BJP's 529 Crore Poll Spending Revealed; Bengal Alone Accounted For 287 Crore, EC Data Shows
BJP spent 529 crore across five Assembly elections held in April 2026, with West Bengal accounting for 287 crore, according to expenditure statements filed with the Election Commission. The party also reported spending 83 crore in Kerala, 96 crore in Assam, 52 crore in Tamil Nadu and 12 crore in Puducherry. Congress reported 249 crore in total spending, while CPM reported 39 crore. BJP's central headquarters received 1,473 crore during the election period, while its balance rose to 7,627 crore. Congress' combined balance across five state units fell to 103 crore.
Stock markets turn volatile as oil prices, rising bond yields weigh on sentiments
Mumbai, Sep 25 (PTI) Market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty faced volatile trends after rebounding in early trade on Friday as elevated crude oil prices, high US bond yields and selling in IT stocks weighed on investors sentiment. After sharp losses in the previous session, the 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 86 points to 73,672.98 in early trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty was up 18.80 points to 23,080.45. However, the BSE benchmark later quoted 12.95 points down at 73,568.22, and the Nifty dipped 16.75 points to trade at 23,049.40. Among the 30 Sensex firms, Larsen & Toubro, Axis Bank, Mahindra &
Rupee rises 14 paise to 95.85 against US dollar in early trade
Mumbai, Sep 25 (PTI) The rupee gained 14 paise 95.85 against the US dollar in early trade on Friday amid a positive trend in domestic equities and remained above the key psychological barrier of 96 per dollar. Forex traders said persistent dollar demand from domestic importers in particular the oil companies, elevated crude oil prices, and broad-based strength in the US dollar index following hawkish Federal Reserve rate signals weighing on the local unit. However, the Reserve Bank of India is likely to intervene to smooth out volatility in the currency market, they said. At the interbank foreign exchange market,
Polypharmacy can take a toll on older peoples
London, Sep 25 (Conversation) Around 8 million people in the UK take five or more medications each day (known as polypharmacy), with a further 2 million people taking ten or more prescription drugs daily. The majority of people who take multiple medications each day are aged over 65. Taking multiple prescription drugs is not necessarily a problem. But it can become problematic when a medicine is overprescribed. This means someone is taking a drug thats no longer appropriate for a their circumstances, does not deliver the intended benefit, conflicts with their wishes or when a better non-medicine option is available.
Assam CM Himanta backs CEC, calls charges against Gyanesh Kumar 'political campaign'
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has dismissed allegations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar as political campaigns. He emphasized that the Election Commission operates based on consensus or majority opinion among its members. Recent reports indicated internal disagreements among election commissioners regarding certain decisions. The Election Commission defended itself by stating that differing views are standard in institutional deliberations.
Devastating Fire in Bokakhat, Assam Destroys Five Businesses
A severe fire in Bokakhat, Assam, has destroyed five businesses, resulting in significant losses estimated at over 70 lakh. Devastating Fire in Bokakhat, Assam Destroys Five Businesses
Langpih public meeting debunks Assam channel
Shillong, Sep 24: Hundreds of residents of the disputed Langpih sector have unanimously resolved to remain with Meghalaya, rejecting a claim by an Assam news channel that 95 per cent of people in the area want to go to Assam after boundary settlement. The resolution was taken at a public meeting called by village leaders [] The post Langpih public meeting debunks Assam channels 95% claim first appeared on Highland Post .
