West Bengal CM Accuses Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee of Protecting Illegal Immigrants
West Bengals CM criticizes Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee for allegedly shielding illegal immigrants during a press conference. West Bengal CM Accuses Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee of Protecting Illegal Immigrants
Bengal CM announces Rs 5,000 aid for 19,524 tea garden workers ahead of Diwali
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced financial assistance of Rs 5,000 for tea garden workers. The government is considering increasing rice allocation from 35 kg to 50 kg for these workers. Adhikari emphasized the commitment to reopen closed tea gardens for better employment opportunities. He also mentioned upcoming employment benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Chaa Shramik Yojana for eligible workers.
Bengal CM announces Rs 5,000 aid for 19,524 tea garden workers ahead of Diwali
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced financial assistance of Rs 5,000 for tea garden workers. The government is considering increasing rice allocation from 35 kg to 50 kg for these workers. Adhikari emphasized the commitment to reopen closed tea gardens for better employment opportunities. He also mentioned upcoming employment benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Chaa Shramik Yojana for eligible workers.
Bengal govt official held while accepting bribe in North 24 Parganas
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the West Bengal Police on Tuesday arrested an official of the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) after catching him red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000 in New Barrackpore of North 24 Parganas district, officials said. According to the ACB, the official was accused of accepting bribes for installing a new electricity connection and transformer. According to ACB officials, the arrest followed a written complaint lodged by a local resident, who alleged that the official had demanded Rs 20,000 to facilitate the installation of a new electricity connection and a 315 KVA transformer in the area. Acting on the complaint, ACB officers conducted a verification exercise and laid a trap. As part of the operation, the complainant met the accused official at a pre-arranged location on Tuesday and handed over the money. The ACB team immediately intervened and apprehended the official while allegedly receiving the bribe. The entire amount was recovered from his possession. Following preliminary investigations, a case has been registered against the accused under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Investigators are now examining whether other individuals were involved in the alleged bribery network or if the accused was acting on behalf of a larger group. The arrest was made based on a case registered under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended by the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, an official said. The latest action comes a day after the ACB arrested a suspended sub-assistant engineer of Raghunathpur Municipality in Purulia district in connection with multiple corruption allegations. The probe involves alleged corruption, misappropriation of government funds, irregularities in municipal works and suspected irregularities related to government land.
Bengal CM announces healthcare and tourism sectors development
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, on Tuesday, chaired an administrative review meeting at Siliguri in Darjeeling district in the northern sector of West Bengal and made a host of announcements for the overall development of the healthcare and tourism sectors in the hill regions in North Bengal. The Chief Minister announced that the foundation stone of Kalimpong Medical College & Hospital will be laid on December 9, 2027. In addition to that, we have decided to carry out extensive repairs, modernisation and infrastructural improvements to the sub-division and district hospitals of Darjeeling, Kurseong, Kalimpong, Mirik and Siliguri, the Chief Minister said. According to the Chief Minister, strengthening the health infrastructure in North Bengal will ensure access to improved medical services for thousands of people staying in the region, and they will not have to move elsewhere to get proper treatment facilities. He also announced the approval for a 21-kilometre ropeway project connecting Darjeeling and Kurseong. According to him, once this ropeway project is operational in mountainous areas, it will not only relieve the problem of severe traffic congestion but will also make travel much easier and more enjoyable both for the residents and the tourists from home and abroad. The Chief Minister, at the administrative review meeting, also gave directions to complete the repair and renovation work of all government tourist lodges in the region at the earliest. He also gave a green signal to the proposal to upgrade the Lebong Ground into a modern stadium of international standards to develop the talent of the sports-loving youth of the hills. The Chief Minister also announced an allocation of Rs 19 crore for the beautification, infrastructural transformation and regular maintenance of the sacred and historical Mahakal Temple premises in Darjeeling. Thanking the Chief Minister for these announcements, the BJPs Lok Sabha member from Darjeeling, Raju Bista, said that the expansion of communication systems, health services, sports and spiritual tourism will create employment opportunities for the local youth and completely transform the economic landscape of North Bengal.
Tigress sighting: Kokrajhar admin declares 5-km zone around Assam village restricted
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 3 (IANS) The Kokrajhar district administration in Assam has imposed prohibitory restrictions within a five-kilometre radius of Gelaguri village following the sighting of a female Royal Bengal tigress reportedly straying into the area from neighbouring West Bengal, officials said on Tuesday. The restrictions were imposed through an order issued by District Magistrate Pankaj Chakravarty under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, citing potential threats to human life and livestock and the need to ensure an uninterrupted operation to capture the animal. According to the administration, the tigress was first spotted on November 2 in the forest-fringe areas of Gelaguri village under the Dotma Revenue Circle. The Divisional Forest Officer of the Kachugaon Forest Division had reported the animal's presence. The restricted zone includes Gelaguri, East Bongshigaon, West Dangarkhuti, North Bhalukmari, Dangarkhuti and Ghoramari villages. Under the order, gatherings of five or more people for watching or chasing the animal have been prohibited. Entry into forest and jungle patches within the designated area will require prior permission from the Divisional Forest Officer concerned. The administration has also banned carrying firearms, traditional weapons such as daos and spears, traps, poison and snares within the restricted zone. Activities that could disturb the animal or hamper the rescue operation, including bursting firecrackers, beating drums, using loudspeakers, lighting fires and deploying flashlights to locate the tigress, have also been prohibited. Private drone operations and photography or videography of the capture operation will require prior authorisation. The order further cautions against spreading rumours or unverified information on social media, particularly claims describing the tigress as a man-eater or alleging that it has been shot. Authorised forest personnel, wildlife experts from the Wildlife Trust of India and National Tiger Conservation Authority, police and other government teams deployed for the operation have been exempted. The restrictions will remain effective until the Divisional Forest Officer formally declares the capture operation concluded. Violations will attract prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
West Bengal Board of Secondary Education has submitted a proposal seeking approval of revised dates, citing deployment of teachers for Census exercise
West Bengal Police Busts Major Betel Nut Smuggling Ring, Chief Minister Praises Action
West Bengal police seized over 117,000 kg of suspected betel nut in a major bust, earning commendation from the Chief Minister. West Bengal Police Busts Major Betel Nut Smuggling Ring, Chief Minister Praises Action
Old Image Falsely Linked to INDIA Bloc
The image dates back to 2019 and shows visuals of a Left Front rally in Kolkata, West Bengal.
