mizoram News

Mizoram: Northeast Frontier Railway successfully handles first-ever direct inward automobile rake at Sairang Station

A total of 119 Maruti cars, transported from Changsari near Guwahati, were delivered by rail, marking a historic step in strengthening logistics connectivity to the State.

Ex-Bureaucrat Raj Kumar Goyal Sworn In As Chief Information Commissioner

New Delhi, Dec 15: Former IAS officer Raj Kumar Goyal was on Monday sworn in as Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) by President Droupadi Murmu. A three-member panel headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week recommended Goyals name as the CIC. Goyal is a 1990-batch (retired) Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram-Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre. He superannuated as Secretary, Department of Justice under the Ministry of Law and Justice, on August 31. He has also served as Secretary [] The post Ex-Bureaucrat Raj Kumar Goyal Sworn In As Chief Information Commissioner appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

EC appoints 5 nodal officers for EVM first-level checking ahead of 2026 Bengal assembly polls

The five officers are Shania Kayem Mize (deputy CEO, Arunachal Pradesh), Yogesh Gosavi (deputy CEO, Maharashtra), P K Boro (additional CEO, Meghalaya), Ethel Rothangpuii (joint CEO, Mizoram) and Kanishka Kumar (under secretary of ECI)

EC appoints five nodal officers for EVM first-level checking ahead of 2026 Bengal assembly polls

KOLKATA: T he Election Commission said it has appointed five nodal officers for first-level checking (FLC) of the electronic voting machines (EVMs) ahead of next year's West Bengal assembly polls. All the officers hailed from other states, the poll panel said in a statement. The EC has introduced rules by which the image of each candidate would be displayed on the EVM. The five nodal officers were appointed as observers at different FLC venues for assembly polls, said the statement issued on Sunday. The five officers are Shania Kayem Mize (deputy CEO, Arunachal Pradesh), Yogesh Gosavi (deputy CEO, Maharashtra), P K Boro (additional CEO, Meghalaya), Ethel Rothangpuii (joint CEO, Mizoram) and Kanishka Kumar (under secretary of ECI). In the 2021 elections, West Bengal had over 80,000 booths. An EC official said that following the enumeration, the number of booths is likely to go up by over 10,000.

ADB approves $108 mn loan to Mizoram to strengthen public healthcare system

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $108 million results-based loan to support the Government of Mizoram in strengthening its public health care system and achieving universal health coverage.

Mizorams one-voter village gets special postal ballot to protect secrecy

An unusual election took place in Mizoram's Hmawngbuchhuah village. Only one voter was eligible to cast a ballot. To ensure vote secrecy, a postal ballot was used instead of an electronic voting machine. This remote village near the Myanmar border has seen its population change due to refugees. The Election Commission adapted its process for this unique situation.

BRO marks record day as Rajnath Singh inaugurates 125 border infra projects

These strategically significant project, built at a cost of Rs 5000 crore and spread across the UT of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, and seven states including Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh and Mizoram, consisted of 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous others

Rajnath Singh inaugurates record 125 BRO projects in Ladakh

NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday described Operation Sindoor as a historic success, crediting the missions scale and efficiency to Indias rapidly strengthened border connectivity. Singh, who was in Ladakh to inaugurate 125 strategically significant infrastructure projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) the highest number ever launched simultaneously, said the forces exercised restraint despite having the capability to go further. Speaking about the counter-operation launched after the Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said, Our Armed Forces launched the operation in response to the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Everybody knows what befell those terrorists. We could have done much more, but our forces, demonstrating both courage and patience, did only what was necessary. The success of the operation was made possible by seamless logistics and uninterrupted connectivity to forward areas. The projects inaugurated on Sunday span two Union Territories Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir and seven states: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram. They include 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous facilities, collectively built at an estimated cost of Rs 5,000 crore, marking the highest-value set of inaugurations in BROs history. As first reported by The New Indian Express , the assets represent a major boost to Indias border infrastructure push. These upgraded roads and bridges are expected to significantly enhance last-mile connectivity to remote villages and forward military posts, helping integrate these areas more closely into the national mainstream. The main event was held on the DarbukShyokDaulat Beg Oldie road at the newly completed Shyok Tunnel, one of the marquee projects unveiled by the minister. Calling the tunnel an engineering feat built in one of the worlds toughest terrains, Singh said the 920-metre cut-and-cover structure will ensure all-weather access to a strategically vital region frequently cut off by heavy snowfall, avalanches and extreme temperatures. The tunnel, he said, will boost mobility, security and rapid deployment capability, especially during harsh winters. Singh also virtually inaugurated the Galwan War Memorial in Ladakh, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. Reaffirming the governments commitment to developing border regions, the Defence Minister said robust connectivity acts as a lifeline for security, economic growth and disaster management. There are numerous benefits of strong border infrastructure. It enables military mobility, smooth transport of logistics, increased tourism and employment opportunities, and most importantly greater public faith in development, democracy and the government, he said. He noted that the BRO spent a record Rs 16,690 crore in 202425 and has been set a target of Rs 18,700 crore for 202526. In the past two years alone, 356 BRO projects have been dedicated to the nation, underscoring the agencys capability to operate in high-altitude, snowbound, desert, flood-prone and forested terrain. The Union Budget 202526 has raised the BROs allocation from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 7,146 crore, reflecting its expanding role in national security and development.

Severe cold grips north India; IMD warns of cold wave, fog across multiple states

NEW DELHI: Cold conditions prevailed across north India on Sunday, with the Amarnath yatra base camp being the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir at minus 4.3 degrees Celsius and parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan reporting minimum temperatures between three and seven degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said cold wave conditions were very likely to prevail in isolated pockets over Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha on Monday and Tuesday. In Delhi, the minimum temperature was recorded at eight degrees, up from 6.8 degrees a day ago and yet 1.6 notches below normal. The maximum temperature was 24.7 degrees Celsius, 0.1 notch below normal, while the relative humidity was 92 per cent in the morning. For Monday, the weather department forecast a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius, with mist expected. Pollution levels in Delhi remained in the very poor category on Sunday, prolonging the spell of toxic air that has hung over its residents for several weeks now. The city logged a 24-hour average AQI of 308. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor and 401 and 500 severe. Further in the north, the night temperatures in Kashmir rose by several degrees but stayed below the freezing point, officials said. The Pahalgam resort in south Kashmir, which serves as the base camp for the annual Amarnath yatra, was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir as the minimum settled at a low of minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, a rise of 3.2 degrees compared to the previous night. The gateway town to the valley, Qazigund, recorded a low of minus one degree Celsius, while the minimum settled at minus 0.8 degree Celsius in north Kashmir's Kupwara, and 1.1 degrees Celsius in south Kashmir's Kokernag, according to officials. The meteorological department said the weather would remain generally cloudy but dry on Sunday, and a brief spell of light snowfall at isolated places in the higher reaches of north and central Kashmir is likely on December 8. In Himachal Pradesh, The IMD predicted dense fog in parts of the state until Wednesday. A yellow alert for dense fog was also issued in parts of the reservoir area of the Bhakra dam in Bilaspur district and over some parts of the Balh valley in Mandi district during early morning till Monday. In Punjab, Faridkot remained the coldest place, with the minimum temperature settling at 4.4 degrees Celsius, while in Haryana, Narnaul saw the lowest temperature at 4.6 degrees Celsius, according to the local meteorological department. Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded a minimum temperature of 8.2 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Bathinda and Gurdaspur recorded a minimum temperature of 4.6 degrees Celsius, while Ferozepur recorded 6 degrees, Amritsar 6.1 degrees, Ludhiana 6.8 degrees, and Patiala 8.9 degrees. In Haryana, Bhiwani recorded a low of six degrees, Hisar 6.2 degrees, Sirsa 6.6 degrees, Karnal seven degrees, Rohtak 7.8 degrees, and Ambala 9.8 degrees. Rajasthan, similarly, reeled under intense cold, the Meteorological Centre here said. Fatehpur in the Sikar district continued to record the lowest minimum temperature, albeit at 3.5 degrees Celsius, slightly up from 2.3 degrees a day ago. According to the weather department, Lunkaransar (Bikaner) recorded a low of 5 degrees Celsius, followed by Dausa at 6 degrees, Churu at 6.3 degrees, Vanasthali (Tonk) at 6.4 degrees and Jhunjhunu at 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning. The department said a fresh but weak western disturbance is likely to cause partly cloudy skies in some parts of the state over the next few days. Under its influence, the minimum temperature is expected to rise by two to three degrees Celsius, providing relief from the cold wave, it said. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, eight districts recorded minimum temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, noting a cold wave in parts of the state. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 3.5 degrees Celsius up from three degrees Celsius while Khunti logged five degrees Celsius, the IMD weather bulletin stated. The minimum temperature in Jharkhand's capital, Ranchi, was 7.5 degrees Celsius, while Daltonganj recorded 6.5 degrees and Jamshedpur recorded 9.6 degrees Celsius. Deputy Director of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, Abhishek Anand, said, North-westerly winds prevailing in the lower tropospheric levels over Jharkhand have caused the drop in mercury. Dry weather conditions are likely to prevail across the state over the next five days.The minimum temperature may rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius during the next 72 hours, he added. In West Bengal, the mercury dipped below the 10-degree mark for the first time this winter in the state's plains with Sriniketan in Birbhum districts recording a minimum temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the IMD said. Its forecast for West Bengal suggested dry weather across all districts of West Bengal for the next week, with shallow to moderate fog likely in the northern districts. Darjeeling was the coldest in the hills at 6.2 degrees Celsius, while the other Himalayan tourist town of Kalimpong was warmer at 10.5 degrees Celsius. The other places which recorded low night temperatures are Alipurduar (11 degrees), Kalyani (11.4 degrees), Purulia (11.4 degrees) and Panagarh (11.9 degrees). Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 15.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, forecasting mist in the morning on Monday. IMD further predicted dense fog conditions in isolated pockets of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura between December 8 and 12. It was also very likely in parts of west Madhya Pradesh on Monday and in Odisha until Tuesday. In west India, a gradual fall by two to three degrees over the next three-four days is expected, and no significant change is anticipated thereafter, the IMD said.

Defence Minister dedicates 125 BRO projects to nation

These projects built at a cost of 5,000 crore and spread across the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, and seven States including Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram consisted of 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous works

Rajnath Singh to unveil 125 BRO infrastructure projects in key areas

NEW DELHI: In a major push to strengthen Indias border infrastructure, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate and dedicate 125 strategically important projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on Sunday from the Shyok Tunnel in Ladakh. Sources said these vital projects that the minister will unveil cover 28 roads, 93 bridges, and four miscellaneous strategic facilities across seven states and two Union Territories, including Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Mizoram. Showcasing Indias engineering and technological advancements, the event will highlight the 920-metre Cut and Cover Shyok Tunnel, which ensures uninterrupted movement of troops and civilians through landslide- and avalanche-prone terrain. The 3D-printed Himank Air Dispatch (HAD) Unit Complex in Chandigarh also highlights the countrys innovation in modern defence infrastructure. These projects mark a major milestone in enhancing operational preparedness, troop mobility, and socio-economic development in some of the most remote and challenging regions of the country, officials said. BROs achievements demonstrate its capability to operate across high-altitude, snowbound, desert, flood-prone, and dense forest terrains, while improving last-mile connectivity to remote villages, forward military posts, and strategic locations. Notable road projects include the Sela-Chabrela-BJG and Shungester-Sulula Roads in Arunachal Pradesh, the KalepGaigong Road in Sikkim, and connectivity works in Mizoram along the LawngtlaiDiltlangParva axis. Bridges such as Lumla I & II, Shungetsar I & II, Rabam Chu, and Tuichanglui enhance logistics and access across critical border stretches. Officials pointed out these projects are some of the toughest terrains and it is uphill task. Raised in 1960, BRO has an authorized strength of 41,600 personnel, including 2,426 officers and 39,174 subordinates, and continues to be the preferred agency for MHA, MEA, and MoRTH for projects in challenging terrains. Over the past two years, BRO has dedicated 356 infrastructure projects, with its budget increased from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 7,146 crore in recognition of its strategic contribution. Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of BRO, lauded the dedication and professionalism of officers, supervisors, and labourers. Upholding its motto, Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam Everything is achievable through hard work, BRO continues to play a pivotal role in national security, strategic connectivity, and socio-economic development, linking Indias remotest and most strategically vital regions to mainstream.

