ICAI to train Bengal MLAs on public finances, legislative oversight
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India will host a workshop for West Bengal MLAs. This event focuses on public financial management and fiscal governance for legislators. Over two hundred newly elected members are expected to attend the training session. The Chief Minister and Assembly Speaker will grace the inaugural ceremony. This initiative aims to enhance legislative oversight and efficient public fund utilization.
IMD issues red warning as Bay of Bengal depression brings heavy rainfall to Odisha
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded multiple rainfall alerts after a depression formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal areas early Monday. According to the IMDs morning bulletin, the system intensified from a wellmarked low pressure and was centred near coastal West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh, close to Kolkata. At 5:30am, [] The post IMD issues red warning as Bay of Bengal depression brings heavy rainfall to Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Seven killed, several injured in hotel fire in West Bengals Tarapith
The fire erupted around 5 a.m. on the ground floor of the four-storey hotel in the temple town of Tarapith, when most of the guests were asleep
7 killed, several injured in hotel fire in West Bengal's Tarapith
At least seven people were killed and several others critically injured in a fire at a hotel in West Bengal's Birbhum district early on Monday, police said. The fire erupted around 5 am on the ground floor of the four-storey hotel in the temple town of Tarapith, when most of the guests were asleep, they said. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and they brought the blaze under control. The injured were taken to the Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital. Sources in the hospital initially said that five people had died in the blaze. However, police later revised the toll to seven. Hotel officials claimed the fire was caused by a short circuit.
Seven Killed, Several injured in Hotel Fire in West Bengal's Tarapith
Fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and they brought the blaze under control
Delhi likely to get light rain; monsoon remains active across India
IMD has forecast isolated extremely heavy rain over West Bengal and Odisha, with heavy to very heavy showers likely across several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Uttarakhand
At least 7 killed in fire at hotel near Tarapith temple in West Bengal's Birbhum district
A fire erupted at a hotel near Tarapith temple, killing seven pilgrims. The blaze started on the ground floor around 5 am while most devotees slept. Fire tenders quickly arrived and brought the dangerous fire under control. Injured individuals were transported to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital. Hotel officials suggested a short circuit caused the tragic incident.
Five charred to death in massive fire at hotel in West Bengal's Birbhum
Five charred to death in massive fire at hotel in West Bengal's Birbhum
Bengal ex-deputy speaker found hanging at TMC office
Former West Bengal Assembly deputy speaker and veteran TMC leader Ashis Banerjee was found hanging at a party office in Birbhum on Sunday. Police recovered a purported suicide note and are examining its contents and the circumstances surrounding his death
Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India
Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India Kolkata: Two Nepalese citizens were apprehended with undeclared gold and silver, by troops of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) along the India-Nepal border in West Bengal, officials said. The Border Intelligence Team (BIT) of the 41st Battalion of SSB near Panitanki [] The post Two Nepalese citizens held with gold and silver by SSB along border with India appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
'Dimaagi Naxal' Row Escalates | 'Vande Mataram' Row | BJP Seeks Sonia Gandhi's Apology| Punjab News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not refer to Opposition leaders as people with a Maoist mindset, Union minister Kiren Rijiju said today amid swipes by Congress leaders including P Chidambaram on the matter. In a post on X, the parliamentary affairs minister said the words dimagi Naxals referred only to those who supported Maoists and rejected the Constitution, those who stood with separatists and supported Article 370. They also referred to people who call for cutting off the Chicken's Neck to separate India's northeast from the rest of the country. Rijiju said. Chicken's Neck is the thin strip of 22-km-wide land corridor in West Bengal that links up with India's northeast. PM Narendra Modi ji didn't say Opposition leaders as Dimagi Naxals. Only following are Dimagi Naxals: 1. Who support Maoists and reject Indian Constitution. 2. Who stand with separatists & support Article 370. 4. Who want to cut chicken neck to separate North-East from India, Rijiju said in the post.