Eight Trekkers Missing in Uttarakhand Avalanche, Rescue Efforts Underway
Eight trekkers, including five from West Bengal, are missing in Uttarakhand following an avalanche. Rescue operations are ongoing. Eight Trekkers Missing in Uttarakhand Avalanche, Rescue Efforts Underway
Major Betel Nut Syndicate Busted In West Bengal
West Bengal police, led by Falakata Police in Alipurduar district, have busted a large illegal betel nut syndicate, seizing over 117,000 kg of produce, much of which is believed to be of foreign origin. Two individuals were apprehended, and further raids are ongoing as the state government reaffirms its commitment to combating illicit trade.
West Bengal Board Sends Proposal To Education Department To Hold Class 10 Exam In March
The board has sent a revised examination schedule to the state education department for consideration, proposing to conduct the exams from March 2 to 16.
Cyclone Murasu Delays Winter Onset in West Bengal, Relief Expected Before Kali Puja
Cyclone Murasu is causing a delay in winter temperatures in West Bengal, with a forecast for improvement before Kali Puja on November 8. Cyclone Murasu Delays Winter Onset in West Bengal, Relief Expected Before Kali Puja
West Bengal Board sends proposal to postpone Madhyamik exams to March amid upcoming census exercise
The West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE) has proposed to shift the Madhyamik, Class 10 exam 2027 from February to March amid teachers' deployment for the upcoming Census exercise, a top board official said...
Cyclone Murasu delays winter in Bengal, relief expected before Kali Puja
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The indirect impact of Cyclone Murasu has delayed the onset of winter in West Bengal, with temperatures remaining above normal across the state, the meteorological department said on Tuesday. However, weather conditions are expected to improve from Thursday (November 5), with temperatures likely to dip ahead of Kali Puja on November 8, bringing the much-awaited winter chill to the state. According to the weather department, scattered rainfall is likely in several parts of Bengal on Tuesday under the influence of Cyclone Murasu, which made landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast. The cyclone has triggered forecasts of heavy rainfall, with a red alert issued for coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Tamil Nadu. Although Bengal is unlikely to experience any direct impact of the cyclone, its indirect effects are expected to influence weather conditions. The sky will remain partly cloudy across all districts on Tuesday, with isolated spells of light rain. In north Bengal, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar may receive light rainfall at one or two places. The remaining three districts of north Bengal are expected to remain dry. In south Bengal, isolated light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Jhargram, Bankura and Purulia. Other districts are likely to experience predominantly dry weather. The meteorological department has forecast mainly dry conditions across the state from Wednesday to Saturday, with the possibility of rainfall gradually diminishing. As cloud cover clears, night temperatures are expected to fall progressively, creating favourable conditions for the arrival of winter around Kali Puja. Meanwhile, Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 31.04 degrees Celsius on Monday, marginally above the normal level of 31 degrees. The minimum temperature stood at 25.02 degrees Celsius, which was 2.03 degrees above normal. The relative humidity in the city ranged between 67 and 95 per cent, indicating continued moisture in the atmosphere.
West Bengal board proposes shifting 2027 Madhyamik exams from February to March
The West Bengal Board of Secondary Education has proposed a change in the 2027 Madhyamik examination schedule. They suggest rescheduling the exams from February 15 to 25 to March 2 to 16. This change is due to the deployment of teachers for the upcoming Census exercise. The Census will take place from January 25 to February 28 next year.
Dilip Ghosh takes 'Sonia' jibe at Mamata for joining INDIA bloc rally against SIR
Dilip Ghosh has publicly lambasted Mamata Banerjee for her involvement in the INDIA bloc rally concerning changes to the electoral roll. He argues her party's diminishing political clout is prompting her to seek validation through an alliance with Congress. Ghosh highlighted her past victories, labeling her claims regarding electoral integrity as hypocritical, and pointed out the positive impact of removing fraudulent voters in fostering fair elections in West Bengal.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The Kolkata Police, probing an alleged multi-crore fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to festival tours organised around the UNESCO-tagged celebration, may summon the wife and daughter of arrested former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen for a second round of questioning. Sens wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, and daughter, Averi Sen, have already been questioned once each at the city police headquarters in Lalbazar, Central Kolkata. However, police sources said their initial statements failed to answer several questions satisfactorily, prompting investigators to consider questioning both again. A police source said, however, the reasons for seeking further clarification from Madhuchhanda and Averi were different. The statements made by the former minister and his wife regarding their respective roles in Mass Art, the entity through which the fake passes were allegedly sold, have been completely contradictory. While the former minister claimed that he had no role in the day-to-day operations of Mass Art, his wife maintained that although the entity was officially registered in her name, she had no decision-making authority and that all major decisions were taken by her husband, the police source said. However, according to the police source, both Sen and his wife have consistently named one individual, Dhurbojyoti Basu, as the person responsible for handling the operational activities of Mass Art. Investigators are now seeking greater clarity on the respective roles played by the former minister, his wife and Basu in the functioning of the entity. This has prompted them to consider another round of questioning of Madhuchhanda Sen to reconcile the contradictory statements and establish who exercised actual control over its operations. The proposed second round of interrogation of Averi Sen, meanwhile, is linked to financial transactions involving two other entities, 'iScape' and 'Mayra', which were reportedly controlled by her. Another city police source said the investigation had revealed frequent transfers of funds to the bank accounts of these two entities. However, during her first round of questioning at Lalbazar on November 2, Averi allegedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations for the transactions or establish the reasons behind the repeated transfer of funds. Investigators are, therefore, seeking further clarification from her regarding the financial transactions and the nature of the two entities' involvement, the source added. A singer-turned-politician, Indranil Sen, had served as West Bengal Tourism Minister and Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs. He is currently in police custody and is scheduled to be produced before a city court again on November 10. Both the Kolkata Police and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are conducting parallel investigations into the alleged multi-crore fake Durga Puja pass scam involving festival tours organised around the UNESCO-tagged celebration. The financial transactions and the alleged roles of individuals associated with Mass Art are among the aspects under scrutiny.