Mizoram party, NSCN leader mourn Swaraj Kaushals death

The former lawyer and politician was held in high regard by both Indians and the Nagas, Thuingaleng Muivah said

NSCN leader Muivah mourns Swaraj Kaushals demise, shares memories

GUWAHATI: National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) leader Thuingaleng Muivah mourned the death of Swaraj Kaushal, the first Indian interlocutor to engage in peace talks with the outfit in 1998 in Bangkok during the Prime Ministership of Atal Behari Vajpayee. I am deeply saddened by the news of the demise of former Indian Interlocutor to the Indo-Naga peace talks, Mr Swaraj Kaushal. He was a renowned lawyer and politician who was held in high regard by both the Indians and the Nagas, said Muivah. Former Mizoram governor, Swaraj Kaushal, passes away at 73 He called Kaushal a 'great Indian statesman,' and a 'friend' of the NSCN in particular and the Nagas in general. He said Kaushal had taken an active part during the peace negotiations with the Mizo National Front, which led to the signing of the Mizoram Accord in 1986. Before he was appointed interlocutor, I, along with my NSCN teammates, had met Indian leaders including PV Narasimha Rao, Rajesh Pilot, HD Deve Gowda, Satish Chandra, and NN Vohra between 1995 and 1997, Muivah recalled. I last met Kaushal in October 2020 in New Delhi and had a candid conversation with him. He was a very rational man with a deep understanding of the Naga political issue, Muivah further stated. Kaushal, the husband of the late BJP veteran Sushma Swaraj, died on Thursday at the age of 73.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's name included in World Book of Records for taking oath for 10th time

PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to get global recognition as World Book of Records (WBR), London has listed his name for being the only individual to be sworn-in as chief minister of any state in independent India for 10th time. WBR congratulated Nitish for taking the oath of office as chief minister of Bihar for a record 10th time. In its congratulatory letter, WBR said that from 1947 to 2025, Nitish is the only individual to take the oath ten times. The milestone has set a benchmark in the countrys democratic system, reflecting rare continuity of leadership. It signifies his commitment, visionary leadership and unwavering trust of people of Bihar. Leading a state for ten times is not a remarkable personal achievement but also a moment of honour for entire country, WBR letter said. The letter pointed out that Nitishs consistent efforts in governance, development, social welfare and maintaining administrative stability has inspired millions of people across the country and will continue to motivate both present and future generations. As a mark of rare achievement, Nitishs name has been included in the list of WBR. The organisation will provide an official certificate acknowledging his record-setting milestone. On December 20, Nitish took the oath of office as CM along with 26 ministers. Reacting to WBRs initiative to list Nitishs name in its global list, Janata Dal (United) MLC and spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said that it was a moment of pride not only for Bihar but for the entire nation. This is recognition to Nitishs relentless efforts and vision for Bihars development. It will inspire workers of JD(U) who have been the backbone of the partys achievements, Neeraj said, adding that Nitish became the longest serving CM of Bihar as well. The list of other longest serving chief ministers includes Pawan Kumar Chamling (Sikkim), who served over 24 years, 5 months, and 14 days, followed by Naveen Patnaik (Odisha) with over 24 years and Gegong Apang (Arunachal Pradesh) for 22 years. Jyoti Basu (West Bengal) severed for 23 years. M Karunanidhi (Tamil Nadu) had the most terms and longest days across several stints. Lal Thanhawla (Mizoram) and Virbhandra Singh (Himachal Pradesh) served for nearly 22 and 21 years, respectively. WBR, London is a leading international institution dedicated to identifying, certifying and documenting extraordinary world records and outstanding achievements. The organisation honours eminent personalities, institutions, and historically significant sites worldwide for their contributions, impact and cultural heritage value.

Former Mizoram governor Swaraj Kaushal passes away; daughter performs last rites

NEW DELHI: Former Mizoram governor and senior advocate Swaraj Kaushal, the husband of late BJP veteran Sushma Swaraj, passed away on Thursday afternoon. He was 73. He was taken to AIIMS by his daughter, BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj, and other family members, following a chest pain complaint. However, doctors at the hospital declared him dead, the Delhi BJP said in a statement. The mortal remains of Kaushal were cremated at Lodhi Road crematorium in the presence of Union minister Arjund Ram Meghwal, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the BJP's Delhi unit president Virendra Sachdeva, and several leaders of the party and the RSS. His daughter Bansuri Swaraj lit the pyre before sunset and completed the last rites, following Sanatan traditions, the statement said. A contingent of the Delhi Police accorded a final salute to the former governor at the crematorium. Bansuri Swaraj, in an emotional post on X, said her father's affection, discipline, simplicity, patriotism and immense patience were the light of her life, which would never diminish. Your departure has descended upon us as the deepest pain in the heart, yet the mind holds on to the belief that you are now reunited with your mother, in the presence of the almighty and eternal peace. Being your daughter is the greatest pride of my life, and your legacy, values and blessings will be the bases of my journeys ahead, said the New Delhi BJP MP. , , , , , , pic.twitter.com/imqpUb2DMS Bansuri Swaraj (@BansuriSwaraj) December 4, 2025 Delhi CM Gupta condoled the death of Kaushal, saying the news of his demise was heartbreaking. She recalled Kaushal's contributions to public life and the field of law and added that his service to the nation and society was unforgettable. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, several Union ministers, RSS and BJP leaders paid floral tributes at the mortal remains of Kaushal at his daughter's residence at 10 Talkatora Road. Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Kiren Rijiju, BJP national vice president Baijayant Jay Panda, party spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi, MPs Kamaljeet Sehrawat, Supriya Sule, Nishikant Dubey, Manoj Tiwari, Swati Maliwal, among others, also paid tributes to Kaushal. Delhi BJP president Sachdeva laid a wreath at the mortal remains of Kaushal on behalf of the party's city workers.

Former Mizoram Governor Swaraj Kaushal Passes Away, PM Modi Expresses Grief

Extending condolences to his family, the Prime Minister said his thoughts were with Kaushals daughter Bansuri and other family members in this difficult time.

'Reunited with mother': Sushma Swaraj's husband Swaraj Kaushal passes away at 73; daughter Bansuri posts emotional message

Swaraj Kaushal, former Mizoram Governor and husband of the late Sushma Swaraj, passed away at 73 after a brief illness. He was a senior advocate with a distinguished public and legal career. His daughter, MP Bansuri Swaraj, expressed profound grief, finding solace in his reunion with her mother. Leaders mourned his contributions.

Former Mizoram governor Swaraj Kaushal dies

Former Mizoram governor and senior advocate Swaraj Kaushal passed away at the age of 73 in Delhi. He was rushed to AIIMS after complaining of chest pain, where he was declared dead. Kaushal, husband of the late Sushma Swaraj and father of New Delhi MP Bansuri Swaraj, will be cremated at Lodhi Road.

Who was Swaraj Kaushal? Late Sushma Swaraj's husband, former governor of Mizoram passes away

Swaraj Kaushal, former governor of Mizoram and late Sushma Swaraj's husband, passed away on Thursday, December 4. He was 73 years old.

Geetha Iyers Miniature Giants weaves stories and science

Insects are the quiet, unsung heroes of biodiversity. They are small, and so they slip past our notice, but they have always been so vital in maintaining the balance in our ecosystem. While our attention gravitates toward majestic tigers, soaring birds, and towering trees, it is the tiny workers beneath our feet and above our heads who keep nature running like a well-oiled machine. They pollinate flowers, keep pests in check, and feed countless other creatures, forming the invisible scaffold that holds ecosystems together. To overlook insects is to overlook the very heartbeat of the world that hums, crawls, and flutters tirelessly to keep life thriving. Understanding these very insects has, therefore, become not only important but endlessly demanding, and it is in pursuit of this challenge that Geetha Iyer, an author and independent consultant in education and environment, returns once again; now with her third book dedicated to unravelling the world of insects. While her first book Satpada, Our World of Insects is best described as a beginners handbook, her second, The Weavers: The Curious World of Insects delved into the science of how they weave, and use silk in their lives. In her latest work, Miniature Giants: Insect Stories Beyond the Ordinary, she says, she is batting for insects and their reputation. The backyard of her home in the picturesque village of Suchindram, Kanniyakumari, doubles as a laboratory, where she spends hours observing insects and even the village itself, she says, becomes her natural field site. But her observations werent limited to Suchindram. She spent five years at the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve and Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary, and spent more years surveying moths and insects at Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram, and the Western Ghats. The book clubs her observations with discoveries by entomologists and scientists globally, but all weaved into simple and interesting stories. Geetha Iyer Ahead of the books launch by the Madras Naturalists Society (MNS) on Friday, Geetha, also a life member of MNS, shares her concerns for the world of insects. Citing that the number of insects is fast declining, she hopes that the book will trigger healthy conversation. If we want a healthy Earth, we need a healthy insect-friendly ecosystem, she says. Geetha also believes that curiosity about insects grows when fear fades, and she uses familiar examples to dissolve misconceptions. People fear bees and wasps because they sting. But why do bees leave their stings and die, while wasps and hornets dont? Why does the pain linger in our memory? Experience, she adds, is the bridge between science and empathy. If you know their behaviour, then you know how to protect yourself, she says, recalling how she learned to remain still when surrounded by buzzing insects. Wasps, hornets and bees see moving objects well but not still ones slight movement can prove to be painful. These details lie in various scientific publications. I have simplified and converted them into story form, keeping science to a minimum. Beyond learning how to protect ourselves and appreciating these tiny creatures, the author believes we can even learn from them. Across the book, my stories about them have tried to bring home the idea that insects are self-sufficient. They are so self-sufficient that scientists are discovering from their lives, technologies to solve many of the problems humans face, she informs. By reading her upcoming book, she hopes readers will walk away with a new understanding that the world of insects cannot be reduced to the narrow labels of harmful and beneficial as taught in classrooms. Instead, she wants people to recognise them as partners in sustaining a healthy and balanced life. For her, the responsibility remains unchanged: to draw attention to the indispensable role insects play in maintaining the well-being of the Earth. And as she writes in her book, It is my belief that to protect the insects is to protect us humans and many other species from going extinct. Conservation of forests and wildlife will not fulfil its goals if we ignore insects and other invertebrates. The book, published by Penguin Viking, is available on Amazon. Priced at `458.99