Formal child adoption remains low in J&K; CARA records 42 cases in 2025-26
Jammu and Kashmir recorded 42 children adopted through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) during 2025-26, a figure substantially lower than adoption numbers reported by several major States, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development in the Rajya Sabha. The State/UT-wise data, furnished in response to a parliamentary question answered on August 12, shows that Maharashtra recorded the highest number of CARA-facilitated adoptions during the financial year, with 792 cases. Gujarat followed with 547, while Tamil Nadu recorded 501 adoptions. Karnataka accounted for 377 cases, followed by Odisha with 308 and Telangana with 307. Jammu and Kashmirs 42 adoptions were also lower than the figures reported by several northern and neighbouring States. Rajasthan recorded 172 adoptions, while Punjab reported 49, only seven more than J&K. Uttar Pradesh registered 231 cases, Haryana 68, Uttarakhand 30, Himachal Pradesh 14 and Delhi 109. Among other States, Assam recorded 186 adoptions, Kerala 170, Andhra Pradesh 140, Bihar 125 and Chhattisgarh 114. West Bengal reported 237 cases, Madhya Pradesh 221 and Jharkhand 60. The data also showed considerable variation among the northeastern States. Meghalaya and Nagaland reported 13 adoptions each, Mizoram 78, Tripura seven, Arunachal Pradesh five and Manipur four. Sikkim recorded 28 cases. Smaller Union Territories and States also reported relatively modest numbers. Goa recorded 25 adoptions, Chandigarh 18, Puducherry 15 and Andaman and Nicobar Islands 11. Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu reported five cases. No adoption through CARA was recorded in Ladakh or Lakshadweep during 2025-26. Across the 36 States and Union Territories listed in the annexure, the reported number of CARA-facilitated adoptions stood at 5,022 during the financial year. J&Ks 42 cases therefore accounted for less than one per cent of the reported national total. The Ministry, however, has clarified that adoption figures should be viewed in the context of the availability of children who have been declared legally free for adoption. The waiting period for prospective adoptive parents depends not only on the number of applicants but also on the availability of legally free children and the age group preferred by prospective parents. The government is seeking to strengthen the adoption infrastructure through Mission Vatsalya. States and UTs have been advised to establish at least one Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) in every district under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and the Adoption Regulations, 2022. As of July 29, 2026, 795 SAAs had been approved across the country under Mission Vatsalya. These agencies support the formal adoption process and provide residential care to adoptable children below six years of age. The adoption system has also been substantially digitised. All SAAs are required to operate through the integrated CARINGS-Mission Vatsalya platform, which facilitates digital processing of cases from referral and matching to documentation. The system also allows authorities to monitor compliance through real-time dashboards at the Central and State levels. The Ministry said District Magistrates have been empowered to issue adoption orders under the Juvenile Justice Act and Adoption Regulations. Prescribed timelines have been laid down for different stakeholders, while CARA undertakes regular monitoring and follow-up with States and UT administrations to reduce delays. The Centre is also using Mission Vatsalya for awareness campaigns promoting legal adoption and foster care. Nationwide and local outreach programmes, workshops, seminars and orientation sessions are being conducted, while CARA uses print, electronic and social media platforms to spread information on legal adoption procedures.
Politics a mistake: 5-time TMC MLA, ex-deputy speaker Asish Banerjee dies by suicide
Ex-Howrah councillor Shyamal Mitra held for extortion, fraud
Bankura CJP mans dad beaten to death by BJP men, neta among 8 held
Amit Shah accuses Congress of insulting Vande Mataram; Sonia Gandhi targeted in row
Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused Congress of insulting the national song Vande Mataram. He demanded an apology from the party to the people and its writer. West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari also called the alleged objection an insult to nationalism. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh responded by criticising Shah's past actions and ideology. Ramesh stated Shah's demand aims to divert attention from current significant issues.
