The Times of India

In a significant boost for sports and education, Rajya Sabha MP Akhilesh Prasad Singh officially opened a new mini stadium at Anugrah Narayan College in Patna, made possible through his MPLAD funding. He also committed an additional Rs 60 lakh towards enhancing the college's infrastructure.

In a significant political move, Ajay Kumar Singh, son of former Member of Parliament Tapeshwar Singh, has aligned himself with the JD(U) in Patna. State president Umesh Kushwaha embraced Singh's decision, asserting that his involvement will invigorate the party's efforts in the Bhojpur-Buxar area.

In a dramatic turn of events, Bihar's political arena is on the brink of transformation as a high-ranking JD(U) official revealed that the BJP is poised to choose the next Chief Minister. This development comes in the wake of Nitish Kumars recent elevation to the Rajya Sabha, hinting at his possible shift to national leadership roles.

In an ambitious move, the Railways is investing Rs 513.61 crore into transforming 22 Amrit Bharat stations within the Danapur division. This initiative is set to revolutionize the travel experience with features reminiscent of airport facilities, bolstered security measures, and sustainable designs.

The Malahi Pakri station of Patna Metro is on the verge of opening its doors, poised to revolutionize the travel experience across the eastern and southern sectors of the city. This elevated marvel boasts contemporary facilities and a splash of artistic flair, all awaiting the green light for safety protocols.

In a resolute display of solidarity, a large assembly of women and social advocates, spearheaded by Sudha Varghese, rallied in Patna to demand accountability following the heinous gang rape of a three-year-old. Their voices rose in unison for immediate justice and severe consequences for all involved, including family members implicated in the crime.

In Patna, vibrant posters emerged proclaiming Nishant Kumar as the 'future Chief Minister of Bihar,' coinciding with the BJP appointing a central observer. These eye-catching displays, strategically placed near prominent political venues, not only celebrated Nishant but also took a subtle jab at the controversial 'bulldozer model' and ongoing 'riots-unrest.

Heartbreak echoed through the streets of Shyampur Bazar in Gopalganj after a tragic accident involving a speeding tractor and two motorcycles. Sadly, Nasir Alam and Sujeet Kumar Pandey lost their lives, while another individual sustained critical injuries.

In a tragic incident in Muzaffarpur, a 12-year-old girl was reportedly assaulted by a neighbor, who was later found dead under peculiar circumstances. Authorities were able to pinpoint the 28-year-old suspect through security footage, but alas, by the time they acted, he had already been cremated by his family.

In a tragic twist in Vaishali, a man detained for the alleged murder of his pregnant sister-in-law has made a dire attempt on his own life by ingesting poison while in police custody. Identified as Sahil Patel, he is now under medical care as authorities delve into the heinous crime.

In a heated response to the NDA's recent government formation in Bihar, opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav articulated his concerns about the legitimacy of the new Chief Minister. He argues that this leader lacks a true public mandate and is merely a puppet in a larger power game.

The anticipation builds in Bihar as the BJP legislative party convenes in Patna to select the state's next Chief Minister. With Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stepping in as the central observer, the official announcement is expected on April 14 or 15. His presence marks the dawn of a new governmental era in Bihar.

In an effort to enhance urban governance and ensure equitable tax assessments, the Patna Municipal Corporation is embarking on an extensive city survey. This initiative is designed to uncover unregistered properties, validate self-assessed values, and identify any misuse of residential properties for commercial purposes.

In a shocking incident in West Champaran, a 24-year-old man named Ranjeet Kumar Sharma was critically injured after he kindly offered a ride to a man who turned out to be dangerous. Returning home from a festive gathering, Sharma found himself in a terrifying confrontation when his passenger, Ramesh Raut, pulled out a firearm during a dispute with others.

Innovative scientists at Bihar Agricultural University have introduced a vibrant pink oyster mushroom variety that resists diseases and boasts a remarkably quick harvest cycle of just 20-25 days, empowering farmers with faster financial returns. Flourishing in warm, humid environments, it cleverly utilizes agricultural waste and stands out in the market due to its striking color and delicious flavor.

In a significant turn of events, the East Champaran police have made a major breakthrough by capturing Satish Chandra Chaudhary, the main orchestrator behind the poisonous spirit supply linked to a tragic hooch incident that resulted in ten fatalities. His arrest in Lucknow comes after another distributor's capture, shedding light on a larger web of illicit activity extending from Ghaziabad.

In a shocking turn of events, a police sub-inspector in Munger has been taken into custody, accused of the tragic murder of his wife amid ongoing dowry tensions. The woman was discovered with a severe chest injury in their rental residence.

In an uproar regarding a critical shortage of LPG cylinders, Patna residents took to the streets, halting traffic on a major highway. The community has faced daily challenges in preparing meals as irregular distribution from a local agency has left many empty-handed. Frustration peaked due to soaring black-market prices for refills, compelling residents to act.

In a heartbreaking event, 70-year-old farmer Buto Mandal was found dead in his cowshed near Bhagalpur late Saturday night. Family members, waking to a tragic discovery Sunday morning, alerted the authorities as they found him lifeless in a pool of blood.

Patna University has unfortunately let slip the opportunity to celebrate the centenary of the iconic Wheeler Senate House, and now it looks set to miss recognizing the 100th anniversary of Patna Science College as well.