Punjab records highest groundwater extraction in India, says CGWB report

CHANDIGARH: Groundwater extraction in the country is the highest in Punjab, followed by Rajasthan and Haryana, according to the latest National Compilation of Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2025 report of the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). The findings show that 25 per cent of the 6,762 total blocks in India have been categorised as over-exploited, critical or semi-critical, a situation concentrated in nine states, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. As per the report, groundwater extraction in Punjab stands at 156.36 per cent, the highest in the country, followed by Rajasthan at 147.11 per cent and Haryana at 136.75 per cent, all significantly above the national average of 60.63 per cent. At the national level, annual groundwater extraction has seen a marginal decline, from 27.66 billion cubic metres (BCM) in 2023 to 26.27 BCM last year. The total annual ground water recharge of Punjab has been assessed as 18.6 bcm and annual extractable ground water resource as 16.8 bcm. Out of total 153 assessment units including three urban areas taken for study, 111 assessment units (72.55 per cent) have been categorized as Over-exploited, 10 blocks (6.54 per cent) as Critical, 15 blocks (9.80 per cent) as Semi Critical and 17 blocks (11.11 per cent) as Safe, the report said. Similarly, out of 50175.27 square kilometers recharge worthy area of the state, 34294.3 sq km (68.35 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 4353.15 sq. km (8.68 per cent) under Critical, 4478.11 sq km (8.92 per cent) under Semi-critical and 7049.71sq km (14.05 per cent) under Safe category, reads the report. For Rajasthan, the report states,Out of the 302 assessment units (blocks and urban areas), 213 units (70.53 per cent) have been categorized as Over Exploited, 23 units (7.62 per cent) as Critical, 27 units (8.94 per cent) as Semi-Critical, 36 units (11.92 per cent) blocks as Safe and 3 units (0.99 per cent) as Saline. Similarly, out of 317010.74 sq km recharge worthy area of the state, 222266.46 sq km (70.11 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 19404.23 sq. km (6.12 per cent) under Critical, 22535.05 sq km (7.11 per cent) under Semi-critical, 43869.11 sq km (13.84 per cent) under Safe and 8935.89 sq km (2.82 per cent) area under Saline categories of assessment units. In Haryana, the situation is similar. While in Haryana, out of total 143 assessment units (blocks/Urban), 91 units (63.64 per cent) have been categorized as Overexploited, 6 units (4.20 per cent) as Critical, 15 units (10.49 per cent) as Semi Critical and 31 units (21.68 per cent) as Safe categories of assessment units. Similarly, out of 43,205.81 sq. km recharge worthy area of the State, 26,828.05 sq. km (62.09 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 1,170.46 sq. km (2.71 per cent) under Critical, 4,253.89 sq. km (9.85 per cent) under Semicritical, 10,953.42 sq. km (25.35 per cent) under Safe categories of assessment units, it added. The report assesses the total annual groundwater extraction of the entire country for 2025 at 247.22 bcm. Agriculture remains the largest consumer, accounting for 87 per cent, or 215.10 bcm, followed by 11 per cent for domestic use (27.89 bcm) and 2 per cent for industrial use (4.23 bcm). In the present assessment, total annual groundwater recharge has been pegged at 448.52 bcm, while the annual extractable groundwater resource stands at 407.75 bcm. The average stage of groundwater extraction at the national level is 60.63 per cent. Out of 6,762 blocks in the country, 730 units (10.80 per cent) are categorised as over-exploited, and 201 blocks (2.97 per cent) are classified as critical where extraction ranges from 90 to 100 per cent. Another 758 blocks (11.21 per cent) fall under the semi-critical category, while 4,946 units (73.14 per cent) are considered safe, with extraction below 70 per cent. Additionally, 127 blocks (1.88 per cent) have been listed as saline due to brackish or saline groundwater in phreatic aquifers. The report highlights that the percentage of over-exploited, critical and semi-critical blocks exceeding 25 per cent of total units is found only in nine states, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. It attributes the situation to region-specific factors, Over-exploitation of ground water resources could be due to various region-specific reasons. The assessment units located in the north-western part of the country (particularly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh) have plenty of replenishable ground water resources but because of the over extraction beyond the annual ground water recharge, many of these units have become Over-exploited. Overexploited units are also common in the western part of the country, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat where the prevailing arid climate results in low recharge of ground water and hence stress on these sources, the report stated. It further adds, In peninsular India, over-exploited units are wide spread in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana which could be attributed mainly to the low storage and transmission capacities of aquifers of the hard rock terrains, which results in reduced availability of the resource. The report also notes that in Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, domestic groundwater extraction exceeds 40 per cent. Groundwater extraction stands between 90 and 100 per cent in Delhi, and between 70 and 90 per cent in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. In most other states and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, extraction levels are around 70 per cent. The report concludes that compared to the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment of 2024, the total annual groundwater recharge has marginally increased from 446.9 bcm to 448.52 bcm.

Mizoram Agriculture board thanks NITI Aayog for declaring state as 'Ginger Capital of India'

Mizoram has been declared the Ginger Capital of India by NITI Aayog, recognizing its high-quality production and growth. The state is actively promoting ginger cultivation and processing, with significant purchases and disbursements made. Upcoming events and new processing units aim to further boost the ginger industry.

New HIV cases highest in Mizoram; fresh infections drop nationally by 48% from 2010-2024: report

Annual AIDS-related mortality rate per 1,00,000 population estimated nationally at 2.32, with Manipur topping the list, says the India HIV estimate 2025 technical report

Over 25 lakh people living with HIV in India, second largest globally: Govt report

NEW DELHI : India has an estimated 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest number globally in 2024, although the annual HIV incidence rate remains very low in the country, according to a government report released on Monday to mark World AIDS Day. The India HIV Estimation 2025 technical report, released by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, states that in 202425, 73% of newly detected HIV-positive persons reported acquiring the infection through heterosexual transmission. This was followed by injecting drug use, which accounted for 11.5% of reported transmissions. Another 5.4% of cases were attributed to homosexual/bisexual transmission, while 3.5% were due to vertical transmission. The HIV epidemic in India continues to be low, with adult HIV prevalence at 0.20% in 2024. While overall prevalence is low, India has 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest PLHIV population globally. The annual HIV incidence rate also remains very low at 0.05 per 1,000 uninfected population, the report said. Of the total 25.61 lakh PLHIV, 13.97 lakh are males and 11.64 lakh are females. Maharashtra (3.99 lakh) has the highest PLHIV burden, followed by Andhra Pradesh (3.10 lakh) and Karnataka (2.91 lakh). Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar, Gujarat and Punjab also have estimated PLHIV figures ranging from one lakh to two lakh. Together, these nine states account for 74% of the total PLHIV burden in India, the annual report said. It added that the total PLHIV population in India in 2024 contributed 6.3% to the global HIV burden of 4.08 crore and 37.1% of the 69 lakh cases in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2024, Indias population living with HIV was second only to South Africas 78 lakh, owing to its population size, the report noted. HIV burden in South-East Asia remains substantial; 88,000 newly infected in 2024: WHO In 2024, around 64,470 new HIV infections and 32,160 AIDS-related deaths were estimated nationally, marking declines of 48.69% and 81.42%, respectively, compared to 2010. These reductions far exceeded the global averages of 40% and 54%, the report added. Highlighting Indias sustained progress under the National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP), Nadda reaffirmed the governments commitment to a rights-based, stigma-free, and inclusive HIV response. He emphasised that under NACP-V, access to prevention, testing, and treatment services has continued to expand, demonstrating strong and sustained momentum across key programme areas. Nadda said that between 2010 and 2024, new HIV infections declined by 48.7%, AIDS-related deaths by 81.4%, and mother-to-child transmission by 74.6%. Testing coverage increased from 4.13 crore in 202021 to 6.62 crore in 202425, while the number of people on treatment rose from 14.94 lakh to 18.60 lakh. Viral load testing also expanded significantlyfrom 8.90 lakh to 15.98 lakh tests. He noted that these achievements surpass global averages for the same period and reflect strong political commitment, sustained domestic investment, evidence-based programme strategies, and consistent community engagement. The report also found that AIDS-related mortality was highest in Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. However, it noted that AIDS-related deaths have declined between 2010 and 2024 in nearly all states and UTs except Chandigarh, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura, where more PLHIV died of AIDS-related causes in 2024 compared to 2010. Globally, annual AIDS-related deaths declined by 54% between 2010 and 2024. The report stated that two statesMizoram and Nagalandhad an HIV prevalence of more than 1%. It also highlighted a noticeable increasing trend in the prevalence of new infections in the northeastern states of Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Assam, as well as in the northern state of Punjab, primarily driven by the rise in new infections. Nationally, annual new cases were estimated to decline by around 48.70% between 2010 and 2024, but increased by more than 400% in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura. Similarly, in Punjab and Meghalaya, the annual new infections estimated for 2024 have nearly doubled compared to 2010. In 2024, 30 districts were estimated to have an adult HIV prevalence of 1% or more, with 29 of these located in Nagaland (11 districts), Mizoram (10), Manipur (5), Meghalaya (2) and Arunachal Pradesh (1). The only other district in this category is in Karnataka. Are fund cuts reversing the global fight against HIV?

Myanmarese Nationals Misused Indians GST IDs to Buy Drug Chemicals: ED Probe

ED raids across Mizoram, Assam and Gujarat uncover cross-border narcotics network using Indian identities to source raw materials for meth production.

Myanmar nationals 'misused' GST credentials of Indians for cross-border drugs trafficking: ED

NEW DELHI: Investigation into a cross-border narcotics trafficking racket has found that Myanmarese nationals misused GST credentials of Indians to facilitate purchase of raw material required for manufacturing drugs, the ED said. The federal probe agency had conducted its first-ever searches along the India-Myanmar border on November 27 following registration of a money laundering case into a drugs trafficking case of Mizoram. Locations across Aizawl and Champhai (along India-Myanmar border) in Mizoram, Sribhumi (Karimganj) in Assam and Ahmedabad in Gujarat were raided under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). India shares a 1,643-km-long front with Myanmar on its eastern side. Evidence gathered during the searches indicated that Indians procured Pseudoephedrine tablets and Caffeine Anhydrous on behalf of Myanmar nationals, enabling trans-border drug production and trafficking apart from money laundering, the Enforcement Directorate said in a statement issued on Friday. Probe found, the ED said, the misuse of GST credentials belonging to Indian nationals by Myanmar nationals to facilitate the purchase of raw materials essential for the manufacture of Methamphetamine tablets. Additionally, evidence indicates that Indians procured Pseudoephedrine tablets and Caffeine Anhydrous on behalf of Myanmar nationals, enabling the cross-border drug production and trafficking network and laundered money in this process, it said. This scheme supported the supply chain of narcotics manufacturing, particularly affecting the porous Indo-Myanmar border regions like Mizoram, with financial and smuggling links spanning multiple Indian states and money laundering through these activities, according to the agency. Cash of Rs 46.7 lakh was seized from certain Hawala operatives and others and the agency froze 21 bank accounts during the raids. The ED case stems from a Mizoram Police FIR into the seizure of 4.72 kg of heroin worth Rs 1.41 crore from six people.

ED probes cross-border drug smuggling, money-laundering network linked to Myanmar

Chemical precursors allegedly sent from India to Myanmar and trafficked back as meth through Mizoram; GST credentials misused, multiple States searched

Blood on his hands: TMC flays CEC Gyanesh Kumar, cites 40 SIR-related deaths in West Bengal

Amid rising political tensions over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, a Trinamool Congress delegation on Friday met the full Election Commission bench and alleged that at least 40 deaths linked to the exercise had occurred in the state, accusing the poll panel chief of having blood on his hands. A 10-member delegation, led by TMC Rajya Sabha leader Derek O'Brien, met the EC officials amid the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls in 12 states and Union territories, including West Bengal. The delegation consisted of Lok Sabha MPs Mahua Moitra, Satabdi Roy, Kalyan Banerjee, Pratima Mondal, Sajda Ahmed, and Rajya Sabha MPs Dola Sen, Mamata Thakur, Saket Gokhale, and Prakash Chik Barik. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, O'Brien said the party raised five questions, but Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar did not give any answers. We started the meeting by stating that the CEC has blood on his hands. We raised five questions. After this, Kalyan Banerjee, Mahua Moitra, and Mamata Bala Thakur spoke and shared whatever they had to in about 40 minutes, O'Brien said. Then the CEC spoke uninterrupted for one hour. We were also not interrupted while we spoke, but we did not receive any answer to any of our five questions, he said. Fourth death of BLO reported in Bengal during SIR, incident triggers political row Moitra said the delegation shared with the CEC a list of 40 people whose deaths, they alleged, were linked to the SIR process. The commission, however, dismissed it as mere allegations, the Lok Sabha MP claimed. Meanwhile, O'Brien asserted that the TMC is not opposed to the concept of SIR, but is strongly opposed to the unplanned manner in which the CEC and EC are going about the job. Completely unplanned and heartless, he said about the SIR exercise. TMC RS MP Mamata Thakur also addressing the press conference, where she talked about the questions raised during meeting. If infiltrators are there, then why are Mizoram, Tripura, Arunachal, Nagaland not included (in SIR process), and only West Bengal is included? They say they are not voters and torture Bengalis across states. People think they are not speaking Bangla, and brand them Bangladeshis, the TMC MP asked. Raising doubts over the legitimacy of previous elections, Thakur added, If this voter list is wrong, are all the other votes (in previous elections) not valid? If this is not voter list is not correct then that voter list is also not correct. While raising the issue of Booth Level Officer's (BLO) deaths in West Bengal, she said that the ECI is ot accepting that the deaths are due to the SIR. Notably, Multiple have died in West Bengal during the SIR process. Earlier, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate also claimed that 26 BLOs have died in 210 days, calling it murder in broad daylight. Because of SIR, 26 Booth Level Officers (BLOs) have died in 20 days. This is not some narrative but a harsh truth before the nation. Where is Gyanesh Kumar? The list for local body elections in Maharashtra has come out, showing the addresses of 200 people registered at two coaching institutes, where even a bird can't sit. Because of Rahul Gandhi, this country has received evidence and proof of vote theft, and neither Gyanesh Gupta nor the BJP has a single answer to those proofs, Shrinate said. She outlined the case of Gonda BLO Vipin Yadav, who died by suicide, further stating that his family said that he was under pressure to remove the names of backward class members from the voter list. (With inputs from ANI and PTI) 'Why is ECI hiding details?': TMC slams poll body over use of 'mysterious' AI app for SIR in Bengal

ED conducts first raids along India-Myanmar border in drug money laundering case

The Enforcement Directorate conducted its first-ever searches along the India-Myanmar border in Mizoram, alongside locations in Assam and Gujarat, in a money laundering case linked to drug trafficking. The agency seized Rs 35 lakh cash and digital devices, uncovering financial links between firms supplying precursor chemicals and those involved in drug smuggling and hawala transactions.

