Madhya Pradesh News
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After Admissions And Nursing, Madhya Pradesh's New Medical Education Crisis
Madhya Pradeshs medical education system appears to be trapped in a cycle of scandals and systemic failure, with paramedical education under scrutiny after medical admissions and the nursing scam.
Larsen & Toubro bags multi-crore projects
Engineering giant Larsen & Toubro has won significant new projects. These include building a cultural and spiritual museum, Advait Lok, at Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh. The company will also redevelop the R G Baruah Sports Complex in Guwahati, featuring a FIFA-compliant football stadium.
Former AIIMS HOD moves SC seeking cancer to be declared a notifiable disease
NEW DELHI: A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court by former Head of the Department of Surgical Disciplines at AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr Anurag Srivastava, seeking directions to the Centre to declare cancer a notifiable disease to ensure uniform and mandatory reporting of cancer cases across India. In the petition, filed through advocate Gaurav Kumar Bansal, Dr Srivastava urged the Supreme Court to direct the Union Government and State Governments to establish a centralised, real-time digital cancer registry on the lines of the CoWIN portal. The proposed registry would integrate existing datasets, including the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), Hospital-Based Cancer Registries (HBCRs), Population-Based Cancer Registries (PBCRs), Ayushman BharatPMJAY, State health insurance schemes, mortality records and hospital information systems, with appropriate safeguards for data accuracy, privacy and accountability. The plea also sought directions to the Centre and States to formulate and implement nationwide cancer screening programmes at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs), targeting high-risk and age-based population groups. Further, the petitioner asked the Court to direct the authorities to frame a clear policy on unverified, religious or alternative therapies for cancer treatment, including remedies such as gomutra, and to regulate misinformation to protect public health. The PIL also called for ensuring the availability of affordable, evidence-based cancer treatment including modern medicine as well as evidence-based AYUSH therapies at all tertiary and district-level hospitals. Dr Srivastava also sought directions for the establishment of a dedicated National Cancer Care Fund to support treatment costs, anti-cancer drugs, diagnostic equipment and palliative care, with the aim of reducing the financial burden on poor, underprivileged and vulnerable patients and their families. The petition further urged the Court to direct the Union and State Governments to strengthen death certification and institutionalise death audits for cancer patients to ensure accurate reporting, identify systemic gaps and improve the quality of care. It also sought a time-bound roadmap for expanding PBCRs to ensure adequate representation of all States and rural areas, with particular emphasis on underrepresented States such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Odisha. In his plea, Dr Srivastava stated that despite being one of the leading causes of death in India, cancer remains outside the ambit of mandatory notification. This, he argued, has resulted in fragmented data, weak surveillance and policy paralysis in addressing the growing cancer burden. He highlighted that health is primarily a State subject under Entry 6 of List II of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution, and that both the Union and State Governments have the power to legislate and notify diseases within their respective domains. However, this concurrent jurisdiction has led to a legal lacuna, with some States having notified cancer as a disease while others have not. The absence of uniformity has led to disparities in reporting, monitoring and early intervention across States. This inconsistency has resulted in a critical policy failure, with patients in many States being diagnosed only at advanced stages, when curative treatment becomes difficult, expensive or impossible, the plea stated. Dr Srivastava further pointed out that the Indian Council of Medical Researchs NCRP currently covers only about 10 per cent of Indias population, with rural coverage as low as 1 per cent. Large States such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Odisha remain significantly underrepresented. He noted that both the NCRP Policy Brief, 2020, and the 139th Report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare had recommended that cancer be declared a notifiable disease, but these recommendations have yet to be implemented.
MPESB Group 1 Sub Group 2 recruitment 2026: The Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board has released the MPESB Group 1 Sub Group 2 Recruitment 2025-26 notification for 474 paramedical staff posts. Online applications are accepted through esb.mp.gov.in within the notified schedule. The selection process includes a written examination, document verification and medical examination. Details on eligibility, application fees, exam dates, shift timings and step-by-step application procedures are provided in the official notification.
Aishwary wins 3P gold with world record, Gurjoat clinches skeet event
NATIONAL SHOOTING NEW DELHI/BHOPAL, Dec 16: World Championship silver medallist Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar delivered a landmark performance at the 68th Shooting Nationals on Tuesday, firing a world record 470.5 to clinch gold in the mens 50m rifle 3 positions final at the Madhya Pradesh State Shooting Range. Aishwarys score is 1.6 points more than []
MP announces Rs 1,782 crore compensation package for thousands displaced by dam projects
BHOPAL: The Madhya Pradesh government on Tuesday approved a Rs 1,782 crore special relief package for families affected by submergence due to three major multipurpose dam and irrigation projects in the state. The decision was taken at a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav. The package will benefit families displaced by the Upper Narmada Project, Raghavpur Multipurpose Project and Basania Multipurpose Project in Anuppur, Mandla and Dindori districts. The special package is in addition to Rs 1,656.02 crore already earmarked for rehabilitation and compensation in the detailed project reports (DPRs) of the three projects. Officials said the total cost of the Upper Narmada, Raghavpur and Basania projects stands at Rs 5,512.11 crore. Together, the projects are expected to provide irrigation facilities for 71,967 hectares of land and generate 125 megawatts of electricity. As many as 13,873 families are likely to be affected by submergence and will receive compensation of Rs 12.50 lakh per family under the special package. In addition, around 50,000 Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe families will be given extra compensation. In another key decision, the cabinet approved a provision of Rs 90.67 crore under the revenue head for 202526 towards operation and maintenance of the Bhopal and Indore Metro Rail projects. The decision comes just four days before Bhopal is set to become the second city in the state, after Indore, to have an operational metro service. The cabinet also cleared Rs 48 crore for setting up six Forest Science Centres in the state between 202526 and 202930. The centres aim to promote forestry activities outside forest areas, improve forest land productivity, encourage agroforestry and create additional income opportunities through timber harvesting. Non-government organisations will also be allowed to establish such centres with permission from the Forest Department. Additionally, the cabinet approved the continuation of the Chief Ministers Udyam Kranti Yojana from 202627 to 203031, with an expenditure of Rs 905.25 crore. Under the scheme, youth aged 18 to 45 years are provided bank loans ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 50 lakh for self-employment, along with a 3 per cent annual interest subsidy and loan guarantee fee support for up to seven years. In a significant administrative reform, the cabinet approved measures to remove the distinction between sanctioned permanent and temporary posts in state government departments. It cleared amendments to recruitment rules to convert existing sanctioned temporary posts into permanent ones and decided to declare all work-charged and contingency posts as non-sanctioned, with no fresh appointments to be made under these categories.
Madhya Pradesh Man Uses Kidnapper's Smartwatch To Send SOS, Gets Rescued
Unable to repay an exorbitant amount demanded by moneylenders, the man was abducted, brutally assaulted, and locked inside a room, but a quick-thinking move using a smartwatch turned the tables on his captors.
J&K: Uncapped Auqib Nabi Sold To Delhi Capitals For Rs 8.40 Crore
T20 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: For the first time in J&Ks cricket history, pacer Auqib Nabi, belonging to Baramulla district, created history on Tuesday when he was sold to Delhi Capitals for a whopping sum of Rs 8.40 crore. The uncapped Indian seamer has been making waves with consistent performances across domestic tournaments, and the Capitals moved quickly to secure his services. Nabi has been in remarkable form this season. In the T20 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he picked up 15 wickets in seven matches at an economy rate of 7.41. In his most recent outing against Madhya Pradesh, he delivered a crucial all-round performance, scoring 32 off 21 balls to help set a defendable total before returning to claim three vital wickets to seal the win for Jammu & Kashmir. His domestic exploits go beyond T20s. Nabi had an exceptional start to the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, finishing as the only seamer among the top-five wicket-takers in the first half of the season. He claimed 29 wickets in nine innings, including three five-wicket hauls and a sensational 7 for 24 against Rajasthan, helping J&K secure a spot in the knockout stages. This dominance followed his brilliant 2024-25 Ranji Trophy campaign, where he ended with 44 wickets at an average of 13.93. No other seamer in the country came close, with the next best taking 35 wickets, while only Vidarbha all-rounder Harsh Dubey bettered Nabis tally with 69 wickets. Delhi Capitals, who earlier in the auction secured David Miller and Ben Duckett at their base prices of Rs 2 crore, will be hoping Nabi can replicate his domestic form at the highest level. This dominance followed his brilliant 2024-25 Ranji Trophy campaign, where he ended with 44 wickets at an average of 13.93. No other seamer in the country came close, with the next best taking 35 wickets, while only Vidarbha all-rounder Harsh Dubey bettered Nabis tally with 69 wickets. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There was widespread jubilation among cricket lovers in J&K, especially in Baramulla town, after news came about Auqibs being auctioned for an unbelievable amount for IPL 2026. Article Source: IANS
Four children test HIV positive in MP government hospital; contaminated blood transfusion suspected
SATNA/BHOPAL: Four children suffering from thalassemia have tested HIV positive at Satna District Hospital in Madhya Pradesh allegedly due to contaminated blood transfusions, officials said on Tuesday. The case is four months old and an investigation is underway into it, an official said. Officials suspect the use of contaminated needles or blood transfusions for the spread of infection to the children. MP Health Minister Rajendra Shukla told reporters in Bhopal that he has ordered a probe into the matter and sought a report. It is also being investigated whether the blood transfusion took place in other hospitals also or only in the government hospital, he said. The affected children, aged between 12 and 15 years, received blood transfusions from the hospital's blood bank, as per an official. Devendra Patel, in-charge of the blood bank at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel District Hospital in Satna, said four children have tested HIV positive and an investigation is underway to determine how they got infected. Either an infected needle was used or a blood transfusion occurred. These are the two main reasons I believe. Blood transfusion seems to be the most likely cause, he told PTI Videos. All these children suffer from thalassemia, and some have received 80 or 100 blood transfusions, he said. A family member of one of the affected children said that their child was found to be HIV positive during a routine checkup about four months back, and he has been receiving medication, but it had proven to be of no use. After taking the medication for HIV, the child starts vomiting, feels low and becomes ill, he said. After the four children were detected with HIV infection, their family members were also tested and the results came out negative, he added. The Opposition Congress targeted the government over the matter and demanded the resignation of Health Minister Shukla. Speaking to reporters in Bhopal, Congress MLA and former minister Sachin Yadav claimed such incidents were continuously occurring in Madhya Pradesh. Earlier, a case of toxic cough syrup came to light in Chhindwara, followed by incidents of rat bites at hospitals in Indore and Satna, and now children have been given HIV-infected blood, he said. The health minister is unable to manage the department. He should resign. A murder case should be filed against those responsible for the Satna incident, Yadav said. Senior Congress leader Sajjan Singh Verma termed it a failure of the government. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's government has no connection with ground realities, he charged. Somewhere rats are roaming in hospitals, somewhere children are being given HIV-infected blood. Instead of preventing HIV, you are spreading it. Mohan Yadav should wake up from his slumber. Children are the nation's heritage and should be taken care of, he added.
