The Times of India

Fifteen patients were safely evacuated from a nursing home in Patna's Kankarbagh area after a fire erupted due to a short circuit. Smoke filled patient rooms, causing breathing distress. Firefighters swiftly responded, rescuing all individuals. While no lives were lost, the blaze caused substantial damage to the facility and its equipment. An investigation into the incident is underway.

During a recent visit to the BIPARD Skill Park, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar highlighted the state's dedication to empowering its youth through various skill development initiatives. His inspection included a thorough review of the diverse training programs and living arrangements provided, fostering motivation among the trainees.

During a recent field visit, Patna's Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena took a close look at various nala projects, pressing for the immediate development of micro-plans to accelerate work hindered by encroachments.

In a remarkable financial feat, the Patna Municipal Corporation has amassed an impressive 125 crore in property tax revenue for the fiscal year 2025-26, surpassing its goal by 9 crore. This achievement can largely be attributed to stringent enforcement measures and a highly successful one-time settlement initiative, which offered complete waivers on interest and penalties.

In a commendable display of fiscal prowess, Bihar's prohibition and excise department has successfully amassed over Rs 8,403 crore in revenue for the fiscal year 2025-26, outpacing its target by an impressive 10%. This achievement is particularly striking given the 9% drop in document registrations, yet it highlights a notable increase in income per document.

In a harrowing turn of events, Dr. Abhishek Kumar Singh, a respected paediatrician in Patna, has become the target of an extortion scheme, with a demand of Rs10 lakh laid upon him. The chilling threat was made by a self-proclaimed 'strongman' on March 30, who warned of deadly consequences. Dr.

In a surprising turn of events at Patna University, an FIR has been filed against six students, including the PUSU president Shantanu Shekhar, for causing a disruption during Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's event. The students voiced their grievances regarding their exclusion from the invitation list and the omission of the Vice Chancellor's name from the foundation stone.

In a remarkable achievement, Bihar's power distribution firms have reached a staggering Rs 19,035 crore in revenue for FY 2025-26, showcasing a substantial 12% growth. This accomplishment is largely due to their focus on citizen-friendly initiatives, enhanced customer service, and the diligent payment habits of residents.

In the fiscal year 2025-26, Bihar's mines department reported a revenue collection of Rs 3,592.60 crore, marking a modest rise despite challenges like abandoned sand ghats and payment delays. Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha commended the department's consistent revenue growth and cautioned companies that giving up leases could jeopardize their chances in future tenders.

In an effort to enhance energy access, Patna's District Magistrate has called on officials to ramp up the installation of piped natural gas (PNG) connections. GAIL is being asked to increase the number of contractors and field teams to meet the rising demand.

A heartbreaking incident unfolded on the Ganga river close to Buxar when a boat transporting ten mustard harvesters capsized. Quick-thinking villagers and local swimmers managed to rescue nine of the individuals, but a 12-year-old girl is still unaccounted for. The vessel, which was overloaded beyond its intended capacity, could not withstand the fierce river currents.

In Patna, the local government is grappling with a critical shortage of LPG cylinders, leaving more than 150,000 consumers in a bind. Daily distributions are failing to meet the soaring demand, impacting students in hostels and small businesses alike.

Police in Bettiah have arrested two individuals in connection with a suspected honor killing from last year. A minor girl and her partner were allegedly murdered by her father and associates, with the crime staged as a suicide to avoid social shame. The couple's relationship was reportedly opposed due to fears of societal stigma.

In a heartbreaking incident at a temple in Bihar, nine lives were tragically lost, primarily women, during the early morning prayers. The surge of devotees led to an overwhelming scene where suffocation and trampling injuries became inevitable. Emergency medical teams swiftly arrived on the scene, transporting numerous injured individuals to hospitals, with some reportedly in critical condition.

In an interesting turn of events, Bihar Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar has established 19 House committees for the 2026-27 session, designating both chairpersons and members. Among the notable appointments are Congress MLAs Manohar Prasad Singh and Faisal Rehman, who previously chose to abstain from the Rajya Sabha voting, now stepping into leadership roles within the committees.

Madhubani district administration has dispelled rumours of fuel shortages, assuring citizens that supplies are normal. Residents are urged to avoid panic buying and hoarding, with authorities highlighting legal repercussions for improper fuel handling. The advisory emphasizes relying on official information and maintaining calm, while promising continuous monitoring of distribution to ensure smooth operations.

At Nalanda University, President Murmu's recent convocation beautifully revives the legacy of ancient academia. Echoing the historical 'dikshant samaroh,' these ceremonies showcase lively debates and honor the true spirit of scholarship. Once, Nalanda attracted intellectuals from far and wide, celebrating enlightenment over mere diplomasan inspiring reminder that wisdom transcends formalities.