West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh criticises Mamata Banerjee
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Your party formed, headed by foreigner: BJP T'gana chief to Rahul over 'foreign help' remark
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Nov 3 (IANS) BJP Telangana President Ramchandar Rao on Tuesday hit back at Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over his social media post alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives foreign financial support and backing. Rao questioned Gandhi's own alleged links with foreign entities and accused him of making baseless allegations against the BJP. Speaking to IANS, Rao said Gandhi should remember that his party was founded by a foreigner and alleged that it is now almost being led by a foreigner. Rahul Gandhi has tweeted on X that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is receiving foreign financial support and backing. He must first remember that his party was formed by a foreigner and is now almost headed by a foreigner, Rao said. He further accused Gandhi of supporting foreign countries, including Bangladesh and Nepal, and alleged that he receives backing from US-based investor George Soros. You take examples from countries like Bangladesh and Nepal and receive support from a foreigner like George Soros. You speak against India during your visits to Europe and America, he said. Rao also accused the Congress leader of questioning India's position on Pakistan following surgical strikes and signing agreements with China. He questioned why Gandhi was accusing the BJP of receiving foreign support while allegedly having foreign backing himself. You speak against India and support foreign countries like Pakistan when surgical strikes take place. You signed a pact with a country like China. You yourself are half foreign. Then why are you alleging that the BJP is receiving foreign support? In fact, you are the one receiving foreign support. Such statements reflect intellectual hollowness, Rao told IANS. Meanwhile, West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh also criticised Gandhi over his remarks, alleging that the Congress leader was attempting to create unrest in the country with the support of foreign money and forces. Creating unrest in the country with foreign money, foreign forces and foreign inspiration, opposing the government and government institutions, and tarnishing the country's image has become Rahul Gandhi's tradition. He is moving in the same direction, Ghosh said. Earlier on Monday, Gandhi had accused Prime Minister Modi of receiving foreign help to become and remain in power. He also alleged that India's financial system was controlled and supported by foreign entities and claimed that foreign social media platforms acked the Prime Minister.
West Bengal CM concerned over five Bankura trekkers missing in Uttarakhand
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HC: Not for us to dictate how KMC wards will be altered
Crowd-control steps at pujas in Barasat
Maidan cleanup volunteer tracks down owner of lost ID cards
Kolkatas Pavement Doctor dies at Norfolk home
Judges hearing appeals related to electoral rolls in West Bengal are expected to utilize digital signatures shortly. This change aims to resolve a prolonged standoff that prevented the processing of appeals. Retired Calcutta High Court judge Indrajit Chatterjee has resumed his work on appeals in Murshidabad. The Election Commission of India is considering relocating some tribunals closer to Kolkata.
Arnab-Murasu first double cyclone to hit Bengal-Andhra stretch in less than 7 days
SRFTI students union slams 14 show-cause, 6 rustication notices
Jadavpur University Debars Staffer Amid Sexual Harassment Probe
KMC show-causes LBS for remarks against min, comm, Kartik Maharaj
Green body calls for stricter curbs
KMC commissioner joins queue, orders more birth certificate counters
Chorbagan fallout: Cops to bar pandal entry if it rains on Kali Puja
Airfares to Kolkata soar on Nov festive demand
Bazi Bazaar tightens safety checks, bars 3 fireworks stalls
Secondary board proposes to defer Madhyamik exam
App-cabby gets pals to thrash, rob 2 passengers in Entally
Fire rages overnight, guts offices behind Writers
Rs 5cr state funds for New Town road repairs
West Bengal Mandates E-Tendering for 25 Government Departments Starting November 3
West Bengal government announces mandatory e-tendering for 25 departments to enhance transparency and efficiency in project execution. West Bengal Mandates E-Tendering for 25 Government Departments Starting November 3
Nadia District Leads in TB-Free Initiative Under Prime Ministers Campaign
Nadia district in West Bengal achieves top status in TB elimination, with 98 gram panchayats declared TB-free. Nadia District Leads in TB-Free Initiative Under Prime Ministers Campaign
Bengal: Sub-Assistant Engineer arrested on multiple corruption charges
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) West Bengal Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB), on Monday, arrested a Sub-Assistant Engineer (under suspension) of Raghunathpur Municipality in Purulia district, in connection with multiple corruption allegations against him. The arrest was made based on a case registered under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended by the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. According to an ACB official, the investigation pertains to allegations of corruption, misappropriation of government funds, irregularities in municipal works and suspected irregularities involving government land. During the investigation, substantial documentary evidence, including tender records, an enquiry report submitted by the Sub-Divisional Officer and land and property-related records concerning the accused and his family members, has been collected and is under scrutiny, said the official. The accused had been served notices under Section 35(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, on two occasions to appear before the Investigating Officer but failed to appear. Further investigation and necessary legal formalities are in progress in accordance with law, the official added. Last month, a revenue inspector was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Branch while taking a bribe. He is an employee of the Land and Land Reforms Office in Aushgram of East Burdwan district. He was accused of taking a bribe of Rs 4,000 in the name of issuing an Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificate. The West Bengal Anti-Corruption Branch conducted the operation and caught him red-handed. The state administration has informed that the number of such operations will increase in the coming days to keep government services transparent and corruption-free for the common man. The West Bengal Anti-Corruption Bureau has given a clear message that any attempt to harass the common man or take bribes in the name of providing government services will not be tolerated. The ACB said such strict steps will increase in the future to maintain transparency.