IPL 2026 mini-auction: RCB outbids KKR to buy Venkatesh Iyer for 7 crore
Venkatesh Iyer has been in decent form for Madhya Pradesh in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where his most recent knock was a 43-ball 70 against Punjab
Madhya Pradesh Hospital Under Probe As 4 Children With Thalassemia Test HIV Positive
Four children, suffering from thalassemia, have tested HIV positive after receiving blood transfusions at the District Hospital blood bank in Madhya Pradesh's Satna.
Genetic researchers probe nuclear genome to explain exceptionally high TB burden among MPs Sahariyas
BHOPAL: Genetic science researchers from across the country have turned their focus to genomic factors that may underlie the abnormally high prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) among the Sahariyas, one of the three Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Madhya Pradesh. The Sahariya population is largely concentrated in the GwaliorChambal region of Madhya Pradesh, particularly in Sheopur, Shivpuri, Guna, Ashoknagar, Gwalior, Morena and Bhind districts, with some presence in adjoining parts of Bundelkhand. Reported TB prevalence among the community ranges between 1,518 and 3,294 cases per 100,000 population, at least eight times higher than the national average of 187 per lakh. According to the World Health Organizations Global TB Report 2025 , India, despite remaining among high-burden countries, has recorded a 21 per cent decline in new TB cases, from 237 per lakh population in 2015 to 187 per lakh in 2024. Against this backdrop, the Sahariyas stand out as an extreme outlier. The ongoing research is being led by Prof Gyaneshwar Chaubey, a noted geneticist and biological anthropologist at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, in collaboration with researchers from several institutions, including the University of Calcutta and the Forensic Science Laboratory, Jabalpur. The team has already made a significant breakthrough by linking rare maternal mitochondrial haplogroups, N5 and X2, to heightened TB susceptibility among the Sahariyas. A haplogroup refers to a group of people who share a common ancestor, identified through specific mutations in mitochondrial DNA (inherited from the mother) or Y-chromosome DNA (inherited from the father). The findings, published in the international journal Mitochondrion in August 2025, were based on the analysis of complete mitochondrial genomes from 729 individuals, including 140 Sahariyas. The study revealed that the rare N5 and X2 haplogroups, absent in neighbouring populations, likely entered the Sahariya gene pool through ancient gene flow from western India during the early Iron Age. A subsequent founder effect may have compromised mitochondrial function, weakening immune responses to TB. Researchers noted that this genetic vulnerability, compounded by chronic malnutrition, poverty and limited access to healthcare, offers a compelling explanation for the tribes extraordinarily high TB burden. Building on these mitochondrial findings, the research team has now initiated whole-genome sequencing of Sahariya individuals to investigate the contribution of the nuclear genome to TB susceptibility. This phase aims to identify risk alleles or genetic variants in nuclear DNA that may act independently or in concert with mitochondrial factors to heighten disease vulnerability. The study is also examining long-standing patterns of endogamy within the community. High levels of marriage within the group, combined with a historically small effective population size, may have amplified harmful genetic variants through genetic drift and inbreeding. Preliminary analyses suggest that this demographic history could further intensify TB risk by concentrating deleterious alleles. Expanding from mitochondrial insights to nuclear genomics will give us a far more comprehensive understanding of genetic susceptibility among the Sahariyas, said Debasruti Das, the studys first author. This knowledge is crucial for designing targeted interventions for communities bearing the heaviest TB burden. Senior author Prof Prashant Suravajhala added that the ongoing work would also assess how genetic predisposition interacts with environmental and cultural factors. Such integrated insights can pave the way for personalised public health strategies and more effective TB control among tribal populations, he said.
Venkatesh Iyer Smashes Timely 70 Off 43 In SMAT On IPL 2026 Auction Day
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite: India all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer delivered a timely reminder of his credentials with a polished 70 off 43 deliveries for Madhya Pradesh in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite 2025 Super League Group A fixture against Punjab at the DY Patil Academy, Ambi, Pune, on Tuesday. His innings was laced with eight boundaries and two sixes, underlining his ability to control the tempo in the middle order. The performance came just a few hours before the IPL 2026 auction, set to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, making the knock particularly significant. With franchises reconsidering their choices, Venkateshs fluent display arrived at a most timely moment. Venkatesh burst onto the national radar after an impressive IPL debut season with the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2021, a campaign that earned him an India call-up and marked him out as one of the most promising all-rounders in the domestic circuit. His rise had begun earlier with a strong showing for Madhya Pradesh during the 202021 limited-overs season. While his IPL 2022 performance was relatively modest, Venkatesh recovered in 2023, scoring 404 runs for KKR, including a century, at a strike rate of 145.85. His status within the franchise increased to the point that he captained the side a few times and was considered for the captaincy before Ajinkya Rahane took over last season. However, the 2025 IPL proved to be a challenging campaign. Despite being retained at a hefty Rs 23.75 crore following the mega auction, Venkatesh managed only 142 runs across 11 matches, with a batting average of 20.28. The decline in performance ultimately prompted KKR to part ways with the left-hander, bringing an end to an association that had spanned his entire IPL career. While his IPL 2022 performance was relatively modest, Venkatesh recovered in 2023, scoring 404 runs for KKR, including a century, at a strike rate of 145.85. His status within the franchise increased to the point that he captained the side a few times and was considered for the captaincy before Ajinkya Rahane took over last season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR enter the auction with the biggest purse among all ten teams, of 64.30 crore, and will eye rebuilding the outfit with 13 slots to fill. Article Source: IANS
Shakti Pumps shares gain 40% in just 4 days. What's fuelling the rally?
Shakti Pumps shares surged for the fourth consecutive day, driven by multiple large solar pump orders across Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh. The strong order inflow underscores its leadership in solar-powered irrigation solutions, boosting market confidence. Technical indicators show healthy momentum, supporting continued investor interest amid positive sectoral trends.
DC Edit| Fresh Start For BJP With A Young Working Chief
It may be remembered that several of the partys chief ministers, including Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh), Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra), Mohan Charan Majhi (Odisha), Mohan Yadav (Madhya Pradesh), Vishnu Deo Sai (Chhattisgarh) and Bhajan Lal Sharma (Rajasthan) were all under 60 when they were chosen for the post. The new young boss will be working with those young veterans
BHOPAL: A fateful blaze at a Dalit familys house in Madhya Pradeshs Sagar district, which killed two teenage boys, has taken a communal turn ten days after the incident. Activists related to various Hindu outfits reached out to a charitable trust hospital in Sagar city on Monday, alleging that the fire at the house in Chandamau village on the intervening night of December 4-5 was ignited by Muslim youth Fahim Khan alias Sonu. Sonu was allegedly stalking and troubling the familys 20-year-old daughter. The victims family members, including the mother and her elder daughter, supported the allegations of the activists in the saffron outfits. The elder daughter, a 23-year-old young woman, is currently recuperating from 60 per cent burn injuries at the same hospital, where her 17-year-old brother died on Sunday night. The mother-daughter duo alleged that Fahim Khan, who resides in the same village, was regularly troubling the younger daughter, and on being asked by the family to stay away from her, Fahim had threatened to kill the entire family. The elder of the two daughters, who is hospitalised, claimed that she had seen Fahim running away from near their house just when the blaze was triggered. While alleging it to be a Love Jihad incident, the Hindu outfit members demanded that a case be registered against Fahim, followed by his arrest. When the incident took place, the elder daughter and her two brothers, aged 14 and 17, were present in the house. Their father, mother and their younger daughter were away when the killer blaze happened. While the 14-year-old younger son died the same night, his 17-year-old elder brother died at the charitable trust hospital in Sagar city ten days later on Sunday night. Based on the initial police investigations, which suggested that the fire was suspected to have been caused by a kind of 'negligence', a fire-related case was registered at the Naryawali police station on December 5. But, with the mother and elder daughter now accusing the Muslim youth of setting their house ablaze, the cops have started a fresh probe into the entire matter. A team led by the sub-divisional officer police (SDOP) was sent to the concerned village, and a fresh probe is underway to cover all possible angles in the case, particularly following the recent statements of the family members, Sagar district police superintendent Vikas Kumar Sahwal said on Monday. Sources privy to the ongoing probe confided to TNIE that the SC familys younger daughter was regularly talking with the Muslim youth. Her family had caught her talking to him over the phone, after which he was asked to stay away from her. While the mother and elder daughter are alleging that Fahim had set their house on fire, the younger daughter and father are not blaming him for the inferno. Ongoing probe also suggests that Fahim had only helped the family to rush the severely burnt teenage brothers and their elder sister to the hospital.
BHOPAL: Madhya Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Rajendra Shukla, is once again targeted by the Opposition party, following a fire at the Gynaecology Operation Theatre (OT) in a government hospital in Rewa district. The state Congress chief has also demanded Shuklas resignation while sharing a video of rats at a hospital, which he claimed was at the Jabalpur district hospital. On Sunday afternoon, while a caesarean surgery was underway at the Gynaecology OT of the Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital in Rewa, smoke suddenly started emanating, followed by a blaze. With the surgery being in the last stages after the birth of the stillborn child, the mother was safely evacuated out of the OT, and the babys charred body was left behind in the surgical tray. While a probe has been initiated in the matter to find what triggered the blaze and fix accountability for the lapses, the state Congress chief Jitu Patwari demanded the resignation of Rajendra Shukla over the incident. When the health minister cannot manage the health system in his own district, what can be expected from him for the entire State. Notably, the hospitals medical superintendent, Dr Rahul Mishra, is the nephew of Lok Sabha member from adjoining Sidhi district, Rajesh Mishra. Previously too several incidents of negligence have come to light at the same hospital, but no one has been held accountable. Even after hundreds of deaths across the State due to the governments negligence, why has Rajendra Shukla not been asked to resign? Patwari questioned. On Monday, Patwari shared on X a video of rats at a hospital, claiming it to be visuals from the Jabalpur district hospital. When the government hospitals arent safe, where on earth will the commoners go for treatment? If you have even the slightest concern for the state, then resign immediately and do justice to the people of MP. The deputy CM has been regularly on the Congresss radar in the recent past due to the deaths of 24 kids due to cough syrup poisoning in Chhindwara and adjoining districts, and also due to the deaths of two newborn babies following rat bites at the MY Hospital in Indore.
