Tribals hit streets to enforce Jharkhand bandh in protest against killing of village head

The State administration made elaborate security arrangements to maintain peace across districts, a senior police officer said, adding that additional forces have been deployed in the States capital Ranchi

Jharkhand government to present energy transition model at events in Davos, UK

The states energy transition strategy is rooted in responsible diversification, leveraging its existing energy infrastructure while accelerating investments in solar power and emerging clean technologies

After Supreme Court, Jharkhand High Court Pauses Probe Against ED Officers

The Jharkhand High Court has paused a probe by Ranchi Police against Enforcement Directorate (ED) officers, a day after a similar move by the Supreme Court in a Kolkata Police case over the I-PAC office raids.

In Jharkhand, a tusker on a rampage

A male elephant, which has killed at least 20 people in the Chaibasa and Kolhan forest areas of West Singhbhum district, has become the symbol of the human-wildlife conflict in Jharkhand. A massive operation involving more than 100 forest personnel is under way to track the animal.Amit Bhelarireports on the attacks, which have led to panic in the villages, and the ongoing search

Mob Blocks NH-12, Attacks Journalists In Protest Over Migrant Workers Death In Jharkhand

Former congress MP Adhir Chowdhury also met the bereaved family members and demanded state government should open separate cell for migrant workers and should issue identity card for them to avoid furthermore trouble in others states as a migrant workers.

Jharkhands presence at Davos WEF underscores state's role in Indias economic growth: Officials

Jharkhand is set to showcase its critical minerals potential at the World Economic Forum in Davos and during a UK visit. The state aims to position itself as a key player in India's clean-energy economy by highlighting its rich reserves and commitment to responsible development and value-added manufacturing.

'Governance In West Bengal Collapsing': BJP Attacks TMC Over Protests In Murshidabad's Beldanga

The protest in Murshidabad erupted after news spread about the death of a native who had migrated to Jharkhand for work.

Azim Premji University Establishes its Third Campus in Ranchi to Strengthen Higher Education in Jharkhand and the Eastern Region

Azim Premji University today announced the establishment of its third campus in Ranchi, expanding its presence in eastern India and strengthening its commitment to context-based, socially engaged higher education. The new campus builds on the University’s long-standing work in education, development, public health, and governance, and reflects its approach of linking academic learning with real-world social and regional realities.   Zulfiquar Haider, Vice Chancellor Designate, Azim Premji University, Ranchi Campus   Sharing the vision for the Ranchi campus, Zulfiquar Haider, Vice Chancellor Designate - Azim Premji University, Ranchi Campus, said, “We want the Ranchi campus to be closely connected to the Social and Developmental needs of this region and contribute to building knowledge and human resources’. The University will offer a range of programs and courses that will suit the needs of diverse students and learners, including working professionals. The university aims to meaningfully engage with the rich traditions, histories, knowledge systems and worldviews of the diverse Adivasi and other communities of Jharkhand.”   Located in Itki, the 150-acre campus is being developed as a fully residential facility, equipped with state-of-the art classrooms, laboratories, sports facilities and residences for both students and faculty. A teaching hospital and medical college are also planned. The campus is designed to be sustainable with energy-efficient systems and facilities for rainwater harvesting and water treatment.   The Ranchi campus will offer undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and continuing education programmes across disciplines such as Development, Education, Economics, Public Health, Climate Change and Sustainability. These programmes are designed to reflect the development context of Jharkhand and eastern India and will be supported by faculty with strong academic and field experience.   In the current academic year, the campus will begin by offering two Master’s programmes - MA in Applied Economics and MA in Development. It will also offer Post Graduate Diplomas in Local Development, Early Childhood Education, and Educational Assessment, along with multiple short Certificate programmes in Public Health, Education and Development.   Speaking about the University’s broader purpose, Zulfiquar added, “Azim Premji University was established with a clear public purpose, guided by the values of the Azim Premji Foundation. Through teaching, research, and practice, we seek to contribute to a more just, equitable, humane, and sustainable society. The Ranchi campus extends this mission with a focus on knowledge creation, capacity building, and public discourse in Jharkhand and the wider eastern India region.”   About Azim Premji University Azim Premji University, Bengaluru, was established under the Azim Premji University Act 2010 of the Government of Karnataka. Azim Premji University, Bhopal, was established under the provisions of Madhya Pradesh Niji Vishwa Vidyalaya (Sthapana Avam Sanchalan) Dwitiya Sanshodhan Adhiniyam, 2022. Azim Premji University in Ranchi is being established under the Azim Premji University Act, 2022, enacted by the Government of Jharkhand.   Azim Premji Foundation, the sponsoring body, set up all three Universities as fully philanthropic entities, with a clear social purpose of contributing to the realisation of a just, equitable, humane and sustainable society.

Jharkhand High Court observes state police raid on ED office 'preplanned'

The Jharkhand High Court has deemed a recent police raid on the Enforcement Directorate office as preplanned. The court has ordered the Union Home Secretary to provide security to the ED office and its officers. The Ranchi SSP has been directed to ensure proper security. The court has also stayed the police investigation against ED officers.

Ranchi ED office raid: Jharkhand HC flags police action as pre-planned; orders additional security deployment

State police raid on ED office preplanned: Jharkhand HC

The Jharkhand High Court on Friday observed that the recent police raid on the Enforcement Directorate office here prima facie appears preplanned. Justice Sanjay Kumar Dwide, while hearing a writ petition filed by the ED, directed the central agency to make the Union home secretary a party in the case. The court ordered the Union 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 .

Jharkhand High Court observes State police raid on ED office pre-planned

The Court ordered the Union Home Secretary to depute CRPF/BSF or any other paramilitary force to provide security to the ED office and its officers

Jharkhand Health department issues Nipah advisory, directs districts to intensify surveillance

Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease primarily transmitted from bats to humans and animals. The infection can spread through consumption of fruits or raw date palm sap contaminated with bat saliva or urine, as well as through close contact with infected individuals and their bodily fluids.

Didnt opt for higher pension, still eligible: Jharkhand HC allows higher pension as scheme is more beneficial to employee

The Jharkhand High Court has ruled that employees can be switched to a more beneficial pension scheme like General Provident Fund (GPF) even without formally opting in. This decision applies if the employee was appointed before January 1, 1986, and did not explicitly choose to remain in the Contributory Provident Fund (CPF).