BJP trying to implement CAA through SIR in border areas, alleges West Bengal CM at Bongaon rally

KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday assured citizens that the Trinamool Congress will not allow the BJP Commission to take away their right to vote, during a rally at Bonagon, a bellwether constituency along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Mamata alleged that the BJP is strategically using the SIR drive to create panic among the masses. But dont get trapped by BJP. Dont be panicked at all. We wont let you leave. No one can get you out with panic when we the Trinamool Congress are with you, she said. Mamata also criticised the ECI, claiming that voters in Matua-majority areas in the state would be immediately delisted if they declared themselves foreigners under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The CM was addressing a TMC rally at Bongaon in North 24 Parganas, one of the strong citadels of the Matua community in the state. However, due to infighting within the All India Matua Mahasangha, Mamata did not visit Thakurbari in Thakurnagar, the spiritual centre of the Matuas that traditionally decides electoral fate political parties in more than 30 assembly constituencies in North 24 Parganas, Nadia and Jalpaiguri districts. The rally virtually kickstarted campaigning for the Assembly elections slated for April-May of 2026 and intensified the ongoing anti-SIR agitations. BJP has been offering certificates to you taking Rs 100 from so that you can include your names to the voters list. Their strategy is to show you Bangladeshis by offering the eligibility certificates in 2025 but the mapping was done in 2002 electoral rolls revision exercise, she stated. Mamata slammed the BJP for using deceptive tactics and luring voters into applying for CAA cards. BJP, under the leadership of Rajya Sabha MP Santanu Thakur, had been distributing CAA cards from its makeshift camps to the Matuas at Tahakurnagar so that they could enroll their names in the electoral rolls. 'How many more need to die for SIR?': Mamata attacks EC after another BLO dies by suicide in Bengal BJP is cheating people and trying to implement the CAA through backdoor of SIR. Its playing cards of religion. Why were you sitting idle for so many years? Its not possible to complete the SIR process within three months. It requires three years, she said. The CM questioned the intent of SIR, noting that only a few states like Assam, Manipur, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh, have been exempted from the exercise. She further stated that the time given for electoral roll revisions is not adequate. Mamata vowed to 'shake' the BJPs foundation across the country if she was challenged in West Bengal. She alleged that the ECI was o longer an impartial body, but has turned into a BJP Commission. The Matua community, a marginalised Hindu group, had been facing severe difficulties linking their records to the 2002 voters list during the SIR process. Members of the community had even staged a 13-day hunger strike against the SIR, under the leadership of TMC MP Mamatabala Thakur. The protesting group had expected direct interaction with Mamata. However, due to infighting within the All India Matua Mahasangha, plans were changed last minute. The pro-Trinamool faction of the Mahasangha has accused a section of the party of conspiring with BJP MP Santanu Thakur to dissuade the chief minister from visiting the shrine. Mamata participated in the march from Chandpara along Jessore Road in the area. Shamik Bhattacharya, Bengal BJP president said, The chief minister is trying to save Bangdeshi Muslims and Rohingyas by addressing in rallies and marches. Every Bangladeshi infiltrators and Rohingyas will have to leave India following the electoral rolls revisions.

Assam-Mizoram Host First Border Fest

The day-long event will feature a series of friendly sporting contests, including football and volleyball matches between teams representing the two states

4th Namaste Vietnam Festival Celebrates Culture, Creativity and Collaboration

The 4th Namaste Vietnam Festival 2025 concluded on a high note in Ninh Binh on 20 November 2025, marking the end of a four-day celebration of cultural diplomacy, tourism promotion, and cinematic collaboration between India and Vietnam. Jointly organised by the Provincial Government of Ninh Binh and Innovations India, the festival—curated by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Captain Rahul Bali—drew an impressive lineup of dignitaries, cultural leaders, diplomats, business heads, and film personalities from both nations, reflecting the deepening warmth and cooperation between India and Vietnam under India’s Act East Policy.   Rahul Bali with Actors Riya Sen, Donal Bisht, Divya Agarwal, Niharica Raizada & Filmmakers Aashish Singh, CK & Abhishek   The grand red carpet opening ceremony, held at the state-of-the-art Versak Hall in the Tam Chuc Complex, was attended by a distinguished panel of VVIPs, including H.E. Mr. Ho An Phong, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports & Tourism of Vietnam; Mr. Tran Song Tung, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Ninh Binh; Ms. Pham Thi Thanh Huong, Head of the Cultural Department of UNESCO in Vietnam; Dr. Monica Sharma, Director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre at the Embassy of India in Vietnam; Mr. Chau A Nguyen, Director of Oxalis; Mr. Nguyen Khanh Luan, Chairman of Dragon Distillery Company; and Mr. Ngo Minh Quan, Director of Vietravel among many others. Their collective presence underscored the festival’s growing stature as a premier platform for strengthening bilateral cultural and economic relations.   During the ceremony, three major Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed to further strengthen India–Vietnam cooperation. The first MoU, between Innovations India and Ninh Binh authorities, confirmed that an important portion of the upcoming Bollywood film SILAA produced by Captain Rahul Bali will be shot in Ninh Binh in January 2026, opening new cinematic collaboration avenues. The second MoU, signed between Indian travel company Destination Planners and Ninh Binh, aims to actively promote Ninh Binh as a preferred destination for Indian tourists. The third MoU, between the Indian wedding planning firm Global Access and Ninh Binh, focuses on showcasing the province as a premium destination for Indian destination weddings. These agreements represent a significant step forward in leveraging the festival as a platform for long-term partnerships.   Vietnam’s Culture & Tourism Minister Mr. Ho An Phong with the Delegation from Mizoram and other dignitaries   Speaking at the event, H.E. Mr. Ho An Phong stated, “ The Namaste Vietnam Festival has become a powerful symbol of the growing cultural affinity between Vietnam and India. Each edition brings our peoples closer through shared artistic expression, mutual respect, and a celebration of our rich traditions. We are proud to host this festival and look forward to deepening our cooperation with India across culture, tourism, and creative industries .”   Echoing his view, Mr. Tran Song Tung added, “ Ninh Binh is honoured to host the Fourth Namaste Vietnam Festival, which beautifully highlights the harmony between our two nations. Through this festival, we not only showcase the cultural treasures of Ninh Binh but also build bridges of cooperation in tourism, trade, cinema, and people-to-people engagement. We warmly welcome our partners from India and look forward to shaping many more shared successes .”   A major highlight of the festival was the glamorous presence of film personalities from both India and Vietnam. The Indian delegation included well-known Bollywood actors Riya Sen, Divya Agarwal, Donal Bisht, and Niharica Raizada, along with noted filmmakers Chandrakant Singh, Tariq Khan, Zeba Sajid, and Abhishek Ankur. Representing Vietnam’s vibrant entertainment industry were celebrated actress and filmmaker Mai Thu Huyen, actor Trinh Tu Trung, and filmmaker Van Ha. Their participation added significant star power and reinforced the festival’s growing role in bridging the two nations’ entertainment industries.   The festival also welcomed representatives from India’s top film production houses: Dhruv Sinha of Reliance Entertainment and Aashish Singh of Red Chillies Entertainment (owned by Indian superstar Shah Rukh Khan). Their presence is expected to catalyse new Indo-Vietnamese collaborations in film production, location shooting, content development, and talent exchange.   Vietnam Airlines, the national flag carrier, continued its legacy of support by serving as the Official Airline Partner for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening tourism, trade, cultural exchange, and people-to-people ties between India and Vietnam.   This year’s festival also saw the participation of India’s leading tour operators and wedding planners, who explored the picturesque landscapes of Ninh Binh—including Tam Chuc, Trang An, Bai Dinh, Tam Coc, and Hoa Lu Ancient Town. Their curated visits aim to promote Vietnam as a preferred destination for Indian travellers, particularly in the fast-growing segment of destination weddings and luxury tourism.   A major milestone in the 2025 edition was the first-ever participation of a high-level delegation from the Indian state of Mizoram. Known for its natural beauty, organic produce, and cultural similarities with Vietnam, Mizoram’s involvement is expected to unlock new opportunities for cooperation in tourism, trade, and organic products—particularly bamboo and ginger, for which the state is renowned. The delegation also met H.E. Mr. Tshering Wangchuk Sherpa, The Ambassador of India in Hanoi and deliberated upon the same.   Throughout its duration, the festival featured a rich array of Indian and Vietnamese cultural performances, interactive seminars on film cooperation, tourism collaboration, and industry networking sessions. Delegates from India were given immersive tours of Vietnam’s scenic and cultural heritage sites, reinforcing the festival’s role as an engine for people-to-people connectivity and bilateral engagement.   Launched in 2022 by Innovations India under the aegis of the Embassy of India in Vietnam, the Namaste Vietnam Festival has rapidly evolved into a significant annual platform celebrating the friendship between India and Vietnam through cinema, culture, tourism, business opportunities, and creative partnerships. Led by Captain Rahul Bali, Innovations India continues to play a key role in conceptualising and executing international initiatives that highlight India’s cultural and creative excellence.   From dazzling red carpets to the scenic charm of Ninh Binh, the 4th Namaste Vietnam Festival 2025 unfolded as a spectacular celebration of cinema, culture and camaraderie, gathering Bollywood and Vietnamese stars, esteemed dignitaries and festival guests, and heralding three key MOUs to deepen partnerships in film, tourism and destination weddings.

Northeasts tribal councils step up demand for reforms of Constitution's Sixth Schedule

GUWAHATI: Ahead of the winter session of Parliament, the tribal autonomous councils of the Northeast on Thursday stepped up the demand for reforms of the Constitutions Sixth Schedule. Additionally, Assams Bodo leaders raised the pitch for complete implementation of the historic Bodo Peace Accord of 2020 signed with the Centre. The Northeast has ten tribal autonomous councils three each in Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and one in Tripura under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. A national seminar, organised by All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi, brought together the councils, constitutional experts, parliamentarians and organisations from across the Northeast to place a united appeal before the Centre for the Sixth Schedule reforms. Speaking at the seminar, ABSU president Dipen Boro said the amendments linked to Article 280 and the Sixth Schedule decide how the councils receive funds, exercise powers and plan development. They influence village councils, municipal structures and the responsibilities given to institutions in Bodoland and other Sixth Schedule areas. The Bodo Accord of 2020 promised a stronger council with wider subjects, improved financial autonomy and clear mechanisms for rehabilitation and development. Some clauses have progressed, while others remain incomplete, including full council restructuring, village bodies, land rights and the use of the Special Development Package, he said. Stating that review meetings have been held several times with senior officials, he said the next step must now come through Parliament. Through this seminar, we place a clear appeal to pass the amendment to Article 280 and the Sixth Schedule in the forthcoming winter session and complete the Accord within the timeline already committed, he categorically stated. Bodoland Territorial Councils former Chief Executive Member and Bodo Accord signatory Pramod Boro gave an overview of the Bodo movement during which nearly 5,000 innocent lives were lost. The Bodo Accord is linked to that history; it holds the aspirations of families who accepted peace in the hope of a stable future. An accord cannot be treated like a campaign promise that fades after an election. It should be honoured as a commitment made to citizens, he said. The document we signed in 2020 carries the imprint of sacrifice and trustThe accord of 2020 followed a period when the Prime Minister spoke of a new beginning in Bodoland, and people responded with faith. We are hopeful that the 125th Amendment Bill will be taken up in this Parliament session so that the constitutional side of the accord can progress, and the message from Bodoland and the Northeast can be respected in full, he further stated. Tripura minister Sukla Charan Noatia said, In 2019, the Government of Tripura had approved and sent a proposal to the Centre for an upgraded Sixth Schedule arrangement. That proposal followed extensive discussions, and carried the expectations of our people, yet it remains pending. Meghalayas former Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Chief Executive Member Titosstarwell Chyne lamented that Union home minister Amit Shah had given an assurance a year ago that the leaders of the autonomous district councils would be called for further discussions on Sixth Schedule reforms but the same was to yet to take place.