Old Horror Haunts Madhya Pradesh Again: Rats Jump Over Patients In Hospitals
The menace of rats in government hospitals across Madhya Pradesh is fast turning into a public health nightmare. After shocking incidents from Indore's Maharaja Yeshwantrao Hospital and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College in Jabalpur.
Newborn's Charred Body Found Hours After Blaze In Madhya Pradesh Hospital
Panic and outrage gripped Sanjay Gandhi Hospital in Rewa after the partially burnt body of a newborn was discovered during the cleaning of the operation theatre (OT) in the gynaecology ward, hours after a fire incident.
Tractor With Illegally Mined Sand Rams Madhya Pradesh Official's Vehicle
The reign of terror unleashed by the sand mafia in Madhya Pradesh's Bhind district surfaced once again on Monday, exposing the extent to which illegal miners have grown fearless of the law.
J&K teen Madhavendra Singh shines at National School Games, bags Silver in Soft Tennis
JAMMU, Dec 15: Seventeen-year-old Madhavendra Singh Sambyal has emerged as a new sporting star from Jammu and Kashmir, clinching a silver medal in the Under-17 Soft Tennis event at the National School Games held in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh. Displaying immense composure, grit and high-class skill against the countrys best young players, Madhavendra made his way into the final, settling for silver after an intense title clash. His performance has placed Jammu and Kashmir on the national soft tennis map, establishing [] The post J&K teen Madhavendra Singh shines at National School Games, bags Silver in Soft Tennis appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ram Janmabhoomi movement leader Dr Ramvilas Vedanti passes away at 67
LUCKNOW: Former BJP MP and senior saint Dr Ram Vilas Das Vedanti (67), a prominent figure of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, passed away while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Madhya Pradeshs Rewa district early on Monday. Dr Vedanti had been admitted to Rewas Super Speciality Hospital for the past two days. On Sunday, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla had planned to airlift him to AIIMS, Bhopal, for advanced treatment, but the air ambulance could not be deployed due to adverse weather conditions. His health deteriorated subsequently, and he passed away at 12.20 am on Monday. Earlier, Dr Vedanti had travelled from Ayodhya to Delhi on December 7 and attended a meeting of the VHPs Central Margdarshak Mandal on December 10. From Delhi, he reached Rewa, where a Ramkatha discourse by him was underway at Bhatwa village near Lalgaon. The programme had been scheduled to continue till December 17. His successor, Mahant Raghavesh Das Vedanti, said the mortal remains were being taken to Ayodhya, where the last rites would be performed with full religious rituals. Born on October 7, 1958, Dr Ramvilas Das Vedanti was a disciple of Mahant Abhiram Das of Hanumangarhi. He resided at Hindu Dham, Naya Ghat, in Ayodhya, and also headed an ashram known as Vashishth Bhawan. For several decades, he recited Ramkatha before Ramlala and at Hanumangarhi, and was widely regarded as a distinguished Sanskrit scholar and a leading saint associated with Ayodhya. Dr Vedanti played a significant role in the Ram temple movement. He was a member of the Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas and later served as its Executive President. He was also a two-time Member of Parliament on a BJP ticket, having represented Machhlishahr in Jaunpur district in 1996 and Pratapgarh in the 12th Lok Sabha. In the 1998 Lok Sabha elections, he won the Pratapgarh seat by a large margin, defeating Congress candidate Ratna Singh. A native of Gudhwa village in Rewa district, Dr Vedanti lost his mother at the age of two. His father, Ram Suman Tripathi, was a priest and guru of former Union Minister Arjun Singh. Dr Vedanti arrived in Ayodhya at the age of 12 and devoted his life to religious and social service. His role in the demolition of the disputed structure on December 6, 1992, remained controversial, as he had publicly admitted to ordering the demolition and was named as an accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case. However, his statement was widely seen as an attempt to shield senior BJP leaders. In 2020, a special CBI court acquitted him, ruling that there was no conspiracy behind the demolition. , . ! , Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) December 15, 2025 Condoling his death, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath wrote on X: The passing of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Andolan's key pillar, former MP, and revered saint of Vashishtha Ashram at Shri Ayodhya Dham, Dr Ramvilas Vedanti Ji Maharaj, to Goloka is an irreparable loss to the spiritual world and Sanatan culture. Humble tribute to him! His departure marks the end of an era. His life of sacrifice, dedicated to the service of religion, society, and nation, is an inspiration to us all. We pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed soul a place at His divine feet and bestow strength upon the grief-stricken disciples and followers to bear this immense sorrow. Om Shanti! he added. According to his disciples, Dr Vedanti regarded the consecration of the Ram temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the fulfilment of two major resolutions of his life. Political observers note that he significantly altered the political landscape of Pratapgarh district, becoming the first BJP leader to win the seat by mobilising support around the Ram temple movement.
Ram Vilas Vedanti dies: Ram Janmabhoomi movement leader passes away at 67; last rites in Ayodhya
Ram Janmabhoomi movement leader and former BJP MP Ram Vilas Vedanti passed away at the age of 67 in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, due to a heart attack. He was admitted to the hospital with severe blood poisoning and kidney failure. Efforts to transfer him to AIIMS Bhopal by air ambulance were unsuccessful due to poor visibility.
Key stretch of Indore Metro to run underground; project cost to go up by Rs 900 crore
INDORE, Dec 14: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Sunday announced that the Metro line along a 3.3-kilometre stretch passing through Indores dense residential and commercial areas will now be built underground instead of as an elevated corridor. He said the state government would bear the additional estimated cost of about Rs 900 crore arising from the change in alignment of the mass-transportation project. The original Indore Metro project envisages a 31.32-kilometre-long route at a proposed cost of Rs [] The post Key stretch of Indore Metro to run underground; project cost to go up by Rs 900 crore appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Meghalaya name 15-member squad for SGFI U-14 karate championship
By Our Reporter Shillong, Dec 14: The All Meghalaya Karate Do Association has announced a 15-member squad that will represent the state at the 69th School Games Federation of India (SGFI) Under-14 Karate Championship, scheduled to be held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, from December 14 to 19, 2025. The Meghalaya contingent will be led by []
Probe ordered after goats seen eating midday meals with children at an Anganwadi in Madhya Pradesh
BHOPAL: A probe has been ordered and preliminary action initiated after videos went viral showing goats eating midday meals from steel plates alongside children, allegedly outside an Anganwadi centre in Madhya Pradeshs Katni district. Multiple viral clips show children seated in two parallel queues with food served on steel plates, while two goats are seen eating from plates kept at the end of one queue. Officials said the incident pertains to an Anganwadi facility operating from a rented private building in Sehra Mohalla of Kothi village, located in the tribal-dominated Dhimarkheda block. The arrangement was made due to the absence of an adequate government building for the Anganwadi or school, they added. Katni District Collector Ashish Tiwari said a team of officials was dispatched to the village immediately after the videos surfaced. The Anganwadi centre has been functioning from a private rented building since last year, while construction of a permanent facility is underway at another location, he told this newspaper on Sunday. According to Tiwari, the preliminary probe found that the Anganwadi supervisor, assistant and worker were not present when the midday meal was being served. Based on the initial findings, the salary increment of the Anganwadi supervisor has been withheld, and show-cause notices have been issued to the assistant and the Anganwadi worker, he said. The incident has drawn attention coming barely a month after a separate video from Sheopur district sparked national outrage. In that case, children at a government primary school in Hullpur village of Vijaypur block were seen being served midday meals on scrap paper. The November incident reportedly led to the suspension of the school principal and termination of the contract of the self-help group responsible for preparing the meals. The Sheopur episode had also prompted sharp political reactions, with Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi questioning the BJP-led central and state governments over the issue. Residents of Kothi village said the Anganwadi centre has been operating from the private building since January 15. No supervisor or worker ever comes here. Since 2024, children have been coming only to study and have midday meals. Around 60 to 65 children are beneficiaries of this centre, a villager said.
28 Students Injured After School Bus Plunges From 12-Foot Bridge In Madhya Pradesh
A bus carrying 42 students from the Bahadurpur Higher Secondary School on a picnic to Sanchi to fell from a bridge after the driver lost control of the vehicle.
Kuno Gears Up To Welcome Fresh Batch of Cheetahs From Botswana
Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav on Sunday indicated that Nauradehi may get some cheetahs before the monsoon next year
MPPSC FSO answer key 2025 expected soon: Know where and how to access response sheets
The Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission is poised to release the answer key and response sheet for the 2025 Food Safety Officer exam soon. This crucial document will allow candidates to evaluate their performance for the 67 vacant posts. Following a provisional key and an objection period, a final answer key will be published before the official results are announced.
SMAT: Reddys Unbeaten Century Helps Andhra Win, Knock Punjab Out Of Competition
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Maramreddy Hemanth Reddy smashed a blistering unbeaten century to script Andhras first win of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League stage and eliminate Punjab from being in contention for the final. At the MCA Cricket Stadium in Gahunje, Hemanth hammered 109 off 53 balls, his first T20I century and steered Andhra to a five-wicket victory by successfully hunting down 206 with a ball to spare. Put into batting first, Punjab assembled a strong total through collective contributions. Opener Harnoor Singhs 42 off 30 balls laid the foundation for the high score before Anmolpreet Singh (47 off 27 balls), Ramandeep Singh (43 off 18 balls) and Salil Arora (42 not out off 22 balls) injected momentum in the middle and death overs. For Andhra, seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Reddy, who took a hat-trick in the previous game against Madhya Pradesh, returned with figures of 1-39 while left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar took 1-24. The chase began in turmoil for Andhra, as they were reduced to 12/3 and later 56/5 in the ninth over, with Nitish falling for a duck. From that precarious position, Hemanth and SDNV Prasad turned the contest around with a decisive 155-run stand for the sixth wicket. For Andhra, seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Reddy, who took a hat-trick in the previous game against Madhya Pradesh, returned with figures of 1-39 while left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar took 1-24. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Punjab 205/5 in 20 overs (Anmolpreet Singh 47, Ramandeep Singh 43; Saurabh Kumar 1-24, Nitish Kumar Reddy 1-39) lost to Andhra 211/5 in 19.5 overs (M Hemanth Reddy 109 not out, SDNV Prasad 53 not out, Gurnoor Brar 3-23, Ayush Goyal 1-37) by five wickets Article Source: IANS
MP cabinet clears Nauradehi as third cheetah habitat; relocation planned
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve at Nauradehi will be developed as the states third cheetah habitat before the next monsoon, following Kuno and Gandhi Sagar reserves
Kareenas mulberry silk and chanderi look is peak effortless chic
Kareena Kapoor Khan effortlessly embodied 'Reclaiming Cool' in a SWGT ensemble featuring West Bengal mulberry silk and Madhya Pradesh Chanderi. The ivory and blue floral appliqu jacket over a simple blouse and tailored trousers exuded quiet confidence. Minimalist accessories, fresh makeup, and relaxed waves completed the understated yet powerful look.
