violent act was an act of vengeance linked to a prior triple homicide.

In a shocking twist of fate, a young woman from Patna found herself enmeshed in a web of deceit after her online romantic connection with 'Sonu' unraveled, exposing him as the deceitful Mohammad Rustam, a family man with three children. After gaining her confidence and capturing compromising footage, Rustam resorted to blackmail.

NIT-Patna has kicked off an exciting week-long global initiative focused on urban conservation and regeneration, attracting 70 passionate participants. Sponsored by the Union ministry of education, this program features luminaries such as Ettore Maria Mazzola, who provided insights on the innovative Ferjaan project in Doha.

In a spirited gathering, marksmen from various corners of India have assembled in Danapur for the prestigious All India Railway Protection Force shooting competition. A robust lineup of twelve teams featuring 123 shooters from the RPF and RPSF are set to demonstrate their prowess in both rifle and pistol categories, competing through to December 19th.

Bihar's Complex Resource Centres are evolving from traditional administrative hubs into lively centers of academic innovation. A recent workshop highlighted essential support for educators, the incorporation of cutting-edge digital tools, and the pursuit of foundational learning goals through the NIPUN Bihar initiative.

IIT-Patna recently convened an inspiring international conference that brought together top minds in the fields of differential equations, computational methodologies, and artificial intelligence. Scholars from across the globe exchanged groundbreaking ideas on applied mathematics and the role of AI in solving real-world problems.

Bihar BJP accuses Congress of hypocrisy and selective outrage over CM Nitish Kumar allegedly pulling a doctor's hijab. The BJP cited an old video of Ashok Gehlot removing a veiled woman's veil, questioning Congress's silence then. The Congress had demanded Kumar's resignation over the incident.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pulled the hijab off a newly recruited AYUSH doctor during an appointment ceremony. The incident, captured on video, sparked criticism from opposition parties. The CM reportedly questioned the veil before removing it, with a deputy CM appearing to try and intervene.

In an exciting new role, Anil Kumar, an IAS officer of the 2017 batch, has assumed leadership as the Director of the Information and Public Relations Department in Patna. He is committed to bridging the gap between government welfare initiatives and citizens, particularly those in far-flung regions.

A man and his three young daughters were found hanging in their Bihar home. Villagers believe the father, Amarnath Ram, hanged his daughters before taking his own life due to severe financial stress and the recent death of his wife. Two sons escaped and alerted locals to the tragic incident.

Bihar Saras Mela in Patna is a resounding success, drawing over 80,000 visitors and generating Rs 1.5 crore in sales within two days. The event empowers women from vulnerable groups, showcasing handicrafts and cuisine from 209 Jeevika Didis and 76 entrepreneurs from across India. Inspiring stories of financial independence emerge from artisans like Krishna Devi and Naocha.

Patna's JP Ganga Path is set for a grand transformation into an eco-friendly urban oasis. The ambitious Samagra Udyan project will feature a butterfly park, botanical gardens, walking and cycling tracks, food courts, and open gyms.

Patna authorities seized four sand-laden trucks in Danapur and Naubatpur, imposing a Rs 4.5 lakh penalty. This action follows recent crackdowns, including the seizure of nine tractors and 28 tractors in earlier drives, with substantial fines levied. The district administration is intensifying efforts, utilizing advanced technology and intelligence to combat illegal mining and transportation.

Bihar minister Nitin Nabin's appointment as BJP national working president has garnered widespread praise from top leaders, including PM Modi and CM Nitish Kumar. Nabin, a dedicated and experienced leader, is expected to significantly contribute to the party's growth. His elevation is seen as a proud moment for Bihar, with many anticipating his future leadership role within the BJP.

The NDA government has strongly criticized the Congress's rally against alleged vote theft, calling it a diversionary tactic. Leaders stated the intensive revision of electoral rolls aims to purify voter lists, not manipulate outcomes. They urged the Congress to introspect its declining electoral fortunes in its former strongholds, questioning its relevance in key states.

Patna High Court is pushing for faster justice in criminal cases across Bihar. Subordinate courts are now mandated to examine evidence daily once witness testimony begins and set clear timelines for hearings. Adjournments will be restricted, even for lawyer or accused absence, unless in exceptional, documented circumstances, aiming to expedite trials.

Surinamese-born scholar Chan Choenni, a descendant of indentured labourers, visited a Madhubani memorial honouring his ancestor, Thakur Kishundayal Singh Harnandan Singh. This pilgrimage, part of the Girmitiyalogy Lectures, highlights the often-forgotten history of Indian indentured workers. The newly operational Global Girmitiya Lineage Archive Searching Center aims to reconnect families worldwide, restoring lost identities and acknowledging their sacrifices.

The Danapur Cantt-Maner-Bihta road widening project faces delays due to trees and homes along the route. Initially planned as a four-lane expansion, the project's width is being revised. Approved funds of Rs 182 crore are in place, with a departmental committee meeting in December to finalize the new plan. Completion is anticipated by 2027, promising better connectivity.

A woman's train journey turned terrifying at Katihar Junction when 30-40 men illegally boarded her reserved coach. Fearing for her safety, she locked herself in the toilet, sending an SOS. Railway Protection Force personnel swiftly intervened, clearing the unauthorized passengers and escorting her back. Vigilance has since been increased.