Inputs from ASHAs to shape AI-enabled training platform for cervical cancer screening in Assam
About 110 Accredited Social Health Activists in Barak Valley collaborated with doctors, programmers, and researchers to help design the digital tools
MPSC held in 3rd DGAR Hockey Cup
Continuing the high spirited momentum of the ongoing tournament, day six of the 3rd Director General Assam Rifles Hockey Cup 2026 witnessed four high octane encounters at Khuman Lampak Hockey Stadium The men
Assam Celebrates Zero Rhino Poaching Incidents Over Three Years
Assams Chief Minister claims zero incidents of rhino poaching in three years, highlighting significant conservation achievements in the state. Assam Celebrates Zero Rhino Poaching Incidents Over Three Years
Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple receives eight-year-old elephant Hiralal from Assam
Four Tangkhul civilians killed in Kamjong attack; Naga body calls 24-hour shutdown
New Tupi stands guard over its wild with camera-trap survey
NEIGRIHMS provides hands-on emergency response training
Theft concern: Lawngtlai bans illegal vehicle sales to Myanmar
Silchar residents block Central Road, seek repair
SIR draft roll flags 24,178 uncollectable electors in Kohima dist
Assam Cabinet clears rules for compulsory registration of Muslim marriages
Nagaland child rights panel flags inadequate infra for child care
Dibrugarh takes maternal healthcare to the last mile, records zero home births for 2nd straight year
Car crashes into streetlight pole & catches fire in Nagaon; 3 dead, 2 injured
Over 1.14L Ayushman cards in Nagaland yet to be linked with Aadhaar
Himanta defends Gyanesh Kumar amid ECI dissent row
Assams startup ecosystem gains momentum; 52.6% founded by women: IIMCIP Report
Mizoram civil society organisation lifts border trade embargo with Rakhine & Chin states
NHRC special rapporteur calls for stronger mental health support
TET-qualified candidates protest in Agartala, demand immediate jobs
ANSUs 12-hour shutdown brings Itanagar to a standstill
ZPM veteran Bualhranga quits from partys Val Upa Council
Caught in kitchen garden net, rescued tiger cub returned to the wild in Assam
The three-month-old cub could have wandered into the Assam village after getting separated from its mother because of strong river currents, officials said
Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan died after a prolonged battle with cancer
Assam Cabinet approves Rules for compulsory Muslim marriage registration
Rules operationalise registration framework stipulated under 2024 law that replaced colonial-era legislation; new law sets age requirements for marriage, replaces licensed qazis with government registrars
Assam cabinet approves Rs 1,500 Orunodoi payment and 20% tea garden bonus for Durga Puja
The News Mill
Assam's Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah emphasized the role of human resources in driving the state's industrialization efforts. The government is aiming to create quality employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for the youth in Assam. Major investments are being made in sectors such as semiconductors, electronics, and food processing to foster economic growth. Assam's industrial strategy includes enhancing infrastructure and facilitating investment processes to boost development.
Assam Cabinet approves compulsory registration rules for Muslim marriages
The Assam Cabinet has approved the compulsory registration of Muslim marriages and divorces to uphold individual rights. This legislation aims to prevent child marriages by enforcing minimum age requirements for marriage. Furthermore, it addresses issues like polygamy and ensures consent in marriage agreements. The government has also extended Aadhaar enrollment for women SHG members until March 2027 for certain communities.
Cholesterol control gets personalized
Washington, September 24, 2026 (Conversation) At least a quarter of Americans suffer from high levels of cholesterol or fatty acids in their bloodstream, a condition called dyslipidemia. Uncontrolled cholesterol levels increase the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, or ASCVD: a group of diseases that result from the buildup of plaque in the blood vessels, preventing blood from traveling smoothly to vital organs. This condition can lead to heart attack and stroke. As a cardiologist with expertise in sports and exercise science, I routinely take care of patients who are interested in making healthy lifestyle choices to control their cholesterol levels,
Google plans first test of AI chips in space under Project Suncatcher
Sept 24 (Reuters) Alphabets Google said on Thursday it will launch a prototype satellite next week in its first in-orbit test of Project Suncatcher, a research effort to explore whether space could potentially host large-scale AI computing infrastructure. Companies including SpaceX and Starcloud are pursuing plans to deploy data centers in low Earth orbit, aiming to harness near-continuous sunlight to power energy-intensive AI computing and sidestep terrestrial constraints on electricity supplies. The Misinformation Monitor newsletter rounds up international misinformation narratives, with a Real or Fake? quiz in every edition. Sign up here. The new mission, scheduled to fly on
Assam raises Orunodoi payout to Rs 1,500 for October as Durga Puja gift
Assam Cabinet has announced a special Durga Puja holiday on October 17, 2026, in addition to existing holidays. The government will provide Rs 1500 to Orunodoi beneficiaries this October as a festival gift. A total investment of Rs 11,000 crore by JK Lakshmi Cement Limited is approved to establish manufacturing units. Elections for Mising Autonomous Council and Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council are scheduled for November 2026.