Bhubaneswar To Host Womens National T20 Cricket Tournament For The Blind 2026 From January 17

Tech Medical College Cricket Ground: The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled will host the Womens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026 from January 17 to 22 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with a total of 18 teams, grouped into five pools, competing in a high-energy battle for the championship. The league matches will commence on January 17 and culminate in the grand final on January 22. The tournament will be formally inaugurated on January 16 with a grand opening ceremony scheduled at 7:30 PM at the Hi-Tech Medical College Auditorium. The Honble Minister for Sports, Government of Odisha, along with distinguished guests from corporate organisations and political representatives, are expected to grace the occasion. Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), said, Over the past year, there has been tremendous momentum around womens cricket, and national-level tournaments play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing new talent to represent India. The Indian Womens Teams World Cup victory has made the nation proud, and all 16 players from the World Cup squad are participating in the nationals, representing their respective states. They showcased their skills at the national level before earning their place in the Indian team. This championship provides a vital platform for players to give their best and demonstrate their cricketing talent. The support from IndusInd Bank has been instrumental and is a key driver behind the growth of womens cricket for the blind in India. Their continued commitment has made a meaningful difference in empowering women and transforming lives through cricket for the blind, he added. The league stage and quarterfinals will conclude on January 20, after which the four qualifying teams will compete in the semi-finals on January 21 for a place in the final. The grand finale will be held on January 22 at the Hi-Tech Medical College Cricket Ground. A total of 31 matches will be played in the IndusInd Bank Womens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026. The winning team will receive a cash prize of INR 1,50,000, while the runners-up will be awarded INR 1,25,000. Three players, representing three different sight categories, will be honoured as Players of the Series with a cash award of INR 15,000 each. Additionally, 31 Players of the Match will receive INR 5,000 each, and every player will be paid a match fee of INR 1,000 per match, said G. Sridhar, Chairman of Womens Cricket and Treasurer of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI). The President of the Cricket Association for the Visually Impaired in Odisha (CAVI), Md. Jafar Iqbal said, CAVI is delighted to host 18 womens teams, and this marks the first time a Womens National Cricket Tournament for the Blind is being held in Odisha. Womens cricket has witnessed significant growth over the years, and we are proud that cricket for the blind continues to empower and transform the lives of women cricketers. I would like to thank the Government of Odisha and the Department of Sports & Youth Services for their overwhelming support over the years in promoting cricket for the blind. The Government of Odisha has always been proactive in providing employment opportunities, cash awards, and recognition to the players. I also extend my sincere gratitude to all our partners for their continued support of the Womens National Tournament. The 18 teams have been grouped based on their performances in the previous National Tournament. This edition marks the 6th Womens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind. Madhya Pradesh emerged as the champions of the 5th edition, and all eyes will be on the top teams to see if a new champion will rise in the 6th edition of the Womens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026. Odisha has claimed the title three times in the last five editions, while Karnataka secured the championship in 2022. The participating teams have been divided into the following groups: Group A: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Kerala Group B: Karnataka, Jharkhand, Delhi, Gujarat Group C: Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh Group B: Karnataka, Jharkhand, Delhi, Gujarat Also Read: Live Cricket Score Group E: West Bengal, Haryana, Assam Article Source: IANS

Headsup B2B Secures Mandate for 40+ MW of Solar Panels and Ancillary Products Across Rajasthan and Jharkhand

Headsup B2B , a tech-enabled B2B procurement and supply platform, has secured mandates for the supply of 40+ MW of solar panels and ancillary products across multiple projects in Rajasthan and Jharkhand. With an aggregated supply value of approximately Rs. 85 Crore , the execution is scheduled over the upcoming six months , reinforcing its role in India’s renewable energy ecosystem!   The Headsup B2B team at the company’s New Delhi office   The supplies will support a mix of utility-scale solar projects as well as institutional and commercial solar installations under government-backed programmes , including deployments aligned with the PM KUSUM scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana , with Rajasthan’s high solar potential and Jharkhand’s growing renewable footprint serving as key deployment support. The engagement will be limited to module sourcing and supply of ancillary products , ensuring technical compliance, logistics planning, and phased deliveries, in line with approved quality standards and project timelines.   Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Sumit Kumar, Founder, Headsup B2B , said, “This 40+ MW mandate reflects our ability to manage large-scale, multi-location renewable supply programmes efficiently. By combining technology-led procurement with structured supply-chain coordination, we help EPCs and developers mitigate procurement risks while maintaining quality and delivery timelines. We are already in advanced discussions with leading execution partners for upcoming projects aggregating nearly 200 MW in the next financial year, which could help unlock an overall project value of approximately Rs. 400+ Crore across the ecosystem.”   Operating on an aggregator-led, asset-light model , Headsup B2B enables access to approved brands, competitive pricing, and structured procurement processes. Its renewable portfolio includes solar modules, inverters, structures, cables, energy storage solutions, and balance-of-system components , serving EPCs, infrastructure companies, and institutional buyers nationwide.   This milestone aligns with the company’s broader strategy to scale operations in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and clean-tech procurement , supporting India’s transition toward long-term energy security and sustainability.   About Headsup B2B Headsup B2B is a technology-driven B2B marketplace offering integrated procurement solutions across renewable energy, metal solutions, building materials, electricals, industrial warehousing, road safety equipment, and sustainable infrastructure , focused on transparency, efficiency, and scalable execution.

'Not Meant For Tech Job': Ex-TCS Employee Quits City Life, Thrives As Forest Officer In Jharkhand

Kumar, who hails from Dumka in Jharkhand, said his family initially saw the TCS job as a good opportunity.

Woman Hid Murder Conviction Before Marriage, HC Upholds Divorce Granted On Husbands Plea

Jharkhand HC upheld divorce for a husband after his wife concealed her age and murder conviction, ruling that trust is vital in marriage and her conduct caused mental cruelty.

Couple, Another Woman Killed In Explosion In Jharkhand's Hazaribagh

An explosion in Hazaribagh on Wednesday claimed the lives of three people, including a husband and wife and another woman, as per officials.

Aditya Sahu elected new president of Jharkhand BJP, seeks to protect tribal rights

Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, the party's in-charge for the organisational elections of the state unit, officially announced Aditya Sahu's appointment

Three Killed, two injured in powerful explosion in Jharkhand's Hazaribagh, probe begins

At least three people were killed and two injured after a powerful explosion rocked Jharkhand's Hazaribagh city. Police and FSL teams are probing the cause.

Blast in Jharkhand's Hazaribag kills at least two; one injured

Reason behind explosion could not be immediately ascertained; forensic team has been rushed to the spot

Bihar Cabinet clears decks for construction of Indrapuri reservoir project

Approves draft agreement to be signed between Bihar and Jharkhand; the move will further strengthen irrigation facility in eight districts of Bihar

Aditya Sahu set to become Jharkhand BJP president

Mr. Sahu will replace Babulal Marandi, who is currently serving as Leader of Opposition in Jharkhand Legislative Assembly

Bihar cabinet clears Sone river water-sharing pact with Jharkhand

In a pivotal decision, the Bihar cabinet has reached a historic agreement with Jharkhand to finally settle the enduring Sone river water dispute. This development clears the way for the construction of the Indrapuri reservoir, which promises to enhance irrigation dramatically in southern Bihar. The deal ensures that Bihar receives 5.