Shameful & devastating: Asishs death unites netas across the aisle
Annapurna benefit disbursement for 3rd instalment to begin today, distribution to go on till Fri
CM calls for Viksit Paschim Banga to realise Viksit Bharat by 2047
Reflector, Paint: KP Starts Overhauling 4k Guard Rails
Ayushman Bharat Cards Bring Hope To Beneficiaries Across State
Filmmaker Raja Sen passes away at 70
Help Develop Lansdowne Market, Set Politics Aside: Minister
Deadline extended but server glitch plagues LPG e-KYC
Stray-feeding row: Woman gets acid attack threat
Heavy rain likely today as low pressure intensifies
Park St to Park Circus 7-Pt to be hawker-free zone: Minister
Female power: After Calcutta Club prez, DI gets four women in nine-member GB
With last 31m concrete slab in place, Orange Line finally clears Chingrighata hurdle
Metro will cover 130 km in a few years, more riders may use e-payment: GM
First of its kind in the country, the plant will be developed under HPL's subsidiary Adplus Polymers & Chemicals. The facility is set to house the country's first on-purpose propylene plant based on olefin conversion technology and the country's largest phenol production unit in West Bengal's Haldia.
Congress leader's son killed in Nadia district of West Bengal
Three persons have been arrested in connection with the murders, among them Fatema Bibi, head of Nadias Haranagar panchayat
West Bengal News | Siliguri: Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha Holds Torch Rally Over Vande Mataram Row
The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) held a torch rally in Siliguri, West Bengal, protesting against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi over the Vande Mataram recitation row. BJP workers raised slogans against the Congress leadership during the protest.
Siliguri: BJYM Holds Torch Rally Over Vande Mataram Row, Protests Congress Leaders
The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) organised a torch rally in Siliguri, West Bengal, protesting against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi over the ongoing Vande Mataram recitation row. BJP workers raised slogans during the protest, accusing the Congress leadership of disrespecting the national song.
West Bengal paddlers dominate Under-11 boys and girls group of UTT table tennis
100 days in office: West Bengal banks on a pro-business turnaround
West Bengal's new government is betting on a pro-business approach to revive investment, but fiscal constraints and the contentious land question remain major hurdles
West Bengal Launches Ayushman Bharat Scheme Amid Political Controversy
Kolkata, August 16: The West Bengal government has officially launched the Ayushman Bharat scheme, and Minister Agnimitra Paul expressed her happiness regarding this initiative. She also criticized the Congress party over the Vande Mataram controversy. As of August 16, the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) has commenced in West Bengal. This scheme will ... Read more West Bengal Launches Ayushman Bharat Scheme Amid Political Controversy
Man injured in assault over parking
Bar manager found dead; partner, driver detained
IIT boy death: FIR after family alleges intimidation and murder
Entally PS gate locked amid late-night BJP faction feud
Ayushman Bharat, CM health scheme to cover over 1,850 hospitals in West Bengal: Suvendu Adhikari
West Bengal's Chief Minister launched integrated health schemes on Sunday. These programs will cover over 1,240 private and 627 government hospitals. Beneficiaries can now access healthcare services across the entire country. Around 80 lakh families will receive coverage under the Mukhyamantri Swasthya Bima Yojana. The state government will address concerns regarding reimbursement rates with private hospitals.
CM invokes Great Calcutta Killings to warn against appeasement politics
Elephant Attack Kills Woman in Jhargram; Calf Found Dead in West Midnapore
CJP volunteer's father dies after attack in Bengal
The Cockroach Janta Party on Sunday demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible for the alleged assault that led to the death of Janab Mafik, the father of CJP volunteer Shaik Abdul Hafeez, in West Bengal.
