No eligible Bengal women will be deprived of Annapurna Yojana: PM Modi
The West Bengal government aims to ensure that not a single eligible woman is deprived of the benefits of Annapurna Yojana, and it is working relentlessly towards achieving this goal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday. Virtually addressing an 'Annapurna Divas' event organised by the West Bengal government, the prime minister said that solving every problem connected to the life cycle of mothers, sisters and daughters has been the priority of the BJP government. Within a few days of forming our government in Bengal, work began on the Annapurna Yojana. Today, many women receive financial assistance directly into their bank accounts. There are no middlemen and no 'cut money'. Our government aims to ensure that not a single eligible woman is deprived of the benefits of Annapurna Yojana. We are working relentlessly towards achieving this goal, Modi said. He added that work is also being done rapidly here for this purpose. The prime minister said that under the scheme, a
Mehbooba accuses BJP of policing vocabulary of Muslims after IPS officer's transfer in Bengal
Srinagar, Sep 17: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday accused the BJP of being insecure, saying the ruling party at the Centre is now policing the vocabulary of the Muslim community in the country. Referring to the case of IPS officer Bushra Bano, who was transferred from her post of ASP in West Bengals Kharagpur within just two-and-a-half months of taking charge, allegedly over her use of Muslim greetings in a video, Mehbooba said such incidents do not shock the minority community anymore. Bushra Bano's transfer for saying 'Assalamu Alaikum', 'InshaAllah' and 'JazakAllah', followed by the West Bengal Chief Minister (Suvendu Adhikari) calling an election a test of Muslim loyalty, a veiled threat to the community as a whole, doesn't shock us anymore, the former J-K chief minister said in a post on X. It is amusing that simple words invoking peace and blessings of god have rattled the big political party, she said. What is rather amusing is that three simple words peace be upon you, god willing, and god be praised can apparently rattle a party so large and powerful. First our food, clothes and marriage, now even our vocabulary and our votes are being policed. Insecurity, thy name is BJP, Mehbooba said.
South Bengal to get relief from heat as thunderstorms, rain forecast for five days
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 17 (IANS) After days of sweltering heat, weather conditions in south Bengal are likely to change as the Met office on Thursday forecast thunderstorms accompanied by light to moderate rain over the next few days. Rain is likely at one or two places in almost all districts of south Bengal. Gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 km per hour are also expected. Kolkata, too, is likely to receive rain and thundershowers. According to a Met department official, the monsoon axis extends from a low-pressure area over Rajasthan to the northwest Bay of Bengal through Ranchi and Digha. In addition, a cyclonic circulation is currently present over the northwest Bay of Bengal. The system is expected to gradually strengthen and influence the West Bengal and Odisha coasts. As a result, south Bengal is likely to witness another spell of heavy rain from Thursday, which may continue for the next five days. A yellow warning for rain and thunderstorms has been issued for eight districts, including coastal and western areas. Thunderstorms are likely in Bankura, Purulia, Jhargram, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Howrah, North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas. However, the intensity of rainfall is expected to decrease from Monday. Meanwhile, rainfall is likely to increase in north Bengal on Thursday. A yellow warning for heavy rain has been issued for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts. Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds of 30 to 40 km per hour is likely across the region. Rainfall activity in north Bengal is expected to decrease from Friday. Kolkata is likely to see cloudy skies from Thursday afternoon, with the possibility of rain increasing during the day. Light to moderate rain with thundershowers is expected to continue until Saturday. Gusty winds reaching 30 to 40km per hour are also likely. On Wednesday, Kolkata and adjoining areas recorded a maximum temperature of 34.08 degrees Celsius, two degrees above normal. The minimum temperature was 27.06 degrees Celsius, 1.02 degrees above normal. Relative humidity ranged between 52 and 97 percent.