Aditya Sahu set to take over as Jharkhand BJP president

Mr. Sahu will replace Babulal Marandi, who is currently serving as Leader of Opposition in Jharkhand Legislative Assembly

Galgotias University Inaugurates IIT Mandi Catalyst Satellite Centre, Signs MoUs to Strengthen India's Startup Ecosystem

Galgotias University proudly inaugurated the IIT Mandi Catalyst Satellite Centre on its campus, marking a significant milestone in strengthening innovation-driven learning, entrepreneurship, and India’s growing startup ecosystem. The initiative reflects the university’s continued focus on creating future-ready platforms that enable students and researchers to transform ideas into impactful solutions.   Inauguration of the IIT Mandi Catalyst Satellite Centre at Galgotias University   The inauguration served as a collaborative platform to foster innovation, research translation, and startup creation, highlighting the role of academia-led ecosystems in driving national capacity building and technology-led entrepreneurship. The centre aims to support early-stage startups, promote deep-tech innovation, and bridge the gap between research and real-world application.   The prestigious event was graced by Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT Mandi, as the Chief Guest, and Prof. Goutam Sutradhar , Director, National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur, as the Guest of Honour. Their presence reinforced the shared vision of strengthening India’s innovation and startup landscape through collaborative academic leadership.   Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University , said, “We believe that innovation and entrepreneurship must be deeply embedded within the academic ecosystem. The inauguration of the IIT Mandi Catalyst Satellite Centre reflects our commitment to empowering students and researchers with the right mentorship, infrastructure, and industry exposure to build scalable, impact-driven ventures that contribute to India’s innovation economy.”   A key highlight of the event was the signing of two strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs)—between Galgotias University and the National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur, and between Galgotias University and Jharkhand University of Technology, Ranchi. These partnerships will enable joint research initiatives, faculty and student exchange programmes, co-creation of deep-tech startups, access to advanced laboratories, and shared incubation and acceleration programmes.   The collaborations are expected to strengthen the innovation pipeline by translating academic research into market-ready solutions, enhancing funding access, and creating nationwide pathways for student entrepreneurs and startups. The event was further enriched by the presence of Prof. N. K. Goyal, CSAI & CMAI, and other distinguished academicians and stakeholders.   The inauguration of the IIT Mandi Catalyst Satellite Centre underscores Galgotias University’s vision of aligning academic excellence with entrepreneurship and innovation, empowering young minds to become drivers of technological progress and economic growth.   About Galgotias University Galgotias University Among the World’s Leading Universities in QS and THE Rankings.   Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities—public and private combined—this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education.   In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University has been ranked 45th among Indian universities (including both government and private institutions) and placed in the globally prestigious 1001–1200 band. This significant achievement reinforces the university’s growing stature in the international academic arena and validates its consistent progress in global higher education benchmarks.

Jharkhand woman overcomes fathers murder, poverty to join BSF

Hazaribag: Ranjana Kumari, a 22-year-old woman from a remote village in Jharkhands Hazaribag district, has overcome the trauma of her fathers murder and years of financial hardship to realise her dream of joining the Border Security Force (BSF). Selected as a BSF General Duty (GD) constable in 2024, Ranjana recently completed a year-long training at 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 .

Jharkhand on health alert after suspected Nipah cases in West Bengal

Jharkhand has issued a health alert after two suspected Nipah virus cases were reported in neighbouring West Bengal. The state health department has led surveillance, rapid reporting and public awareness measures across all districts to prevent a possible outbreak. The Centre has assured full support to West Bengal

Alert sounded in Jharkhand after 2 suspected cases of Nipah virus detected in Bengal

Nipah virus is a notifiable disease, with high mortality and potential for rapid spread, requiring immediate reporting to the Central government

Jharkhand's Megalithic Heritage To Be Showcased At Davos Conference

Jharkhand's millennia-old megalithic culture is set to be presented on the global stage.

Mangaluru: Man assaulted on suspicion of being Bangladeshi migrant

Mangaluru: A case has been registered against four men for allegedly assaulting a migrant labourer from Jharkhand, suspecting him of being a Bangladeshi national illegally staying here, police said on Monday, January 12. The incident took place at Kulur on the outskirts of the city on Sunday. According to police, the victim has been working 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 .

Migrant labourer from Jharkhand presumed Bangladeshi and assaulted in Mangaluru

Police are searching for the four assailants

JAC class 9 registration 2026 ends today: Direct link, steps to register without late fee here

The Jharkhand Academic Council will close Class 9 registration for 2026 today, January 12. Registrations not approved by the District Education Officer will attract a late fee from January 13. JAC has said the deadline will not be extended. Students and parents must contact schools immediately to confirm approval and avoid extra charges.

Odisha govt extends support to DGCA for probe into IndiaOne Air aircraft force-landing in Rourkela

The Odisha government has extended full support to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other concerned authorities for an effective response and investigation into the force-landing of an IndiaOne Air's Caravan 208 aircraft in Rourkela, Jharkhand.

Man lynched for cattle theft in Jharkhand, family claims religious hatred

Godda: A 45-year-old Muslim man was brutally beaten to death on Wednesday, January 8, after a mob accused him of stealing cattle in Jharkhands Godda district, near the states border with Bihar. The victim, identified as Pappu Ansari, who hails from Ranipur village, which falls under the Pathargama Police Station, was returning home from Shyam 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 .

After calm at home, Soren set for Davos and UK visits

In a bold move to elevate Jharkhand's profile, Chief Minister Hemant Soren is heading to the World Economic Forum in Davos. This visit is not just about participation; it symbolizes a commitment to global engagement for the state.

Why does ED step up action against opposition leaders during elections, asks Kapil Sibal

Kapil Sibal questions the Enforcement Directorate's actions against opposition leaders during election periods. He highlights cases in West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Bihar. Sibal urges the Supreme Court to hear pending review petitions on probe agency jurisdiction. He states the ED's actions aim to harass opposition parties. The former Union minister believes the federal structure is under threat.

Five Jharkhand Workers, Who Were Abducted By Militants In Niger, Return To India After Eight Months

Five Jharkhand workers abducted by militants in Niger in April 2025 have been released. They landed in Mumbai. Their safe return was coordinated by Jharkhand, MEA, and KPTL.

Three Trampled To Death By Wild Elephant Along Jharkhand-Odisha Border

The tusker, said to have been separated from its herd, suddenly turned aggressive and attacked people, according to the onlookers.

Tusker kills two more in Jharkhand, slips into Odisha

Rogue elephant claims two more lives in Jharkhands West Singhbhum

In the last nine days, the tusker has killed 17 people in the Chaibasa forest division; the forest department officials are on the spot and efforts are on to tranquilise and control the rogue elephant

India@Davos: Doval to Join CMs, Ministers at WEF Annual Meeting

The chief ministers - Devendra Fadnavis of Maharashtra, N Chandrababu Naidu of Andhra Pradesh, Assam's Himanta Biswa Sarma, Madhya Pradesh's Mohan Yadav, Telangana's A Revanth Reddy and Jharkhand's Hemant Soren will attend the meeting

Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak sworn in as Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court

Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar and other senior officials were present on the occasion.

Justice Mahesh Sonak sworn in as Jharkhand HC Chief Justice

Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak took oath as the new Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court. Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar administered the oath. Justice Sonak previously served as a judge at the Bombay High Court. He assumes charge after Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan retired. The Supreme Court Collegium had recommended Justice Sonak for the position last month.

Bribe trap: Jharkhand mail overseer caught red-handed accepting Rs 15,000 by CBI

The CBI apprehended Prabhu Munda, a mail overseer at the Ramgarh post office in Jharkhand, for allegedly accepting a Rs 15,000 bribe. He was caught red-handed while receiving the payment, which was part of a Rs 30,000 demand made to a complainant seeking a Gramin Dak Sevak position.

Doctor in Nitish Kumar hijab row joins govt service in Patna; got separate Rs 3 lakh/month offer from Jharkhand too

Dr. Nusrat Parveen, at the center of a public controversy involving Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, has finally joined government service. After facing delays and intense scrutiny, she submitted her joining report at the Civil Surgeons office in Patna. Her induction into service, initially delayed, concludes after she completed mandatory medical tests, bringing relief to the health department.

