The Times of India News

Bihar Saras Mela in Patna is a resounding success, drawing over 80,000 visitors and generating Rs 1.5 crore in sales within two days. The event empowers women from vulnerable groups, showcasing handicrafts and cuisine from 209 Jeevika Didis and 76 entrepreneurs from across India. Inspiring stories of financial independence emerge from artisans like Krishna Devi and Naocha.

Patna's JP Ganga Path is set for a grand transformation into an eco-friendly urban oasis. The ambitious Samagra Udyan project will feature a butterfly park, botanical gardens, walking and cycling tracks, food courts, and open gyms.

Patna authorities seized four sand-laden trucks in Danapur and Naubatpur, imposing a Rs 4.5 lakh penalty. This action follows recent crackdowns, including the seizure of nine tractors and 28 tractors in earlier drives, with substantial fines levied. The district administration is intensifying efforts, utilizing advanced technology and intelligence to combat illegal mining and transportation.

Bihar minister Nitin Nabin's appointment as BJP national working president has garnered widespread praise from top leaders, including PM Modi and CM Nitish Kumar. Nabin, a dedicated and experienced leader, is expected to significantly contribute to the party's growth. His elevation is seen as a proud moment for Bihar, with many anticipating his future leadership role within the BJP.

The NDA government has strongly criticized the Congress's rally against alleged vote theft, calling it a diversionary tactic. Leaders stated the intensive revision of electoral rolls aims to purify voter lists, not manipulate outcomes. They urged the Congress to introspect its declining electoral fortunes in its former strongholds, questioning its relevance in key states.

Patna High Court is pushing for faster justice in criminal cases across Bihar. Subordinate courts are now mandated to examine evidence daily once witness testimony begins and set clear timelines for hearings. Adjournments will be restricted, even for lawyer or accused absence, unless in exceptional, documented circumstances, aiming to expedite trials.

Surinamese-born scholar Chan Choenni, a descendant of indentured labourers, visited a Madhubani memorial honouring his ancestor, Thakur Kishundayal Singh Harnandan Singh. This pilgrimage, part of the Girmitiyalogy Lectures, highlights the often-forgotten history of Indian indentured workers. The newly operational Global Girmitiya Lineage Archive Searching Center aims to reconnect families worldwide, restoring lost identities and acknowledging their sacrifices.

The Danapur Cantt-Maner-Bihta road widening project faces delays due to trees and homes along the route. Initially planned as a four-lane expansion, the project's width is being revised. Approved funds of Rs 182 crore are in place, with a departmental committee meeting in December to finalize the new plan. Completion is anticipated by 2027, promising better connectivity.

A woman's train journey turned terrifying at Katihar Junction when 30-40 men illegally boarded her reserved coach. Fearing for her safety, she locked herself in the toilet, sending an SOS. Railway Protection Force personnel swiftly intervened, clearing the unauthorized passengers and escorting her back. Vigilance has since been increased.

In her first official engagement, District Magistrate Sahila toured the Chausa Thermal Power Plant, highlighting the importance of creating job opportunities for local youth and tackling environmental issues. She instructed the management to enhance dust suppression strategies, initiate tree planting initiatives, and revise disaster response plans.

Bihar's new higher education department is set to boost research institutions and language academies with a dedicated budget. The focus is on improving university and technical education quality, fostering research, and ensuring job-oriented learning for youth.

In a bold move to enhance governance efficiency, the Bihar government has executed a sweeping administrative reshuffle, relocating 36 Indian Administrative Service officers to pivotal departments. This strategic realignment focuses on key sectors such as education, planning, and development, with officers stepping into new secretarial and director roles.

In a bold move, Bihar's Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha has put his foot down against the age-old practice of forwarding landholder grievances up the bureaucratic ladder. He emphasized the need for immediate resolution at the local level, aspiring for solutions within just two weeks.