The Times of India

In a spirited gathering at DIET, headmasters, select educators, and aspiring students from ten schools in Dumraon united for a dynamic workshop aimed at enhancing the Nipun Bharat Mission. The session spotlighted the importance of nurturing Nipun Vidyalayas through committed teaching, engaging learning activities, and ongoing assessments that bolster foundational skills.

Bihar's transport department has expanded its automatic e-challan system to 41 toll plazas, utilizing advanced e-detection technology. Vehicles with expired fitness, insurance, or PUC certificates will now automatically receive online challans. This initiative aims to boost road safety and ensure compliance by integrating with the national vehicle database, making enforcement more effective across the state.

In a recent crackdown, Bettiah police arrested 32-year-old Sandeep Kumar Gupta, accused of leading a sophisticated cyberfraud scheme. He reportedly acquired mule bank accounts and multiple SIM cards to funnel illegal funds, profiting through commissions. Authorities seized 28 ATM cards and eight mobile devices from the suspect. Ongoing investigations aim to trace the larger syndicate behind transactions worth several lakhs.

Patna's tourism department is building a multi-level automated parking facility at Kangan Ghat to ease congestion for visitors to Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib and Patan Devi temple. The Rs99.26 crore project, designed to resemble the Takhat, will accommodate 341 cars and 10 buses, featuring car and passenger lifts.

A wave of enthusiasm swept through the Gaya and Mithila regions as a cadre of social workers, including key influencers such as Sanullah Khan and Misbaul Hoda, made a grand entrance into the Congress party on Sunday.

In a groundbreaking move, the Patna Municipal Corporation is launching a cutting-edge metropolitan surveillance unit focused on tracking 40 different infectious diseases, as well as monitoring food safety and water-related ailments. Comprising 17 skilled professionals, the team will process data to feed real-time insights into the Indian government's health platform.

A speeding SUV crashed into a police patrol vehicle near the Chief Minister's residence in Patna, injuring a female officer. The SUV, travelling at high speed, broke through a guardrail after the collision. Police have detained the SUV driver and four occupants for questioning, and an FIR has been filed. Authorities are addressing over-speeding concerns in the high-security zone.

In a troubling incident in Lakhisarai, a young girl of eight was snatched away and assaulted by a 50-year-old man while she was picking flowers for Mahashivratri festivities. Fortunately, vigilant locals sprang into action, saving the girl and apprehending the suspect, who is reported to have a troubling past of harassing women.

Patna came alive with the vibrant celebrations of Mahashivratri, where a grand procession thronged the streets near Khajpura Shiv Temple. Esteemed guests, including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, graced the occasion, which showcased stunning floats representing cultural diversity from various localities.

During a recent tour of Rajiv Nagar and Anandpuri, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar emphasized the urgency of completing ongoing drainage projects. His directive to officials highlighted the importance of addressing waterlogging issues and improving transportation with newly constructed roads over reinforced drains.

A 24-year-old man, with a prior rape conviction, was apprehended in Nawada district for allegedly raping an eight-year-old girl in Sheikhpura. Police reported the accused lured the child behind a government school on Saturday before fleeing. A special team tracked him down using intelligence, and authorities are now seeking the strictest punishment while identifying accomplices.

A major tragedy was averted in Patna's VVIP area when an over-speeding SUV collided with a police patrol vehicle near the chief minister's residence. The forceful impact damaged both vehicles, with the SUV smashing through a guardrail. While a female police officer sustained injuries, others were safe, and four individuals were detained for questioning.

In an inspiring move to uplift the agricultural sector, Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary emphasized the government's commitment to bolstering farmers' fortunes. With a vision to double their incomes, he announced the integration of cutting-edge technology into farming practices.

Bihar is embarking on an ambitious journey to rejuvenate its economy by unlocking around 100 acres of industrial land designated for new investors. By breathing new life into closed and disputed units, the state is implementing its Amnesty and Exit Policies to convert dormant land into vibrant industrial hubs.

In a pioneering move, JLNMCH in Bhagalpur is about to unveil Bihar's inaugural herbal garden, merging the realms of allopathy and Ayurveda. This garden will not only protect rare medicinal plants but also serve as a vibrant research hub for students exploring treatment methodologies for a range of ailments.

In a recent campaign, health authorities underscored how essential routine ultrasounds are for expectant mothers in identifying congenital heart defects early on, which can be life-saving. This weeks global awareness initiative shines a spotlight on this condition, which impacts around 2% of newborns each year.

Madhepura's Singheshwar Sthan, a cherished ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is set to host a spectacular month-long fair in honor of Mahashivaratri, supported by the government. This festival is expected to attract devotees not only from nearby regions but also from neighboring Nepal.

As Mahashivaratri approaches, Patna is about to transform into a vibrant hub of spirituality and culture, featuring 30 magnificent processions and a central ceremony at the historic Khajpura Shiv temple.

In a remarkable turn of events, Bihar sees a groundbreaking milestone as girl students surpass boys in the 2026 Matriculation exams, with an impressive turnout of over 1.5 million candidates.

In a powerful address, Patna High Court's Chief Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo advocated for the importance of maintaining a pristine courtroom, asserting, A tidy court is a reflection of an uncluttered mind.

In a heartfelt tribute, Nishant Kumar, son of Nitish Kumar, honored the legendary 'Mountain Man' Dashrath Manjhi in Gehlaur, igniting conversations around his prospective role within JD(U). His visit to significant sites like the Vishnupad temple and Mahabodhi Mahavihara further emphasizes a commitment to the cultural heritage of Bihar.

In anticipation of the Malmas Mela-2026 in Rajgir, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has urged officials to prioritize the comfort and safety of the attendees. He called for enhanced security measures, quality accommodation, and essential amenities to cater to the expected influx of devotees.