With Bihar making renewed efforts to secure GI tags for more of its unique agricultural products, Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU) vice-chancellor P S Pandey tells STOIs B K Mishra in an interview that rigorous scientific documentation and stronger producer organisations are essential to accelerate the process. Excerpts:

Geographical Indication (GI) tags play a crucial role in preserving the heritage of distinctive products, such as Darjeeling Tea and Banarasi saris. Enshrined in a 1999 statute, these protections not only defend traditional crafts but also enhance local economies by allowing for higher pricing.

Bihar is rapidly emerging as a champion of its cultural heritage by securing Geographical Indication (GI) tags for its extraordinary products, with 14 already on the list. This movement is gaining momentum, especially with an influx of applications focusing on agriculture and culinary delights.

In a devastating accident on National Highway-31 in Katihar district, Bihar, a bus and van collided head-on, resulting in the loss of 13 lives and injuring 22 others. The van was transporting members of the tribal community back from Jharkhand when it was hit by a bus driven by an alleged drunk driver.

In a significant turning point for accountability in East Champaran, Intekab Alam, a private clerk at the Adapur police station, faced action from the Vigilance Investigation Bureau. Allegations surfaced that he solicited a bribe of Rs 14,000 to hasten a firearm licence application verification.

In a groundbreaking initiative, Nalanda University in Rajgir welcomed the Passport Seva Mobile Van, bringing essential passport services right to the doorstep of its students and faculty. IFS officer Sibi George had the honor of inaugurating this event, part of the Ministry of External Affairs' innovative 'Passport at Your Doorstep' program.

Tejashwi Yadav dismissed speculation about Bihar's next chief minister, stating the public is concerned about the state's adhaal condition. He alleged the BJP orchestrated Nitish Kumar's move to the Rajya Sabha, claiming senior JD(U) leaders were pressured. Yadav criticized the current government's performance across all sectors, highlighting issues like law and order and farmer distress.

As the much-anticipated wedding season approaches, the Nalanda district administration is proactively ensuring a steady supply of LPG. By instructing caterers to register for commercial connections, they aim to streamline the process for hosts. Additionally, couples can conveniently apply for gas cylinders by presenting their wedding cards.

A devastating incident unfolded in Sheikhpura district, Bihar, as 16-year-old Kundan Kumar tragically lost his life after being hit by a fast-moving vehicle on his way back from a religious festival. Two of his friends were injured in the mishap near Belhari village.

The revered Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library in Patna is trapped in a quagmire of administrative inertia and staffing shortages, having been without a director since August 2023. This national treasure faces an uphill battle against neglect, with vital roles unfilled and whispers of bureaucratic indifference growing louder.

In a significant crackdown this March, Patna police confiscated an alarming 457.6kg of ganja along with various other narcotics, underscoring the growing threat of drug trafficking in the region. As a response, law enforcement is ramping up strategies to dismantle the intricate drug syndicates that operate across state borders.

In a chilling case of cyber deception, a retired bank official and his spouse endured a harrowing 13-day ordeal at the hands of scammers in Muzaffarpur, suffering a staggering loss of Rs67 lakh. Impersonating law enforcement, the fraudsters maliciously accused the couple of engaging in illicit activities, coercing them into draining their life savings.

Following a TOI expos on its neglected state, Buxar Sadar Hospital's Rs2.47 crore PICU is undergoing a swift clean-up and sanitization. District officials are addressing the unit's two-year non-operational status, primarily due to staff shortages. Urgent deployment of medical personnel is sought to make the advanced facility functional for critically ill children.

In a bold step towards reforming public health, the Bihar government has officially prohibited allopathic doctors from engaging in private practice while working in government institutions. This initiative falls under the banner of 'Accessible health, safe life' and is designed to redirect medical professionals attention towards strengthening public healthcare services.

Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (Buidco) is ramping up its initiatives to tackle the persistent issue of waterlogging in Patna during the monsoon season. Ongoing projects include the repair of drainage pumping stations and thorough cleaning of sump wells. Managing Director Animesh Kumar Parashar emphasized the importance of direct oversight and video documentation to ensure accountability.

In a desperate plea for justice, Saif Ali climbed a mobile tower in Siwan, threatening to end his life to protest against his brother's mysterious death in police custody nine months ago. With his family claiming foul play and demanding clarity from officials, the police have promised to launch an investigation if a formal complaint is submitted.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is relocating from his official residence at 1 Anne Marg to 7 Circular Road in Patna, with household goods being transported. This move follows his recent oath-taking as a Rajya Sabha member in New Delhi.

The Patna High Court has ordered a fresh investigation into the suspicious death of a school warden in Begusarai, whose body was found on school grounds. The court cited significant lapses by local police in their initial probe, which had treated the case as a suicide despite evidence of a financial dispute and potential foul play.

Nitish Kumar's recent oath in the Rajya Sabha signals a notable turnaround in Bihar's political landscape. With PM Modi and other NDA officials commending his extensive service as Chief Minister, there's speculation about an imminent leadership shift.

Big changes are on the horizon for Bihar's rural roads, with groundwork finalized for 595 segments covering a whopping 1,887km. Thanks to the Saat Nishchay-3 initiative, this year will kick off vital expansion and reinforcement efforts. The goal? To enhance rural connectivity, seamlessly linking villages with main roadways and administrative hubs, ensuring reliable access no matter the weather.

In a landmark ruling, the Patna High Court has instructed all Station House Officers to diligently uphold the Loudspeakers Act of 1955, with a deadline for action reports set for June 19. The court has also called on the Bihar State Pollution Control Board to spearhead initiatives highlighting the often-overlooked health risks associated with noise pollution.