Jharkhand to debut at World Economic Forum to be held in Davos

Chief Minister Hemant Soren will lead the 11-member delegation from January 18 to 26; visit coincides with 25 years of Jharkhands statehood

Rogue elephant kills 13 in two days in Jharkhand villages

Teams of forest officials with experts from West Bengal's Bankura district have been engaged to drive away the elephant back to the forest

Rogue Wild Elephant Kills 13 in Two Days in Jharkhand Villages

Four others were also injured in the attack by the jumbo, Chaibasa Divisional Forest Officer Aditya Narayan told PTI.

Jharkhands consistency forged through grit and systemic shift

The momentum from the sides SMAT triumph has carried into the Vijay Hazare Trophy, with fearless batting translating well to the 50-over format

JNVST releases class 9th and 11th admit card at navodaya.gov.in: Direct link to download hall tickets here

The Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti has released the JNVST 2026 admit cards for Class 9 and Class 11 on January 7 through its official website. Registered candidates can download the hall tickets using their registration number and date of birth. Class 11 admit cards for Jharkhand and West Bengal will be issued later.

Jharkhand schools shut till tomorrow as temperatures drop; IMD issues yellow alert: Check details

Jharkhand schools will be closed for students until January 8, 2026, due to an intensifying cold wave. The state government's order applies to all classes, from pre-nursery to Class XII, with teachers and staff expected to report as usual. This decision follows a review of weather conditions and their impact on children's health.

Noida to Nepal: How stolen cellphones changed hands; 6 held with 820 handsets worth Rs 6 crore

Noida police have busted an organized theft gang, recovering 821 stolen mobile phones worth an estimated Rs 6-8 crore. Six adults and two juveniles were arrested for stealing phones from crowded markets and selling them in Jharkhand, Bihar, and Nepal. This significant operation marks a major breakthrough against organized theft in the district.

Accused wanted in BPSC TRE-3 paper leak held

In a significant breakthrough, the Bihar Police's Economic Offences Unit has captured Bipul Kumar, a prominent figure within the infamous Sanjeev Mukhiya gang. Kumar admitted to being a key player in the leak of the Haryana teacher eligibility exam and masterminding the BPSC TRE-3.0 fraud, where candidates memorized answers in a covert Jharkhand hideout.

Abhishek Claims BJP Trick For No-Fly of His Chopper, SIR Notice to Nobel Laureate

Mr Banerjee added, Since my chopper didnt receive clearance- I spoke to Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren & arranged his chopper to come for this meeting

Jharkhand Schools Shut Till January 8, Pre-Board Exam Decisions Left to Schools

Jharkhand Schools Closed: The directive allows schools to take independent decisions regarding closures if pre-board examinations are scheduled.

Chopper clearance row: Abhishek Banerjee 'borrows' CM Hemant Soren's aircraft; slams BJP 'tricks'

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee alleged the BJP used 'tricks' by denying his helicopter clearance for a rally, forcing him to borrow one from Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren. Despite the delay, Banerjee vowed to address supporters, emphasizing his determination against rival tactics. The TMC confirmed arranging the helicopter with the Jharkhand government's assistance.

Elephant Attack Kills Father and 2 Children in Jharkhands Chaibasa

A wild elephant killed a father and his two minor children in Jharkhands Chaibasa, triggering panic in West Singhbhum and demands for urgent action.

Schools closed in these states due to cold wave and fog: Check full list of holidays here

Several Indian states are extending school closures due to severe cold waves and dense fog. Rajasthan, Tripura, and Jharkhand have announced holidays for students of various grades, prioritizing their health amidst plummeting temperatures. While students are home, staff are generally required to report to schools, and examinations are proceeding as planned in some regions.

Uttar Pradesh STF Arrests Wanted Liquor Smuggling Kingpin From Punjab

The accused confessed to running an inter-state liquor smuggling network and supplying illicit alcohol to Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand for several years, officials said.

Vijay Hazare Trophy | Ton-upRohan, Samson help Kerala ease past Jharkhand

The openers knocks eclipse a well-paced century by Kushagra; and take their side to a comfortable eight-wicket victory; Ashok, Manav strike at regular intervals for Rajasthan as it sends TN packing; Padikkals ton helps Karnataka crush Tripura by 80 runs

Dense fog alert issued for 11 Jharkhand districts from January 3

The 'yellow' alert for dense fog has been issued for Garhwa, Palamu, Chatra, Hazaribag, Koderma, Giridih, Deoghar, Dumka, Godda, Sahibganj and Pakur from 8.30 a.m. on January 3 to 8.30 a.m. on January 5, 2026, according to an IMD bulletin

Tribal Youth Exchange programme begins at GITAM university

Youth from Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha are participating in the week-long programme

Committee to be formed to identify families of Kharswan tribal martyrs: Jharkhand CM

Mr. Soren paid floral tribute to tribal martyrs, who were opposing the merger of Seraikela-Kharswan district (then part of undivided Bihar) to Odisha and demanding a separate Jharkhand State, killed in police firing on this day in 1948

Toss was crucial, says Jharkhand skipper Kushagra

Vijay Hazare Trophy: Utkarsh, Shikhar power Jharkhand past Tamil Nadu

The openers put on 201 to make short work of the target of 244; Aparajiths century and Edens six-hitting heroics help Kerala pull off a heist against Rajasthan

Contributions of tribal heroes should be known to the youth: President Murmu

NEW DELHI, Dec 30: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday praised statesman, educationist, and nationalist thinker from Jharkhand Kartik Oraon who dedicated his life to uplifting the tribal society. The President stressed that the tribal community should ensure that the contributions of the tribal heroes are made known to the youth and future generations of the country. Addressing Antarrajyiy Jansanskritik Samagam Samaroh Kartik Jatra at Gumla in Jharkhand, President Murmu said, It is the responsibility of every individual and institution [] The post Contributions of tribal heroes should be known to the youth: President Murmu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rats destroyed 200 kg of marijuana? Jharkhand police claim leaves court stunned

RANCHI: In a development that has left the judiciary shocked, a Ranchi court acquitted the prime accused in a high-profile narcotics case after police informed the court that nearly 200 kilograms of seized marijuana, worth Rs 1 crore, had allegedly been destroyed by rats while stored in police custody. The marijuana was seized in January 2022 by Ormanjhi police during a vehicle check on NH-20. Acting on a tip-off, the police intercepted a white Bolero allegedly carrying a large consignment of narcotics from Ranchi towards Ramgarh. As the vehicle was stopped, three occupants attempted to flee. One person, later identified as Indrajit Rai alias Anurjeet Rai (26), a resident of Birpur village in Bihars Vaishali district was apprehended, while two others managed to escape. A subsequent search of the vehicle reportedly led to the recovery of around 200 kg of ganja. Indrajit Rai was arrested and sent to jail, and the police later filed a chargesheet invoking stringent provisions of the NDPS Act. However, as the trial progressed, the prosecutions case steadily fell apart. Witness testimonies were riddled with contradictions regarding the time, location, and manner of the seizure. Shockingly, none of the witnesses could clearly explain who detained the accused, the exact spot where the vehicle was intercepted, or how long the search operation lasted. The prosecution suffered its biggest setback when police informed the court that the seized ganja, stored in the malkhana of Ormanjhi police station, had been destroyed by rats. A station diary entry reportedly recorded the incident in 2024. Calling the explanation a case of gross negligence, the court expressed serious concern over the polices failure to safeguard seized material. In its judgment, the court observed that the prosecution failed to establish any credible link between the accused and the seized vehicle. It further noted that the seizure, storage, and sampling procedures could not be relied upon due to glaring procedural lapses. With no material evidence left and the chain of custody completely broken, the benefit of doubt must go to the accused, the court ruled, acquitting Indrajit Rai of all charges. Beyond the acquittal, the case has triggered wider concern over how high-value seized narcotics are stored and safeguarded by law enforcement agencies. According to the Railway Protection Force (RPF), cannabis is valued at approximately Rs 50,000 per kilogram, placing the total worth of the seized contraband at Rs 1 crore. Earlier, in July this year, a similar claim surfaced in Dhanbad, where officials alleged that rats had consumed liquor stored in government warehouses. During a stock check ahead of the states new liquor policy coming into effect on September 1, officials found 802 bottles of expensive liquor damaged. While matching stock at liquor shops in Baliapur and Pradhankantha, holes were found in bottle caps. Several bottles were found completely empty, while others were half-filled. When questioned, the agency operator claimed that rats had chewed through the caps and consumed the liquor.