Rural women better employed than urban: Study
BENGALURU: Karnatakas rural women are better employed in comparison to those in urban areas and men in both areas proportionately, said a report from the Reserve Bank of India. The report, Handbook of Statistics on Indian States 2024-25, released on Friday, said the unemployment rate of women in rural areas was nine per 1,000 in 202324 and 13 in 202223. The unemployment ratio of men in the same periods were 25 and 17, respectively. The overall unemployment rate in Karnatakas rural area was recorded as 19 during 202324, and 15 during 202223. This is lower than the national average of 25 and 24, respectively. In the case of urban areas, the unemployment rate of women during 202324 was 44 and during 202223, it was 51. The RBI report also noted that the urban male unemployment rate in 202324 fiscal was 41 and in 202223, it was 38. The overall unemployment rate in urban areas in 202324 and in 202223 it was 42. The all India unemployment rate in 202324 was 51 and in 202223, it was 54. A finance expert in the state government said, There is unemployment in Karnataka. But compared to other states and India, it is less. The rise in rural womens employment rate is a positive indication, but worrisome when the urban statistics are noted. The overall rural unemployment rates in Goa, Madhya Pradesh and even Jharkhand are even lower. Karnataka also ranked fourth in the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) size. The report said Karnatakas GSDP (at current prices) for the year 202425 was Rs 28,83,903.23 crore. In 202324, it was Rs 25,57,241.35 crore. The state ranks second in the overall GSDP growth with 12.8% for the fiscal 202425, after Tamil Nadu (16%). Uttar Pradesh is slightly behind Karnataka with 12.7%, and Maharashtra trails with 11.7%. The GSDP growth rate of Gujarat is recorded as 10.2%. An official in the finance department, seeking anonymity, said, while other states fared better under the overall urban employment category, Karnatakas population should also be accounted for. The reason for the drop in male employment in rural areas also needs to be studied, the official said. FKCCI chairperson Uma Reddy said womens employment in rural areas increased because of the agricultural sector and self employment. The rural entrepreneurship training programmes also appear to be beneficial. In the case of urban areas, a larger push for the women workforce is needed to control the attrition rate. Reddy said the overall unemployment rate of the state is worrying. The report is only till 202324. But an analysis of 202425 and 202526 is needed for a clearer picture. The reasons cannot be fully ascertained yet, but some indicators include technological interventions, drop in investments and the tariff issue, she said.
Goats Seen Eating Mid-Day Meal Alongside Children In Madhya Pradesh School, Probe Ordered
The viral video showed children seated on the floor and eating their midday meal while goats feed from plates placed next to them, consuming the same food.
In a first in the country, Rajasthan HC to hear cases on two Saturdays a month to cut backlog
JAIPUR: In a major step to tackle the mounting backlog of cases, the Rajasthan High Court will now hold proceedings on two Saturdays every month, making it the first high court in the country to officially increase its number of working days to expedite the disposal of pending cases. The decision follows an initiative by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant, who recently wrote to all high courts urging them to consider increasing working days to reduce case backlogs. Sources said the decision was taken during a full court meeting of the Rajasthan High Court, where all judges agreed to amend the court calendar for the coming year. As a result, the number of working days will rise from 210 to over 230 annually. Welcoming the move, former Rajasthan High Court judge Justice Panachand Jain told The New Indian Express that the decision aligns with the principle of natural justice, which calls for justice to be simple, quick and expeditious. Working on two Saturdays is absolutely justified. Justice delayed is justice denied as the old saying goes. So when the court holds more hearings, the number of pending cases is bound to decrease, he said. On the likely impact, the former judge added that even if a small percentage of cases are disposed of faster, it would still be a significant achievement. Even expediting two percent of cases is meaningful. This should be seen as a beginning, and more such steps are needed, he said. Along with extending working days, the High Court has also decided to launch a pilot project to further ease judicial workload. Under this initiative, one evening court each will be set up at the magistrate level in Jaipur and Jodhpur. A committee comprising Acting Chief Justice Sharma and Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati will be formed to take further decisions related to this project. The decision coincides with a two-day West Zone Regional Conference currently underway in Jaisalmer under the chairmanship of CJI Justice Surya Kant. The conference, themed Advancing the rule of law through technology challenges and opportunities, is focusing on digital court infrastructure, the use of technology and artificial intelligence in judicial processes, and the modernisation of court functioning. Nearly 20 judges of the Supreme Court are participating in the conference, along with judges of the Rajasthan High Court and over 100 district and sessions judges from Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
Inter-state criminal nabbed in Indore after returning to fill SIR voter form
BHOPAL: Coming back to his home city Indore reportedly to fill up his Special Intensive Revision (SIR) voter enumeration form recently, a hardened inter-state criminal landed in the Madhya Pradesh polices net. Identified as Abdul Rashid, alias Talwar Singh (54), the criminal is accused in around 100 cases, including robbery, theft and murder in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and other states. He had recently returned to Indore after many years just to fill up the SIR enumeration form. On December 3, he broke into a closed flat in Indores Geeta Nagar locality and decamped with gold and silver jewellery valued in lakhs of rupees. Multiple teams were formed by the Indore Palasia police to crack the burglary-theft case, which led to the arrest of Abdul Rashid a few days later in Indore, following a specific tip-off. His questioning revealed that he had come down to his home city Indore after many years for filling up his SIR enumeration form. After filling the form, he committed the crime at the closed flat in Geeta Nagar, but acting on specific intelligence, the police arrested him a few days later, Indore police spokesperson and additional DCP of the city crime branch Rajesh Dandotiya told TNIE on Saturday. Subsequent investigations, based on Rashids sustained grilling, revealed that he was accused in around 100 cases of theft, robbery, burglary, murder and attempted murder in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and other states. Had he not come to Indore for filling up the SIR form and then not committed the burglary-theft, maybe we wouldnt have been able to nab him, a senior Indore police officer said. Stolen properties, including cash, jewellery and a two-wheeler, all valued at over Rs 7.5 lakh, were recovered from Rashids possession. He was originally a native of Indores North Toda locality and started committing thefts and burglaries from the age of 19. However, he later shifted to Akola in Maharashtra after the Indore police began searching for him. He married a woman in Akola and started living there. He earned the infamous sobriquet Talwar Singh a few years back, after he beheaded a man with a sword and then surrendered at the local police station with the severed head in Maharashtras Wardha.
Security increased at Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's Bhopal residence
BHOPAL: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans open-to-all official residence, Mama Ka Ghar, in the Madhya Pradesh capital has now turned into a heavily barricaded fortress following an increased security threat perception. A large number of metallic barricades have been erected outside the B-8B-9 combined bungalow in the high-security 74 Bungalows area of Bhopal. The bungalow, which has been Chouhans official residence since January 2024, was named Mama Ka Ghar after he shifted there from the Chief Ministers residence, weeks after Dr Mohan Yadav took charge as CM. Chouhan ruled Madhya Pradesh as chief minister for over 16 years. Highly placed sources in the state police said security at the residence has been augmented following specific alerts from New Delhi, indicating that the former chief minister and present Union minister is increasingly on the radar of across-the-border handlers of terrorist groups and separatist elements operating in the country. The security here has been beefed up since Friday night, with round the clock Dial-112 emergency response vehicle and a strong police picket having been deployed outside the big bungalow, a senior police officer, part of the enhanced security apparatus, told TNIE on Saturday. Chouhan already enjoys Z+ personal security cover, which was approved by the Union Home Ministry in December 2018, days after his 13-year-long BJP government lost power to the Congress in the Assembly elections. The Z+ category is extended to individuals facing severe threats and includes crack commandos, bulletproof vehicles and advanced security equipment. It is second only to the Special Protection Group (SPG) cover provided to the Prime Minister. Confirming the enhancement, Bhopal Police Commissioner Harinarayanchari Mishra said, The security of the highest level of protectees is reviewed periodically and based on the periodic review of the union ministers security, the security apparatus at his residence in Bhopal has been enhanced. While state police sources maintained that the security has been stepped up based on specific intelligence inputs from the national capital, political circles in Bhopal offered varying interpretations. Sections within the state BJP were abuzz with speculation that the move could signal Chouhans strong prospects of becoming the partys next national president. However, Congresss state media wing head and former minister Mukesh Nayak disputed this narrative. Enhancement of Chouhans security is being used by his followers for spreading it as a harbinger of his appointment as BJPs next national president. If it actually turns out to be true, then the entire state will be happy. But according to us, the security has been beefed up following a missive from the central government to the state government, about Chouhans security in the state not being adequate, which is why the security cover is being suddenly increased, Nayak claimed. Located on the main road in the 74 Bungalows area, Chouhan formally named the residence Mama Ka Ghar on January 3, 2024. Speaking on the occasion, he had said, The address has changed, but Mama ka Ghar will remain Mama ka Ghar. My bond with sisters, nieces, nephews and brothers is of love, trust and affinity, my doors will always remain opened for them. Whenever you remember me, come here without hesitation, because this is your maternal uncle and brothers house.
SMAT: No Matter What, You Have To Give Your Best, Says Reddy After Picking Hat-trick
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Indias seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who took a hat-trick for Andhra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League stage, said one must look to give their best in every situation, adding that he always feels happy putting in good performances on the field. At the DY Patil Academy Ground in Ambi, Reddy took a hat-trick for Andhra against Madhya Pradesh, though his team ended on the losing side. His triple strike led to him finishing with figures of 3-17, his best return in T20 cricket. It's never an easy tournament to play Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. It's always been a top league as well. So you have to give your best, no matter what. This is my first hat-trick in senior age group and one I have got before, but it's a pretty same feeling. I mean, I always feel happy when I perform for my state or any team. So giving my best is what I can do and I am feeling so proud, said Reddy in a video posted by the BCCI on their domestic cricket social media accounts on Saturday. Reddys hat-trick came in the third over when he removed Harsh Gawli, Harpreet Bhatia and Rajat Patidar. He further stressed on the importance of planning, belief and execution in getting a memorable hat-trick. I believed that on the third ball, I have to get my scrambled ball to come in very sharply. It came in and you can see that inside edge - that's what happened. I mean, I always feel happy when I perform for my state or any team. So giving my best is what I can do and I am feeling so proud, said Reddy in a video posted by the BCCI on their domestic cricket social media accounts on Saturday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The plan was to hit it top of off stump and if I could get some movement from there, it would be good enough. I got some movement from there and that's where I got my 3 wickets. I tried to bowl into the wicket and I got the first ball to hit the top of off stump, and second ball, scrambled one, going a little bit away and did enough to get the edge. The third one was also a scrambled one and it did very much enough to take the inside edge, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
MGNREGA Wage Dues Hit Rs 1,340 Crore, 82% Pendency Concentrated In Just 4 States, Reveals Data
The wage pendency in Andhra Pradesh was the highest at Rs 402.93 crore, followed by Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh
Life Convict Found Disguised As Sadhu. He Had Jumped Bail 37 Years Ago
A man, sentenced to life imprisonment in an 1986 acid attack case, and absconding ever since he was released on bail around 37 years ago, has been arrested from Madhya Pradesh while living under the guise of a 'sadhu', police said on Friday.