New Delhi, August 16: The tragic death of a volunteers father associated with the Fix the Schools campaign in West Bengal has drawn significant attention. Sourav Das, the main spokesperson for the Cockroach Peoples Party (CJP), expressed deep sorrow over the incident, claiming that activists demanding improvements in government schools are being targeted. In a ... Read more Tragic Death of Volunteers Father Sparks Outrage in West Bengal
First Registration Under Ayushman Bharat Scheme in West Bengal Marks New Era of Cashless Healthcare
Kolkata, August 16: The first patient registration under the Ayushman Bharat scheme was successfully completed in West Bengal on Sunday. The registration took place at the Medicare General Hospital in Kotulpur, Bankura district. This marks the beginning of a new era of cashless and accessible healthcare services for the people of the state. According to ... Read more First Registration Under Ayushman Bharat Scheme in West Bengal Marks New Era of Cashless Healthcare
Odisha Ramps Up Flood Preparedness as Low Pressure Intensifies Over BoB
With a low-pressure system brewing over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining West Bengalnorth Odisha coast, Chief Secretary Anu Garg on Sunday convened a high-level review meeting to assess the states flood situation and readiness. The system is expected to intensify over the next 24 hours, bringing heavy to very heavy rainfall, particularly over [] The post Odisha Ramps Up Flood Preparedness as Low Pressure Intensifies Over BoB appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Mamata Banerjee Expresses Grief Over the Death of Former TMC MLA Ashish Banerjee
Kolkata, August 16: Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed profound sorrow on Sunday over the passing of Ashish Banerjee, a former MLA and Deputy Speaker of the West Bengal Assembly. In a post on the social media platform X, Mamata Banerjee conveyed her deep sadness and distress regarding Ashish Banerjees demise. The TMC ... Read more Mamata Banerjee Expresses Grief Over the Death of Former TMC MLA Ashish Banerjee
Saharanpur, August 16: The political landscape in West Bengal has intensified following the suspicious death of former Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee on Sunday. Congress MP Imran Masood has launched a scathing attack on the state government, claiming that a jungle raj has taken hold in the region. Masood stated, The level of murders and violence ... Read more Congress MP Imran Masood Criticizes West Bengal Government Following Former Deputy Speakers Mysterious Death
Ayushman Bharat Scheme Launched in West Bengal
Kolkata, August 16: The central governments health insurance initiative, Ayushman Bharat, was officially launched in West Bengal on Sunday. This scheme will provide coverage for treatment of 1,950 types of illnesses, including the opportunity for knee replacement surgeries. Previously, the Trinamool Congress government had offered knee replacement under its health partner scheme, but it faced ... Read more Ayushman Bharat Scheme Launched in West Bengal
Bengal ex-deputy speaker's death sparks TMC blame game
The death of former West Bengal assembly deputy speaker and veteran Trinamool Congress leader Ashis Banerjee on Sunday triggered a political blame game, with the rival factions within the party and the Bharatiya Janata Party trading allegations over the circumstances surrounding the 74-year-old leader's death.
Former West Bengal deputy speaker Ashis Banerjee was found dead in his party office. Mamata Banerjee expressed distress, citing immense mental and emotional pressure on him. She stated he was repeatedly maligned and falsely accused despite his public service. Political parties are now seeking a thorough investigation into the circumstances of his death. Police are examining a purported suicide note and his mobile phone as part of the probe.
Bengal CM denies BJP role in attack on CJP volunteer, father
Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari denied any role of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers in the attack on a Cockroach Janta Party volunteer that led to his fathers death. Adhikari on Sunday, August 16, dismissed the allegations made by the CJP volunteer Shaik Abdul Hafeezand said that those named in the first information 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 .