Assam Cabinet approves Rs 11,000 crore investment in JK Lakshmi Cement
The News Mill
Assam Cabinet Approves Rules For Compulsory Registration Of Muslim Marriages
Guwahati, Sep 24: The Assam Cabinet has approved rules making the registration of Muslim marriages compulsory across the state, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Thursday. Speaking to reporters after chairing the Cabinet meeting, Sarma said the new framework, titled Assam Muslim Marriage Registration (Compulsory) Rules, 2026, will establish a uniform procedure to ensure... The post Assam Cabinet Approves Rules For Compulsory Registration Of Muslim Marriages first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam Records Zero Rhino Poaching Cases For Three Years: Himanta Biswa Sarma
Guwahati, Sep 24: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the state has achieved a remarkable milestone by recording zero rhinoceros poaching cases over the past three years. He described this as a unique achievement and credited the success to the collective efforts of all stakeholders engaged in conservation Sarma contrasted the current situation... The post Assam Records Zero Rhino Poaching Cases For Three Years: Himanta Biswa Sarma first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam approves rules for compulsory registration of Muslim marriages
The Assam Cabinet on Thursday approved rules for compulsory registration of Muslim marriages in the state, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said. The Cabinet also decided to provide a one-time exemption to women self-help group (SHG) members to complete their Aadhaar enrolment till March 31, 2027. Addressing a press conference after chairing the Cabinet meeting, Sarma said, The 'Assam Muslim Marriage Registration (Compulsory) Rules, 2026' to establish a uniform procedural framework for mandatory registration across the state has been approved. The rules have been framed under Section 25 of the Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriage and Divorces Act, 2024. He said an earlier government decision had barred 'kazis' from registering Muslim marriages, but the alternative forum for registration was not mentioned. From now on, Muslim marriages will be registered by registrars. If the number of applications is more, then some panchayat-level officials could be authorised to
Assam Finance Minister highlights human resource as key for industrial growth
The News Mill
Compulsory registration of Muslim marriages, says Assam CM
Guwahati: The Assam Cabinet on Thursday, September 24, approved rules for compulsory registration of Muslim marriages in the state, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said. Addressing a press conference after chairing the Cabinet meeting, Sarma said, The Assam Muslim Marriage Registration (Compulsory) Rules, 2026 to establish a uniform procedural framework for mandatory registration across the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Judge orders White House to restore access to CNN, MS NOW and Politico
NEW YORK, September 24, 2026 (AP) A federal judge temporarily blocked President Donald Trumps ban of three news outlets from the White House grounds, ordering early Thursday that CNN, MS NOW and Politico must have their access restored. The ruling hands the outlets at least a temporary reprieve in what has been an extraordinary showdown between Trump and media outlets whose coverage he dislikes. Trump first announced he was banning the outlets Friday, assailing what he called fake news, and only later arguing that their reporting was a risk to national security. The outlets argued in a joint lawsuit
CEC Can't Take Decisions Unilaterally, Opposition, 'Dimagi Naxals' Targeting Him: Himanta Sarma
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday asserted that the chief election commissioner can't take decisions without consulting election commissioners, alleging that the CEC was being targeted as part of a political campaign, which shows the frustration of the Opposition and 'dimagi' (intellectual) Naxals.
BJP spent more in Bengal poll than Cong did in 5 state polls
The BJP spent Rs 286.99 crore on the West Bengal elections, surpassing the Congress's total expenditure of Rs 248.55 crore across five states and a Union territory. The report details spending by major parties in West Bengal, Kerala, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, highlighting significant financial disparities and campaign outlays.