MP CM hails naxal cadre elimination as top achievement ahead of two-year government milestone
BHOPAL: A day before his government completes two years in power, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav termed the end of naxal cadres through the elimination and surrenders policy as the biggest achievement of his government so far. The naxal menace is as old as 37-38 years. Various naxal dalams had been formed way back in 1988-89. In 1995, an entire bus carrying 17 police personnel was blown into pieces. Four years later, a minister in the then Congress government (transport minister Likhiram Kanware) was brutally hacked to death by the outlaws. Despite Congress governments ruling the centre and states for decades since independence, the naxal problem wasnt adequately addressed, Yadav told journalists in Bhopal on Friday. In the three naxal-affected districts of MP, Dindori, Mandla and Balaghat, eliminating the naxals was a cumbersome task. Searching for and acting against 35-40 outlaws in the vast forests was difficult. They ran parallel courts, police stations, and councils of ministers. The fear of the Laal Salam extremist ideology among forest dwellers made anti-naxal operations even more difficult, Yadav added. But the situation dramatically changed when Union Home Minister Amit Shah set a March 2026 deadline for eliminating the naxal menace. I was initially sceptical about whether it was achievable, but he was confident, and the results are for all to see. The numbers in the Maharashtra-Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh (MMC) Zone dropped to zero on Thursday the biggest and most historic development. Ten hardcore naxals were gunned down in 2025, the maximum in any year. First Dindori, then Mandla were freed from left-wing extremism (LWE), and on Thursday, Balaghat also recorded zero listed naxal cadres, Yadav said while congratulating the police forces involved in the operations. All credit for eliminating naxal cadres through the surrender or get killed policy goes to our brave cops. For the first time, IPS officers volunteered for postings in naxal-infested areas and set targets to uproot naxalism. Our IG in Balaghat Range, Sanjay Kumar, moved on a motorcycle like a regular jawan such was the commitment and dedication of our police force. We also pay rich tribute to all cops who sacrificed their lives, including young Inspector Ashish Sharma. The 42 surrenders in 42 days wouldnt have been possible without the proactive approach of our brave cops. Salute to their efforts, he added. They once ran a parallel regime in the jungles and terrorized villagers. Now, the same outlaws were competing among themselves to surrender first to save their lives. Mobile phone conversations between them reveal their urgency. With naxal cadre numbers now down to zero in Balaghat, Mandla, and Dindori, we will now ensure a proper framework and system to prevent naxalism from reviving, Yadav said. The MP CM also highlighted inter-state river linking projects like Ken-Betwa, Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal, and the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project as other major achievements of his two-year tenure. The river linking projects, once implemented, will enhance irrigated land from 52 lakh hectares to 100 lakh hectares in five years, he maintained. While reiterating his governments commitment to ending drug abuse in MP, Yadav said, We have begun by banning liquor in 19 religious towns and cities. With cooperation from society and social organisations, we are confident of eliminating the drug menace completely within the next three years.
Mr. Yadav said that his government has set a target to increase irrigation coverage in the state from 55 lakh hectares in 2024-25 to 100 lakh hectares in 2028-29
Red Terror Nears Its End As Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra Maoist-Free
In a landmark development, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, two key states in the Red Corridor, have officially declared themselves Maoist-free, signalling a decisive collapse of the Maoist stronghold that once dominated central India.
MP government moves to sack IAS officer over forged documents, controversial remarks
BHOPAL: Already in the eye of a storm following his controversial public statements about Brahmin girls and the judiciary, Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Santosh Verma now faces possible dismissal from the IAS cadre. In a late Thursday night development, the state government said the general administration department (GAD) has decided to move a proposal to the central government for Vermas dismissal from the IAS cadre. It has been found that his promotion from the State Administrative Service (SAS) to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) cadre was obtained through forged and fabricated orders. Criminal cases are pending against him in various courts. Therefore, a proposal for his dismissal from the IAS cadre is being sent to the central government, the state government said in an official statement. The departmental inquiry against Verma for obtaining a character certificate based on forged and fabricated documents is in its final stages. The reply submitted by Santosh Verma to the show-cause notice in the present case is not satisfactory. He is continuously issuing undignified statements. Therefore, it has been decided to issue a charge sheet against him, the statement added. The state government has decided to remove Verma from the post of Deputy Secretary, Agriculture Department, and attach him to the GAD pool without any department or work. Importantly, Verma is also the president of the Madhya Pradesh Scheduled Castes and ST Officers and Employees Association, also known as AJJAKS. The late-night statement came just three days before the Brahmin caste outfit, Brahmin Samaj United Front, was slated to stage a massive protest with a gherao of the Chief Minister's residence on December 14, pressing for action against Verma for his recent controversial comments about Brahmin girls. Back on November 23, while addressing the provincial convention of AJJAKS in Bhopal as the associations state president, Verma had made the objectionable remarks about Brahmin girls. Verma had reportedly said: Reservation should be given to only one person in a family until a Brahmin donates his daughter to my son or allows my son to have a relationship with her. Massive protests have since been held across the state by upper caste outfits. Upper-caste politicians from both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress also recently met Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, demanding stern action against Verma. Even before the controversy over his remarks about Brahmin girls could subside, another viral video showed him accusing the High Court of blocking Scheduled Tribe candidates from becoming civil judges. He alleged that the judicial recruitment process was deliberately designed to exclude SC and ST candidates. Reacting to the controversy around his statements, Verma has claimed that the issue is being manufactured to target him due to leadership-related internal disputes within AJJAKS.
One-day session of Madhya Pradesh Assembly to be held on December 17
Madhya Pradesh Saw Over 300 Cases Against Cops In 2 Years: Data
Of these cases, investigations are still pending in 61, while charge sheets have already been filed in 259 cases.
IAS Officer Santosh Verma Removed From All Posts, Proposal Sent To Centre Over Controversy
Madhya Pradesh has recommended IAS Santosh Vermas dismissal to the Centre over forged promotions and indiscipline. He has also faced criticism for inflammatory remarks
Winter vacation 2025: Check the full list of states that have announced holidays
Winter vacation dates for the 2025-26 academic year have been announced across various Indian states. Delhi and Haryana will observe a break from January 1-15, 2026. Other states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab have scheduled breaks starting in late December. Jammu and Kashmir will have extended winter shutdowns, while Kerala and Tamil Nadu are experiencing rain-related closures.
MP government recommends dismissal of controversial IAS officer Santosh Verma
BHOPAL: The Madhya Pradesh government has sent a proposal to the Centre recommending the dismissal of IAS officer Santosh Verma, state president of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes Officers and Employees Association (AJAKS), for his undignified remarks. In addition, Verma has been removed from his post as deputy secretary of the Agriculture Department and attached to the General Administration Department without any department or work. According to an official statement released on Thursday, the GAD has also decided to issue a charge sheet against Verma. The action comes after Verma, at the AJAKS state level convention in Bhopal on November 23, said, Until a Brahmin donates his daughter to my son and he has a relationship with her, he (son) should get reservation. A video of his statement was uploaded on social media, sparking outrage among the Brahmin community. Following Verma's remarks, demands for action against him were made not only in the state but across the country. Furthermore, 65 Brahmin organisations, enraged by Verma's remarks, announced a protest on Friday and a siege of the chief minister's residence on December 14. They also warned that if no action was taken, preparations would be made for a statewide shutdown. Meanwhile, another recent comment by Verma added fuel to the fire when, while addressing an event, he said, It is the High Court itself that is preventing ST category children from becoming civil judges... It is the High Court from which we demand a guarantee of constitutional compliance. The controversy intensified as a video of his remarks surfaced. Subsequently, an official statement issued late on Thursday night said that Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had taken cognisance of the Santosh Verma case and directed the GAD to take strict action. It said that Verma had fabricated and forged a promotion order from the State Administrative Service to the Indian Administrative Service, and criminal cases are pending against him in various courts. The government sent this proposal to the central government shortly thereafter. According to the government, a departmental inquiry against Verma on the charge of obtaining an integrity certificate based on forged and fabricated documents is in its final stages, and that his response to the show-cause notice in the current case is unsatisfactory. The government also said that he has been continuously issuing indecent statements, and hence, the decision to issue a charge sheet against him was taken. An official said that the state government can suspend IAS officers but cannot dismiss them, as this power lies with the central government, which comes into effect after the President signs it.
Madhya Pradesh govt. to push Centre for IAS officers dismissal
Husband In Indore, Pak Woman Begs Court To Deport Him To Prevent 2nd Marriage
A family dispute between a Pakistani Hindu husband-wife duo, each living in two different countries for a long time after their marriage in Pakistan in 2020, has reached the Madhya Pradesh High Court after attempts at reconciliation failed.
ECI extends SIR timeline in six states, Union Territories
The Election Commission of India has extended deadlines for electoral roll revisions in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Uttar Pradesh. New dates for draft roll publication have been set. This revision process is crucial for upcoming electoral activities. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed about the updated timelines.
Supreme Court constitutes SIT to probe unnatural death of SC youth in Madhya Pradesh
The deceaseds widow and brother gave conflicting statements about who was responsible for the tragedy.
Madhya Pradesh High Court summons Home Secretary after suspicious arrest sparks suspensions
Lapses in the arrest of an 18-year-old youth in a drugs case in Mandsaur district.