Ashish Banerjees Suicide May Involve Blackmail Pressure: CM Suvendu Adhikari
Kolkata, August 16: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated on Sunday that the suicide of former state minister and ex-assembly deputy speaker Ashish Banerjee may have been influenced by some form of blackmail pressure. CM Adhikari emphasized this angle, indirectly hinting that the late leader had decided to support a rebel faction led by ... Read more Ashish Banerjees Suicide May Involve Blackmail Pressure: CM Suvendu Adhikari
Respect for National Anthem and Song is Essential: CJP Spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka
Jaipur, August 16: Ashutosh Ranka, spokesperson for the Cockroach Peoples Party (CJP), emphasized the need for complete respect for the national anthem and national song, stating that they should never be disrespected. His comments came in response to the ongoing controversy surrounding Vande Mataram. He also condemned the attack on CJP volunteers in West Bengal. ... Read more Respect for National Anthem and Song is Essential: CJP Spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka
Abhishek Banerjee Blames BJP for Ashish Banerjees Suicide
Kolkata, August 16: Abhishek Banerjee, the General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress and MP from Diamond Harbour, took to social media on Sunday to hold the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the media responsible for the suicide of former West Bengal minister and ex-Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee. Referring to the suicide note found with the ... Read more Abhishek Banerjee Blames BJP for Ashish Banerjees Suicide
Kolkata, August 16: Former Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former minister and ex-Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee. She stated that his death deeply unsettles her. The mental and emotional pressures he faced in his final days have made this tragedy even more painful. In a post ... Read more Mamata Banerjee Expresses Grief Over Ashish Banerjees Passing, Highlights Political Pressures Impact on Mental Health
Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari denies BJP's role in 'assault' of CJP volunteer, his father's death
West Bengal's Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari firmly rejected any claims linking the BJP to a recent assault incident. He emphasized that those implicated in the FIR are criminals who will inevitably face the law. This grave incident unfolded following a government school inspection by a CJP volunteer, whose father tragically died after suffering severe head injuries during the attack. Authorities have apprehended three of the five suspects so far.
'Human cost of relentless political hostility': Mamata on TMC leader's suicide
The former West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee claimed that Asish Banerjee was epeatedly maligned, falsely accused and subjected to relentless pressure. She said: The harassment and mental pressure he faced, despite his long record of public service, should make all of us pause and reflect on the human cost of relentless political hostility. Meanwhile, West Begal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari said he would ensure probe into suicide.
Odisha Braces for 3 Days of Extremely Heavy Rainfall as Fresh Low-Pressure Forms
A new lowpressure area has formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining West Bengalnorth Odisha coast, triggering forecasts of three days of heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state. According to IMD and Bhubaneswar Regional Meteorological Centre Director ManoramaMohanty, the system is expected to move northwestward and intensify further within 24 hours. [] The post Odisha Braces for 3 Days of Extremely Heavy Rainfall as Fresh Low-Pressure Forms appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
West Bengal is launching the Ayushman Bharat scheme, covering 1.5 crore families today. Here's all you need to know about how many hospitals are participating, eligibility, benefits, documents needed and stepwise guide on how to apply.
Cockroach Janta Party Demands Arrest Over Fathers Death In West Bengal
CJP alleges political workers assaulted volunteer and his family after school inspection campaign
Small steel units can cut power tariffs by 34% if they opt for renewable energy together: Report
Three Arrested in West Bengal for the Murder of Congress Leader and Son
Kolkata, August 16: In a shocking incident in Nadia district, West Bengal, police have arrested three individuals in connection with the murder of Congress leader Anisur Rahman and his 24-year-old son, Abu Sufiyan. Among those detained is Fatima Bibi, the head of the Haranagar Gram Panchayat, who is affiliated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The ... Read more Three Arrested in West Bengal for the Murder of Congress Leader and Son
Former Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashis Banerjee Found Hanging At TMC Office
SRINAGAR: Former West Bengal Assembly deputy speaker and veteran Trinamool Congress leader Ashis Banerjee was found hanging inside a TMC party office near his residence in Hattala Para area of Rampurhat in Birbhum district on Sunday morning, police said. Banerjee, 74, had represented the Rampurhat Assembly constituency for nearly 25 years before losing the seat []
Congress observes black day in Bengal over murder of party leader and his son Kolkata: The West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee (WBPCC) was observing a black day throughout the state on Sunday to protest the murder of a party leader and his son at Bethuadahari under Nakashipara Police Station in Nadia district. The incident happened [] The post Congress observes black day in Bengal over murder of party leader and his son appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
'Entering politics was a mistake': What ex-Bengal Deputy Speaker Asish Banerjee said in suicide note
Former West Bengal Assembly Deputy Speaker Dr Asish Banerjee, who was found dead this morning, has said in his purported suicide note that it was a mistake for him to enter politics, while he clarified...