In a bold move, Bihar Police's Economic Offences Unit targeted two high-ranking officials, Gautam Kumar, the SDPO of Kishanganj, and Vaibhav Kumar, a DRDA officer in Saharsa, amid suspicions of unexplained wealth.

A woman in Sasaram allegedly died by suicide with her two young children after consuming poison, reportedly unable to bear the trauma of her husband's recent murder and threats from the accused. Her husband was lynched over a land dispute. While four suspects are arrested, the family feared the remaining accused. The children are critically ill.

District officials in Buxar reviewed crisis management, focusing on LPG cylinder availability and preventing black marketing. Magistrate Sahila ordered inspections of gas agencies to ensure sufficient stock and directed officials to investigate hoarding complaints. Police will compile a database of returning migrant workers. Agencies must complete e-KYC and address delivery discrepancies.

In a heartfelt response to the tragic stampede at the Nalanda temple that claimed nine lives, Bihar's opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav and Congress head Rajesh Ram expressed their condolences. Both politicians held the administration accountable for this heartbreaking incident, calling for a thorough investigation and urging the government to ensure adequate healthcare for those injured.

During her address at the Nalanda University convocation, President Murmu inspired graduates to harness their knowledge for the betterment of humanity. She praised the universitys unique international dynamics and its promise as a beacon of global education.

Patna hosted the 'Run for Ganga Marathon 2026' on JP Ganga Path, drawing 500 participants to champion river cleanliness and conservation. Organized by PMC and Sanatani Ganga Foundation, the event saw Vishal Chauhan clinch the marathon title. The initiative aimed to boost public engagement in sanitation, emphasizing environmental protection as a shared duty.

A tragic incident at the Sheetla Mata Temple in Biharsharif resulted in the loss of nine lives, including eight women, during a crowded prayer ceremony. The chaotic scene unfolded despite ongoing security measures for President Murmu's visit. In response to the heartfelt sorrow, Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Kumar have pledged financial assistance to the victims' families.

In an exciting development for travelers, Railways is gearing up to introduce two new Amrit Bharat Express trains that will run weekly from Ahmedabad to Patna and Pune to Danapur. With 22 comfortable coaches, these trains are designed to provide a superior travel experience while alleviating the rush on crowded routes.

A tragic stampede unfolded at the Sheetla Mata Temple in Biharsharif, resulting in nine fatalities and numerous injuries. Eyewitness accounts point to a lack of crowd management and police vigilance during a bustling morning prayer. As investigations commence, officials have pledged financial support for the families affected by this heartbreaking event.

In a significant legal development, the Patna High Court has approved anticipatory bail for Rajveer and Karamveer Singh, who are facing allegations as co-accused in the murder case of Dularchand Yadav. Justice Prabhat Kumar Singh highlighted that the accusations against them stemmed from vague claims and political rivalry.

Tragedy struck Nalanda's Maghra area as a stampede at Mata Sheetalashtami Temple claimed eight lives and injured several devotees. The incident occurred during a large religious gathering, causing panic. Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu is set to grace Nalanda University's convocation in Rajgir, marking her first visit as President to the institution.

Russian Grandmaster Petr Kiriakov engaged 36 young chess players in Patna. This event followed his second-place finish in the Bihar Open FIDE Rated Chess Tournament. Three young players secured draws against the Grandmaster. The event highlighted the growing chess talent in Bihar. Kiriakov expressed his intent to return next year for the top prize.

In a vital move to address public health and environmental concerns, the Patna High Court has called upon Bihar's pollution control board and health department to submit a comprehensive report on the alarming gap between biomedical waste generation and its treatment. The court underscores the urgency for immediate tender allocations to set up crucial treatment facilities in six districts.

In Bihar, the political scene is abuzz following Nitish Kumar's resignation from the legislative council, sparking intense speculation around who will step into the Chief Minister role next. With the BJP poised to assert its influence, analysts warn of a potentially intricate leadership shift.

The resignation of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar from the legislative council has sent shockwaves through Bihar's political arena. Leaders from JD(U) and NDA have been vocal in their sorrow, reminiscing about Kumar's pivotal role in shaping the states future. His exit is profoundly felt, with many acknowledging the innovative strategies and supportive mentorship he brought to governance.

The Congress leadership has officially sanctioned the appointment of 53 district unit presidents in Bihar, a strategic move designed to enhance the party's organizational effectiveness. This initiative is part of the recently completed district-level restructuring aligned with the national Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan initiative.

In a significant move for higher education in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unveiled the new academic and administrative buildings at Patna University, representing an investment of Rs 147 crore. These state-of-the-art facilities are set to reform the educational landscape and streamline university operations.