Clash between rival groups in Jharkhand leaves two ex-Maoists dead, three seriously injured

RANCHI: A violent clash broke out between two factions previously associated with a banned Maoist group in Gendra village in Jharkhand's Chatra, during which two people died on the spot, while three others, including a National Investigation Agency (NIA) accused, were seriously injured. The incident is said to have taken place between 12 and 1 am early on Monday. The sudden firing awakened villagers and spread panic. According to police, former Tritiya Sammelam Prastuti Committee (TSPC) commander Devendra Ganjhu, along with his associates, went to the house of Shyam Bhokta and his brother-in-law Gopal Ganjhu at Gendra village. A dispute arose between Devendra Ganjhu and Shyam Bhokta, leading to an exchange of gunfire between the two sides. This left Devendra Ganjhu and Churaman Ganjhu dead on the spot, while Shyam Ganjhu alias Shyam Bhokta, his wife, and his brother-in-law Gopal Ganjhu from the other side were seriously injured. They were given first aid at the local hospital but due to their critical condition, they were referred to Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi for better treatment. Devendra Ganjhu was a top commander of the TSPC, while Shyam Bhokta had recently been released from jail in a case being investigated by the NIA, said police. Chatra SP Sumit Agarwal said the incident is the result of an internal dispute among the former Maoists over territorial dominance. A long-standing feud existed between Devendra Ganjhu and Shyam Bhokta, he said. According to the SP, Devendra Ganjhu had a long criminal history. More than 30 criminal cases are registered against him in different police stations in the area. Both sides were previously associated with the banned extremist organization TSPC, he said. Upon receiving information about the incident, Kunda police station officers rushed to the scene and cordoned off the entire area, launching a thorough search operation, he added. According to villagers, a dispute arose between the two over the distribution of money from opium sales and division of previously collected funds, leading to the exchange of fire. Police have also been interrogating the injured Gopal Ganjhu in connection with the case.

School holidays 2025: Cold wave forces closures in UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and Himachal Pradesh, and other states

A severe cold wave has disrupted normal school schedules across several North Indian states. According to media reports, Uttar Pradesh has ordered the closure of all schools until January 1, 2026, while Bihar and Jharkhand have announced temporary closures with revised timings in some areas. Heavy snowfall has extended winter holidays in Himachal Pradesh. Rajasthan continues scheduled winter vacations, while schools in South and East India remain open with normal classes.

President Droupadi Murmu arrives in Ranchi on three-day Jharkhand visit

RANCHI: President Droupadi Murmu, who is on a three-day visit to Jharkhand, arrived in Ranchi on Sunday evening. She was received at Birsa Munda Airport by Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar and Chief Minister Hemant Soren. The airport and surrounding areas were placed under heightened surveillance, with police and administrative teams maintaining full preparedness along major routes. Following her arrival, the President was escorted to Lok Bhawan in a tightly guarded convoy. Senior officials from the police and civil administration accompanied the movement, while traffic was closely regulated with additional personnel deployed at sensitive points. The state administration has been making extensive preparations for the Presidents stay, during which she is scheduled to participate in several official engagements and meetings. On Monday, the President will attend the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script of the Santali language and address the 15th convocation ceremony of the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jamshedpur. She will also pay tribute to Pandit Raghunath Murmu, the creator of the Ol Chiki script, by garlanding his bust. In view of the Presidents programme, security arrangements in Jamshedpur and nearby areas have been further intensified. The district administration, in coordination with police and intelligence agencies, has designated routes from the airport to event venues as high-security corridors. Multiple layers of security personnel, along with bomb disposal units, dog squads and surveillance teams, have been deployed at strategic locations. To safeguard the airspace, a temporary no-fly zone has been enforced over Jamshedpur and adjoining subdivisions from 6 pm on December 28 until the completion of the visit. Additional forces have been deployed from neighbouring districts, and officials have conducted inspections along key routes to eliminate potential hazards and ensure the smooth movement of the presidential convoy. Industrial establishments have also been advised to adjust working hours to minimise traffic congestion. The President will return to Ranchi and stay overnight at Lok Bhawan. On Tuesday, she will visit Gumla to address the Antarrajyiy Jansanskritik Samagam SamarohKartik Jatra, an interstate folk cultural gathering. Other dignitaries scheduled to attend the programme include Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram, Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Jharkhand Minister for Tribal Affairs Chamra Linda. The President is scheduled to depart for Delhi on Tuesday.

Farmer guarding paddy trampled to death by wild elephant in Jharkhand

RANCHI: In yet another casualty linked to the escalating man animal conflict in Jharkhand, a 50 year old farmer was killed after being trampled by a wild elephant while guarding his paddy crop during the night in Seraikela Kharsawan district, triggering fresh fear among local farmers and renewed disruption to rail services due to elephant movement. The incident occurred at around 3 am on Sunday at Nutundih village under Kukru block in Seraikela Kharsawan district. The deceased has been identified as Buka Mahto, alias Gaurang Mahto. According to local residents, Mahto was alone in his field, keeping vigil over his standing paddy crop to protect it from wild animals. Suddenly, a wild elephant emerged from the nearby forest and attacked him, killing him on the spot. The assault was so severe that the farmer died on the spot. Since the victim was alone at the time of the incident, no immediate help could reach him. The farmer was trampled to death by the elephant, said a villager, requesting anonymity. The incident has created an atmosphere of fear among local farmers, he added. Following the incident, the forest department has intensified patrolling in the area and appealed to people to remain alert and avoid visiting their fields during the night. Local authorities and the forest department have been informed of the tragedy to initiate the necessary legal formalities and to discuss compensation for the bereaved family. The incident comes close on the heels of another tragedy in Ramgarh district, where five people were killed within hours by a herd of elephants. A herd of 42 elephants, divided into six to seven separate groups, was active in the area and went on a rampage, causing loss of life and property. Meanwhile, intensified movement of wild elephants along forest fringed railway sections under the Chakradharpur Railway Division has once again disrupted train operations. In view of frequent elephant movement, 18 local trains were cancelled by the Chakradharpur Railway Division between December 25 and 28. This is the third time in the past 15 days that the Chakradharpur Railway Division has had to cancel trains due to elephant movement. Notably, according to official data, more than 1,270 people have been killed in the past 18 years due to elephant attacks across Jharkhand. Apart from human casualties, more than 150 elephants have also died during this period due to electrocution, train accidents or IED blasts.