Bengal: E-tendering mandatory in govt Depts for better transparency
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) The West Bengal government, on Monday, announced mandatory e-tendering in 25 state government departments in an attempt to complete project works on time and in a more transparent manner. Accordingly, in a notification issued by the State Finance Department on Monday, it said that new e-tender portals have been opened for these 25 state government departments where e-tendering will be mandatory henceforth. The new system will be in effect from November 3. As per the notification signed by the Additional Chief Secretary to the State Finance Department, P.K. Mishra, the initiative had been mooted to ensure timely and effective implementation of various schemes and ensure transparency in the tendering system. The state government has launched this new portal so that the work of various government projects can be implemented in a timely and effective manner, the notification read. The notification further stated that henceforth, the departments concerned and all their subordinate branch offices would have to invite all new tenders only through this new portal. The new web portal was launched on a trial basis in December 2025 through a special memorandum of the State Finance Department. Subsequently, on August 12 of this year, the scope of this system was extended step by step based on the application of some specific departments, including the Public Works Department. This time, it has been decided to launch this service in full swing in 25 departments at once. All the necessary information from the old portal is also being quickly transferred to the new system, a state finance department official said. The departments where the e-tendering system had been made mandatory henceforth include the Agriculture & Agricultural Marketing Department, Animal Husbandry Development Department, Cooperatives Department, Backwards Classes Welfare Department, Consumer Protection Department, Disaster Management Department, School Education Department, Higher Education Department, Food & Supplies Department, Information & Cultural Affairs Department, Information Technology Department, Tourism Department, Fire Service Department, Home & Hill Affairs Department, Industries & Commerce Department, Labour Department, Fisheries Department, Food Processing Department, Horticulture Department, Housing Department, Prison Administration Department, Justice Department and Women & Child Welfare Department. The main objective of this step is to speed up the tender process and create a common digital infrastructure across all departments. The new portal will increase transparency in government work and reduce delays to a great extent as it becomes operational. The departments concerned have been instructed to strictly follow the new rules from Tuesday, said the state finance department official.
West Bengal Christians hurt by mob violence narrate their ordeals before peoples tribunal
Christian women say mobs vandalised prayers meetings in their homes and physically assaulted them, accusing them of religious conversion; most perpetrators not arrested, police attitude has changed under BJP rule, survivors say
Malda Land Clash: One Dead, SSB Jawan Hurt
A land dispute in Malda, West Bengal, resulted in one death and injuries to three others, including a Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) jawan. The clash occurred on Sunday afternoon when SSB personnel attempted to cultivate a disputed plot. Police have detained 13 people and are investigating the incident.
After Mamata-free Bengal, time now for Rahul-free Delhi: Nitin Nabin
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) BJP national president Nitin Nabin on Monday led the party's 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' march in Kolkata and simultaneously targeted former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. The procession, which started from College Street with Nitin Nabin, state Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and state BJP president Samik Bhattacharya, concluded in the Esplanade area in central Kolkata. While addressing the public at the end of the march, Nitin Nabin said, West Bengal is already completely free from Mamata. Unable to cope with the shock of defeat in his own state, the former Chief Minister is now crying in Delhi. Now Delhi too needs to be freed from Rahul quickly. The BJP launched a counter-offensive against the Opposition's protests over the Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. On Sunday, the INDIA Bloc held a 'Save the Vote, Save the Country' programme at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Slamming the Opposition for organising the protest, Nitin Nabin said, People of the INDIA Bloc, who were defeated in their respective states, had gathered in Delhi to cry. The manner in which TMC was wiped out in Bengal, Congress and AAP were wiped out in Delhi. In Bihar too, RJD was completely wiped out. Now, it is Uttar Pradesh's turn; we had defeated Akhilesh Yadav earlier too, and we will defeat him in 2027 too. Such people with anarchist mindsets are led by Rahul Gandhi. Attacking the Congress further, the BJP national president said the grand old party never learns from its mistakes. Instead of learning from his mistakes, Rahul Gandhi is acting as the tool kit of foreign forces. When I say this word, I say this because when there was unrest in Bangladesh, he was sympathetic towards the elements who were causing the unrest. When elements try to cause unrest in Nepal, he expresses sympathy to them. Rahul Gandhi and Congress are sympathetic towards all such elements. The BJP Rajya Sabha leader further said, ''Even today, I tell Rahul Gandhi Ji: learn from your shortcomings, or else in the coming days, there will be no one left in the country even to take Congress's name; this is the situation that will arise for you. You talk about democracy? I ask the workers of Congress: is there any democracy left in your own party? You invoke the Constitution, which Constitution? The Constitution that runs according to the Nehru-Gandhi family? Nabin also hailed the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking the country forward on several fronts. When it comes to national security, he stands as a Chowkidar (watchman); during a crisis like COVID-19, he stands as the Pradhan Sevak (Chief Servant) of the nation; this is Narendra Modi's leadership. Today, you are trying to spread anarchy across the country and harm constitutional institutions. When the public rejected you, had you fought for the people's causes, they wouldn't have turned their backs on you. The BJP leader added, And we can say that today, if more than 25 crore poor families have risen above the poverty line, it is a victory of trust in Narendra Modi's development. It is a victory of Narendra Modi's welfare schemes. Now they ask how this transformed into results. Instead of removing poverty, you removed the poor. But Narendra Modi Ji removed poverty and brought people out of the poverty line. That is why we won the election in 2019, and that is why we won in 2024, and we will win again in 2029. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari compared the Trinamool Congress and the Opposition by presenting his own political interpretation of the SIR process. He said, Whatever SIR means to the opposition, for us the real meaning of SIR is - remove the infiltrators, save India. Strongly attacking the opposition camp, the Chief Minister further said, Let me remind those who have come together today to save themselves from corruption and jail terms, to maintain the dynasty and to bring back the politics of appeasement - in the 2026 elections, the people of West Bengal elected the Bharatiya Janata Party by giving 2 crore 92 lakh votes. That is why they want to create anarchy in Bengal today.''
