The Times of India
Elections 2026Bihar / The Times of India
A ride at a 'Disneyland fair' in Sasaram, Bihar, collapsed on Friday, resulting in injuries to several children and women. The injured were promptly taken to Sadar Hospital for treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident and the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed.
In a pioneering medical milestone, a 76-year-old woman from Patna has become the first patient in India to undergo treatment for severe mitral regurgitation with the innovative MyClip device. Conducted at Jay Prabha Medanta, this minimally invasive approach presents a revolutionary alternative to high-risk open-heart surgery for patients with complex health challenges.
In a bold move, the RJD has launched a scathing attack on the NDA administrations in Bihar and at the national level, decrying the recent spike in petrol and diesel prices. Party officials argue that the increase was deliberately delayed until after the assembly elections, unfairly placing the burden of inflation on everyday citizens.
In Patna's gold market, there's a noticeable decline in leisure purchases as jewelers observe fewer shoppers visiting their stores. While bridal jewelry sales continue to hold strong, the appetite for gifting and investing in gold has diminished considerably.
In a small, underdeveloped village in Bihar, 27-year-old Deepak Chaudhary transformed his unemployment during the pandemic into a flourishing business that produces delectable corn chips. With an investment of Rs35 lakh, his enterprise not only provides jobs for 28 locals, predominantly women, but also distributes its products throughout Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
In an innovative move to enhance governance, the Bihar government has executed a major shake-up in its administrative hierarchy. Mayank Warwade steps into the role of divisional commissioner for Patna, while Shubham Kumar takes the reins as deputy development commissioner. This reshuffle sees pivotal departmental secretaries being repositioned, with a mix of new responsibilities assigned and some officials being relieved.
During a ceremonial ground-breaking event in Saran, Bihar, Gautam Adani, the visionary chairman of Adani Group, will be accompanied by his family. This monumental initiative, in collaboration with Akhand Jyoti Eye Hospital, seeks to establish an expansive rural healthcare network dedicated to underserved areas in northern and central India, prioritizing affordable eye care and skill development training.
In a strategic move to enhance legislative coordination, Sanjeev Chaurasia, a seasoned BJP MLA from Digha, has been appointed the chief whip for the NDA in Bihar's assembly. With his background rooted in EBC and connections to the RSS, Chaurasia is recognized for his behind-the-scenes effectiveness.
In a striking revelation, almost half of Bihar's cabinet members are entangled in criminal allegations, with a significant 29% implicated in grave offenses. Notably, a staggering 90% of these politicians are millionaires, flaunting average assets surpassing Rs 6 crore. Despite having a majority of graduates, the representation of women within the 35-member cabinet remains alarmingly low.
In a Gaya courtroom on Friday, a police officer took the stand to shed light on a disputed degree from Magadh University. This degree is reportedly associated with a Punjab police commandant who allegedly leveraged it for employment. The former joint controller of examinations, currently facing legal proceedings, reaffirmed accusations of fraudulent degree issuance.
Hailing from Madhubani, Shaikh Mohammad Shams Alam has made waves at the Para Swim Open in Sweden, grabbing a bronze in the 100m breaststroke. Not only did he secure his place in the 2026 Asian Para Games in Japan, but he also broke the national record in a stunning display of athleticism, showcasing his unwavering commitment to Indian para sports.
In a determined effort to enhance community safety, Bihar Police has introduced new Rural Superintendent of Police positions, leading to over 1,253 successful convictions this yearincluding life imprisonment and two death sentences. Additionally, as cybercrime incidents rise dramatically, with daily reports surpassing 8,100, the police have proactively frozen over 5,000 suspicious bank accounts, recovering 7.
On Friday, residents of Patna flocked to fuel stations as petrol and diesel prices surged by Rs3 per litre across the country. This increase, surfacing after the state elections, compounds the financial challenges many citizens face amidst escalating LPG prices.
In a landmark decision, the Bihar Police is gearing up to enhance its workforce by adding 20,937 new roles, with a balanced approach of direct hiring and promotions from within. Championed by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, this initiative not only seeks to modernize law enforcement but also responds to the challenges posed by a growing population.