Biometric enrolment of 58% of Myanmar refugees in Mizoram completed

The exercise has been affected by poor internet connectivity, and difficulty in identifying refugees living outside designated relief camps

Nineteen years and counting: Nitishs unbroken grip on Bihar

On Thursday, Nitish Kumar achieved yet another rare political milestone, becoming Bihars longest-serving chief minister, despite his party repeatedly finishing as the second-largest partner in both the Mahagathbandhan and NDA alliances in recent times. With this latest swearing-in , he joins the group of Indias ten longest-serving chief ministersa list long dominated by political stalwarts such as Sikkims Pawan Kumar Chamling and Odishas Naveen Patnaik. Chamling served as chief minister for 25 years, while Patnaik has held office for 24 years. West Bengals Jyoti Basu governed for more than 23 years, and Arunachal Pradeshs Gegong Apang for over 22 years. Mizorams Lal Thanhawla also crossed the 22-year mark, while Himachal Pradeshs Virbhadra Singh served more than 21 years. Tripuras Manik Sarkar held office for 19 years. Nitish Kumar, similarly, has now completed roughly 19 years as Bihars chief minister. Tamil Nadus M. Karunanidhi served for more than 18 years, and Punjabs Parkash Singh Badal is also credited with over 18 years in office. In Bihar, however, what distinguishes Nitish Kumar most is his repeated return to the top post, even after shifting between alliances. While Prime Minister Modi promotes the mantra of Sabka Vikas with Sabka Saath through Sabka Prayas, Nitish Kumar is often described as Sabka CM. Political observers in the state believe this contributes to his steady influence among minority voters. He has again included a Muslim minister in his cabinet, and the JD(U) fielded four Muslim candidates in the recently concluded Bihar Assembly elections. Another point of alignment between him and Prime Minister Modi is his refusal to allow family members to hold roles within the JD(U), reflecting his firm stance against dynastic politicssomething that contrasts with many parties in the Mahagathbandhan. Just as Modi maintains a stance of zero tolerance for corruption and nepotism, Nitish Kumar has ensured that neither corruption, nepotism, nor communalism gains a foothold in his administration. The political chemistry between Nitish Kumar and Narendra Modi within the NDA is often regarded as one of the most dependable partnerships in Bihar. Both leaders have no family members active in politics and are widely seen by the public as hardworking, sincere, and trustworthy.

BJP accuses Mamata of halting SIR to shield fraudulently created bogus voter base in Bengal

NEW DELHI: The BJP on Thursday alleged that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was complaining against the special intensive revision of the electoral rolls and resorting to dramatics over it because her political survival depends on shielding a voter base created fraudulently. The assertion came after Banerjee, who is also the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo, wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) exercise in the state was being conducted in an unplanned and coercive manner, putting citizens and officials at risk. She also claimed that the SIR exercise has reached an alarming and a dangerous stage, and demanded an immediate corrective action. BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari termed Banerjee's letter to the chief election commissioner signs of desperation and accused her of trying to halt the voter roll cleanup exercise to shield the very ecosystem that kept it in power. Mamata Banerjee writing a letter to the Election Commission on halting the SIR exercise is nothing short of an admission that the TMC's top leadership is rattled. For years, TMC quietly benefited from illegal infiltration and bogus voters, Bhandari alleged in a post on X. Signs of Desperation from Mamata Banerjee! Mamata Banerjee writing a letter to the Election Commission on 'halting the SIR exercise' is nothing short of an admission that TMCs top leadership is rattled. For years, TMC quietly benefited from illegal infiltration and bogus pic.twitter.com/7ybkTtFQpj Pradeep Bhandari( ) (@pradip103) November 20, 2025 Now that the voter list is being cleaned through SIR and fake entries are being removed, Mamata is panicking. A nervous, desperate TMC is trying to shield the very ecosystem that kept it in power, he added. BJP co-incharge for West Bengal Amit Malviya claimed that Banerjee will continue to complain and dramatise the SIR process because she knows he noose is tightening and she risks being defeated in the 2026 assembly polls. Rickshaw-puller attempts suicide as his name was not in 2002 electoral rolls in West Bengal Her political survival depends on shielding a voter base created through fraudulent and illegal means, he charged, adding, In 2026, West Bengal will elect a chief minister for the state, not someone who behaves as though she is the provincial leader of East Pakistan. Malviya said India shares its international land borders with seven countries, stretching a total of about 15,106.7 km. The longest of these is the boundary with Bangladesh, extending 4,096.7 km, touching West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram, he pointed out. The BSF guards this entire stretch, yet West Bengal has witnessed the highest levels of illegal infiltration, he claimed. The reason is clear: Mamata Banerjee's administration has repeatedly been accused of enabling this infiltration -- facilitating documentation, providing cover, and settling infiltrators in electorally strategic areas, the BJP leader added. Malviya claimed the ruling TMC's mandate rests heavily on the seats it wins in the Kolkata Presidency region, which includes Kolkata, and parts of South and North 24 Parganas. These are also the areas that have seen maximum infiltration and the highest concentration of fake voters, he claimed. This region consistently witnesses widespread violence during elections, and the notorious Diamond Harbour is part of it, Madviya alleged. Mamata slams ECI after one more BLO dies by suicide in West Bangal; alleges 'unbearable SIR pressure'

Nagaland CM urges Amit Shah to review re-imposed Protected Area Permit

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to reconsider the Protected Area Permit regime. The permit was reinstated for Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram citing border security. Rio argues Nagaland's situation is peaceful and stable. He warns the new restrictions will harm tourism and economic growth.

Bodo groups demand peace accord clauses implementation, protest in Delhi on Nov 20-21

GUWAHATI: The Centres continued delay in implementing the Constitution (125th Amendment) Bill, 2019 has caused resentment among Bodo stakeholders, including All Bodo Students Union (ABSU), a signatory of the historic Bodo Territorial Region (BTR) Accord of 2020 that ensured the return of peace in insurgency-ravaged Bodoland. The ABSU and other signatories of the peace accord will stage a protest in New Delhi on November 20 and 21 to press the Centre to implement the pacts clauses and fast-track the Amendment Bill. Tribal representatives, political leaders, legal experts, former negotiators and community groups from Assam and across the Northeast will take part in the protest. The BTR accord marked a watershed moment in the political and socio-cultural landscape of Assam and the broader Northeast region. Central to its envisioned implementation was the proposed Constitution (125th Amendment) Bill, which sought to enhance the financial and administrative autonomy of the Sixth Schedule Councils of India. Five years have elapsed since the accords signing but the Bill remains pending in Parliament, raising critical questions about the pace and sincerity of constitutional reform. The Northeast has ten autonomous councils three each in Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and one in Tripura under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) is one of them. Speaking at a seminar organised by Bodoland Foundation for Sustainable Futures in Guwahati on Monday, Pramod Boro, former president of ABSU and former BTC Chief Executive Member, alleged that neither the Centre nor the Assam government was taking the Constitution (125th Amendment) Bill seriously. Regional aspirations for autonomy and separate states are still there with some communities of the Northeast. New demands are also coming up. Ladakh is demanding protection under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The Centre lost enough opportunities to strengthen the councils under the Sixth Schedule, Boro, a key architect of the 2020 peace accord, said. Pointing out that more than 3,000 Bodo youths lost their lives in waging an armed struggle to secure a separate state, he said the Bodos had firmly believed that the signing of the peace accord would lead to the strengthening of the BTC. The demands of the Bodos include more autonomy, more financial powers for the BTC and raising the number of its seats from existing 40 to 60. The council is required to take care of the aspirations of 26 tribal and non-tribal communities. At the seminar, the participants resolved to form a committee to pursue the matter in consultation with all stakeholders.

Meghalaya to face Mizoram in Plate Group final today

State A Trophy By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 18: After a tremendous run of five wins on the trot, Meghalaya will face Mizoram in the final of the U-23 mens State A Trophy 2025-26 plate group in Mohali on Wednesday. Across the various categories this season, this team is the first to have made it []

Mizoram announces 4% hike in DA for govt employees

The Mizoram government has approved a 4% increase in dearness allowance (DA) for state employees, effective November 1. With this revision, employees will receive 44% of their basic pay as DA, up from 40%.

Bypoll double blow to NC in J&K, Congress wins Anta in BJP-ruled Raj

NEW DELHI: Ruling parties on Friday suffered defeats in four of the eight seats where Assembly bypolls were held on November 11, with the Congress bagging one seat in BJP-ruled Rajasthan and PDP handing the National Conference its first defeat in Budgam. The BJP won the Nagrota seat in J&K and Mizorams main Opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) retained Dampa seat with its candidate R Lalthangliana defeating Vanlalsailova of the Zoram Peoples Movement by 562 votes. In Nagrota, BJPs Devyani Rana defeated J&K National Panthers Party candidate Harsh Dev Singh by 24,647 votes. Opposition PDPs Aga Syed Muntazir won the Budgam bypoll, defeating NC candidate Aga Syed Mehmood by 4,478 votes. The bypoll was necessitated after CM Omar Abdullah vacated the seat and chose family bastion Ganderbal after winning from both in assembly elections last year. In Anta, Pramod Jain Bhaya of Congress defeated BJPs Morpal Suman by 15,612 votes. The bypoll was necessitated after BJP MLA Kanwar Lal Meena was disqualified following his conviction in a criminal case. AAP retained the Tarn Taran seat in Punjab, with its candidate Harmeet Singh Sandhu defeating SAD nominee Sukhwinder Kaur Randhawa by 12,091 votes. JMM candidate Somesh Chandra Soren beat his nearest rival Babulal Soren of BJP in Ghatshila by-election in Jharkhand by over 38,500 votes. Somesh is the son of JMM MLA Ramdas Soren, whose death necessitated the bypoll. In Odishas Nuapada, BJPs Jay Dholakia beat Ghasi Ram Majhi of the Congress by 83,748 votes. V Naveen Yadav of Congress won Jubilee Hills seat defeating BRS nominee Maganti Sunitha by 24,729 votes.

NC loses stronghold in J&K; Congress, BJP win two seats each in bypolls to eight Assembly constituencies

IN J&K, the PDP wrests Budgam in central Kashmir from the NC. The BJP wins Nagrota in J&K and Nuapada in Odisha. The Congress bags Anta in Rajasthan and Jubilee Hills in Telangana. Opposition Mizo National Front retains Dampa in Mizoram. The AAP retains Tarn Taran in Punjab and the JMM retains Ghatshila in Jharkhand

Mizoram: Oppn MNF retains Dampa assembly seat, R Lalthangliana wins bypoll by 562 votes

In a compelling display of electoral strength, the Mizo National Front has successfully held onto the Dampa assembly seat. R Lalthangliana emerged victorious, clinching 6,981 votes and outpacing Vanlalsailova from the Zoram People's Movement by a decisive 562 votes. The Dampa seat was contested following the sad passing of its former MLA, and an impressive 83.

Mizoram: Mizo National Front Retains Dampa Seat, R Lalthangliana Wins Bypoll By 562 Votes

A total of 83.07 per cent of 20,888 voters exercised their franchise in the Dampa bypoll held on November 11.

Assembly bypolls: Congress widens lead in Jubilee Hills; BJP dominates Nuapada in early bypoll trends

Early trends from bypolls across seven states on Friday pointed to tight contests, heavy security deployment and brisk counting across multiple Assembly seats. Jubilee Hills bypoll Over in Telanganas Jubilee Hills, after completion of four rounds of counting, Congress candidate Naveen Kumar Yadav is leading by 9,147 votes over BRS Maganti Sunitha. With 48.49% turnout, counting is spread across 10 rounds, while BJPs Lankala Deepak Reddy trails far behind. Nuapada bypoll In Nuapada, counting began under a three-tier security arrangement. After completion of 4 out of 26 rounds, BJP candidate Jay Dholakia has secured 18,903 votes, extending his lead to a massive 12,815 votes. Congress candidate Ghasi Ram Majhi is currently in second position with 6,088 votes, closely followed by BJDs Snehangini Chhuria, who has polled 5,320 votes so far. The high-stakes bypoll recorded an impressive 83.45% turnout, the highest among all eight seats that went to polls on November 11. The bypoll was necessitated by the death of BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia. Nagrota bypoll In Jammus Nagrota, the BJP appeared to gain early momentum with Devyani Rana moving ahead of NCs Shamim Begum and JKNPPs Harsh Dev Singh. The seat, which recorded over 75% turnout, went to polls following the death of former MLA Devender Singh Rana, Devyanis father. Counting is underway at Government Polytechnic College under tight security. Tarn Taran bypoll In Punjabs Tarn Taran, the Shiromani Akali Dal registered an early advantage, with its nominee Sukhwinder Kaur Randhawa leading AAPs Harmeet Singh Sandhu by 374 votes after three rounds. The constituency saw 60.95% polling and went to bypolls following the death of AAP MLA Kashmir Singh Sohal. Counting is underway at the International College of Nursing, Piddi. Ghatshila bypoll The Ghatshila contest in Jharkhand unfolded with JMMs Somesh Chandra Soren seizing a lead of 2,164 votes over JLKMs Ramdas Murmu after the first round. The tribal belt seat recorded 74.63% turnout and fell vacant after the death of JMM MLA Ramdas Soren. Twenty rounds of counting are scheduled. Anta bypoll In Rajasthans Anta, the Congress gained the upper hand early on, as its candidate Pramod Jain Bhaya moved 614 votes ahead of Independent candidate Naresh Meena after two rounds. The seat polled 80.21% and has 15 contenders, with counting planned over 20 rounds. Dampa bypoll Meanwhile in Mizorams Dampa, counting opened at 8 am with postal ballots being tallied first. The constituency, which saw a strong 83.07% turnout, is witnessing a five-way contest involving ZPM, MNF, Congress, BJP and PC candidates. Five rounds of counting are scheduled. (With inputs from PTI, Express News Service)