New Tranche of Annapurna Scheme Launched on PM Modis Birthday, Boosting Womens Confidence
On PM Modis birthday, the Annapurna Schemes new tranche was launched, enhancing financial support for women in West Bengal. New Tranche of Annapurna Scheme Launched on PM Modis Birthday, Boosting Womens Confidence
Bengal bypolls: Six-cornered Nandigram battle shifts focus to runner-up spot in BJP bastion
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 17 (IANS) The high-stakes Nandigram assembly constituency in East Midnapore district in West Bengal is set for a six-cornered contest in the upcoming October 6 bypolls, with political observers noting that the primary battle centres on determining which candidate secures the second position. In the Assembly elections held earlier this year, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari won from both Nandigram and Bhabanipur. He defeated former CM and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur and chose to retain that seat, leaving Nandigram vacant and necessitating the bypoll. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded Hasirani Rath, mother of Adhikaris personal assistant Chandranath Rath, who was shot dead in North 24 Parganas on May 6, soon after the Assembly election results were announced. Her candidature has added an emotional element to the campaign. In the Assembly elections earlier this year, BJP candidates had won all 16 constituencies in East Midnapore. Nandigram has also remained a strong base for the BJP since the 2021 Assembly polls, largely because of Suvendu Adhikaris influence in the constituency. The sympathy factor surrounding Hasirani Raths candidature has further strengthened the BJPs position in the bypoll. The key question now is whether any of the non-BJP candidates can secure enough votes to retain their deposits, said a Kolkata-based political observer. Besides Rath, the other five major candidates in the fray are Sanchita Pradhan Dey from the Mamata Banerjee-led original-but-minority faction in Trinamool Congress, Ehteshmul Haque from the Riatarbrata Banerjee-led rebel-but-majority faction, Communist Party of Indias Shanti Gopal Giri, Congresss Milan Pradhan and All India Secular Front (AISF)s Mohammad Sabe Miraj Ali Khan. The bypolls for Nandigram and Rejinagar assembly seats will be held on October 6, and the results will be declared on October 9. Efforts by Mamata Banerjee to negotiate an electoral compromise in the two crucial Assembly bypolls with the Congress leadership faltered ahead of filings. Banerjee offered to withdraw her candidate from Nandigram if the Congress agreed to abstain from contesting the Rejinagar constituency. However, the Congress high command reportedly rejected the proposal, ensuring multi-cornered contests in both seats.
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 17 (IANS) A 26-year-old nurse was allegedly attacked with acid and subsequently assaulted with a machete by her husband in full public view near Narayana Clinic in J.P. Nagar Third Phase on Thursday morning. The victim, identified as Madhumita, is currently undergoing treatment at an ICU facility in a private hospital and her condition is reported to be critical. The incident occurred around 9.15 a.m. when Madhumita, who had been working as a nurse at the clinic for around one-and-a-half years, stepped out to have breakfast. According to the police, her husband Venkatesh had arrived on a motorcycle and was waiting for his estranged wife near the clinic. The couple had reportedly been living separately for around a year and were not in contact with each other. Venkatesh allegedly chased Madhumita when she came out of the clinic. She ran towards the cellar parking area of the clinic, where the accused allegedly caught hold of her and threw acid on her. He then allegedly grabbed her by the hair and attacked her repeatedly with a machete. The assault reportedly took place in full public view. Several people raised an alarm and attempted to intervene, but the accused allegedly waved the machete at those who tried to approach him. Some members of the public reportedly attempted to rescue Madhumita by pelting stones at the accused, but were unable to overpower him. Police have obtained video recordings of the assault that were made by members of the public. The footage is expected to form part of the investigation into the incident. The accused was eventually overpowered and taken into custody after a traffic police officer arrived at the spot. Madhumita, who hails from Kolkata in West Bengal, sustained serious injuries in the attack and was shifted to a private hospital for treatment. The J.P. Nagar Police are investigating the circumstances that led to the attack and the reason behind Venkatesh allegedly carrying out the acid attack and subsequent machete assault on his wife. Further investigation is underway in the shocking case.