Patna is gearing up to unveil its rich tapestry of culinary traditions, moving beyond just well-known dishes with the launch of vibrant street food hotspots. The city's Municipal Corporation is spearheading a project to organize local vendors and celebrate the array of regional fare at three prominent sites.
In a remarkable display of academic excellence, Army Public School Danapur and St Dominic Savios High School have announced stellar results for CBSE Class XII. Students from science, humanities, and commerce have not only excelled but many have emerged as top scorers in their respective classes.
In an impressive display of academic prowess, eight esteemed faculty members from IIT Patna, including Director T N Singh, have secured their places in the World's Best Scientists Ranking for 2026.
An alarming clip from Chapra depicts a group of children playing with a live Gangetic dolphin, igniting a wave of indignation and worry for the vulnerable species. Conservationists emphasize that such encounters can be deadly for these sightless, echo-locating marine mammals, which are already suffering from environmental degradation.
The educational landscape in Bihar is poised for a transformative shift as 211 new degree colleges are slated to open under the ambitious 'Saat Nishchay-3' initiative, targeting the 2026-27 academic year. Minister Sanjay Singh Tiger is prioritizing the swift appointment of principals and teachers, as well as a streamlined process for student admissions and infrastructure development.
In a troubling incident linking sports and crime, a fierce IPL betting dispute escalated into violence in Naubatpur, Patna, injuring a 64-year-old man and his 13-year-old nephew from gunfire. The attack occurred when loan sharks, relentless in their pursuit of a Rs 10 lakh debt amassed by the man's son through predatory lending, resorted to gunfire.
A troubling incident unfolded at Musallahpur Haat in Patna, as a dispute over rent at a local lodge turned alarming. Chris, the owner's son, reportedly attacked three female students with a knife, leaving them with minor injuries. Thankfully, they are currently recuperating at PMCH.
IIM-Bodh Gaya's 2024-26 cohort has defied challenging economic conditions to achieve outstanding placement results, with 432 students landing jobs. Notably, the institute celebrated its inaugural international placements, each commanding an impressive annual package of Rs 45.63 lakh. The highest domestic offer reached Rs 30 lakh.
The litchi orchards of Bihar, celebrated for their exquisite flavor, now grapple with a looming danger: the invasive litchi stink bug. In response, a coalition of institutions has mobilized a task force dedicated to monitoring and devising strategic defenses.
In a shocking turn of events in Nawada district, Bihar, Kundan Kumar, the nephew of a BJP MLA, found himself at the center of a violent road rage incident. After his brother refused to let an SUV merge, Kundan was viciously attacked and robbed of his gold jewelry. He suffered severe injuries, prompting a police investigation into the ambush.
In a shocking midday heist, two masked individuals on a motorcycle swiftly snatched a gold necklace valued at around Rs 3 lakh from Rohit Kumar, the sibling of Jehanabad's MLA Rahul Kumar, in the bustling Kankarbagh area of Patna.
In a critical stance, Bihar Congress has voiced its discontent regarding the state government's slow progress on the Patna Metro Rail initiative. Currently, only a 3-km stretch, hastily launched prior to the elections, is operational. As fuel prices soar, the absence of an expanded metro service raises eyebrows.
At the busy Kishanganj railway station, a tragedy was narrowly averted when the swift response of the RPF saved a young womans life. Jyoti Kumari, overwhelmed by family troubles, had tied her dupatta to a foot overbridge. Quick-thinking officers intervened just in time, with her young daughter witnessing the harrowing scene.
In a notable turn of events, RJD's Sonu Kumar Rai has emerged victorious in the Ara-Buxar legislative council by-election, overcoming JD(U)'s Kanhaiya Prasad by a margin exceeding 350 votes. This triumph was met with jubilation from INDIA bloc supporters and enhances RJD's presence in the council to 16 members, marking a significant morale boost for the opposition coalition.