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday launched a scathing attack on the opposition INDIA bloc, accusing its constituents of uniting solely to evade corruption probes, protect family-centric political dynasties, and engage in appeasement politics. Addressing a massive crowd during the BJP
J&K: Indian Army kickstarts eight-week free coaching program for Sainik School exams in Doda
Digital Desk | Jammu, Nov 2 (IANS) The Indian Army has launched an eight-week free coaching programme to help underprivileged students prepare for the Sainik School entrance Exam in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. The free programme, kick-starting on Monday, was inaugurated by Commander 9 Sector RR, Brigadier Vikrant Shinde, in the presence of students and their parents, at the Battalion headquarters of Assam Rifles in Thaleela village of Doda. The students were selected and shortlisted after qualifying an examination at their respective schools. They also expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for supporting them in achieving their dreams. The Commander, 9-Sector RR Brigadier Vikrant Shinde, said that 60 meritorious students drawn from different schools of Doda district who qualified for the program will get the specialised coaching from teachers who have been especially called from West Bengal. The much-needed coaching programme is aimed at bridging educational gaps and offering equal opportunities for students in far-flung and remote regions to crack the All India Sainik School Entrance Exam, Said Brig Vikrant Shinde. Brigadier Vikrant Shinde also distributed free study material among all the students who have qualified for the coaching programme. Speaking about the initiative, Brigadier Vikrant Shinde told IANS, I strongly believe that the difference between us as human beings is not in our abilities, but in the opportunities we receive. The kind of opportunities a person gets in life is very important. He further thanked the students and their guardians for deciding to participate in this initiative. The students also expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for providing them with this platform and opportunity, stating that every child dreams of studying at a Sainik School.
When Union Ministers from Bengal step from politics to the theatre stage
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar taking time off to step under the arc lights on stage has generated interest because while politicians are known to have dabbled in acting in West Bengal a state recognised for cultural activities there have not been many who could follow their hearts while being in a similar position that demands absolute involvement. Yet, for Bengal, the achievement is not without precedent. More than two decades ago, another Bengali minister at the Centre, Ajit Panja (1936-2008), became famous for the portrayal of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa in productions of Nati Binodini. Majumdar took to the stage on Sunday, donning the role of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in a theatrical production, 'Keshari Hatya', depicting the life and death of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS). He also appeared in the same play as the narrator. The Minister told the media that he was offered the role, and as every Bengali has a latent desire to act, he accepted it. Though I cant recollect any other Union Minister from West Bengal having acted in a play apart from Ajitda and Sukantababu, I do remember Subrata Mukherjee and lately, Bratya Basu, having enacted roles on stage as well as in cinema, said Saumya Bandopadhya, a senior journalist who has covered the state for almost a half-century. Subrata Mukherjee (1946-2021) was a veteran West Bengal politician who was a senior leader of the Congress party and later, the Trinamool. He served as a cabinet minister in the West Bengal government and was widely regarded as an influential organiser and administrator, with a political career spanning more than five decades. He also served as the Mayor of Kolkata and played an important role in Bengal politics for many years. The 57-year-old Bratya Basu has served as a Minister in the Mamata Banerjee-led cabinet in West Bengal. However, neither Mukherjee nor Basu were Union Ministers, and their acting skills were well known earlier. Echoing Bandopadhya, another senior journalist from West Bengal, Gautam Hor, added that it is the passion for the stage that draws people from other professions onto amateur acting. Anybody who loves theatre can participate on stage, but it is the time constraint for someone who holds a ministers job that makes such an attempt stand out. Such a foray requires time, especially for rehearsals, he said. According to Majumdar, rehearsals were conducted even as he attended to his official engagements, participating whenever he could afford the time. That, indeed, is a tough task. It is perhaps Bengali has a latent desire to act that the Minister stated that made the task possible for him. Panja, a senior Congress leader who later joined the Trinamool Congress and served in several Union ministries, was also a passionate theatre actor. He earned widespread recognition with his enactment of Sri Ramakrishna, and has even held a show at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Contemporary accounts describe how then-Prime Minister Vajpayee was among those who watched the production during one of its stagings, and former Chief Minister of West Bengal, Jyoti Basu, had attended a performance and praised Panja's acting. The tradition resurfaced with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sukanta Majumdar performing at Kolkata's Rabindra Sadan. Hopefully, the curtain will never fall as Bengal continues to follow the passion.