Assam CM Announces Festive Bonanza For 40 lakh Orunodoi Beneficiaries
The CM also announced bonus for tea garden workers, holiday for govt employees
Assam's startup ecosystem sees wider participation: Survey
The startup ecosystem of Assam saw around 50% of the ventures led by women founders
Rupee plunges 23 paise to 95.96 against US dollar amid spike in crude oil
Mumbai, Sep 24 (PTI) The rupee weakened by 23 paise to settle at 95.96 (provisional) against the US dollar on Thursday, dragged by a surge in crude oil prices and a strong greenback amid geopolitical uncertainties. According to forex traders, the domestic currency was also weighed down by heavy selling in domestic equity markets as investors moved toward risk aversion, adding strength to the dollar, even as rising inflation concerns pushed US bond yields higher. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 95.84 and touched the intraday low of 95.98 against the American currency. The unit finally
Assam Govt Declares 20% Puja Bonus For ATCL Tea Garden Workers
Guwahati, Sep 24: The Assam government on Thursday announced a 20 percent Durga Puja bonus for workers employed in tea gardens under the state-owned Assam Tea Corporation Limited (ATCL). The decision brings the bonus in line with the amount already declared by more than 500 private garden managements across the state. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa... The post Assam Govt Declares 20% Puja Bonus For ATCL Tea Garden Workers first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam Police Arrest Youth Allegedly Heading to Join ULFA-I
A young man was arrested in Assam for allegedly attempting to join the banned ULFA-I group. Authorities are investigating his connections. Assam Police Arrest Youth Allegedly Heading to Join ULFA-I
Targeting CEC Shows Opposition
Guwahati, Sep 24: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday defended Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar amid the ongoing debate over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, saying criticism directed at the CEC reflected the frustration of the Opposition and branding its critics as Dimagi Naxals. Speaking at a press conference,... The post Targeting CEC Shows Oppositions Frustration, Says Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma first appeared on Northeast Today .
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas Explained: Who Can Apply And How To Get Admission
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya: There are 13 JNVs in Uttarakhand, 30 in Assam, 15 in Telangana, 11 in Nagaland, and four in Sikkim.
Assam Rifles Seized Cigarettes, Heroin Worth
Aizawl, Sep 24: The Assam Rifles, in two separate joint operations in Mizorams Champhai district, seized smuggled cigarettes and heroin worth a combined 1.82 crore and apprehended two individuals. In the first operation, conducted with the Legal Metrology Department at Hmunhmeltha on September 22, the Assam Rifles recovered 35 cases of illegal foreign-origin cigarettes valued... The post Assam Rifles Seized Cigarettes, Heroin Worth 1.82 Crore In Mizoram first appeared on Northeast Today .
'GMC vision enjoys support of PM Modi & Assam'; Bhutan PM pitches Gelephu Mindfulness City at UNGA
Assam tiger cub rescued from fishing net, forest teams try to reunite it with mother
BJP spent more in Bengal than Congress did across five state polls: EC filings
Bengal accounted for more than half of the BJP's 529.38-crore expenditure on the five elections, the other four being in Assam, Keralam, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry; the party spent 217.16 crore on general campaigning in Bengal and 69.83 crore on candidates.
BJP spent more in Bengal than Congress did across five state polls: Election Commision filings
According to the Election Commission's expenditure statements, BJP spent 286.99 crore on the West Bengal elections alone, which is than the Congress' expenditure across four states and a Union territory that went to polls earlier this year. Bengal accounted for more than half of the BJP's Rs 529.38-crore expenditure on the five elections with the other four being in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The party also reported spending Rs 54.93 crore on general campaigning in Kerala and Rs 27.74 crore on candidates as well as spending Rs 96.27 crore in Assam, Rs 51.56 crore in Tamil Nadu and Rs 11.90 crore in Puducherry. BJP's central headquarters received Rs 1,472.8 crore during the election period.