President Murmu to arrive in Ranchi on Sunday on 3-day Jharkhand visit

Ranchi: President Droupadi Murmu will arrive here on Sunday on a three-day visit to Jharkhand, during which she will attend several programmes in Jamshedpur, Gumla and Ranchi. The President will attend the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script of the Santali language and address the 15th convocation ceremony of the National Institute of Technology 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 .

Cold wave, dense fog grip north and east India

Large parts of north and eastern India continued to reel under intense cold and dense fog on Saturday, disrupting normal life and prompting weather warnings across several states. Sub-zero temperatures were recorded in Kashmir, while parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Jharkhand and West Bengal reported cold day or cold wave conditions, according to the India Meteorological Department. In Uttar Pradesh, dense to very dense fog prevailed across many districts, with daytime temperatures remaining well below normal. Gorakhpur recorded a maximum of 13.2 degrees Celsius, 7.4 degrees below average, while Prayagraj saw a high of 16.8 degrees Celsius, down by over six degrees. Varanasi, Bareilly, Etawah, Bahraich and Barabanki also reported daytime temperatures four to six degrees below normal. Minimum temperatures in the state ranged between 6 and 11 degrees Celsius, with Etawah recording a low of 6.2 degrees. In Lucknow, the maximum temperature stood at 18 degrees Celsius, while high humidity levels contributed to gloomy conditions. The weather department forecast dense fog during late night and morning hours, with dry weather likely to continue. Rajasthan also witnessed cold and dry conditions, with fog reported at isolated places in the Udaipur and Kota divisions. Karauli was the coldest location in the state, recording a minimum temperature of 3.1 degrees Celsius. Jaipur registered a low of 9.6 degrees, while Barmer recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 29 degrees Celsius. The weather is expected to remain cold and dry in the coming days. Punjab and Haryana remained in the grip of intense cold, with dense fog enveloping several areas. In Punjab, Ballowal Saunkhri in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district was the coldest at 4.4 degrees Celsius. Gurugram recorded the lowest temperature in Haryana at 4.9 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh recorded a minimum temperature of 6.9 degrees Celsius. Dense fog also covered the national capital on Saturday morning, while air quality remained in the very poor category. The overall Air Quality Index stood at 355 at 9 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 7.8 degrees Celsius, with foggy conditions likely to persist through the day. Cold weather conditions prevailed across West Bengal as well, with Darjeeling emerging as the coldest place in the state at 5.8 degrees Celsius. In the plains, Alipurduar recorded a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius. Shallow to moderate fog is likely to continue over parts of the state over the next few days, the IMD said. In Jammu and Kashmir, night temperatures dipped below freezing at most places due to clear skies. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 2.6 degrees Celsius, while Sonamarg was the coldest place in the Union Territory at minus 5.8 degrees. The weather office has forecast generally dry conditions till December 29, with the possibility of rain and snowfall around New Years Eve. Jharkhand also witnessed cold wave conditions, with the mercury dropping below 10 degrees Celsius in several districts. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature at 3.6 degrees Celsius. The IMD issued a yellow alert for cold wave conditions in six districts, warning that the cold spell is likely to persist till Sunday morning. Amid the severe cold, at least four members of a family, including three children, died of suffocation in Bihars Saran district after a fire was lit in a closed room to keep warm. Two others were found unconscious and were admitted to hospital. Police said the incident occurred early Saturday morning in the Bhagwan Bazar area. A forensic investigation has been initiated, and the case is being probed from all angles. (With inputs from PTI)

President Droupadi Murmu To Undertake Submarine Sea Sortie From Karwar On December 28

The submarine visit will take place during the Presidents four-day tour of Goa, Karnataka and Jharkhand, starting on Saturday.

President Murmu set for submarine sea sortie on Dec 28

President Droupadi Murmu will embark on a historic submarine sortie from Karwar Harbour, Karnataka on December 28. This significant event is part of her four-day visit to Goa, Karnataka, and Jharkhand. The President will also attend centenary celebrations and a convocation ceremony in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. She will further address a cultural event in Gumla, Jharkhand on December 30.

Wild elephants' movement disrupts rail, road traffic across Jharkhand

RANCHI: Intensified movement of wild elephants along forest-fringed railway sections under Chakaradharpur Railway Division has once again disrupted the operation of trains. In the wake of frequent movement of wild elephants, Chakradharpur Railway Division has cancelled 18 local trains for the next four days from December 25 to 28. Notably, this is the third time in the last 10 days that the Chakradharpur Railway Division has had to cancel trains. According to officials, 18 local passenger trains have been cancelled for four consecutive days, from December 25 to 28, due to repeated elephant crossings on the ManoharapurJharsuguda rail section under the Chakradharpur Railway Division. The cancelled trains include TatanagarRourkelaTatanagar MEMU, ChakradharpurRourkelaChakradharpur MEMU, TataBarbilTata MEMU, TataGuaTata MEMU, TataChakradharpurTata MEMU and TataKharagpurTata MEMU, among others. The prolonged suspension of local trains has caused severe inconvenience to daily commuters, especially passengers travelling to and from smaller stations who largely depend on MEMU and passenger services. Amid the disruptions, a notable example of wildlife protection was witnessed in the same railway division recently. Recently, a herd of 22 elephants was crossing the railway tracks between Bisra and Bandamunda Cabin 'A' on the Howrah-Mumbai main railway line. Looking at the elephants' safety at risk, the railway authorities took immediate and decisive action, and 12 long-distance trains running on that route were temporarily stopped. Elephant movement disrupts rail traffic in Jharkhand, several trains cancelled Thanks to prompt action, no untoward incident occurred, and the entire herd crossed the tracks safely. Representatives of the Wildlife Trust of India felicitated the railway workers and officials who played a crucial role during the operation. Not only train services, elephant movement has also disrupted road traffic on National Highway-33 on the Ranchi - Ramgarh road on Wednesday evening. According to locals, a herd of 18 wild elephants suddenly appeared near the highway, creating panic among the people travelling on the road. Acting swiftly, the police and district administration suspended vehicular movement from both directionstraffic from Ramgarh was stopped near Mayatungri hill, while vehicles coming from Ranchi were halted in the Kharabera area of the Chuttupalu valley. Following the alert issued by the district administration, the forest departments quick response team reached the spot and safely guided the elephants back into the forest using torches, flashlights and sirens. Vehicular movement was restored after an hour. Notably, a herd of 42 elephants is active in the Ramgarh area, which has killed as many as six people during the last week. The herd, divided into 6-7 separate groups, is roaming in the forests of Mandu, Ghato and Kuju, posing a challenge for the forest officials to control them.