Mamata's name at Nandan painted over ahead Of film fest
A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after a plaque bearing former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's name at Kolkata's Nandan cultural hub was painted over, while one for Jyoti Basu remained untouched. This incident, occurring just before the Kolkata International Film Festival, has led to a war of words between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress, with actor Mithun Chakraborty questioning the relevance of Banerjee's name.
No one will be able to destroy democracy: BJP's Rahul Sinha targets Mamata Banerjee
Hitting out at former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Rahul Sinha on Monday asserted that party workers would thwart every attempt to weaken democratic institutions in the state, declaring that 'no one would be able to destroy democracy' as long as BJP workers continued to stand united. Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the party's 'Save Democracy' march in Kolkata, Sinha responded to allegations raised by Banerjee regarding electoral outcomes and claimed that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo had lost touch with the ground reality. The message is that as long as even a single Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker remains, no one will be able to destroy democracy. Every BJP worker will work to thwart the conspiracy that these people are hatching to destroy democracy, Sinha said. Taking a direct swipe at Banerjee over her remarks blaming electoral losses on vote manipulation, Sinha said that the people of West Bengal had rejected the Trin...
BJP MP Rahul Sinha vows to protect democracy in West Bengal tensions
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Daughter Of Former Minister Questioned In Puja Scam
Kolkata Police have summoned Avery Sen, daughter of former West Bengal minister Indranil Sen, for questioning in connection with the Durga Puja preview pass scam and the alleged unauthorised use of the UNESCO name and logo. This follows the arrest of Indranil Sen and the questioning of his wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, as investigators trace financial transactions linked to the case.
Mamata Banerjee's nameplate was removed from the main hall of Kolkata's cultural centre Nandan and painted over. This action occurred before the annual Kolkata International Film Festival, while Jyoti Basu's plaque remains intact. Banerjee participated in a mega rally in Delhi addressing alleged electoral irregularities and the Special Intensive Revision exercise. She accused the BJP of looting West Bengal and emphasized the need to protect democracy.
Body of Cantine Worker Found in West Bengal Assembly Toilet, Investigation Underway
A cantine workers body was discovered in a West Bengal Assembly toilet, prompting an investigation into the circumstances of his death. Body of Cantine Worker Found in West Bengal Assembly Toilet, Investigation Underway
Cyclone Murasu to bring light to moderate rain to parts of West Bengal
Cyclone Murasu is expected to bring scattered light to moderate rain to Kolkata, Midnapore and South 24 Parganas over the next two days. The storm is forecast to make landfall in south Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, while temperatures in West Bengal may dip from November 5
Why Sikkim is the only Indian state without a railway station, and when it will finally get one
Nabin to lead BJP's save democracy rally in Kolkata, civic poll strategy on agenda
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party national president Nitin Nabin will arrive in Kolkata on Monday afternoon to lead the partys Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao (save democracy, eliminate anarchy) rally, which will begin at College Street and conclude at Esplanade in central Kolkata. Following the rally, the BJP chief is expected to review the party's preparations for elections to seven urban local bodies in the state, including Kolkata. The rally is part of the BJPs nationwide campaign against the Opposition protests over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The SIR protests have been spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by the Congress-led INDIA bloc and other opposition parties, according to the BJPs account of the campaign. Nabin is scheduled to arrive at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport from Patna shortly after 2 pm. He will proceed directly to College Street, the starting point of the rally, and lead the march to Esplanade. It remains unclear whether he will address party workers and supporters at the concluding gathering. Mondays programme will mark the start of an extended BJP campaign across West Bengal against the anti-SIR protests. State BJP vice-president Prabal Raha said similar rallies would be held in Howrah, adjoining Kolkata, and Siliguri in Darjeeling district on November 3. The second phase of the campaign is scheduled to begin on November 11, after Kali Puja and Diwali. The party plans to organise marches at 800 locations across the state, each with at least 10,000 participants, Raha said. The BJP also intends to bring national-level leaders and supporters from different parts of the country into the campaign in urban centres across Bengal. After the Kolkata rally, Nabin is expected to meet state BJP leaders to review preparations for elections to seven urban local bodies in West Bengal. These include the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC). A state BJP committee member said the discussions would focus on the partys strategy for the civic polls, including candidate selection. The leadership may also take up the preparation of preliminary candidate lists for the KMC and HMC elections. Nabin is expected to leave for Delhi either on Monday night or on Tuesday morning. The elections to the seven municipal bodies are likely to be held in the third or fourth week of December, according to the schedule being discussed. The results are expected in the last week of December or the first week of January 2027. The BJPs campaign is expected to run alongside its preparations for the civic elections, giving the state leadership two parallel organisational tasks in the weeks ahead.
West Bengal Government Prepares for Diwali and Kali Puja Festivities Amid Security Concerns
West Bengal government intensifies preparations for Diwali and Kali Puja, assigning cabinet ministers to oversee law and order during the festivities. West Bengal Government Prepares for Diwali and Kali Puja Festivities Amid Security Concerns
Church attacked in West Bengal during inauguration ceremony
Local police from the Basanti Police Station have said that prima facie it looked like an internal feud between two Christian groups in the area
Nitin Nabin set to lead BJP's 'Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao' marches in Bihar and West Bengal
BJP national president Nitin Nabin will lead major marches in Bihar and West Bengal on Monday. This is part of the party's ongoing 'Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao' campaign against the opposition's claims. Nabin's marches aim to counter alleged misinformation and anarchy disseminated by the opposition bloc. The BJP believes that every party worker will help clarify the opposition's false narratives.