Assam forms two-member ministerial panel to advance Dimasa language protection
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Sep 24 (IANS) The Assam government has constituted a two-member Group of Ministers to examine recommendations concerning the protection, promotion and development of the Dimasa language, officials said on Thursday. The move is part of the implementation of commitments made under the 2023 Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) signed between the Assam government, the Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA) and the Dimasa Peoples Supreme Council (DPSC). According to an official order, the Group of Ministers will examine the report submitted by a committee constituted to look into issues related to the Dimasa language, as provided under Clause 5.1 of the 2023 settlement agreement. The two-member panel comprises Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu and Hill Areas Minister Krishnendu Paul. The ministers have been tasked with studying the recommendations contained in the committee report and examining various aspects related to the preservation, promotion and development of the Dimasa language. After examining the report, the Group of Ministers will submit its recommendations to the state government for further necessary action. The official order said the panel had been constituted specifically to examine the Report of the Committee constituted in connection with matters relating to Protection, Promotion and Development of the Dimasa Language, in accordance with the provisions of Clause 5.1 of the 2023 MoS. The Hill Areas Department has been directed to provide the required secretarial support to the ministerial group during its deliberations and examination of the committee's recommendations. The development comes as part of the implementation of the settlement reached in 2023 with the DNLA and DPSC, aimed at addressing various issues concerning the Dimasa community. The Dimasa language is spoken primarily by the Dimasa community in Assam's hill districts and adjoining areas. Issues concerning the preservation and development of indigenous languages have remained an important component of efforts to strengthen cultural and linguistic identity in the region. The ministerial panel is expected to examine the recommendations in detail before placing its views before the state government, which will take further decisions on the matter.
Wayanad (Keralam) [India], September 24 (ANI): Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday said that if any illegal acts were committed in the electoral roll revision process, those responsible, including the CEC Gyanesh Kumar, should face criminal prosecution, as she stepped up her attack over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Speaking to reporters in Kalpetta, Priyanka Gandhi said any attempt to interfere with the democratic process of elections was a serious offence against the Constitution and the country. My response is very, very clear. Anybody who plays around with the democratic process of our elections is committing
Three burnt alive, two critical as vehicle hits pole in Assam's Nagaon
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Sep 24 (IANS) Three people were burnt to death, and two others suffered critical injuries after the vehicle they were travelling in caught fire following a collision with a streetlight pole in Assams Nagaon district, police said on Thursday. The accident occurred at Kenapatty near Puranigudam locality when the vehicle bearing registration number AR 01 W 5107 was travelling towards Guwahati from Arunachal Pradesh. According to preliminary information, the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a streetlight pole installed in the middle of the road. The impact was followed by a fire that quickly engulfed the vehicle. Three occupants were trapped inside and could not escape the burning vehicle. They died at the spot after sustaining severe burn injuries. Two others, identified as Vikas Kumar and Sonu Kumar, were seriously injured in the accident. They were initially rushed for medical treatment before being shifted to Guwahati, where their condition was reported to be critical. Officials said the occupants were reportedly from Bihar and were travelling towards Guwahati when the accident took place. Preliminary information suggested that the three deceased persons had boarded the vehicle midway through the journey. Officials were working to establish their identities and ascertain the exact circumstances in which they had joined the journey. Police said the vehicle was owned by Vikas Kumar, while Sonu Kumar was reportedly driving at the time of the accident. The crash triggered panic in the area, with local residents and emergency personnel rushing to the spot after the vehicle caught fire. Police and other authorities have begun an investigation to determine the precise sequence of events leading to the accident. Investigators are also examining whether speeding, loss of control, road conditions or any other factor contributed to the crash. The bodies of the deceased were recovered from the vehicle, and further legal procedures are being carried out. Officials said more details, including the identities of the three deceased persons and the exact cause of the fire, would be known as the investigation progresses.