J&K UT Yoga team departs for National Cship

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 25: The Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Yoga team departed today for Ranchi, Jharkhand, to compete in the 50th Sub-Junior and Junior National (Golden Jubilee) Yoga Sports Championship, scheduled from December 27 to 30. The 22-member contingent, comprising boys and girls, will represent J&K UT at the prestigious national event. The team was flagged off with best wishes by Patron-in-Chief of Yoga Association J&K, Sudarshan Didi, Vice President Ravinder Bali, Mukesh Sharma and Secretary General [] The post J&K UT Yoga team departs for National Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Snubbed in Bihar, JMM looks to Assam for political expansion

RANCHI: After being denied any seat in Bihar by the Mahagathbandhan during the Assembly polls, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has begun exploring avenues in other tribal-dominated states across the country. According to party leaders, a four-member delegation will soon visit Assam to assess ground realities by holding a series of meetings with local party workers. Despite being a key coalition partner during the Bihar Assembly elections, the RJD did not concede a single seat to the JMM, while the Congress also remained silent on the issue. Subsequently, the JMM decided not to contest the Bihar polls, claiming the decision was taken in the wake of a political conspiracy by its allies RJD and Congress, which allegedly deprived it of seats under the Mahagathbandhan arrangement. JMM general secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya said that a decision would be taken by the partys top leadership based on the feedback submitted by the delegation. A four-member delegation of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha will soon visit Assam to explore avenues for the upcoming Assembly polls in the state. The leaders will stay there for a few days and hold meetings with local party workers to take stock of the partys ground situation, Bhattacharya said. He added that the delegation would submit a report after returning from Assam, on the basis of which a decision would be taken. The delegation will include minister Chamra Linda, MP Vijay Hansda, and MLAs M T Raja and Bhushan Tirkey. Bhattacharya said the party is keen on contesting the Assam Assembly elections as the state has a significant tribal population. Notably, during its 13th general convention held in Ranchi in April this year, the JMM had announced plans to increase its political activism in selected seats in Assam, Odisha and West Bengal. Party leaders had also said they were planning to contest elections in Assam by organising migrants from the state. As part of its broader expansion strategy, the JMM is working to establish its presence in various parts of the country with the aim of emerging as a national party. The party is also preparing to field candidates in the West Bengal Assembly elections and strengthen its position in other states. The JMM is actively working on shedding its image as a regional party and expanding its footprint in Delhi, West Bengal, Assam and Chhattisgarh. Preparations for this expansion are already underway. Although the party has not officially confirmed the details, sources indicate that the JMM plans to open offices in several states. Following its resounding victory in Jharkhand, the party is also considering opening an office in New Delhi.

No roads, no schools: Modern facilities merely a dream in Jharkhand's Budikai village

RANCHI: Modern facilities has failed to reach Budikai village in Jharkhands Khunti, even after 78 years of independence. Most affected of all amenities is education, as only a handful of students can afford to travel to the nearest school, at least 5 km away. Residents said the region was once considered a Maoist stronghold. Budikai village is home to just 35 families. The village lacks almost every basic facilityroads, schools, electricity and safe drinking waterforcing villagers to depend largely on their surrounding environment for survival. The only way to reach the village is through a roughly carved path along the mountains, built entirely by the residents themselves. Of all necessary amenities, the absence of educational facilities have been the most striking; not a single resident of Budikai has passed Class 10 exams so far. The most educated youth in the village, Bogan Nag, is a non-matriculate himself. Villagers said that there used to be a primary school in the village before, but it was merged with another school located away from the village, possibly because of low attendance. Jaura Pahan, a resident of Budikai, remarked that schooling is literally an uphill task for the children in this village. Only six children from the hamlet regularly attend the school in Ghaghra village, braving a 56 km long rocky and hilly forest trail. As many as 20-25 children remain completely out of school due to the difficult terrain and lack of transport facilities, casting a long shadow over the future of education in the village, said Pahan. Government welfare schemes fail to reach the village as officials are often reluctant to visit the inaccessible place, he added. Villagers still rely on a traditional water source (dari) dug by their ancestors. There is just one house built under the Abua Awas scheme, that too constructed with stones collected from the nearby forest, said Pahan. Extreme poverty continues to define everyday life for most families, he added. Despite these hardships, Budikai holds significant agricultural potential. Surrounded by hills, villagers cultivate paddy on terraced fields and water is abundantly available. However, the absence of information about modern farming practices, irrigation facilities and lift irrigation systems has discouraged farmers from growing vegetables or cash crops. Sagar Munda, a farmer in the village, said that with proper guidance and irrigation support, villagers could improve their livelihoods substantially. Budikai was once considered strongholds of Maoist activities, which further delayed development work in the region, said Munda. Only government support could change the course of their lives, he added.

Amid HC scrutiny, Soren cabinet okays rules for Scheduled Areas

RANCHI: Under continued pressure from the Jharkhand High Court over delay in Implementation of the Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), the state Cabinet on Tuesday cleared the Panchayat Provisions (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Jharkhand Rules, 2025finally putting in place a long-awaited legal framework vital for grassroots governance in tribal areas. In all, the cabinet okayed a total of 39 proposals. The approval of the Jharkhand PESA rules comes amid ongoing proceedings before the High Court, where the states failure to notify rules under PESA has been described as a systemic violation of tribal rights. Hemant Soren government had repeatedly been informing the court that PESA rules were under finalisation. The decision assumes significance as the HC has stalled the auction of sand ghats in Scheduled Areas and warned the state government of contempt proceedings for continuing mineral-related decisions without operationalising PESA, a constitutional mandate for tribal self-governance. Earlier during the hearings, the HC held that Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas cannot be bypassed in matters relating to natural resources, including sand mining. Acting on this principle, the court stayed the auction of sand ghats in SC Areas, holding that without enforceable PESA rules, such auctions lack legal foundation. While sand mining triggered immediate judicial intervention, Cabinets approval of PESA Rules has broader implications for governance in tribal regions. This will benefit tribal communities by allowing them to govern their villages according to their traditions without any external interference.

Kohli and Rohit in focus as Indian crickets creme de la creme take guard for the Hazare Trophy

The former skippers will turn up for Delhi and Mumbai respectively from the opening round itself; defending champion Karnataka finds itself in the group of death (Group A) alongside SMAT winner Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and fellow five-time winner Tamil Nadu

13 sentenced to life over lynching of father, son during anti-Waqf Act protests in West Bengal

KOLKATA: 13 persons were sentenced to life imprisonment for the lynching of a man and his son during the protests over the Waqf (Amendment) Act by a court in West Bengal's Murshidabad district on Tuesday. The court also directed the state to give Rs 15 lakh compensation to the family of the victims. Special public prosecutor Bivas Chatterjee said this is the country's second conviction in a mob lynching case and first in West Bengal. Haragobinda Das (72) and his son Chandan Das (42) were killed by a mob at their house in Jafrabad in the Samserganj police station area on April 12. The court had convicted 13 accused on Monday: Dildar Nadab, Asmaul Nadab, Injamul Haque, Ziaul Haque, Fekarul Sheikh, Azfarul Sheikh, Manirul Sheikh, Ekbal Sheikh, Nurul Islam, Saba karim, Hazrat Sheikh, Akbar Ali and Usuf Sheikh. The accused were arrested from West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand. Each of the 13 convicts was also sentenced to 10 years in prison for dacoity, 10 years of imprisonment for house trespass and a five-year term for rioting. All the sentences will run concurrently, the court said. While speaking to reporters, Additional Director General of Police Supratim Sarkar said, police had framed a chargesheet in connection with the case within 56 days following prompt investigations. The Das family has expressed their discontentment with the court verdict. Haragobinda's wife, Parul Das, said, We want the death penalty for three of the convicts, whom we have already identified. We are not happy with the court order. Leader of Opposition in the state legislative assembly Suvendu Adhikari said, the BJP will assist the family move the high court seeking death penalty for three of the 13 convicts. We are not happy with this judgment, he claimed. Adhikari alleged that the charges against the three main accused were watered down by the SIT formed to probe the case. The SIT could not live up to the expectation of ensuring exemplary punishment to the main culprits, he said. (With inputs from PTI)

Hot oil poured on woman for resisting molestation

In Giridih, Jharkhand, a woman was severely injured after two men allegedly poured hot oil on her when she resisted their molestation attempt at her shop. One accused, Uday Choudhary, has been arrested, while efforts are underway to apprehend the second suspect, Manish Choudhary. An FIR has been lodged regarding the incident.