Rahul says Gyanesh Kumar would be removed, warns PM Modi, Shah they are next after CEC,
New Delhi, Nov 1: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Sunday warned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah that they would face consequences over alleged electoral irregularities, declaring that Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar would be removed from office and sent to jail. Addressing the INDIA blocs Vote Bachao, Desh Bachao rally at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi said, After Gyanesh, you are next, reports The Times of India (TOI). Gyanesh Kumar will be removed as CEC, he will go to jail, he said. This is not an ordinary theft. This is treason, Rahul Gandhi said, accusing the BJP of stealing votes in several state Assembly elections and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He alleged that electoral manipulation had taken place in Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Karnataka, besides the 2024 general elections. The Congress leader said the INDIA bloc would not allow democracy to be destroyed or the Constitution to be undermined. The rally was organised to protest against alleged electoral irregularities and demand the resignation of the CEC. Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the BJP of benefiting from alleged manipulation of electoral rolls and electronic voting machines (EVMs), charges the ruling party has rejected. Opposition leaders march to Ramlila Maidan The INDIA blocs Chalo Dilli march began from the Minto Road-Connaught Place junction, with Opposition leaders, including Farooq Abdullah, former Chief Minister of J&K, Mehbooba Mufti, former chief minister of J&K, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, who also spoke to the crowd, voicing save the constitution at the Ramlila Maidan. Press Trust of India reported Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday said the Ramlila Maidan has turned into the Haldighati of democracy with a massive turnout of people and asserted that this is indicative of change that is in the offing, as he asserted that those who came to power at the Centre through Uttar Pradesh will also exit from there. Taking a dig at the BJP, Yadav said those who speak of having a firm, immovable stance -- likening it to the unshakeable foot of Angad -- should consider where they would even place that foot, given that there is no ground left to stand on. Addressing the INDIA bloc rally at Delhis Ramlila Maidan against vote chori, Akhilesh referred to the recent MLC polls and said the people of Kashi (Varanasi) have reduced the double-engine government to a double zero. The rally followed the Oppositions mock impeachment proceedings against CEC Gyanesh Kumar, held on Saturday at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. The latest confrontation comes amid the Oppositions continuing allegations of vote chori and its objections to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in several states. Rahul alleges BJP forced shops shut Rahul Gandhi also accused the BJP of forcibly shutting shops in Connaught Place, alleging that the move caused losses to local traders. According to the Press Trust of India (PTI), Rahul Gandhi made the allegation in a video recorded while he was travelling in an open vehicle towards the Minto Road-Connaught Place junction. He said the INDIA bloc had appealed to people attending the rally to shop at local markets during the festive season to support traders. But upon reaching Connaught Place, we learned that the BJP has forcibly shut down all the shops. The country is watching how the BJP is causing loss to the shopkeepers, Gandhi said. On Saturday night, he had urged people travelling to Delhi for the march and rally to purchase goods from local shops ahead of Diwali, Chhath and Bhai Dooj. Rahul Gandhi had accused the BJP of spreading rumours that the Oppositions programme would hurt businesses, saying the rally and shopping could take place together. Nearly 10,000 police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in central Delhi for the rally, while more than 200 CCTV cameras were installed in the area, Hindustan Times reported. Police said arrangements had been made to facilitate the march and manage crowds at the venue. While the INDIA bloc expected a large turnout from different states, police preparations were based on Ramlila Maidans capacity of around 50,000 people, with any overflow to be managed on surrounding streets. The Oppositions campaign against the CEC gathered momentum after a report by The Indian Express last month said Election Commissioners had objected to decisions taken by the CEC on 14 occasions over a 10-month period. The Election Commission maintained that its decisions had been unanimous.
BJP chief Nitin Nabin to lead Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy padyatras in Bihar, Bengal today
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president Nitin Nabin will lead Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao (Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy) padyatras in Bihar and West Bengal on Monday as part of the party's nationwide campaign against what it describes as misinformation and organised anarchy being spread by the Opposition. According to a post by BJP Bihar on X, Nabin will lead the first padyatra in Bhagalpur on November 2. BJP's National President, Shri Nitin Nabin, will lead the Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy padyatra organised in Bhagalpur on November 2, 2026, the party said in its post. The foot march in Bhagalpur will commence at 11 a.m. from Lajpat Park and conclude at Seva Jyoti Chowk at 12.30 p.m. After completing his programme in Bihar, Nabin will travel to Kolkata, where he will lead the second padyatra of the day. The march will begin at 3 p.m. from College Street and conclude at Dharmatala at 5.30 p.m., according to a BJP press note. Officials said detailed arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of the padyatras. The party has described the campaign as a movement against what it calls the lies, deception, conspiracies and anarchy being spread by a desperate and disillusioned Opposition. With the resolve of Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao, every BJP karyakarta is reaching out to villages and households to expose what the party calls the Opposition's false and fabricated narrative and apprise people of the truth, the press note said. Senior party leaders, state BJP presidents, thousands of party workers and members of the public are expected to participate in the padyatras being organised in Bhagalpur and Kolkata. The BJP has positioned the initiative as a response to what it alleges are systematic attempts by the Opposition to mislead the public and create disorder. Party leaders maintain that the foot marches will help counter what they describe as false narratives and reinforce the message of democratic values and disciplined public life. The BJP has indicated that similar programmes will continue across the country as part of the larger nationwide drive.