Rupee falls 11 paise to 95.84 against US dollar in early trade
Mumbai, Sep 24 (PTI) The rupee stayed weak, sliding 11 paise to 95.84 against the US dollar in early trade on Thursday, as geopolitical uncertainties led to a sharp surge in crude oil prices and pushed US bond yields as well as the greenback higher. Forex traders said the inflow of foreign capital failed to support the local currency due to the selling pressure in the domestic equity market and a strengthening American currency. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 95.84 against the American currency and stayed under pressure, registering a loss of 11 paise from
New Begonia neelamorum species discovered in Arunachal, Assam botanist leads research
Guwahati: A botanist from Assam is part of a research team that has discovered and formally described a new species of Begonia from a remote river valley in Arunachal Pradesh, adding to the Northeasts growing record of plant diversity. The newly identified species, Begonia neelamorum, was discovered in Keyi Panyor district and described in the [] The post New Begonia neelamorum species discovered in Arunachal, Assam botanist leads research appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Tech leaders to UN: For the sake of humanity, please control the AI technology we created
UNITED NATIONS, September 24, 2026 (AP) The heads of major artificial intelligence firms pleaded with the United Nations on Wednesday to save the world or at least its people by somehow regulating the fast-expanding technology that they have been designing. If managed poorly, I even believe AI could be a risk to humanity as a whole, said Dario Amodei, chief executive officer of Anthropic. And from his competitor Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, came this assessment: We could lose control of the future to AI. Both said the countries of the world, through the U.N. Security Council, where
An OpenAI agent hacked Medicare. Will anyone be held responsible?
Melbourne, Sep 24 (Conversation) Australias Medicare system manages health and medical data for over 27 million people. So it makes sense there has been widespread shock at the news it was hacked by an OpenAI agent in June. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed the hack overnight while in New York to advocate for tighter international regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) systems at the United Nations. The government is still working out exactly what happened, with a newly announced taskforce set to investigate further. Early reports indicate OpenAIs agent had been tasked with researching public medical data when it broke into
Assam Police refute claims of Jaggu Bhagwanpuria running crime syndicate from Silchar Jail
The News Mill
Assam Aims to Increase MBBS Seats to 4,000 by 2031, Says Chief Minister Sarma
Assam plans to expand medical education by increasing MBBS seats to 4,000 by 2031, according to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Assam Aims to Increase MBBS Seats to 4,000 by 2031, Says Chief Minister Sarma
Arunachal cabinet approves panel to oversee Siang project survey
From strawberry fields to global honour: Mizoram grower named among FAOs 100 women heroes
Power lineman killed as Kuki, Naga villages come under attack in Manipur
Creation of Arunachal staff selection board historic: CM Khandu
Tinsukia bans transport of workers in goods vehicles
HC clears path for diesel bus exit from two major Guwahati routes
APCC moves ECI to remove Nagaon DEO after attack on Cong convoy
For a generation feeling alone, AI is the new confidant
6 arrested over violence at Cong rally in Samaguri ahead of Nagaon bypoll
Cough syrup worth Rs 1.02cr seized, 1 held in 2 Sribhumi ops
Venomous white snake bite baffles docs; woman survives
Mobile theatre under threat, says PIL; HC asks govt to reply
TU students block campus buses over decade-old fitness lapses
BJP appoints new state in-charges; Nitin Nabin congratulates appointees
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) BJP National President Nitin Nabin on Tuesday announced a fresh set of appointments of state in-charges and co-in-charges for various states and J&K. The appointments, detailed in an official press release from the partys central office, take effect immediately and cover organisational responsibilities across nearly all states and J&K. In a post on X, Nabin congratulated the newly appointed State Prabharis and Sah Prabharis. He said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, their efforts would strengthen the organisation and help realise the collective dream of Viksit Bharat 2047. Notable appointments include Smriti Irani as in-charge for both Chandigarh and Haryana, with Siddharth Shambhu as co-in-charge for Chandigarh and Bhola Singh for Haryana. Baijayant Jay Panda has been named state in-charge for Maharashtra, assisted by co-in-charges Amit Malviya, Sadanand Shet Tanavade and Kamaljeet Sahrawat. In Uttar Pradesh, Vinod Tawde will serve as state in-charge, with Jagadish Patel, Medha Kulkarni, Pradeep Verma and Anant Ojha as co-in-charges. Sunil Bansal has been assigned to both Telangana and West Bengal. For Telangana, Abhay Patil and Rekha Sharma are co-in-charges, while West Bengals co-in-charges are Lal Singh Arya, Rajendra Singh and Pinki Kushwaha. Other key assignments include Biplab Kumar Deb as in-charge for Madhya Pradesh, with Rekha Verma as co-in-charge; Ram Madhav for Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand; Harish Dwivedi for Bihar and Karnataka; and Satish Poonia for J&K and Punjab. Mangal Pandey has been named for Assam, while Arvind Bhadauria will head Andhra Pradesh with Vanathi Srinivasan as co-in-charge. Nabin has also appointed Ashish Usha Agrawal as convenor of the media department and Anil Baluni as co-ordinator of the communication department. The list further covers smaller states and J&K, including assignments for Andaman & Nicobar, Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Puducherry, Sikkim and Tripura. Several leaders hold dual or multiple responsibilities. The circular, issued by national office in-charge Tarun Chugh to all state presidents and organisational general secretaries, aims to strengthen the partys organisational network ahead of future electoral and organisational programmes.