Former Bengal Deputy Speaker Asish Banerjee found dead at party office
Former West Bengal MLA Asish Banerjee was found dead in his party office. A suicide note was recovered from the scene by police officials. Banerjee wrote about his political career and alleged mistreatment by his party. He also stated he never engaged in any corruption during his service. His nephew confirmed he was not corrupt and the family will avoid politics.
I Had Never Taken Money For Any Work: What Asish Banerjee Allegedly Wrote In Suicide Note
Former deputy speaker of West Bengal Assembly and TMC leader Asish Banerjee was found dead at a party office in his home in Birbhum on Sunday morning. The police has found a purported suicide handwritten note near his body in which
Odisha ACS Directs Urban Bodies to Stay Alert Amid Low-Pressure Warning
In view of the low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining West BengalNorth Odisha coasts, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Housing & Urban Development Department, Smt. Usha Padhee has directed all urban authorities to remain on high alert and ensure prompt, coordinated, and citizen-centric response to any emerging situation. The ACS instructed officials [] The post Odisha ACS Directs Urban Bodies to Stay Alert Amid Low-Pressure Warning appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee Found Dead with Suspected Suicide Note
Kolkata, August 16: A suspected suicide note has emerged in the case of Ashish Banerjee, the former Deputy Speaker of the West Bengal Assembly. Police reported that his body was discovered hanging at the TMC office, along with the note. The handwritten note, written in Bengali, expresses regret about his political career. Banerjee stated, Entering ... Read more Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee Found Dead with Suspected Suicide Note
'Entering Politics Was A Mistake': Ex-Bengal Deputy Speaker's Suicide Note Found
Asish Banerjee was found dead at Trinamool's office next to his house in West Bengal's Birbhum.
Never got involved in corruption, stay away from politics: Asish Banerjee's suicide note surfaces
Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashis Banerjee Found Dead at TMC Office in Birbhum; Note Recovered
Former West Bengal Assembly Deputy Speaker and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Ashis Banerjee was found dead at a party office near his residence in Rampurhat, Birbhum, on Sunday morning, police said. A purported note was recovered from the TMC office, and Banerjees body was sent for post-mortem examination. Police said the circumstances surrounding his death [] The post Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashis Banerjee Found Dead at TMC Office in Birbhum; Note Recovered appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Former West Bengal MLA Asish Banerjee found dead in TMC office
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TMC not functioning properly: Resignation, poll defeat cast shadow before Ashis Banerjees death
Ex-West Bengal deputy speaker Ashis Banerjee found dead at TMC office
Former deputy speaker of West Bengal Assembly, Ashis Banerjee, was found hanging at a TMC party office in Birbhum district on Sunday morning, police sources said. A purported suicide note was also recovered from the party office located near his residence in Hattala Para in Rampurhat, they said. Police reached the spot and sent the body for post-mortem examination. The exact circumstances leading to his death are yet to be ascertained, and police are examining the contents of the purported suicide note, the sources said. Banerjee, a veteran TMC leader, had represented Rampurhat in the state Assembly continuously from 2001 till 2026. He had served as the deputy speaker of the Assembly and held ministerial portfolios, including school education and agriculture, in the Mamata Banerjee government. He contested the 2026 Assembly elections from Rampurhat on a TMC ticket but lost to BJP's Dhruva Saha by more than 24,000 votes. After his electoral defeat, Banerjee was not seen to be ...
Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashis Banerjee Found Hanging, Police Suspect Suicide
Former West Bengal Assembly deputy speaker and five times veteran TMC MLA Ashis Banerjee has found hanging at a TMC party office in Birbhum district on Sunday morning. Ashis Banerjee who represented Rampurhat for five times had also been a minister
Ex-deputy speaker of Bengal found hanging at TMC office
Ashis Banerjee, former deputy speaker of the West Bengal Assembly and a veteran TMC leader, was found hanging at a TMC party office in Birbhum. A purported suicide note was recovered, and police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
IMD forecasts heavy rain across India as monsoon activity remains strong
The IMD has forecast widespread rainfall across several regions over the coming days, with heavy to extremely heavy rain likely in parts of Odisha, West Bengal and northwest India
Body of Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee Found in Office
Kolkata, August 16: The body of Ashish Banerjee, a senior politician and former MLA of the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, was discovered on Sunday in his office located at his residence in Rampurhat, Birbhum district. The police have sent the body for an autopsy, and the cause of death remains unknown. Authorities stated that ... Read more Body of Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee Found in Office
Former Bengal deputy speaker found hanging at TMC office
Rampurhat: Former deputy speaker of West Bengal Assembly, Ashis Banerjee, was found hanging at a TMC party office in Birbhum district on Sunday morning, police sources said. A purported suicide note was also recovered from the party office located near his residence in Rampurhat, they said. The former TMC MLAs body has been sent for 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 .
Former West Bengal Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee Found Hanging, Police Suspect Suicide
The body of former West Bengal MLA and former Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee was found hanging at a Trinamool Congress (TMC) office. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. According to preliminary information from the police, suicide is
Former Bengal deputy speaker Asish Banerjee found hanging at TMC office
Ashis Banerjee, former deputy speaker of West Bengal assembly, was found dead. His body was discovered hanging at a Trinamool Congress office in Birbhum. Police have sent the body for a post-mortem examination to determine the cause. Banerjee had served as deputy speaker while Mamata Banerjee was chief minister. He was a five-time MLA from Rampurhat constituency.
Rice is not merely a staple crop in Kashmirit is woven into the geography, folklore, and civilizational memory of the Valley. From mythological beginnings as an aquatic expanse to the modern scientific interventions at SKUAST-Kashmir (Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology), the narrative of Kashmiri paddy reflects an ongoing balance between ecology, engineering, and economic survival. Coming from district Pulwama till recently the rice bowl of the valley, I have seen and am fully cognizant of the paddy culture of rural Kashmir. According to Kalhanas Rajatarangini and local tradition, the Kashmir Valley was once Satisar, a vast primeval lake. The desiccation of this lake laid bare rich alluvial beds, but early agrarian efforts were constantly thwarted by devastating floods along the Vitasta (Jhelum River). The true turning point in Kashmirs agricultural history arrived in the 9th century AD under King Avantivarman, the founder of the Utpala dynasty and King of Kashmir (855883 AD). His brilliant prime minister and engineer, Suyya, executed one of the greatest hydrological feats of the ancient world by a number of measures: 1. River Regulation: Suyya desilted the Vitasta at its bottleneck in Baramulla, cleared obstacles, and redirected river courses. 2. Canal Network: He established an intricate network of irrigation canals (Kulls) that regulated water distribution across flood-prone basins. 3. Economic Transformation: By preventing seasonal inundations, rice yields quadrupled almost overnight. A kharwar (a traditional measure of grain /paddy, which previously cost 200 dinnaras (medieval kashmis currency) during famines, fell to a mere 36 dinnaras. Kashmir transformed into a food-surplus state, solidifying rice as the core of its dietary, cultural, and tax identity. Mushk Budji and Fragrant varieties For centuries, Kashmiri farmers cultivated distinct indigenous landraces tailored to cold high-altitude microclimates. Chief among these was Mushk Budjia bold, short-grain aromatic rice renowned for its rich taste and intoxicating fragrance, traditionally reserved for festive occasions and royalty. Other landraces like Zag (red rice), Kamad, and Nivar thrived across temperate terraces. However, these traditional cultivars carried inherent agronomic vulnerabilities like the low yield potential and disease susceptibility with extreme vulnerability