PM Modi to inaugurate Bharat Renewable Energy Summit & Expo 2026 in Delhi today
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Bharat Renewable Energy Summit & Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Monday and address the gathering, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said. The four-day summit, scheduled to be held from November 2 to 5, will bring together global policymakers, investors, financial institutions and industry leaders to promote investment, innovation and international partnerships in the renewable energy sector. The theme of the summit is Invest. Innovate. Inspire. According to the PMO, Bharat RE 2026 will attract participants from more than 130 countries, including over 40 Ministers. It will serve as a global platform for clean energy investment, industry engagement and technology partnerships. Nine countries and regional groupings -- Australia, Denmark, the European Union, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom -- will participate as Country Partners. Thirteen states and Union Territories will also showcase their renewable energy potential, investment opportunities and manufacturing capabilities at the summit. These include Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. The summit will be organised alongside the 9th Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly and the 4th International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH), bringing three major clean energy platforms together. While Bharat RE will focus on investment, industry and technology partnerships across the clean energy sector, the ISA Assembly will work towards advancing international cooperation in solar energy, including finance and institutional capacity. The International Conference on Green Hydrogen, meanwhile, will focus on green hydrogen technologies, investment and large-scale deployment. Together, these three platforms are expected to strengthen international cooperation and accelerate the deployment of clean energy solutions. Building on the legacy of RE-INVEST, India's flagship renewable energy investment summit, Bharat RE 2026 will provide an expanded platform for global engagement across the clean energy sector. The summit will feature plenary sessions, ministerial discussions, CEO roundtables and country and state sessions. It will also facilitate business-to-business, business-to-government and government-to-government engagements to promote investments, partnerships and project development. The accompanying Expo will feature more than 400 exhibitors showcasing advanced technologies, Indian manufacturing capabilities and clean energy solutions. The exhibits will cover a wide range of sectors, including solar and wind power, green hydrogen, energy storage and other emerging areas of renewable energy.
West Bengal to Provide Land and Housing to Matua Refugees, Says Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari pledges land and housing for Matua refugees from Bangladesh, promising their release from detention. West Bengal to Provide Land and Housing to Matua Refugees, Says Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
Govt approves 9.4 crore funding for Uttam Mancha renovation
Two students drownwhile bathing in Hooghly
Bike-borne goons snatch bag from car near Allen Park
West Bengal announces government jobs for families of political violence victims dating back to 2001
The West Bengal government has introduced a scheme offering Group D government jobs to one eligible family member of people killed in political violence in the state since January 1, 2001. The initiative covers spouses, children and, in cases involving unmarried victims, siblings, subject to eligibility conditions.
Man duped of Rs 51 lakh in medical college admission fraud
Music teacher dies after SUV jumps signal, hits bike
Cancer drug price slash to help cut down on treatment dropout
City markets abuzz with festive shoppers on last Sunday before Diwali-Kali Puja
House fire sparks panic in Chorbagan near stampede site, no casualty reported
Sharing Sarsuna strip video may invite IT Act cases, accused sent to police custody till Nov 6
More floods, water shortage in Kol as atmospheric moisture rises 25% by 2100: IIT-Kgp study
Amar Para Gariahat & Hindustan Park
BJP Launches Save Democracy, End Anarchy Marches in Bihar and West Bengal
BJPs Nitin Naveen leads Save Democracy, End Anarchy marches in Bihar and West Bengal to counter opposition misinformation. BJP Launches Save Democracy, End Anarchy Marches in Bihar and West Bengal
NFR opens Rangapani-Bagdogra siding line in North Bengal for regular freight operations
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 1 (IANS) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has commissioned the existing 6.8-km Rangapani-Bagdogra siding line under its Katihar Division for regular freight operations, paving the way for smoother goods movement and strengthening freight connectivity in the region, officials said on Sunday. Katihar Division headquarters in Katihar city in Bihar. The Rangapani-Bagdogra corridor is a vital strategic and logistical railway link located in the Siliguri region (Chicken's Neck) of Darjeeling district in North Bengal. NFRs Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that the long-disused line has been brought into use with minimal expenditure, making productive use of existing railway infrastructure to meet growing freight transportation requirements. With this development, trains coming from East Central Railway (ECR) and entering NFR at Forbesganj will no longer require reversal at Siliguri Junction (SGUJ), he said. Eliminating this reversal will result in substantial energy savings, avoid unnecessary detention of rolling stock and reduce the deployment of crew and shunting staff for reversal operations. Sharma said that the new operational arrangement will enable NFR to receive at least 10 trains per day from ECR at Forbesganj for onward movement to destinations beyond Barsoi. This will significantly enhance freight handling capacity and operational efficiency, while facilitating faster movement and better utilisation of rolling stock, he added. The additional freight route offers greater operational flexibility and more efficient utilisation of railway resources. According to the NFR CPRO, for traders, businesses and consumers in the region, it is expected to support more reliable transportation of goods and strengthen local supply chains. The initiative also creates scope for NFR to handle additional freight traffic and generate revenue through better utilisation of an existing asset. The conversion was carried out under the guidance of NFR General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava, with coordinated efforts by Katihar Division and the other concerned departments. It reflects NFRs continued focus on improving services through teamwork and optimal utilisation of existing assets, Sharma said. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), headquartered at Maligaon near Guwahati, operates across the Northeastern states as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of north Bihar.
Concern for pets dogs humans a week before festival of lights
Tollygunge guild elections conclude, one post has a tie
Chandernagore river cruise plan for Jagaddhatri Puja
Cyclone Murasu forms over Bay of Bengal, no major impact on state
