The Times of India

Bihar's cinematic heritage is experiencing a renaissance, fueled by the state government's enthusiasm for film production. From the breathtaking scenes at the Koilwar bridge in 'Gandhi' to the enchanting rural settings of 'Teesri Qasam' and the ancient splendor of Nalanda featured in 'Johny Mera Naam', the state's diverse landscapes have left an indelible mark on the film industry.

Bihar is on the cusp of a cinematic renaissance, propelled by an ambitious film policy designed to establish the state as a prime filmmaking hotspot. This forward-thinking initiative has already attracted 48 diverse projects, including 25 Hindi films, and emphasizes the economic upliftment of local communities through targeted skill development and job creation.

India and Nepal resolved key issues concerning the Kosi and Gandak projects during their joint committee meeting. Nepal will halt taxes on Kosi project vehicles, while India will address waterlogging and improve drainage. Both nations agreed on measures to maintain the river's main channel and remove encroachments, fostering better project management and cooperation.

An American Fulbright scholar, Isabel Salovaara, has earned a doctorate for her research on the aspirations of women in Bihar. Her study, conducted at state coaching centres, highlights how a 2016 government policy reserving jobs for women has fostered a sense of community and state connection among them.

Major train diversions are set from May 13-27 as East Central Railway undertakes crucial infrastructure upgrades on the Ayodhya Cantt-Akbarpur-Jafarabad route. Over three pairs of passenger trains, including the Barauni-Gondia Express, will take alternative paths via Aunrihar Junction and Varanasi.

Queen of the Apostles Church in Kurji Parish has launched a 10-day festival honoring Mother Mary. The event began with a flag hoisting and prayers for the departed, including a graveyard blessing. Daily Rosary, Novena prayers, and Solemn Masses are scheduled, with each day dedicated to specific intentions. The festival culminates on May 10th with a Eucharist and cultural programs.

Patna's district administration has resumed its anti-encroachment drive across key municipal zones, clearing temporary structures and seizing equipment. Fines totaling Rs30,500 were collected, with authorities emphasizing follow-up actions and FIRs against repeat offenders to maintain clear roads. A dedicated monitoring cell has been established to ensure sustained compliance.

Bihar's street vendors, numbering over 2 lakh, face significant challenges despite some progress. While many hold vending certificates and access loans, institutional gaps and legal protection remain critical issues. Evictions are often arbitrary, with vendors receiving no prior notice. Patna alone has around 40,000 vendors, highlighting the need for designated vending zones across the state.

A 28-year-old man, Shankar Chauhan, was found dead on a Patna roadside. CCTV footage shows several individuals following him before he collapsed. Police are investigating a possible assault, with the deceased having a criminal past and a history of drug addiction. His wife has filed an FIR, demanding justice for his death.

In a significant stride for agricultural advancement, Dr. D.R. Singh, the Vice-Chancellor of Bihar Agricultural University, has taken up the mantle as the newly appointed president of the Indian Agricultural Universities Association. Under his leadership, the association aims to forge a unified national platform that enhances the quality of education, propels innovative research, and fosters policy coherence across agricultural institutions.

As the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a short-lived decrease in temperatures, Bihar prepares for an impending heatwave. With gusty winds and possible thunderstorms looming over various districts, rain showers are expected to persist until May 4. The recent downpours have brought a welcome relief from the scorching heat, with many areas experiencing substantial rainfall.

After a fruitful dialogue with the government, Bihar's circle officers and revenue officials have concluded their 55-day strike. Promises were made to address their key demands, including the vital DCLR position. Operations related to land records and dispute resolutions will restart on May 4, with officials cautioning that non-compliance could lead to disciplinary action.

The appointment of new vice-chancellors at four universities in Bihar may hit a snag due to a recent directive limiting the authority of interim leaders. Although search committees were close to finalizing candidates for three of the institutions, the new chancellor's emphasis on optimizing university functions and compiling detailed data indicates that delays might be on the horizon.

In a bold declaration, Bihar's NDA government is making it clear to wrongdoers: step away from illegal paths or prepare for dire repercussions. The recent police operations, aimed at apprehending suspects linked to grave offensesincluding the murder of a government official and the nephew of a BJP leaderhighlight this uncompromising approach.

The Sultan Palace in Patna, a treasure from 1922, is on the brink of demolition after being labeled 'non-heritage.' Historians and activists have voiced their concerns, urging intervention from the Prime Minister's Office and local authorities. Despite an earlier cabinet decision to safeguard this architectural gem, new findings from a committee have reignited fears of destruction.

In a thrilling finale, B D Public School emerged victorious in the Fr Gordon Murphy SJ Memorial Basketball Championship, overcoming the spirited St Michael's High School. Gaurav Kumar dazzled the crowd, earning the titles of Best Scorer and Man of the Match.

In an emotional rally in Patna, Congress supporters rallied behind state leader Rajesh Ram, voicing their outrage over the heinous murder of Pandav Kumar in Delhi while also demanding justice for 10-year-old Roshni, the latest victim in their city.

In a bold move, Bihar's Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has announced a stringent zero-tolerance approach towards crime, corruption, and communal strife. He has called on district leaders to respond decisively against anti-social behaviors, prioritizing swift actions in murder investigations.

In Patna, the shining stars of the Class X exams share what fuels their academic triumph. Divya Prakash, with a remarkable 99%, sets his sights on IIT for computer science, crediting his disciplined study habits for his success. Rounit Raj, who also achieved 99%, aspires to pursue engineering at IIT.

In a bold accusation, the RJD has called out the Election Commission for allegedly orchestrating rigging efforts in the West Bengal elections using a 'SIR model.' They claim that the manipulation of voter lists mirrors tactics previously seen in Bihar. The party argues that the BJP is desperately trying to usurp the public's will after facing widespread rejection.

In a bold move to rejuvenate the struggling sugar industry, Bihar's government has drastically reduced the Regional Development Council's commission by 90%, lowering it from 1.80% to a mere 0.2% of the cane price. This strategic decision aims to improve the financial health of sugar mills while ensuring that farmers' interests remain protected.