to rice blast (Magnaporthe oryzae), which repeatedly wiped-out crops. Average productivity remained under 1.52 tonnes per hectare. By the mid-20th century, rapid population growth necessitated higher productivity. Kashmir embraced semi-dwarf, cold-tolerant high-yielding varieties (HYVs), mainly derived from temperate Chinese and East Asian germplasm (such as K-39, Barkat, and early IRRI derivatives). These dwarf varieties revolutionized production. Their shorter, stiffer stalks allowed higher fertilizer application without crop collapse. The yields with these varieties surged to 56 tonnes per hectare, driving indigenous landraces like Mushk Budji to near extinction. Over the past two decades, the agricultural landscape, particularly in South Kashmir (districts like Kulgam, Pulwama, and Anantnag), has undergone a fundamental structural shift, with preference of conversion of the traditional paddy cultivation to high density apple orchards. The key drivers of land conversion are: High-Density Apple (HDA) plantations yield substantially higher net income per unit area compared to conventional paddy. Paddy farming is intensely back-breaking during transplanting (Thal) and harvesting in autumn (harud). Local labour shortages have made farmers almost entirely dependent on seasonal migrant workforces (largely from Bihar). However, the unchecked conversion of prime paddy land threatens local food sovereignty, making Kashmir increasingly reliant on external grain imports. Comparing Kashmirs paddy culture with that of other major rice-growing regions in India reveals stark contrasts in ecology, botany, agricultural practices, and socio-economic dynamics. While much of mainland India views rice through the lens of tropical, multi-crop monsoon agriculture or high-volume industrial farming, Kashmirs paddy system is defined by its temperate alpine setting, unique landraces, and distinct civilizational traditions. The Valleys high altitude (1,5002,200m above sea level) enforces a strict single-crop season (sowing in May, harvesting in September). Temperatures fall rapidly by October, causing cold injury during flowering or grain filling. Plants must mature quickly within 120140 days. On the other hand, tropical and subtropical states enjoy year-round warmth, allowing states like West Bengal and Tamil Nadu to harvest at least twice a year and in some cases even three rice crops per year on the same piece of land. In Punjab and Haryana, paddy is largely a commercial export crop (Basmati) or central pool procurement commodity. In Kashmir, paddy has been traditionally cultivated primarily for household self-sufficiency and local barter. Future of Paddy Cultivation in Kashmir valley sits at a critical intersection of economic pressures, ecological necessity, and scientific innovation. While the rapid conversion of prime agricultural land into high-density apple orchards poses an existential threat to traditional rice farming, institutional interventionsled by SKUAST-Kashmir and backed by the Union Territorys Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP)are charting a sustainable path forward. These pathways are development of high yielding hybrid varieties, special niche rice like Mushk budgi and health promoting red rice (Zag tomul). In addition, research products like cold tolerant short duration varieties and finally the introduction of integrating farming systems combining paddy-cum-fish and paddy-cum-duck farming models especially in water logged areas like the wet lands of Bandipora and Kulgam. These models give farmers dual revenue streams from the same plot of land without changing land use. Conclusion From the desiccation of Satisar to the research fields of SKUAST, paddy cultivation has defined the economic and cultural rhythm of the Kashmir Valley for millennia. Today, as high-density apple orchards reshape the agrarian countryside, the survival of Kashmiri rice hinges on striking a pragmatic balance between productivity, profitability, and heritage. Through climate-resilient breeding, the revival of prized varieties like Mushk Budji, and sustainable multi-enterprise models, the Valley can secure both economic vitality and food independence. The future of Kashmiri paddy culture is not about resisting change, but ensuring that progress continues to root itself in the very soil that made our valley charming. Prof Upendra Kaul, Founder Director Gauri Kaul Foundation
West Bengal: Trinamool Leader Arrested Amid Extortion Allegations
Kolkata, August 16: Shyamal Mitra, a former member of the Mayor-in-Council of the Howrah Municipal Corporation and a leader of the Trinamool Congress, has been arrested by police in the New Town area of Kolkata. The police reported on Saturday that Mitra, a close associate of former state minister Arup Roy, faces multiple charges, including ... Read more West Bengal: Trinamool Leader Arrested Amid Extortion Allegations
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari visits Sri Aurobindo Bhavan on Independence Day after 50 years
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