The Times of India

What began as a festive wedding in Buxar descended into chaos when gunshots rang out during the exchange-of-garlands ceremony. The bride, 18-year-old Aarti Kumari, was hit by a bullet on stage, in what authorities believe was a targeted attack by a neighbour nursing unreciprocated feelings. Quickly shifted to Varanasi for treatment, she has since been declared out of danger.

Police said the victim, Saurabh Kumar, was called out of his home by the accused and later gunned down. One of his friends has been taken into custody for questioning

In a push to make its roads safer, Bihar has announced a large-scale initiative to paint close to 14,000 new zebra crossings by April 30. These will be concentrated around accident-prone stretches, schools, and busy marketplaces, with the goal of sharply cutting pedestrian deaths. Officials say the campaign will also stress respect for pedestrian rights and stricter compliance from drivers.

The initiative also envisages a broader religious and cultural revival programme, with a focus on households and youths in the 18-25 age group

Union home minister Amit Shah visited Kishanganj to review security along the India-Nepal border. He met with officials to enhance monitoring systems, intelligence sharing and coordination between central forces and state administration. Shah also discussed organizational strategy with BJP leaders, and will visit Araria to inaugurate a border outpost and assess the Vibrant Villages Programme.

Magadh University is set to embark on its inaugural archaeological excavation at Dubba, an area known for its layered Buddhist and Brahmanical heritage. Scheduled to commence in March, the project will explore potential monasteries, stupas, and temple complexes while immersing students in hands-on archaeological fieldwork.

India will conduct its next full census in 2027, starting with a house listing and building enumeration drive from May 2 to May 31, 2026. Citizens will have the option to complete their details online through a self-enumeration portal between April 17 and May 1, 2026, before the main population count takes place from February 2 to February 28, 2027.

An 18-year-old bride was shot during her varmala ceremony in Buxar district by a masked assailant. The victim, Aarti Kumari, identified her alleged attacker as a neighbor with whom she had a one-sided relationship. She is currently on a ventilator in critical condition in Varanasi.

Grief engulfed Manika village as the mortal remains of Dr. Vikas Kumar Gupta, who died in an air ambulance crash in Jharkhand, were brought home. The beloved Ranchi Sadar Hospital doctor, lauded by the Prime Minister for his dedicated Covid-19 service, received heartfelt tributes from villagers and colleagues alike.

Fierce protests by opposition members over police handling of agitating chowkidars and dafadars stalled proceedings in the Bihar Assembly. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar hit back, projecting the NDA as united and accusing rivals of ignoring such issues when they were in power. Ministers promised to examine the protesters demands carefully, stressing that demonstrations must remain non-violent.

Parliamentarians from Bihar across JD(U), BJP, and RJD have been chosen to chair Parliamentary Friendship Groups with representatives from 60 countries. Key figures such as Sanjay Kumar Jha, Ravi Shankar Prasad, and Prem Chand Gupta will lead Indian delegations to Germany, Israel, and Kenya, strengthening diplomatic outreach and promoting legislative collaboration on global issues.

Subordinate court staff across Bihar are poised for major service improvements after a Patna High Court committee cleared several long-pending demands. The committee has endorsed an extra annual increment for a large segment of employees, along with a structured plan for cadre restructuring and promotions.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar attended the Police Week parade and prize distribution ceremony, where he applauded the dedication of police personnel and the cooperation of local residents. Later, he traveled to Darbhanga to pay his respects at the shradh ceremony for the late mother of BJP state president Sanjay Saraogi, joining several prominent leaders.

In response to a series of tragic child fatalities, the Patna Municipal Corporation has begun an intensive citywide campaign to repair and secure damaged manholes. Commissioner Yashpal Meena has directed all wards to act without delay, prioritizing the replacement of broken covers. The programme focuses on upgrading thousands of manholes and catchpits with sturdy precast lids designed for long-term safety.

Patna Smart City Limited will soon introduce a digital booking system for the new crematorium at Bans Ghat, with inauguration targeted within a month. Through a WhatsApp chatbot, dedicated helpline, online portal, and mobile app, the system aims to make arrangements simpler and more dignified for bereaved families, removing physical queues and ensuring transparent, timely services for all users.

Lawmakers across party lines in Bihar are pushing for a cashless medical treatment system for legislators and state employees, citing issues with the current reimbursement process. Delays, deductions, and incomplete reimbursements have prompted calls for a streamlined, cashless approach. The health minister assured that the government is actively discussing the matter with the finance department to implement such a system.

Bihar mandates High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) for all vehicles to enhance identification and road safety. While many vehicles now have HSRP, their details aren't updated on the VAHAN portal, causing confusion. Owners receiving reminders after installation should visit their District Transport Officer for verification and data update to prevent future issues.

Bihar government is banning meat and fish sales near schools, temples, and busy spots. This move aims to protect public health and prevent negative influences on children. Authorities are cracking down on unlicensed and unhygienic shops. Municipal bodies must identify and act against these outlets. Strict adherence to licensing and hygiene rules will be enforced.