Two Maoists surrender in Madhya Pradeshs Balaghat; police claim region now Naxal free
Deepak alias Chhota Deepak and Rohit surrendered at a Central Reserve Police Force camp at Korka
MP Declared Naxal-Free with Surrender of Last 2 Naxal Leaders
Three tribal districts in Madhya Pradesh, Balaghat, Mandla and Dindori, were earlier identified as the Leftwing extremism-affected districts, under the sway of the MMC zone
Impostor posing as IAS officer for three years arrested in Gorakhpur
LUCKNOW: A high-profile impostor, posing as an IAS officer for nearly three years, was arrested in Gorakhpur on Tuesday. Accused Gaurav Kumar Singh alias Lalit Kishor, 27, was nabbed after a probe exposed a massive fraud racket spanning several states, fake identities, luxury cars and promises of lucrative government jobs and contracts. As per police sources, Gaurav Kumar Singh was living as a 2022-batch IAS officer, meticulously maintaining a lifestyle equipped with a white Innova with red-blue beacon lights, a 15-member entourage trained to create an atmosphere of officialdom best suited to the profession. Moreover, he used to spend Rs 5 lakh per month just to sustain the pretence. Gaurav Kumar is accused of allegedly cheating dozens across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh promising government jobs, tenders, and official contracts in lieu of hefty amounts running into crores. Police, on Wednesday, also arrested his two aides Parmanand Gupta and Abhishek Kumar, both natives of Bihar. Gorakhpur SP, Abhinav Tyagi who led the probe, said that investigations gained momentum after a merchant Mukund Madhav from Mokama in Bihar was detained at Gorakhpur Railway Station with Rs 99.09 lakh in cash when the neighbouring state was having assembly polls. Police believed that it was the amount meant to bribe Gaurav Kumar in exchange of a government appointment. Though the deal later fell apart and the money was returned to Mukund Madhav, the seizure triggered deeper inquiry ultimately exposing Gauravs network. Following the discovery, Gaurav attempted to evade arrest: he fled Gorakhpur to a rented home in Lucknows Aashiana area to avoid a police raid. But a tip-off later led officers back to Gorakhpur, where they arrested him when he returned to meet an associate. According to police sources, Gaurav Kumar hails from Mehasoul village in Sitamarhi district of Bihar. He completed post-graduation in Mathematics in 2019 with aspirations to become a DIOS in the education department. He spent nearly three years preparing for civil-service exams. In 2022 he opened a coaching centre, Aditya-50, to train students for competitive exams. But that same year, he allegedly defrauded a student, collecting Rs 2 lakh for a promised job that never materialised prompting an FIR, said Tyagi. As his civil-service hopes dashed after failure to crack the competition, Gaurav went underground for a year and resurfaced claiming to have cleared the 2022 IAS batch, assuming the identity of an IAS officer. He quickly built a parallel life: with help from his brother-in-law Abhishek Kumar trained in software he created forged identity documents and later leveraged AI tools to generate convincing official papers, tender documents, inspection reports, and even fabricated media clippings showing him seated in a DMs chair, said the police sources. Investigators say the fraudulent network expanded rapidly across four states. Gaurav reportedly took money from over 40 people, promising government contracts or jobs. During investigation, police seized two mobile phones belonging to Gaurav. Chats revealed he maintained romantic relationships with four women, three of whom under the impression he was an IAS officer claimed to be pregnant. He was also married to a woman from Bihar. None of these women were aware of his real identity. Gauravs racket started unravelling when a contractor, defrauded of millions, filed complaints in Bihar. Similar grievances surfaced in Gorakhpur. Intelligence agencies and local police began monitoring Gauravs movements for months. Eventually, surveillance and tip-offs converged to place him back in Gorakhpur where he was finally arrested. Authorities recovered several forged documents, luxury cars, and bank records. During interrogation, Gaurav reportedly claimed that once the backlash from cheated contractors grew strong, he fled to Lucknow, but later returned thinking the heat had subsided.
Vajpayees leadership a benchmark for good governance, says Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav
Highlighting the former Prime Ministers contributions in telecom reforms, rural road connectivity, nuclear tests and welfare programmes, he says that these helped shape modern India
ECI Revises Electoral Roll Revision Schedule for 6 States and UTs; UP Gets 2-Week Extension
The Election Commission of India has revised the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) schedule for Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Andaman & Nicobar, and Uttar Pradesh. UP receives a two-week extension as over 18% voters remain ...
EC extends SIR timeline in six states, Union territories
New Delhi: The Election Commission on Thursday extended the timeline for Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in six states and Union territories following requests from the respective chief electoral officers. In a statement, the Election Commission (EC) issued the revised schedule for SIR in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, the Andaman and 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 .
Election Commission's BIG move on SIR, extends deadline for 6 states; check new dates here
New dates have been set for the exercise in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. No extension was given for Goa, Lakshadweep, Rajasthan, and West Bengal, where elections are due to be held early next year.
Election Commission Extends SIR Deadline In 6 States, No Change In Bengal
The SIR deadline in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Uttar Pradesh has been extended by a week.
Two MP Miners Unearth 15 Carat Diamond Worth 50 Lakh Just 20 Days After Starting Work
Satish Khatik and Sajid Mohammad unearthed a 15.34-carat diamond worth over 50 lakh in Panna, Madhya Pradesh, transforming their lives and funding their sisters weddings.
CJI Surya Kant overhauls Supreme Courts AI committee to strengthen tech integration
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has restructured the Supreme Courts Artificial Intelligence Committee, assigning Justice P.S. Narasimha as its new chair. The revamped panel has been tasked with overseeing the development and rollout of AI-based systems within the Supreme Court and the broader judicial framework. The committee now includes Madhya Pradesh High Court Chief [] The post CJI Surya Kant overhauls Supreme Courts AI committee to strengthen tech integration appeared first on India Legal .
Speeding killed nearly 1.24 lakh people, non-wearing of helmet & seatbelt caused 39% deaths
Speeding remains the primary killer on Indian roads, causing nearly 70% of the 1.24 lakh road deaths in 2024. Non-usage of helmets and seatbelts also contributed significantly to fatalities. States like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh reported alarmingly high numbers of speed-related deaths, highlighting a persistent challenge in road safety.
Two young men from Panna, Madhya Pradesh, discovered a 15.34-carat diamond, expected to fetch over 50 lakh. The find, made just 20 days after starting their mining lease, reinforces Panna's reputation for unexpected fortunes. The friends plan to use the proceeds for their sisters' weddings and business expansion.
Coal Remains India's Energy Backbone, House Committee Report Reaffirms 1.5 Bn Tonne Target For 2030
Odisha is expected to produce 494 MT by 2030, followed by Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra by 2030
Aircraft Crashes at MP Airstrip, Pilot Injured
SRINAGAR: A trainee aircraft crashed near the runway of the Dhana airstrip in Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday evening, injuring the pilot and narrowly avoiding a major accident, NDTV reported. According to News18, the incident took place around 3pm when a trainee pilot from the Chimes Aviation Academy attempted to land the aircraft. The planes nose []
Bhopal Diary | Sandalwood tree cut on assembly premises
An attempt by some people to cut and steal sandalwood trees from the Vidhan Sabha premises has exposed the state of security at the assembly complex. Notably, it happened while the winter session was underway. While one tree was felled, two others bore deep saw marks. Just two weeks earlier, thieves had cut down a sandalwood tree outside the DFO office in the VVIP 74 Bungalow area of Bhopal. In November last week, six sandalwood trees were felled and three of them stolen from the Gufa Mandir premises. Felling of sandalwood trees has happened a few days after the MP HC directed that no tree shall be cut, pruned or transplanted in Bhopal. White horse rent for wedding reaches Rs 11L Demand for white horses in Madhya Pradesh, particularly in states commercial capital Indore, is on the rise as the marriage season peaks. Most horse owners are getting demand for white horses from families preparing for weddings. The bookings for white horses range from Rs 51,000 to Rs 11 lakh. Decorating the same horses in the best manner is additionally costing Rs 2.5 lakh. Some horse owners have recently brought white horses from Pushkar to meet the surge in demand in the ongoing wedding season. The priciest white horse in Indore is 5-ft-tall Padmavati whose rent has reportedly reached Rs 11 lakh. Woman mountaineer to get Vikram Award Ace woman mountaineer Bhawna Dehariya will be awarded the states highest sporting honour Vikram Award. The decks were cleared for the mountaineer to get the award after the MP High Court junked a petition challenging her selection for the honour by the state government. The petition was filed by another Everest climber Madhusudan Patidar who had scaled the highest peak in 2017, while Dehariya achieved the same feat in 2019. Dismissing Patidars petition, the HC stated that his Everest feat was outside the five-year eligibility period specified in the states 2021 award rules. The state had chosen Dehariya for the highest award under the Adventure Sports category in 2023. Anuraag Singh Our correspondent in Madhya Pradesh singhanuraag.jaurno@gmail.com
Bhairav Battalions, Drone Platoons mark new era of Infantry modernisation: COAS
NEW DELHI, Dec 10: Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday said the Indian Army is undergoing a major transformation driven by technology-enabled human resource empowerment, structured capability infusion and ongoing organisational reforms, positioning it as a future-ready force. He hailed the success of Operation Sindoor, calling it a defining example of Indias calibrated, precise and resolute response mechanism. The COAS was addressing the 38th Infantry Commanders Conference conducted at the Infantry School in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. [] The post Bhairav Battalions, Drone Platoons mark new era of Infantry modernisation: COAS appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Madhya Pradesh IAS Officer's Kill One, A Hundred Will Rise Remark Sparks Row
IAS officer and AJAKS President Santosh Verma has once again sparked a major controversy in Madhya Pradesh after a new video of his provocative remarks went viral.
Aircraft Crashes In Madhya Pradesh, Trainee Pilot Safe
A major accident was narrowly averted on Wednesday afternoon when an aircraft being flown by a trainee pilot crashed near the runway at Madhya Pradesh's Dhana airstrip just as officials were preparing to airlift an injured soldier
4 Cops Killed As Bomb Disposal Squad Van Collides With Truck In Madhya Pradesh
A tragedy struck on Wednesday when a police vehicle carrying members of the Bomb Disposal and Dog Squad (BDDS) collided head-on with a speeding container truck on National Highway 44 (NH-44).