Congress widens lead in Jubilee Hills; BJP dominates Nuapada in early bypoll trends

Early trends from bypolls across seven states on Friday pointed to tight contests, heavy security deployment and brisk counting across multiple Assembly seats. Jubilee Hills bypoll Over in Telanganas Jubilee Hills, after completion of four rounds of counting, Congress candidate Naveen Kumar Yadav is leading by 9,147 votes over BRS Maganti Sunitha. With 48.49% turnout, counting is spread across 10 rounds, while BJPs Lankala Deepak Reddy trails far behind. Nuapada bypoll In Nuapada, counting began under a three-tier security arrangement. After completion of 4 out of 26 rounds, BJP candidate Jay Dholakia has secured 18,903 votes, extending his lead to a massive 12,815 votes. Congress candidate Ghasi Ram Majhi is currently in second position with 6,088 votes, closely followed by BJDs Snehangini Chhuria, who has polled 5,320 votes so far. The high-stakes bypoll recorded an impressive 83.45% turnout, the highest among all eight seats that went to polls on November 11. The bypoll was necessitated by the death of BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia. Nagrota bypoll In Jammus Nagrota, the BJP appeared to gain early momentum with Devyani Rana moving ahead of NCs Shamim Begum and JKNPPs Harsh Dev Singh. The seat, which recorded over 75% turnout, went to polls following the death of former MLA Devender Singh Rana, Devyanis father. Counting is underway at Government Polytechnic College under tight security. Tarn Taran bypoll In Punjabs Tarn Taran, the Shiromani Akali Dal registered an early advantage, with its nominee Sukhwinder Kaur Randhawa leading AAPs Harmeet Singh Sandhu by 374 votes after three rounds. The constituency saw 60.95% polling and went to bypolls following the death of AAP MLA Kashmir Singh Sohal. Counting is underway at the International College of Nursing, Piddi. Ghatshila bypoll The Ghatshila contest in Jharkhand unfolded with JMMs Somesh Chandra Soren seizing a lead of 2,164 votes over JLKMs Ramdas Murmu after the first round. The tribal belt seat recorded 74.63% turnout and fell vacant after the death of JMM MLA Ramdas Soren. Twenty rounds of counting are scheduled. Anta bypoll In Rajasthans Anta, the Congress gained the upper hand early on, as its candidate Pramod Jain Bhaya moved 614 votes ahead of Independent candidate Naresh Meena after two rounds. The seat polled 80.21% and has 15 contenders, with counting planned over 20 rounds. Dampa bypoll Meanwhile in Mizorams Dampa, counting opened at 8 am with postal ballots being tallied first. The constituency, which saw a strong 83.07% turnout, is witnessing a five-way contest involving ZPM, MNF, Congress, BJP and PC candidates. Five rounds of counting are scheduled. (With inputs from PTI, Express News Service)

Mizoram: Mizo National Front Candidate Leads By 590 Votes In Dampa Bypoll

Polling for the Dampa assembly seat was held peacefully on Tuesday with 83.07 per cent of the 20,888 eligible voters exercising their franchise in the bypoll.

Dampa Bypoll Results 2025 Live: Counting of votes begins in Mizoram. Who is winning and who is losing?

Vote counting for the Dampa assembly by-election in Mizorams Mamit district began on Friday at 8 am under tight security. Counting started with postal ballots at the Mamit deputy commissioners complex and will continue in five rounds. One counting hall with nine tables has been set up, each monitored by a supervisor and two assistants, officials said.

Mizorams Dampa bypoll results: Counting of votes begins with postal ballots

The bypoll was necessitated following the death of incumbent MNF legislator Lalrintluanga Sailo in July.

Assembly Bypoll Result 2025 Live: Check who is winning by-elections of Jubilee Hills, Budgam, Nagrota, Anta, Ghatshila, Tarn Taran, nuapada

Counting is underway for assembly bypolls across eight constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Telangana, Odisha, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Mizoram. The results are expected to shape internal and external political dynamics as parties gear up for upcoming state and local elections, with local issues and candidate selection proving crucial.

Mizoram bags special award for traffic management

For award selection, Mizoram's Town & Country Planning Wing of the UD & PA Department was invited to make a presentation before the award selection committee, says official statement

Bypolls: Polling highest in Mizoram, lowest in Telangana

NEW DELHI: Barring few seats, brisk polling was recorded in the by-elections to eight Assembly seats held amid tight security arrangements across seven states on Tuesday, with Dampa in Mizoram having the highest voter turnout of 82.34%. The bypolls took place in Budgam and Nagrota constituencies in J&K, Ghatshila in Jharkhand, Tarn Taran in Punjab, Dampa in Mizoram, Anta in Rajasthan, Jubilee Hills in Telangana and Nuapada (Odisha). While Dampa seat in Mizoram registered an 82.34% votes, Anta in Rajasthan witnessed 79.32% voter turnout, Nagrota in J&K recorded 74.82% turnout and Ghatshila seat in Jharkhand registered 73.88%. However, voter participation was lower in Punjab with 60.95% (till 5 pm) in Tarn Taran, Budgam(J&K) recorded 50.01% and in Telanganas Jubilee Hills registered a turnout of 48.47%. Brisk polling was recorded in the by-election to Mizorams Dama Assembly seat with 82.34% voting registered till 5 pm. The constituency has 20,790 registered voters, mostly from Mizo, Chakma and Bru communities. Voting for the Anta Assembly by-election in Rajasthans Baran district concluded peacefully, with a voter turnout of 79.32%, according to Election Commission (EC) data. A total of 15 candidates were in the fray and 268 polling stations were set up for 2,27,563 voters. Braving winter chill, 50.01% voters turned out vote in Budgam in central Kashmir. The scene was no different in Nagrota Assembly constituency in Jammu, where voter participation was even higher at 74.82%. A total of 1,26,025 voters were eligible to cast their votes in 173 polling stations. Voting for Ghatshila in Jharkhand concluded with a 73.88% turnout. Meanwhile, over 60.95% voters exercised their franchise for the Tarn Taran Assembly. Polling for Telanganas Jubilee Hills Assembly by-election saw a turnover of 48.47%. And over 75.37% of the 2.53 lakh voters exercised their franchise in the Nuapada bypoll.

Turnout stays largely steady in bypolls across six states, J&K

Voter turnout in eight assembly bypolls across six states and Jammu and Kashmir showed little change from previous elections. Nuapada in Odisha and Jubilee Hills in Telangana saw slight increases. Tarn Taran in Punjab experienced a sharp decline. Dampa in Mizoram recorded the highest turnout. Counting of votes is scheduled for November 14.

75.15 per cent voter turnout recorded in Mizorams Dampa by-poll

GUWAHATI: Brisk polling was recorded in the by-election to Mizorams Dama Assembly seat on Tuesday. 75.15 per cent of voters turnout was recorded until 3 pm. The constituency, which lies in the Mamit district bordering Bangladesh, has 20,790 registered voters, mostly from Mizo, Chakma and Bru communities. The by-election was necessitated by the demise of sitting Mizo National Front legislator Lalrintluanga Sailo in July. Ahead of polling, minor glitches were detected in some VVPAT machines at a few polling stations. Election officials said they were immediately replaced. Ruling Zoram Peoples Movement (ZPM) and Mizo National Front (MNF) were the two key players in the by-election. The BJP too contested as it is working hard to expand its base in the Christian-majority state. The party has two MLAs in the state. The results will assume significance considering the upcoming elections to the Aizawl Municipal Corporation and the Lai Autonomous District Council. The autonomous council will go to polls on December 3, while the civic polls are expected early next year.

Voting begins for by-elections to eight Assembly seats across six States, one Union Territory

By-elections are being held in Jammu and Kashmirs Budgam and Nagrota, Rajasthans Anta, Jharkhands Ghatshila, Telanganas Jubilee Hills, Punjabs Tarn Taran, Mizorams Dampa, and Odishas Nuapada constituencies

MHA releases Rs 900 crore helicopter subsidy scheme for north-eastern states

NEW DELHI: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has released a little over Rs 900 crore for seven north-eastern states under the helicopter subsidy scheme for the financial years in the period from 2015-16 to 2024-25, officials said on Monday. They said that as part of the scheme to provide connectivity to remote areas of the north-eastern states, the helicopter subsidy is being administered by the MHA. The states include Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur. The scheme aims to provide affordable passenger transport in the north-eastern region of the country and assistance is given for evacuation during natural calamities and for urgent medical evacuation. The MHA will bear 75% of the total cost of operation after deducting passenger recovery or a flat 20 percent of the actual operation cost, whichever is more, according to a policy note issued by the North East Division of MHA. For the purpose of restricting the subsidy, the MHA has also fixed an annual ceiling on the flying hours for the seven eligible states. Giving the break for each financial year, the officials said Rs 76.45 crore is given for 2015-16, Rs 86 crore for 2016-17, Rs 86 crore for 2017-18, Rs 90 crore for 2018-19, Rs 100 crore for 2019-20, Rs 72.50 crore for 2020-21, Rs 100 crore for 2021-22, Rs 100 crore for 2022-23, Rs 88 crore for 2023-24 and Rs 110 crore for 2024-25, which is the highest so far. The types of helicopters operating in the northeastern region include Dauphin, MI-172, Bell 412, and Bell 407, among other models. Each state has a fixed number of flying hours per annum sanctioned by the MHA, as Tripura has 480 hours, Arunachal Pradesh 3,460 hours, Sikkim 1,200 hours, Meghalaya 720 hours, Nagaland 480 hours and Mizoram 960 hours.

Cellecor Reports INR 641.5 Cr Net Sales and 35% Profit Growth in H1 FY25-26, Driven by Strong Consumer Demand

Cellecor Gadgets Limited , one of India’s fastest growing consumer electronics and lifestyle technology companies, today announced a strong performance for the half year ended September 30, 2025, reflecting strong consumer demand across its product portfolio and increasing adoption in Tier II and Tier III markets.   Cellecor half yearly report The Company recorded: Net Sales of INR 641.5 crore, a 50.7% increase over H1 FY24-25 (INR 425.7 crore) PAT of INR 19.6 crore , reflecting a 35.2% YoY growth compared to INR 14.5 crore in the same period last year EBITDA of INR 34.1 crore , up 34.8% YoY from INR 25.3 crore in H1 FY24-25 The results reflect growing nationwide demand for feature-rich, design-led gadgets at accessible price points. The company continues to deepen its presence in high-opportunity retail markets while expanding its product portfolio across audio, smart accessories and personal technology categories. Cellecor has expanded to a total of 8 Exclusive Brand Stores across India including Delhi, Bhopal, Mizoram, Leh Ladakh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Sasaram (Bihar), Nanded (Maharashtra), and Barnala (Punjab). These stores serve as immersive experience hubs and deepen access to the brand in high-potential consumption markets. Business Highlights – H1 FY26 Continued retail expansion across Tier II and Tier III cities High consumer uptake across categories like TV and home appliances Enhanced brand visibility through marketing and channel investments Positive operational momentum heading into the festive quarter  " Our performance in H1 underscores the trust consumers place in our brand and the strength of our value-plus product strategy ,” said Ravi Agarwal, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Cellecor Gadgets Limited . " Our strategy is anchored in democratizing smart gadgets by making premium product experiences affordable and widely available. Looking ahead, we see strong headroom for growth driven by retail expansion, product innovation and rising aspirations across emerging markets .” Cellecor enters the second half of FY26 positioned to capture emerging demand across India’s rapidly evolving consumer-tech landscape. About Cellecor Gadgets Limited Cellecor Gadgets Limited's journey in the electronics device business, and selling products under its own brand, including Smart TVs, Smart Gadgets, Wearables, Mobile Phones, Home and Kitchen Appliances, and more, outsourced from various electronic assemblers and manufacturers, started in 2012 as M/s Unity Communications-its founder Mr. Ravi Agarwal’s proprietorship firm. The company is promoted and managed with an enduring, sustainable business strategy, wherein the company aims to synergistically amalgamate business potential embedded in the ever-growing demand for electronic products with a modern business approach of sourcing, producing, and marketing with the objective of providing quality products at affordable prices. Today, Cellecor Gadgets Ltd. is a leading name in the consumer electronics industry, known for its innovative and cutting-edge technology. With a commitment to making happiness affordable, Cellecor offers a diverse range of products, including mobile phones, smart TVs, speakers, neckbands, TWS, soundbars, smartwatches, washing machines, and many more. The securities of the Company are listed on the NSE EMERGE (SME Platform of National Stock Exchange of India Limited) with Scrip Code: CELLECOR www.cellecor.com .