Second Saraighat rail-cum-road bridge to boost multimodal connectivity in Northeast
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Sep 23 (IANS) The second Saraighat Rail-cum-Road Bridge, along with the doubling of the Agthori-Kamakhya railway section, is set to significantly augment rail and road connectivity across the Brahmaputra and strengthen the transportation network of Assam and the Northeast, officials said on Wednesday. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is undertaking the project, which includes doubling of the 7.2-km railway track between Agthori and Kamakhya stations and construction of a 1.3-km-long double-decker rail-cum-road bridge over the Brahmaputra. NFR Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said the project would strengthen rail and road connectivity across the Brahmaputra, augment transportation capacity in Guwahati and support the wider connectivity requirements of the Northeastern region. The existing Saraighat Bridge was completed in September 1962, with the first engine crossing the bridge on September 23, 1962. For more than six decades, it has served as a vital link between the northern and southern banks of the Brahmaputra and an important gateway to the Northeast. With passenger and freight traffic in the region continuing to grow, augmentation of capacity along the critical corridor has assumed increasing importance, CPRO Sharma said. According to the CPRO, the 7.2-km railway-doubling project between Agthori and Kamakhya was sanctioned by the Ministry of Railways in 2024, following which detailed planning and tendering were taken up. Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has been entrusted with execution of the project. Given the location of the new bridge in a highly developed urban environment, the project has involved considerable challenges related to land acquisition, removal of encroachments and shifting of existing utilities. CPRO Sharma said that with the proactive support of the state government and local administration, a substantial part of these challenges had already been addressed. NFR continues to coordinate with the concerned state agencies to resolve the remaining issues and facilitate progressive availability of work fronts, he added. Meanwhile, the project has advanced substantially on the engineering front, with geotechnical investigations completed and major engineering, design and construction-drawing activities under way, the official said. A major component of the project is the 1.3-km-long double-decker rail-cum-road bridge over the Brahmaputra. The lower deck will carry two railway lines, while the upper deck will accommodate a three-lane road carriageway along with a footpath. In comparison, the existing Saraighat Bridge carries a single railway line and a two-lane road. The main bridge will be constructed on well foundations with a welded Open Web Girder (OWG) superstructure having a span length of 125 metres, CPRO Sharma said. The main bridge will be connected through approach viaducts on either side, with around 600 metres on the Agthori side and 200 metres on the Kamakhya side. The project will also interface with the road approaches being developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), providing connectivity towards Jalukbari on one side and the Agthori-side road network on the other. Advanced digital monitoring and bridge instrumentation systems will be incorporated to facilitate effective monitoring of the structure and its performance. The construction methodology is being tailored to the challenging conditions of the Brahmaputra, with particular focus on foundation construction, structural erection, quality assurance, construction safety and long-term durability. The Second Saraighat Rail-cum-Road Bridge is significant not only for doubling the Agthori-Kamakhya railway section but also as an integrated rail and road infrastructure project supporting the wider transportation network of Guwahati and the Northeast. The additional railway capacity is expected to facilitate smoother movement of passenger and freight traffic, while the three-lane road component will strengthen connectivity between the northern and southern banks of the city and support its future transportation requirements. By bringing together rail, road and associated approach infrastructure as a single integrated corridor, the project will enhance multimodal connectivity across the Brahmaputra. The project is being closely supported and monitored by the concerned authorities, including the Railway Board, reflecting its importance for connectivity and capacity enhancement in the Northeastern region. With preparatory works substantially progressed, the project is now entering the execution phase and preparatory activities, with piling works targeted to commence from October 2026. The project is scheduled for completion within the next few years, with the project team aiming to complete the works on time while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, engineering excellence, durability and technological advancement. Once completed, the Second Saraighat Rail-cum-Road Bridge will augment rail and road capacity across the Brahmaputra, strengthen connectivity between the two banks of Guwahati and facilitate smoother movement of passengers and goods, further strengthening the transportation network of Assam and the Northeastern region.