Madhya Pradesh: Six cops from Malhargarh station found guilty of framing teen in false drug case
BHOPAL: Cops from Malhargarh police station in western Madhya Pradeshs Mandsaur district had reportedly kidnapped an 18-year-old student in August 2025 and then arrested him in a fake case of opium smuggling. The revelations came to the fore on Tuesday during the hearing of the petition filed by Sohans family in the Madhya Pradesh High Courts Indore Bench four months after the illegal arrest and framing of the teenager in the false case related to seizure of 2.7 kg opium. Contrary to earlier statements of Mandsaur authorities about no foul play in the matter which as per them was a major narcotics seizure related arrest, the present Mandsaur district police superintendent Vinod Kumar Meena admitted before the HCs division bench in Indore on Tuesday, that the FIR didnt match the actual time and location, which were already captured in the video. The SP Mandsaur further submitted before the HC that the entire operation was led by a head constable of Malhargarh police and the case was registered against the teenager while he was already in illegal custody. Also, the probe by Malhargarh police wasnt carried out in pursuance of due legal procedure. The Mandsaur district police chief further confirmed to the HC that the cops seen boarding the bus (from which the teenager was picked) were actually staff of Malhargarh police station a submission which was contrary to the earlier statements of the cops in Mandsaur district in which those plain-clothed cops were disowned as Malhargarh police station staff. The SP-Mandsaur Vinod Kumar Meena further informed the court that six cops, including those who dragged Sohan out of the bus, have been suspended and a departmental inquiry instituted against them. As the High Court has reserved its order in the matter, legal experts expect stern action in the matter. The 18-year-old teenager was granted bail by the Court on December 5, while stating that he was kidnapped from the bus and then framed up in a false case related to 2.7 opium seizure. The young teenager was a promising student who had passed Class XII with first division marks. On the HCs directions, the SP-Mandsaur personally appeared before the Court on Tuesday. The district police chief admitted that the entire operation by Malhargarh wasnt in accordance with law, High Court advocate Manish Thakur said. The court also questioned the SP-Mandsaur about the previous statements of the investigation officer in the case, Sanjay Pratap Singh, who had submitted that those seen entering the bus four months back, werent police personnel. The SP admitted before the Court that those cops seen entering the bus were the staff of Malhargarh police station and all the six cops who were involved in the entire illegal operation and registering of the case and arrest of the youngster have been suspended and a departmental probe ordered against them. The HC has reserved the verdict in the matter, Thakur added. The matter dates back to August 29, 2025 when the 18-year-old student was dragged out of a bus in Malhargarh police station area of Mandsaur district. Few hours later, the Malhargarh police claimed that he had been arrested after being caught with 2.7 kg of opium. He was produced before a local court the next day and sent to jail in the NDPS Act case. The CCTV grabs, mobile phone videos and witnesses statements, however, told a completely different story. In the quest of justice for their son, the 18-year-old promising students family knocked at MP HCs doors in Indore, which led to the grant of bail to him on December 5.
MP man alleges social ostracism as panchayat orders 'boycott' for eating at Dalit's house; probe on
Raisen (MP): A man from Raisen district in Madhya Pradesh has alleged that his village panchayat ordered a social boycott against him and his family after he ate food at a Dalit's family as part of a post-death ritual, prompting the authorities to launch a probe. The incident occurred in Piparia Puaria village of Udaypura, around 100 km from the district headquarters around a month back and came to light on Tuesday during a jan sunwai (public hearing) of the matter. The village panchayat allegedly ordered the social boycott of three members of an upper caste community for consuming food at the Dalit man's house, and set certain conditions before them, including organising a feast, to avoid ostracism. While two of the three men accepted the panchayat's conditions and performed 'penance', one of them - Bharat Singh Dhakad - approached the police and lodged a complaint against the village body, alleging that he and his family members were being treated like untouchables and barred from taking part in social events, a police official said. The village sarpanch, however, dismissed the allegations. Udaypura is the assembly constituency of Madhya Pradesh Minister of State for Health Narendra Shivaji Patel. Udaypura tehsildar Dinesh Bargale said that the Dhakad filed an application to the collector during the public hearing on Tuesday, accusing the panchayat of issuing the social boycott order. Dhakad made these allegations against the sarpanch, deputy sarpanch, and panchs of the concerned gram panchayat, he said. The matter is being investigated and if the allegations are found to be true, legal action will be taken against those involved, Bargale said. Dhakad said he and his fellow gram panchayat assistant secretary Manoj Patel and teacher Satyendra Singh Raghuvanshi had a meal at a Dalit family's house in the village as part of a 'shraddha' ceremony. But after the incident, the panchayat passed a resolution declaring that eating at a Dalit's house was a greater sin than cow slaughter and those who indulged in it must purify themselves by bathing in the Ganga river and by offering a feast in the village, he said. Dhakad claimed that under pressure from the panchayat, Patel and Raghuvanshi bathed in the Ganga river and organised a feast in the village, but he refused to comply. After this, he and his family were socially boycotted and excluded from all events, he said. Dhakad said that he was being treated like an untouchable and barred from entering the temple. He also claimed that when he raised this issue with the panchayat, he was asked to have his head shaved to absolve himself of the sins and perform the pind daan (a post-death ritual) for his father while he was still alive. When contacted, sarpanch Bhagwan Singh Patel dismissed the allegations as baseless. If someone in the village is not inviting him to their programme due to personal reasons, then it is his personal matter. Allegations like untouchability are not correct, he said. The sarpanch said that MLA and Minister of State Narendra Shivaji Patel also came and tried to convince the people. But if they are not listening, what can he do? Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDOP) Kunwar Singh Mukati said that excluding someone from social events in the village, treating them as untouchables, or imposing punishments such as bathing in the Ganga, performing feasts, and tonsuring ceremonies are punishable offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Spreading social animosity, forcing social punishment through pressure or threats, and preventing social participation are crimes. Every citizen has the right to live with dignity and equality. Therefore, if such a case comes to light, an investigation will be conducted and the culprits will be prosecuted, he said. When Satyendra Singh Raghuvanshi, the teacher who ate with Dhakad at the Dalit's house, was contacted about this, he said that he is no longer facing any boycott. He said he has been posted at the government middle school in the village for the last 16 years and the Dalit man, where he went to have meal, has been his friend. I do not believe in the caste system, so I went to my friend Santosh Mehtar's house to eat during the 'shraddha' ceremony. Someone made a video of the incident and circulated it locally, which led to a controversy, he said. Talking to PTI , Raghuvanshi admitted that as per the panchayat's order, he went to his guru's ashram in Allahabad and came back after bathing at the sangam (confluence) of rivers. I don't have complaints against anyone, he said.
Training Aircraft Overturns While Landing At MP's Sagar Airstrip
A trainee pilot's plane overturned during landing at Madhya Pradesh's Dhana airstrip in Sagar district.
Jaya Bachchan demands dedicated emergency lanes for ambulances
NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan on Wednesday demanded dedicated emergency lanes on roads for ambulance movement, saying that in India, groceries reach doorsteps in under 15 minutes, pizzas in 30 minutes, but patients bleed to death due to the delay in reaching the hospital. Raising the issue during the Zero Hour in Rajya Sabha, Bachchan demanded that the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health should also look into the issue of patient death due to the delay in reaching the hospital. In a country where groceries reach doorsteps in under 15 minutes, pizzas in 30 minutes via quick commerce platforms, patients bleed to death because ambulances get trapped in traffic, lacking dedicated emergency lanes, despite the Supreme Court's 2018 directive. No national data tracks these tragedies, Bachchan said. 60 per cent of ambulances arrive late, with urban delays averaging 15 to 30 minutes due to an absence of green corridors and police escorts, missing the golden hour for 55 per cent of accident victims. No dedicated lanes on highways, despite the National Ambulance Code 2016. These critical failures need to be taken notice of and dealt with immediately, she stated. She suggested an immediate nationwide mandate for dedicated emergency lanes, with AI traffic signals, prioritizing ambulances, 30-second green corridors, enforcing the Supreme Court's 2018 ambulance corridor directive via Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, penalties on violators, and a high-level probe into ambulance delay deaths. BJP MP Rekha Sharma demanded a gender-sensitive mental health facility for traumatised women in the country. She drew attention towards the severe shortage of accessible gender sensitive mental health support, particularly for survivors of violence, harassment and trauma. While the Modi government's initiatives, such as Tele Manas and district mental health programmes, are commendable, some gaps persist, especially in rural, marginalised, and low-income communities, she said, adding that lack of awareness and scarcity of trained professionals prevent countless women from receiving timely care. Survivors of domestic violence, cyber harassment, acid attacks, trafficking and workplace abuse frequently carry long-lasting psychological scars, she told the House. The mental health system that should support them remains fragmented and under-resourced, she pointed out. She urged the government to deploy dedicated women's mental health counsellors at centres, police stations, and hospitals, ensuring immediate and specialised assistance. Tele Manas outreach should be expanded and integrated with women's helpline, self-help groups, and Anganwari worker network, she said. Mizo National Front MP K Vanlalvena demanded the central government's intervention in the issue of income tax officials harassing tribals of Mizoram. He informed the House that tribals living in specified areas in Mizoram are exempt from Income Tax and should not be harassed by Income Tax officials. BJP MP Laxmikant Bajpayee demanded the setting up of more benches of the high court in Uttar Pradesh, referring to the high pendency of cases in the courts. Subhah Barala (BJP) demanded that the Central Pollution Control Board should carefully look into the issue of water pollution in the country from various sources, which is affecting the lives of people in the country. Sumer Singh Solanki (BJP) asked for government intervention to deal with the high rate of accidents on National Highway Number 3, Sendhwa in Barwani district. He pointed out incidents of road accidents in the Bijasan Ghat area, located on the border of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The MP demanded building a new road in the area to stop the high incidence of accidents in the area. Manoj Jha (RJD) demanded uniform minimum wages for skilled workers in the country, saying that these are less than what workers of Bihar get in Tamil Nadu or Kerala. AAP MP Swati Maliwal highlighted the issue of sand mining in Punjab and demanded an inquiry into the issue, saying this caused man-made devastating floods in the state this year. Amar Pal Maurya (BJP) demanded setting up an agricultural university in Pratapgarh district.