J&Ks Purple Revolution model being replicated in Northeast: Dr Jitendra

Excelsior Correspondent AIZAWL (Mizoram), Oct 30: Purple Revolution model of Jammu & Kashmir is being replicated in Northeast. This was stated here today by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Ministers Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy, and Department of Space, and Vice President, CSIR, while addressing the Stakeholder-cum-Awarness Meet and Distribution of Quality Planting Materials under the CSIR-Aroma [] The post J&Ks Purple Revolution model being replicated in Northeast: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Mizoram CM hails multiple benefits of rly connectivity

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Oct 30: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Thursday hailed the introduction of railways in his state, saying the railway line has brought multiple benefits to the state, especially by reducing the cost of goods and improving connectivity. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a programme held at the North Eastern []

Mizo National Front observes 10-hour shutdown to protest against Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act

Mizoram's Mizo National Front (MNF) staged a statewide shutdown protesting the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2023. The opposition party asserts the Act undermines Mizoram's special constitutional protections under Article 371(G) and grants excessive power to the Central government.

MNF calls for 10-hour shutdown in Mizoram on October 28 to protest extension of Forest Act in State

People and vehicles under emergency services will be exempted from the strike, MNF media and publicity cell secretary Lallenmawia Jongte said.

Over 2,200 runners participate in 'Sikkim Soldierthon' Marathon

The marathon was flagged off by Mizoram Governor GeneralV.K. Singh (retired) in the presence of Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur at the Paljor stadium

Assam Rifles recover huge cache of arms and ammunition in Mizoram

Assam Rifles conducted a surprise search operation in Champhai District's Saikhumpai area, uncovering a significant cache. Troops discovered mortar tubes, assault rifles, shotguns, rifles, a hand grenade, anti-personnel mines, and radio sets. The operation targeted a concealed arms and ammunition dump in dense forested terrain.

In 2025, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has seized 321 kg of gold worth Rs 406 crore, 65 cases registered

NEW DELHI: Exposing increasingly sophisticated smuggling operations that span continents, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has intercepted and seized around 321 kilograms of smuggled gold worth Rs 406.35 crore between January and October this year. The seizures and interception data -- 65 cases -- show a disturbing picture of an organised syndicate gang that operates with military precision. The wellfunded internationally coordinated syndicates have adapted rapidly to the countrys enforcement agencies' measures. In fact, the Director General of DRI, Abhai Kumar Srivastav, has written to the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation, Praveen Sood in April this year to unravel the entire gold smuggling nexus as it involves a coordinated international crime syndicate and a few government officials. Intelligence agencies have stated that for every kilogramme intercepted, three to five kilogrammes successfully enter India. On analysis of seizure and interception data of DRI done by TNIE, there were distinct patterns in both air and land-based smuggling operations this year. It has been found that there are four major air routes and three major land routes. The air smuggling network operates primarily through four major routes: the Dubai-Mumbai corridor; the Bangkok-Ahmedabad route; the Bangkok-Kolkata channel; and the broader Middle East triangle that encompasses Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Riyadh, with gold entering through multiple airports, including Ahmedabad, Calicut, and Jaipur. There are three major land-based smuggling routes: the Myanmar-northeast corridor, the Nepal-Bihar corridor, and the Bangladesh and the five bordering Indian states corridor. The highest volume of seizures, with over 18 incidents, makes the Dubai-Mumbai corridor the single largest channel used by the organised crime syndicate. This route has seen 40 percent of seizures. The second critical route for smuggling is from Bangkok. The two major feeding corridors are the Bangkok-Kolkata and Bangkok-Ahmedabad routes. The crime syndicate using the Middle East triangle uses a diversified entry point into Indian, and it is designed to avoid scrutiny at any single point and to get away from law enforcement agencies. The land route represents a complex web spread by crime syndicate. Once the gold enters from Myanmar through the porous borders of Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura, it is smuggled through railway stations. Sealdah and Dum Dum in Kolkata serve as primary hubs. In addition to West Bengal, the smuggled gold is distributed through trains to Chhapra, Patna, Banaras and Delhi. The Nepal border corridor shows a similar pattern. Once the gold enters India, smugglers use express trains to reach Delhi, and in this case, the New Delhi Railway Station becomes the primary hub. From there, it is distributed to northern India. Through the Bangladesh border corridor, gold reached West Bengal through road transport and was then distributed through train. The crime syndicate exploits both aviation networks and ground transportation infrastructure with military precision to avoid law enforcement agencies in India. The data also reveals two disturbing trends: one, smuggling through rectal and internal body concealment, and second, people in financial distress from across the globe are used as couriers. The data reveals that 25 percent of passenger-based smuggling attempts were made through rectal and internal body concealment. In these cases, capsules containing gold paste or dust or even small bars are being ingested or inserted. Further, arrest data shows that people financially distressed from Thailand, Iran, Turkey, Brazil, Chad, and even US nationals were used. Language becomes a major crisis for them, and they get caught. These trends reveal that the smuggling of gold is rampant in India, and there is a need for enhancing law enforcement agencies with the latest technologies and international cooperation to deal with this organized crime syndicate.

Kiren Rijiju on two-day visit to Mizoram for Dampa bypoll campaign

Other central BJP leaders, including Union Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Minister Jitendra Singh, will also visit Mizoram to campaign for BJP candidate Lalhmangaiha

Mizoram collects biometric data of over 13,000 Myanmar refugees sheltering in the state

Mizoram authorities have collected biometric details for 43.53% of the nearly 31,300 Myanmar refugees residing in the state. This process, part of the Foreigners Identification Portal and Biometric Enrolment system, also gathers biographical information. The influx of refugees began following the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021.

Truckers, commercial vehicle operators call for 4-day strike to protest bad roads in Mizoram

The blockade will be spearheaded by the Kolasib unit of the Mizoram Tipper Association (MTA) and Joint Action Committee (JAC) of drivers and owners of commercial vehicles in Kolasib town

Four candidates file nomination papers for Dampa bypoll in Mizoram, MNF nominee richest

The by-election was necessitated by the death of MNF MLA Lalrintluanga Sailo on July 21

Meghalaya vs Mizoram match abandoned

By Our Reporter Shillong, Oct 18: The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 plate group match between Meghalaya and Mizoram was abandoned here today on the fourth and final day without a ball being bowled. Despite extensive work by the dedicated groundstaff at the MCA Ground, the issue of waterlogging in one section of the outfield meant that []

Meghalaya vs Mizoram: No play possible on Day 2

By Our Reporter Shillong, Oct 16: Day 2 of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 plate group match between Meghalaya and Mizoram proved to be equally frustrating as the first for the players concerned as no play was possible for a second consecutive day. Heavy rain over the preceding days left one section of ground close to []

36 held in Mizoram for Inner Line Permit violation

The individuals were found with either expired the Inner Line Permit or not possessing the travel permit

36 held in Mizoram for Inner Line Permit violation

The individuals were found with either expired the Inner Line Permit or not possessing the travel permit

Rajiv Gandhi sacrificed Congress party's interest for sake of the country: Mani Shankar Aiyar

Senior Congress leader Manishankar Aiyar lauded Rajiv Gandhi's leadership at the Khushwant Singh Literary Festival, contrasting his policies with the current administration's perceived neglect of India's peripheries. Aiyar highlighted Gandhi's focus on national interest over party politics, citing accords in Punjab, Assam, Mizoram, and Kashmir as examples of his 'healing touch' approach.

Uttarakhand tops Himalayan states in illegal arms cases: NCRB report

DEHRADUN: The serene image of Uttarakhand is sharply contrasted by alarming crime statistics, with the state leading Himalayan regions in cases related to illegal arms possession. A recent report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for the year 2023 has brought this unsettling reality to the forefront. According to the NCRB data, a staggering 1,767 cases were registered against individuals in Uttarakhand for possessing arms in 2023. Of these seizures, 1,184 weapons were found to be illegal, while only four legal firearms were recovered in these specific registered instances. This places Uttarakhand seventh nationally in the overall count of arms possession cases. It seems that possessing firearms, both legal and illegal, is increasingly being treated as a hobby by some residents of this Himalayan state, noted a senior police official familiar with the report's findings. The trend is further complicated by the open display of weaponry. In districts like Udham Singh Nagar and Haridwar, instances of firing weapons over trivial disputes are surfacing, sometimes even being circulated on social media. Police efforts, however, are noted; in 2023 alone, authorities filed charges against 1,767 individuals under the Arms Act. Crucially, the report indicates that illegal firearms are heavily implicated in serious crimes. The majority of recovered illegal weapons were linked to violent offenses, including murders and attempts to cause grievous hurt, the report states. Beyond arms possession, the state has also seen a rise in violent crimes. Registered incidents of homicide, robbery, and kidnapping rose from 3,162 in 2021 to 3,923 in 2022, settling slightly lower at 3,570 in 2023. A significant concern remains the judicial backlog, with police filing chargesheets in only 58 percent of the 2023 cases, leaving many pending investigation closure. Udham Singh Nagar, particularly sensitive regarding crime, is reportedly a hub for this illicit trade, with police and STF units frequently busting illegal arms manufacturing units in nearby Terai forests, often sourcing supplies from neighbouring Uttar Pradesh areas. Responding to the findings, Uttarakhand Police Spokesperson Dr. Nilesh Anand Bharane affirmed a strict stance. Police action against illegal arms holders is ongoing. Miscreancy will not be tolerated in the state. Whoever the criminal, their rightful place will always be behind bars. State | Cases under Arms Act | Seized illegal firearms Himachal Pradesh | 24 | 04 Uttarakhand | 1764 | 1184 West Bengal | 1349 | 1337 Arunachal Pradesh | 15 | 10 Nagaland | 74 | 73 Manipur | 89 | 81 Mizoram | 29 | 25 Tripura | 06 | 05 Meghalaya | 09 | 06

Mizoram collects biometric data of 39% of Myanmar refugees sheltered in the state

Mizoram is collecting biometric data of Myanmar refugees. Around 39 percent of the 31,300 refugees have been enrolled. This process follows advice from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Migrants from Bangladesh's Chittagong Hill Tracts are also seeking shelter. The enrolment includes personal and employment details. This effort aims to identify individuals residing in the state.

Bypolls In 8 Assembly Seats Across 7 States To Be Held On November 11

The voting for assembly bypolls in eight constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, Jharkhand, Mizoram, Punjab, Telangana and Rajasthan will be held on November 11, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced on Monday.

Bypolls in J-K, Odisha, Jharkhand, Mizoram, Punjab, Telangana, Rajasthan on Nov 11: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar announced on Monday that assembly bypolls in eight constituencies across Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, Jharkhand, Mizoram, Punjab, Telangana, and Rajasthan will be held on November 11. The counting of votes is scheduled for November 14.

Bypolls in 8 Assembly seats across 7 states to be held on Nov 11: Check list, counting dates here

By-elections to take place in eight assembly constituencies, including in Rajasthan, Punjab, Mizoram, and Odisha.