In the wake of the Vikramshila Setu slab's unfortunate collapse, the community kitchens run by the hardworking Jeevika Didis at Barari Ghat have become a lifeline for many. Offering nutritious options like Rs 50 thalis and Rs 20 litti-chokha, these kitchens are a beacon of hope for stranded travelers and daily laborers.
In a rallying call for rapid progress, Health Secretary Kumar Ravi spotlighted the urgent need to expedite the construction and quality checks for AIIMS Darbhanga and the revitalization of DMCH. With a hefty investment of Rs 2,007 crore, the AIIMS initiative aims to introduce a modern 720-bed facility and a full-fledged medical college by its target completion in April 2028.
In a proactive move against monsoon challenges, the Bihar government is initiating significant upgrades to its drainage systems to prevent waterlogging. Officials are under directives to swiftly eliminate blockages, finalize ongoing projects, and respond promptly to any flooding.
In an explosive turn of events in Bihar, the arrest of Santosh Kumar Jaiswal, who is purportedly linked to the NEET-UG paper leak, has set the political arena ablaze. As a former national secretary of the RJD, his arrest prompted the BJP to launch a barrage of accusations against the RJD, alleging their involvement in fostering corruption.
In a tragic turn of events in Gaya, the untimely death of a young bride, Geeta Kumari, has ignited a significant investigation into dowry-related violence. Married only a few short months, her family now raises grave concerns of foul play, alleging that her in-laws sought financial gains, including money and a motorcycle.
Known as the 'Golden Thief,' 42-year-old Subodh Singh from Nalanda has gained infamy for allegedly masterminding daring gold heists from behind bars at Purnia jail. The authorities are on high alert after a brazen robbery occurred in Telangana, suspected to be orchestrated with the help of illicit communication tools.
Late Wednesday night, Gaya airport sprang back to life to aid a vital medical emergency. An Indian Air Force air ambulance raced against time, transporting a critically ill soldier from the Officers Training Academy to a Delhi hospital for specialized care. Recalling airport staff under challenging conditions showcased the dire situation, as the soldier battled severe liver failure.
In a surprising turn of events, authorities in Buxar have discovered a stash of liquor bottles, both full and discarded, concealed within a guard post at the District Transport Office. This operation was prompted by a tip-off from intelligence sources.
In a tragic escalation of a family feud in Biharsharif, Nalanda, a 55-year-old woman named Jilvi Devi lost her life at the hands of her two elder sons. Reports indicate that as she slept beside her grandson, she was viciously attacked, suffering multiple stab wounds and a cut to her throat.
Come May 2026, the Malahi Pakri metro station in Patna will be ready to welcome commuters after a successful trial run. Nestled in the bustling Kankarbagh area, this elevated station is part of the transformative Blue Line and will culminate the essential 6.5 km priority corridor.
In a poignant return to his roots, former Bihar CM Nitish Kumar marked the 19th death anniversary of his beloved wife by visiting Kalyan Bigha, his ancestral village. Surrounded by heavy security, he took a moment to honor her memory with heartfelt prayers and blooming floral tributes at the memorial park dedicated to his family.
A shocking dowry murder case has emerged from Bhojpur, where a young woman's in-laws allegedly cremated her body after her suspicious death, bypassing police and her family. Authorities have registered a case against five family members, including her husband, and arrested the mother-in-law. Investigations are ongoing to determine if it was murder or suicide.
In a dramatic showdown near Anandpur village dam, police captured two infamous sharpshooters, Awadhesh Sao, aka Videshiya, and Pappu Rai, who are linked to a string of homicides. The duo, along with another suspect, were reportedly plotting a significant heist when law enforcement intervened, leaving them with leg injuries during the encounter.
A wedding in Ballia, Bihar, was called off after the bride rejected a saree presented by the groom's family, deeming it unsuitable. The disagreement escalated into a family clash, resulting in injuries to the bride's mother and brother. The groom's family subsequently left without the marriage taking place.
Bihar's government has adopted an ambitious Rs 72,901 crore borrowing strategy dedicated to enhancing development and streamlining administrative functions. This includes a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with Singapore's GFTN to foster an AI ecosystem, set to empower thousands through training and bolster the startup landscape.

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