Cosmo Foundation Leadership Honoured at ET NOW's Impactful Women Leaders of India 2025
Cosmo Foundation , the community outreach initiative of Cosmo First Ltd., today announced that Ms. Yamini Kumar Jaipuria, Managing Trustee of the Foundation, was felicitated with the coveted ET NOW Impactful Women Leaders of India 2025 award held in Aerocity, New Delhi. She received this recognition for her sustained contribution to strengthening rural education, advancing women empowerment, promoting digital inclusion, and fostering community-led development across underserved regions. This also reflects Cosmo Foundation’s meaningful contribution to national conversations on education, women empowerment, digital inclusion, and community development under her leadership. Yamini Kumar Jaipuria felicitated with 'ET NOW Impactful Women Leaders of India 2025' Award Over the years, Ms. Jaipuria has transformed Cosmo Foundation into a catalyst for large-scale social change. Under her guidance, the Foundation today works across 155 villages and 55 rural schools, reaching more than 68,000 children through its integrated Education, Environment and Empowerment framework. Her focus on bridging learning gaps, strengthening digital access, and nurturing confidence among first-generation learners has created one of India’s most meaningful rural education models. “This award belongs to the extraordinary children, teachers, women, and community partners who make our work possible. At Cosmo Foundation, we believe inclusive progress begins at the grassroots. Every initiative we undertake is aimed at helping individuals unlock their potential and shape their own futures.” Her work in education is anchored in reimagining how rural India accesses knowledge. She has championed digital inclusion by establishing 29 computer labs across multiple states and launching the Cosmo DigiPathshala, a WhatsApp-based hybrid learning model that has already reached more than 2,300 students. Her commitment to language confidence has driven English learning programmes across rural schools, supported by bilingual digital content that has enabled thousands of students to learn in a format that feels both accessible and aspirational. Ms. Jaipuria’s leadership in women empowerment has opened new pathways for employability and financial independence. Initiatives such as the EV Assembly Technician Course for Women, along with scholarships and mentorship platforms like the Udayan Shalini Fellowship, have helped young women envision and pursue modern careers with confidence. Her programmes on safety, hygiene and menstrual health have catalysed behavioural change across villages, ensuring that girls remain in school and communities adopt healthier, dignified practices. Her commitment to environmental stewardship is equally deep-rooted. From leading tree plantation efforts to driving sustainability awareness in schools, she has championed an early understanding of climate responsibility among young learners. The Foundation’s environmental initiatives have strengthened community resilience while encouraging children to think as guardians of the planet. Today, as India navigates the balance between traditional learning and rapid digital transformation, Ms. Jaipuria offers a distinctly Indian perspective on what the future of learning should look like – one that blends technology with cultural context, community participation, and equitable access. Her work continues to demonstrate how thoughtful leadership can shape both systems and mindsets, making this recognition from ET NOW a powerful testament to the impact she has created and the possibilities she continues to inspire. About Cosmo Foundation Established in 2008, Cosmo Foundation is the community outreach initiative of Cosmo First Ltd., working to uplift underdeveloped communities near its operational locations in Karjan (Vadodara District) and Gangapur (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar District), as well as in Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and the tribal district of Chhindwara (Madhya Pradesh). The Foundation’s programs focus on Education, Environment, and Empowerment, impacting more than 7.5 lakh (750,000) beneficiaries through various initiatives. About Cosmo First Ltd. Established in 1981 by Mr Ashok Jaipuria, Cosmo First Limited is an over four-decade-old global conglomerate. Its consumer vertical comprises Cosmo Consumer, which is into Window Films, Paint Protection Films & Ceramic Coatings for automobiles, and Zigly Pet Care, which provides a digital-first omni channel pet care ecosystem. Its industrial vertical includes Cosmo Films for specialty films for packaging, labels, lamination, and industrial applications; Cosmo Speciality Chemicals for coatings, adhesives and masterbatches, and Cosmo Plastech for rigid packaging. With sustainable innovation, development, and research embedded in its core values, Cosmo First serves customers in 100+ countries.
On Camera, MP Cops Detain 18-Year-Old Student From Moving Bus, Frame Him In Drugs Case
The Malhargarh police station in Madhya Pradesh is facing scrutiny after the High Court revealed officers kidnapped a student from a bus and falsely implicated him in a drug case.
Cops Of Top Madhya Pradesh Police Station Kidnap Student, Frame Him In Fake Case
The Class 12 student was forcibly taken off a moving bus on August 29. Hours later, police declared he had been caught with 2.7 kg of opium.
Four constables killed as their vehicle collides with truck in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar
The police registered a case, and a search was on for the truck driver. The bodies were sent for post-mortem, the police said
Four constables killed as their vehicle collides with truck in MP's Sagar
SAGAR: Four constables of a bomb squad from Morena were killed and another cop was seriously injured when their vehicle collided with a container truck in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district on Wednesday, an official said. The accident occurred at around 4 am on National Highway- 44 between Bandri and Malthone in Sagar district, the official said. The vehicle carrying personnel of the bomb detection and disposal squad collided head-on with a container truck parked on the wrong side of the highway, Bandri police station in-charge Sumer Jagat said. The impact was so severe that the police vehicle was severely damaged. Four personnel died on the spot. They have been identified as constable Pradhuman Dixit, constable Aman Kaurav, driver Paramlal Tomar, all residents of Morena, and dog master Vinod Sharma, hailing from Bhind, the official said. Another constable, Rajiv Chauhan, sustained serious injuries. He was immediately taken to Bansal Hospital in Bhopal, where his condition was reported to be critical, the official said. A dog that was part of the squad was safe, he said. After being alerted, local administration and police personnel rushed to the spot and launched a rescue and relief operation. Prima facie, it seems the police vehicle's driver lost control of the wheels, which led to the accident, the official said. The police registered a case, and a search was on for the truck driver. The bodies were sent for post-mortem, the police added.
Khajuraho cabinet meet for Bundelkhand revamp
BHOPAL: A special meeting of the Madhya Pradesh cabinet on Tuesday approved series of proposals focussed on the development of states Bundelkhand region which has been counted among the most backward and underdeveloped regions of the country since decades. Chaired by CM Dr Mohan Yadav in the states tourist city Khajuraho in Chhatarpur district the state cabinet meeting approved a special industrial incentive package for Bundelkhand, ushering investments worth Rs 24,240 crore and direct employment for nearly 29,000 people in the region. Under the package which is meant for the Maswasi Grunt industrial area in Bundelkhands Sagar district, the land allotment and annual land lease rate have been fixed at just 1 per square metre. Additionally, a facility of 20 equal annual instalments has been provided for payment of development charges, while the maintenance fee has been set at Rs 8 per square metre per year. To encourage investors, 100% reimbursement of stamp duty and registration fees has been approved. Industrial units will also be exempted from electricity duty for five years from the date of commencement of commercial production. Large industrial units will be governed by the provisions of the Industrial Promotion Policy 2025 and Investment Promotion Scheme 2025, while MSME units will be covered under MSME Development Policy 2025 and MSME Incentive Scheme 2025. Cement manufacturing units will not be eligible for this special package, which will remain in force for the next five years. The cabinet also approved an administrative sanction of Rs 2,059.85 crore for the upgradation and construction of the 76.680 km SagarDamoh road as a four-lane carriageway with paved shoulders under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM). The project will include construction of 13 underpasses, 3 major bridges, 9 medium bridges, one ROB, 13 major junctions and 42 medium junctions. It approved 990 regular and 615 outsourced posts for operating the new government medical colleges at Damoh, Chhatarpur and Budhni. For each of the three medical colleges, 330 regular posts will be created and 205 personnel will be engaged on an outsourcing basis. The cabinet also gave in principle approval to develop Virangana Durgavati Tiger Reserves Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary as the third cheetah habitat in the state.
Congress seeks M.P. Ministers resignation over brothers arrest for marijuana smuggling
Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party Government over the issue and demanded that Ms. Bagri resigned from her post and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav gave up the Home portfolio
Three hotel staff die of suspected food poisoning in MP's Khajuraho; several critical
BHOPAL: At least three lower-rung staff/workers of a prominent three-star hotel-cum-tourist resort in Madhya Pradeshs world-famous tourist city, Khajuraho, have died due to suspected food poisoning, while at least three to four are stated to be in critical condition at a government hospital in Gwalior. The tragic incident happened after the lower-rung employees had a delayed lunch at around 5 pm in their portion at the Gautam Hotel and Resort on Monday. The condition of 11 of the staff members deteriorated a short while later and they started vomiting, after which they were rushed to the Chhatarpur district hospital in the late evening. Potato and cauliflower curry is suspected to have caused the health emergency. With their condition continuing to worsen, the doctors at the Chhatarpur District Hospital referred them to adjoining Gwalior for life-saving treatment. Three of the critical workers identified as Pragilal Kushwah (54), Ramswaroop Kushwah (47) and woman staffer Girija Rajak (35) died during the course of treatment at the Jai Arogya Hospital (JAH) in Gwalior, official sources in MPs Chhatarpur district said. Out of the 11 workers who took ill, nine were referred to Gwalior. While three died during the course of treatment at the JAH Hospital, six others have been admitted at two other government hospitals in Gwalior. Three to four of the remaining staffers, who are admitted at two hospitals in Gwalior, are stated critical. Three workers died due to suspected food poisoning. Immediate funeral assistance of Rs 5,000 each has been approved for the three deceased. Also, financial assistance of Rs 20,000 each has been released for the three bereaved families. Further, action is being taken to provide assistance of Rs 4 lakh each under the Sambal Scheme. Primary probe revealed that the workers of the hotel-cum-resort had lunch out of the food prepared by them only. Food poisoning is suspected in food which was prepared and consumed by them and not the food prepared at the hotel-cum-resort for the guests, which included officials of the state government, Chhatarpur district collector Parth Jaiswal told TNIE . The concerned portion where the food was cooked and consumed by the workers has been sealed and the samples of the food leftover sent for testing. The report will be with us in a day, based on which further action will be taken, he added. Food samples have also been taken for testing from other hotels and resorts, which are reporting major tourists/visitor occupancy presently, Chhatarpur district chief medical and health officer (CMHO) Dr RP Gupta said. Angered over the incident, the family members of the deceased workers and other ailing workers blocked the Khajuraho-Bamitha Road, demanding Rs 1 crore compensation for each bereaved family from the government. The tragic incident happened on a day when the states CM Dr Mohan Yadav was in the tourist hotspot Khajuraho with his entire council of ministers, for a special cabinet meeting and other related events. Most of the hotels and resorts in Khajuraho housed state government ministers and officials for two long days.
Rs 3,000 Crore Fraud Uncovers Haryana-Madhya Pradesh Cyber Crime Corridor
The Madhya Pradesh police earlier this year uncovered the state's biggest-ever cyber crime racket, worth more than Rs 3,000 crore.
3 Dead After Suspected Food Poisoning Case At Madhya Pradesh Resort
A case of suspected food poisoning has emerged from Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, where multiple employees of a local resort fell severely ill after eating dinner.
Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Approves to Develop Nauradehi As 3rd Cheetah Habitat
The state currently has a cheetah population of 31.
Three die, five critical after consuming meals at hotel in MP's Chhatarpur
CHHATARPUR: Three employees of a hotel died of food poisoning, and five are in a critical condition after consuming meals at the establishment in Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur district, officials said on Tuesday. Eight employees of a local hotel fell ill after eating at the establishment in Khajuraho town on Monday night and were admitted to the district hospital and then referred to Gwalior, they said. The incident has occurred at a time when the state cabinet is holding its meeting in the ancient temple town since Monday. Eight people from Khajuraho were admitted on Monday night after suffering from food poisoning, Dr Roshan Dwivedi of Chhatarpur District Hospital said. Civil Surgeon Sharad Chaurasia said that patients were shifted to Gwalior for treatment due to their serious condition. The district administration, in a statement, confirmed the deaths of three patients and announced immediate financial assistance of Rs 20,000 to the families of the deceased. According to the statement, the deceased were identified as Pragilal Kushwaha, Girija Rajak, and Ramswaroop Kushwaha. The administration has sent food samples for testing after the incident came to light.
Fertilizer Crisis Deepens As 2 Madhya Pradesh Farmers Die Waiting In Line
A severe fertilizer shortage across Madhya Pradesh has pushed farmers to desperation, resulting in two tragic deaths within two weeks and triggering widespread protests, road blockades, and political confrontation.