One farmer commits suicide every hour in India: Report

NEW DELHI: A latest report from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveals that in 2023, at least one person working in the farm sector committed suicide every hour , highlighting the economic stress faced by those in agriculture. Most of the suicide victims are from Maharashtra (38.5%), followed by Karnataka (22.5%), Andhra Pradesh (8.6%), Madhya Pradesh (7.2%), and Tamil Nadu (5.9%) regions that once thrived on rich agricultural heritage, but are now overshadowed by despair and hardship. However, the number of suicides has relatively come down compared to the previous year, 2022. But the intensity and geography remained the same. In 2023, a total of 10,786 persons involved in the farming sector committed suicide 2023, accounting for 6.3% of the total suicide victims (171,418) in the country. Data shows that out of total suicides, 43% are farmers, while the rest are farm labourers. There were a total of 4,690 farmers and 6,096 agricultural labourers who committed suicide. Out of the total farmers who committed suicide, 4,553 were male and 137 were female. However, some prominent States and Union Territories reported zero suicides among farmers, cultivators, and agricultural labourers. They are West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Chandigarh (UT), Delhi (UT), and Lakshadweep. 'System is killing them': Rahul slams Modi govt over rising farmer suicides in Maharashtra In 2022, Uttarakhand reported zero suicides, but in 2023, it contributed to the suicide count. However, this year, no suicide was reported in Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh, while in the previous year, it contributed. In 2022, the number of farm sector suicides was comparatively higher. A total of 11,290 persons involved in the farming sector have committed suicide in 2022. It consisted of 5,207 farmers and 6,083 agricultural labourers. Out of the total 5,207 farmer suicides, a total of 4,999 were male and 208 were female. Similarly, out of 6,083 suicides committed by agricultural labourers during 2022, 5,472 were male and 611 were female. Meanwhile, NCRB reported total of 1,71,418 suicides committed in the country during 2023, showing an increase of 0.3% in comparison to 2022. Unable to fulfill son's wish for a smartphone, farmer dies by suicide with the same rope as his son

Over 5K arrested in drug, alcohol related cases in Mizoram since January

Aizawl: At least 5,525 people have been arrested in Mizoram from January to September this year, the state Excise and Narcotics department said. The department seized various drugs and narcotics, including 41.432 kg of heroin, 229.890 kg of methamphetamine tablets, 48 kg of crystal meth, 198.853 kg of ganja (cannabis), and 1.193 kg of opium 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 .

Jubilee Hills bypoll: EC appoints observers, schedule after Dasara

Hyderabad: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has begun preparations for the Jubilee Hills by-election, alongside the Bihar Assembly polls. The Commission has finalized the appointment of observers for the upcoming elections. Apart from Bihar, bypolls will also be held for six Assembly constituencies across Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Telangana, Punjab, Mizoram, and Odisha. 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 .

States salary bills balloon 2.5 times in 10 years : CAG

NEW DELHI: The salary bills of states have ballooned 2.5 times in the 10 years to 2022-23, reaching Rs 16.6 lakh crore, while subsidy bills have more than trebled to Rs 3.09 lakh crore, according to a report published by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. The State Finances Publication 2025 further shows that public debt raised by states grew 3.4 times over the same period to Rs 59.6 lakh crore. In FY 2022-23, states committed expenditure on salaries, interest payments, and pensions constituted a significant portion of their finances, accounting for about 43.49% of total revenue expenditure. Salaries formed the largest component of this spending. Expenditure on salaries, pensions, and interest payments as a percentage of revenue expenditure varied widelyfrom as high as 74% in Nagaland to 32% in Maharashtra. In 2022-23, 15 states reported committed expenditure exceeding 50% of their revenue expenditure, seven states between 4050%, and six states below 40%. Among southern states, committed expenditure accounted for 63% of Keralas revenue expenditure, 51% in Tamil Nadu, 42% in Andhra Pradesh, 41% in Telangana, and 33% in Karnataka. Subsidy spending accounted for 8.61% of states revenue expendituredefined as spending on day-to-day government operations and services that do not create assets or increase existing assets. In 2022-23, four statesPunjab, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Rajasthanspent more than 10% of their total expenditure on subsidies, with Punjab the highest at 17%. By contrast, in 10 states (Sikkim, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, Kerala, Assam, and Goa), subsidies were below 2% of total expenditure. Arunachal Pradesh reported no subsidy expenditure. The report also shows that committed expenditure and subsidies together exceeded states own tax revenueat 102% in 2013-14 and 134% in 2020-21. States major revenue sources include own tax and non-tax revenues, grants-in-aid, and their share of Union taxes. Between 2013-14 and 2022-23, states average share in Union taxes was about 27% of total revenue receipts. In FY 2022-23, this figure remained unchanged at 27%. In 2022-23, 10 states together received 72% of the states share in Union taxes and duties. Uttar Pradesh (17.89%), Bihar (10.07%), Madhya Pradesh (7.86%), West Bengal (7.53%), and Maharashtra (6.33%) together accounted for 50% of devolved taxes. Among southern states, Tamil Nadu received 4.08%, Andhra Pradesh 4.02%, Karnataka 3.65%, Telangana 2.07%, and Kerala 1.93%. As of March 31, 2023, the total public debt for all 28 states stood at Rs 59.6 lakh crore, about 23% of their combined GSDP.

Bostu salgipa rel garikode rabana onchina Shanbor didia

Adoko BJP sorkari rikosa ILP been pilgen ine akanga SHILLONG: Garo Hills aro Salgro-Salaramni gipin adokrango maidake ongenga, uarangko nisusaatenba, jedakeba bostu salruragipa rel gari mangmangkode Byrnihat-ona mangmangde rabana onchina gita chanchipile nichina Cabinet Minister, Sanbor Shullai, pressure group-rangko aro niroke kam kadilenggiparangko didiaha. Indake meja mangmango Mizoram-o railway line-ko oprake onaniko chanchiatenba, Garo Hills []

'Zero civic sense': New Mizoram railway station littered just 24 hours after inauguration - Video

Grassroots Philanthropy: How Little Can do a Lot

The Zo Inspiration Foundation, a transparent, community-funded organization in Mizoram, proves small acts of grassroots philanthropy can have a massive impact.

Insider track | V-Ps oath sparks superstition talk

When CP Radhakrishnan took the oath as Indias 15th Vice-President last Friday, his red shirt caught as much attention as the timing of the ceremony. It fell squarely within Pitra Paksha, a fortnight that Hindus generally consider inauspicious for fresh beginnings. Whispers echo in political corridors was this an oversight, or a calculated choice? Some argue the Suns strength, symbolised by red, shields the V-P from ill effects. Others recall that the previous V-P, Jagdeep Dhankhar, resigned suddenly, sparking murmurs about vastu flaws in the Vice-Presidents new enclave. While most dismiss it as superstition, the chatter persists: did the RSS-linked V-P deliberately align with astrological counsel, or did faith give way to formality? In Delhis political grapevine, even timing becomes destiny. Dynasty Returns in Bihar Polls Bihar, headed into polls this October and November, is abuzz with talk of political dynasties staging a comeback. Sons, grandsons, a granddaughter, and even a daughter-in-law of seven former chief ministers plus the son of the current CM Nitish Kumar are tipped to test their fortunes. Nishant Kumar, Nitishs son, may contest despite his fathers aversion to dynastic politics. From the RJD camp, Tej Pratap Yadav could follow his brother Tejashwis footsteps into the Assembly. Nitish Mishra, son of late CM Jagannath Mishra, is eyeing Jhanjharpur on a BJP ticket, while Karpoori Thakurs granddaughter Dr. Jagriti could enter from Jan Suraj. Speculation swirls around Lalus estranged daughter-in-law, Aishwarya Rai. She is also the granddaughter of the late CM Daroga Prasad Rai. Bihars political battleground, it seems, will echo with many family voices this time. Deepa Manjhi, daughter-in-law of former CM and Union minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, has plans to contest from a seat in Gaya district. Nikhil Mandal, grandson of the late CM, B.P. Mandal, and S.K. Singh, son of the late CM, Satish K. Singh, are also likely candidates. RJD, LJP flex poll muscles As Bihar heads to the polls, two regional parties the RJD and the LJP (RV) are making their senior partners uneasy. Both have hinted they could contest all 243 seats, sending a subtle warning to allies. Tejashwi Yadavs remark, ready to contest from 243 seats, was read as a nudge to the Congress, whose presence in Bihar politics has faded to the margins. Chirag Paswan of LJP (RV), meanwhile, continues to style himself as Modis Hanuman, asserting his partys readiness to go it alone if needed. Yet, with equal ease, he tempers his tone: Being in alliance means contesting on all seats. Behind the smiles and slogans, the message is clear in Bihars high-stakes chessboard, regional players want to be treated as equals. Railways key to 2029 campaign pitch The BJP seems to be scripting its 2029 campaign on the steel backbone of Indian Railways. Party leaders speak of railing the Opposition through railways. It is learnt that the massive work being carried out by Indian Railways is intended to be one of the main USPs in 2029 connecting areas long bereft of rail services, and running trains to reach the pulse of common people who, until now, lacked railway connectivity. Projects in previously inaccessible areas, such as the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla link in Jammu and Kashmir, the Bairabi-Sairang line in Mizoram, the Ratlam-Nagda upgrade in Madhya Pradesh, and the Bhagalpur-Dumka-Rampurhat stretch in Jharkhand, are likely to be among the headline achievements. The political message is simple: connecting villages and towns equals connecting voters. Simian trouble in power corridors For decades, bureaucrats in Delhis high-security North and South Blocks had unlikely co-workers monkeys. From stealing files to startling diplomats, the simians became part of Raisina Hill lore. However, with ministries shifting out, no more guarding tiffins or shooing away troops of langurs mid-meeting. Yet, with the Blocks falling silent, a new worry rises. The colonial buildings are set to host artefacts in the upcoming Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum. Officials fear the same monkeys, roaming unchecked, could damage priceless relics displayed in courtyards. From nuisance to heritage threat, the monkey saga has entered a new chapter. Kartavya Bhawan appeals to some While senior CSS officers may dislike the new, compact, open workstations at Kartavya Bhavan-3, junior staff find the relocation from North Block appealing. The latter appreciate its location near Janpath and Connaught Place, which provides them with convenient access to shopping during work breaks. At an informal briefing, Union Minister Jitendra Singh observed that younger employees seem content, possibly due to this proximity, countering assumptions of widespread dissatisfaction with the move.

The Bairabi-Sairang rail line connects Mizoram to the national network

The newly inaugurated 51.38 km Bairabi-Sairang rail line has officially linked Mizoram to India's national railway network, marking a historic milestone for the state. Built at a cost of 8,071 crore, the project is set to boost trade and economic growth in the region. The post The Bairabi-Sairang rail line connects Mizoram to the national network appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .

Focus of commanders' meet: Reform, transform

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following his visit to Manipur, Mizoram, and Assam, is set to inaugurate the 16th Combined Commanders Conference (CCC) in Kolkata on Monday.

Sairang Rajdhanis Weekly Service Starts From September 19: Diwali Tickets From Delhi Sold Out

Flagged off officially on Saturday along with two more trains from Sairang, the Rajdhani will start commercial services from September 19 from Mizoram and September 21 from Delhi

'No roadmap for solution': Locals express displeasure over PM Modi's speech in Manipur

IMPHAL: During his first visit to Manipur since the ethnic conflict between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo tribals broke out on May 3, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met a few Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from both communities, before addressing people in Imphal and Churachandpur. PM Modi listened to them with rapt attention, even if it remains unknown what the IDPs told him. A few locals in Churachandpur were unhappy that the IDPs were allegedly provided with 'parameter' and hence were not able to flag the demand of 'separate administration' through Union Territory formation. They were told that they should not ask the PM anything about separate administration. They were permitted to talk only on matters such as health, education, infrastructure, etc, a Churachandpur resident said, wishing not to be named. A section of the locals expressed displeasure that PM Modi spoke in Hindi. He delivered his speech in English in Mizoram but in Hindi in Churachandpur. People are not happy. He did not address their issues. The development package cannot solve the problem, another local said, requesting anonymity. Modi 'does a Vajpayee': Goes the 'extra mile' to reach Churachandpur by road after rain grounds chopper He stated that it was the public sentiment and not that of one individual. Mung Hanghal, yet another local, said, The PM did not talk about any plans to resolve the conflict. We all wished he would say something about the plans, if the government has any. Also, the speech was brief. But we are happy that he came despite the inclement weather. In Imphal, when PM Modi met the IDPs before addressing people, a few of them reportedly broke down into tears. The locals were visibly not very happy after listening to him. Just like in Churachandpur, people expected him to come out with a solution to the problem.The PMs speech was good, but I am not feeling assured. We dont know the road to a solution, said Surajkumar Singh. The PMs visit brought certain development announcements, but for the displaced Meitei families still languishing in relief camps, it meant very little. We expected clarity on resettlement when will people be able to return to their homes, how will their safety be ensured, and what rehabilitation packages will be offered? Leishangthem Priyo, an Imphal resident, asserted. 'Face-saving farce, grave insult to people': Congress slams PM Modi's '3-hour pit stop' to violence-hit Manipur