Inshallah: How remarks in UPSC video landed Bengal IPS officer Bushra Bano in soup
BJP appoints Jyotirmay Mahato and Gouri Shankar Ghosh as in-charges for West Bengal bypolls
The News Mill
CMs extend birthday wishes to PM Modi on his 76th birthday, hail his 25 years of public service
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 17 (IANS) Chief Ministers on Thursday extended birthday wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday, lauding his 25 years of public life and highlighting his focus on public service, good governance, development and nation-building. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his birthday wishes to the Prime Minister and said that PM Modi has awakened a new consciousness of transformation in the lives of individuals by making service his spiritual practice, good governance his resolve and nation-building his supreme objective during his 25 years of public life. Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has awakened a new consciousness of transformation in the lives of every individual by making service his spiritual practice, good governance his resolve, and nation-building his supreme objective during his 25 years of public life, Yogi said. He added that on the occasion of PM Modi's 76th birthday, the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' would be launched from Varanasi, the holy city associated with the Prime Minister's parliamentary constituency. Today, on the sacred occasion of his 76th birthday, the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' will be launched from Baba Vishwanath's holy city of Varanasi. At the same time, on the auspicious occasion of the Jayanti of Lord Vishwakarma ji, the deity of creation and labour, in Lucknow, the launch of the exhibition and margin money loan portal based on 'Vishwakarma Self-Employment and Swadeshi Mela 2026' under the 'Vishwakarma Shram Samman Yojana 2.0', as well as the distribution of cheques and toolkits to beneficiaries of various schemes, will take place, he said. This journey of resolve through service, self-reliance through labour, and prosperity through swadeshi will give new momentum to the goal of 'Viksit Bharat', CM Yogi added. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also extended her birthday greetings to the Prime Minister and highlighted what she described as his guidance and affection towards the national capital. In a post on X, CM Gupta said, Heartfelt birthday wishes to the esteemed Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Delhi has continuously received your affection and guidance. Under your leadership, today the capital is moving forward with new momentum, new capabilities, and newfound confidence. She said the city's landscape was transforming along with new facilities, opportunities and aspirations for its people. The city's landscape is transforming, and along with it, new facilities, new opportunities, and new hopes are being woven into the lives of its people. Be it our sisters, our young companions, labourer families, senior citizens, or our children who cherish dreams of the future, the journey towards a developed Delhi centres on the lives of every individual, CM Gupta said. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also conveyed his birthday greetings to PM Modi and praised his public service and focus on the welfare of youth, farmers and the poor. Heartfelt birthday greetings and best wishes to the revered Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the unparalleled devotee of Mother India, ever dedicated to the welfare of the youth, farmers, and the poor, and the illustrious leader who enhances India's pride on the global stage, CM Dhami said in a post on X. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari also wished the Prime Minister on his birthday and highlighted his leadership and contribution to nation-building. Heartiest Birthday Greetings to our Honble Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, Your tireless dedication, visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to nation-building continue to inspire millions across the globe. Under your dynamic guidance, Bharat is scaling new heights of progress, pride and self-reliance. Praying for your good health, long life and endless strength as you continue to lead our Motherland toward a brighter future, he added. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also extended his greetings and recalled PM Modi's political journey from Vadnagar to the Prime Minister's Office. I extend my heartiest birthday wishes to the world's most popular leader and the country's successful Prime Minister, the honourable Shri Narendra Bhai Modi ji, who dedicates every moment to the service of Mother India, CM Patel said. From the sacred soil of Vadnagar to becoming the helmsman of the world's largest democracy, your life journey is a living example of tireless hard work, unwavering resolve, and patriotism. From assuming the role of Chief Minister of Gujarat to becoming the country's Prime Minister, for the last 25 years, your continuous journey of service as a people's representative has become a golden chapter of good governance, public welfare, and development, he added. CM Patel further said that under PM Modi's leadership, the country had embraced the mantra of Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi and referred to cultural revival, digital development, modern infrastructure and self-reliance in the defence sector. Under your visionary leadership, the country has realised the mantra of 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi.' On one hand, through magnificent cultural revival, and on the other, through digital revolution, modern infrastructure, and self-reliance in the defence sector, India has established its influence on the global stage, he said. He added that by placing the poor, youth, farmers and women at the centre of development, the government had sought to turn the goal of 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047' into a broader national resolve. I pray to God to grant you excellent health, long life, and ceaseless energy to lead the country to the pinnacle of supreme glory, CM Patel said. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also extended birthday greetings to PM Modi, saying his commitment to public service was giving a new direction to the country's development. Heartfelt birthday greetings and best wishes to the illustrious Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, whose unwavering dedication to public service is giving a new direction to the nation's reconstruction, and who is realising the resolve of the people's aspirations, CM Yadav said. He said Modi had made GYAN the foundation of national strength and had contributed to enhancing India's self-confidence. By making GYAN the foundation of national strength, you have elevated India's self-confidence to new heights. Your dream of a 'Developed India' has today become the vow of millions of fellow citizens. May Baba Somnath bless you with excellent health and a long life, he added. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also extended his greetings and recalled PM Modi's journey in public life, noting his roles in Gujarat and at the national level. From a young age, Adarniya Shri Narendra Modi ji has devoted himself to public service in various capacities. For the past 25 years -- first as Head of Government in Gujarat and subsequently of Bharat -- he has steered the nation forward with unwavering resolve, CM Sarma said. He said welfare, social justice, infrastructure development and national security had been prominent aspects of PM Modi's public life. Welfare, social justice, rapid infrastructure development, and an uncompromising commitment to national security have been the hallmarks of his long public life, CM Sarma said. He further highlighted PM Modi's focus on Assam's development since 2014. Since 2014, he has placed unprecedented emphasis on Assam's development, firmly establishing it as an engine of growth for the region. From Vikas to Virasat, he has prioritised our State's overall welfare and continues to guide us as we script new chapters of development, CM Sarma said. On this special day, I pray to Maa Kamakhya and Srimanta Sankardev to bless him with good health and many more years in the service of Maa Bharti, he added.