Assam sets 4,000 MBBS seat target by 2031, says CM Sarma
Digital Desk | Guwahati/Ranchi, Sep 23 (IANS) Assam is targeting a major expansion of medical education, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announcing that the state plans to increase the number of MBBS seats to 4,000 by 2031. Chief Minister Sarma made the announcement while addressing the inauguration of the 750-bed Baba Baidyanath Medical Trust Hospital in Jharkhand's Deoghar on Wednesday. Highlighting the expansion of medical education in Assam, the Chief Minister said the state now has 16 medical colleges and produces around 2,200 doctors annually. He added that the state government has a vision of establishing 32 more medical colleges in Assam, in addition to the AIIMS and ESIC Medical College already functioning in the state. Of these, 16 have already been established, CM Sarma said, while outlining the state government's long-term plan to expand medical education and increase the availability of trained doctors. He said that Assam's medical education infrastructure had remained limited for decades. The state's first medical college was established in the 1950s, followed by the second in the 1960s and the third in the 1970s. Despite Assam's population of around 3.5 crore, the state had only three medical colleges and produced around 300 doctors annually, resulting in a shortage of doctors in relation to healthcare requirements, CM Sarma added. The Chief Minister said the expansion in recent years has significantly increased the number of doctors being trained in the state. Assam now produces around 2,200 doctors every year, compared with around 350 earlier. He said that increasing the number of MBBS seats would be accompanied by measures to provide employment opportunities to the growing pool of doctors. Chief Minister Sarma pointed to the latest State Budget, which has announced the deployment of two doctors at each of Assam's 5,000 sub-health centres. He said the expansion of medical colleges and MBBS seats would help create a stronger medical education ecosystem while improving the availability of healthcare professionals across the state.
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Stones, Mounds, Memory: Odisha Scribes Stand Among Assam
For six centuries the Tai-Ahom kings ruled the Brahmaputra Valley. When they died, they did not vanish into ash and river. They were laid in vaulted crypts, covered with earthen barrows, and crowned with octagonal pavilions that still punctuate the foothills of the Patkai. On Wednesday, a senior media delegation from Odisha stood on that [] The post Stones, Mounds, Memory: Odisha Scribes Stand Among Assams UNESCO Mounds appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Mizoram: Six people arrested, two minors detained in connection with killing of Assam Regiment jawan
A police official said the victim, Zakaria Lalhriattluanga, who was serving in the Assam Regiment of the Army and was posted in Jammu and Kashmir, was returning to his native New Builum village on leave.
Assam CM inaugurates Baba Baidyanath Medical Trust Hospital in Deoghar, Jharkhand
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the Baba Baidyanath Medical Trust Hospital in Deoghar today. The 750-bed hospital aims to provide advanced healthcare services, especially to the economically weaker sections. Sarma mentioned the establishment of a medical college at the site in the future. He expressed hope that the new hospital would complement existing institutions like AIIMS Deoghar.