'Dead' man returns, Chhattisgarh murder case on 4 collapses

A murder investigation in Chhattisgarh took a strange turn when the victim, believed dead and buried for 61 days, reappeared after working in Jharkhand. His family had reported him missing, and four acquaintances were arrested for his alleged murder based on a charred body and confessions.

Doctor carries out tubectomy under mobile phone flashlight in Jharkhand's Hazaribag

A viral video shows a tubectomy surgery continuing under mobile phone light at a Jharkhand government health center after a power outage. The administration has ordered an investigation and plans action against the community health worker who recorded and shared the footage.

Jharkhand: Boiling oil poured on woman for resisting sexual harassment; one arrested

RANCHI: Two youths poured boiling oil on a woman for allegedly resisting sexual harassment late Sunday evening in Jharkhand's Giridh. According to police, one accused has been arrested, while the other is still on the run. As per information received, the woman runs a shop selling fritters to support her family. The accused persons, Uday Chaudhary and Manish Chaudhary, had gone to her shop on Sunday evening. At that moment, the power went out. Both accused took advantage of the situation and attempted to molest the shopkeeper. When the woman tried to stop them from harassing her, the accused picked up a pan of scalding hot oil from the stove and threw it at her. The woman screamed out of pain as she was burned by the hot oil. Hearing her screams, local villagers rushed to the spot and immediately took her to Sadar Hospital, where she is currently undergoing treatment. According to doctors, the woman's hands and feet have been severely burned and is under constant medical supervision. According to villagers, the womans family depends entirely on the income from the stall. They alleged that the two accused youths have a history of misbehaviour. Both the accused persons come from influential families, due to which people were afraid to confront them earlier. But this time, they crossed all limits. Strict action must be taken against such elements, said a villager requesting anonymity. The villagers are extending all possible support for the womans treatment, they said. The police on the other hand have assured to take strict action will be taken against he accused persons. We have registered a case against the accused persons and arrested one of them, Uday Chaudhary, while the hunt is still on for another accused person, Manish Chaudhary. He will also be arrested soon, said the officer-in charge of Mufassil police station, Shyam Kishore Mahto.

Jharkhand's new campaign to showcase success stories of girls who stood up against child marriage

RANCHI: Jharkhands Social Welfare Directorate is set to launch a a first-of-its-kind campaign to curb child marriage by sharing real-life stories of girls who stood up against the practice. The campaign will showcase the success stories of girls who protested against the outdated practice and persuaded their families to not go through with their marriages, while also discussing the challenges they faced throughout their struggle for autonomy. Through these stories, young girls will be sensitised to the demerits of child marriage and informed about the laws prohibiting it. Officials informed that the campaign will highlight the provisions under the law against the practice of child marriage as well as schemes run by Women and Child Welfare Department, to empower young girls. For this initiative, the Directorate has identified ten such girls who successfully resisted child marriage, continued their education and have since gone on to build successful lives. The representatives include, Damini Sabar (East Singhbhum), Jaimati (Lohardaga), Rupa Kumari (Gumla), Karuna Kumari (Ramgarh), Uma (Jamtara), Chhaya Kumari ( Koderma), Manisha Kumari (Giridih), Milan Sabar (East Singhbhum), Radha Pandey (Koderma) and Chandana (Dhanbad). The campaign will be run in all the 45 sub-divisions of 24 districts of Jharkhand with a special focus on the pockets from where most of the child marriage cases come from, said an official in Social Welfare Department, requesting anonymity. All the officials in the sub-division level will be involved in this campaign to make it a success, she added. Not only government officials but the traditional heads like Manki-Munda and gram Pradhan along with the religious heads of all religion will also be involved so that more and more people get connected with this campaign, said the official. The campaign will be run under the ongoing programme Child Marriage Free Jharkhand, under which the young girls will also be made aware about the ongoing programmes being run for them by the state government.

Codeine syrup seized in UP; six held in separate operations in Etah, Mirzapur

ETAH:The Uttar Pradesh Police have intensified their crackdown on the alleged illegal trade, diversion and distribution of regulated codeine-based cough syrup, arresting six persons in separate operations in Etah and Mirzapur districts, officials said on Monday. The action comes as the probe widened into the alleged codiene syrup trafficking racket, suspected to be involved in illicit trade estimated to be worth hundreds of crores -- with links stretching across several states and possibly beyond international borders. In Etah, a joint team of the Agra anti-narcotics unit and Aliganj police recovered 47 cartons of codeine-based cough syrup, estimated to be worth around Rs 50 lakh, from a tobacco warehouse under Aliganj police station area limits Sunday night. Four persons, including a retired serviceman, were arrested on the spot, police said. According to police, the raid was carried out at a warehouse in Nagla Bani village following a tip-off. Preliminary investigation revealed that the seized cough syrup bore the name of a Baddi-based pharmaceutical company, 'Wings', but the batch numbers printed on the wrappers had been deliberately scratched off, indicating that the consignment was illegally manufactured. Yogis do namune jibe backfires as Akhilesh calls remark a BJP self-goal The arrested accused have been identified as Jitendra Yadav, Jitendra Shakya, Pramod Shakya and Punjab Singh, a retired soldier. Cases have been registered against them under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and other relevant sections, and further investigation is underway, police said. Official sources said the Etah recovery is suspected to be linked to Varanasi-based drug trader, Shubham Jaiswal, who is allegedly associated with an international drug syndicate. A lookout circular has already been issued against him, while his father was arrested earlier from Kolkata. The main accused remains absconding, officials said. In a separate development, Mirzapur police arrested two more accused -- Ajit Yadav and Akshat Yadav -- in connection with a case of illegal supply of codeine-based cough syrup registered at Adalhat police station. The arrests were made on Sunday evening following sustained investigation of the suspects, police said. According to officials, the two accused had allegedly floated firms using forged Aadhaar cards and supplied cough syrup through fake documentation. During investigation, police found that transactions worth over Rs 1 crore had been routed through bank accounts opened in Varanasi in the name of the fake firms. Police said Akshat Yadav, proprietor of a firm named A K Distributors, was supplied around 36 litre of New Phensedyl cough syrup (100 ml bottles) from a trader based in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The firm was found to be non-functional on the ground, and records showed it had been opened only once or twice without carrying out any genuine pharmaceutical business. Further scrutiny revealed that the Aadhaar card used for obtaining the drug licence carried a Mirzapur address and was forged, while a different Aadhaar card with a Varanasi address was used for banking purposes, pointing to deliberate fabrication of documents, police said. The firm's bank account in Varanasi showed a turnover of around Rs 1.28 crore. The two accused have been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the NDPS Act and sent to jail. Police said involvement of more suspects is likely and the investigation is ongoing. Officials said the recoveries and arrests form part of a broader state-wide investigation into the illegal diversion of codeine-based cough syrup, a regulated drug.