West Bengal CM and State BJP president speak in different voices on minority voters
CM Suvendu Adhikari has called the Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls a test for minority voters on whether they want to support the State govt or not. BJP State president Samik Bhattacharya said that his party is opposed to any division of minority or majority voters.
State portals under maintenance and audit freeze, citizen services crippled
Cops recover phone lost in train 4 years ago from West Bengal
West Bengal Beneficiaries Celebrate PM Modis Birthday with Tree Planting Initiative
In Purulia, beneficiaries of the Annapurna scheme honor PM Modis birthday by planting trees, promoting a greener environment. West Bengal Beneficiaries Celebrate PM Modis Birthday with Tree Planting Initiative
Goons thrash elderly couple in food stall row
Ensure easy access for sr citizens during puja
Change naka spots: KP after accidents
No hoardings for pujas before Oct 3
HC orders swift hearing in La Martiniere case
West Bengal to become global shipbuilding hub: Rajnath Singh
According to the defense minister, West Bengal is poised to emerge as a key player in the global shipbuilding industry. With defense production experiencing a significant four-fold increase, India is now exporting military equipment to more than 100 nations. Plans are underway to establish a new shipbuilding facility in Haldia, East Midnapore.
700 law college students get option of online classes to make up for attendance shortfall
Day after trespasser notice, Jadavpur University registrar drives students out of campus after 8pm
New committee at Jadavpur University for PM-USHA
Film submission hits tech glitch on KIFF portal
HS Council seeks exam reform ideas from schools
ED searches 6 locations in Ponzi fraud
3 Bike-Borne Men Snatch Gold Chain From 65-Yr-Old Morning Walker
Sandakphu trip costs go up as Singalila forest entry fee returns
More flights in Kol sky from Oct
Cops identify 50 investment apps that may be defrauding you
Kolkatas ozone paradox: Layer recovers, ground-level threat persists
Minister visits Lake, checks 3-month report card
West Bengal achieves 100% field work completion for Phase I census
Enforcement Directorate arrests builder for land grab, illegal constructions
Cal HC sets aside fire dept eviction order to TMCs Camac Street office
Bengal CM offers a months salary, jobs, aid to families of Nepal flood victims
Gangster Banti caught before fleeing to Dubai
Medical council to launch SIR-like audit to identify fake docs in state
Hotel crackdown leaves patients, kin shelterless in hospital zones
Bidhannagar Cyber Crime Police Arrest 3 More In SIM Card Fraud Crackdown
One More Cop Under Scanner In Jkhand Hotelier Murder
BJP & NCPI Netas Pack Governing Bodies In 171 Colleges Across State
6 Writers Offices, Including CMO, To Be Ready Before Mahalaya
Can import of sex toys be prohibited? HC to hear
TMC MP Mahua Moitra Attacked with Eggs During Party Meeting in Nadia, West Bengal
TMC MP Mahua Moitra claims BJP workers attacked her with eggs after a party meeting in Nadia, West Bengal. TMC MP Mahua Moitra Attacked with Eggs During Party Meeting in Nadia, West Bengal
ECI to meet two Trinamool factions tomorrow to decide on party name and symbol
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 16 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) will meet delegations of the two factions of the Trinamool Congress in New Delhi on Thursday and a decision on the party's name and symbol may be taken by the poll panel following the meeting. First, the ebel but majority faction led by the party's expelled legislator Ritabrata Banerjee will meet the full bench of the ECI at 3 p.m. on Thursday at ECI's headquarters at Ashoka Road in New Delhi. Thereafter, the party's original but minority faction led by former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee will meet the ECI's full bench at the same venue in New Delhi on Thursday within a gap of an hour at 4 p.m. Although in its communications to both the Trinamool Congress factions on Wednesday, the ECI Secretary Ashwani Kumar Mohal had not stated the agendas for the meetings, ECI insiders said that the discussions will be in relation to the arguments of both the delegations in favour of their claims for the party name and symbol. Each faction in the meeting will be represented by a five-member delegation. The Commission will decide on the fate of the party name and symbol only after hearing both the sides. Both the meetings are extremely crucial considering that bypolls for the Nandigram Assembly Constituency in East Midnapore district and the Rejinagar Assembly Constituency are scheduled on October 6. Already both the factions have fielded candidates for the bypolls from both the Assembly constituencies, the last date of filing nominations which was held on Wednesday. Rabiul Alam Chowdhury is the candidate from the Mamata Banerjee-led faction in the Trinamool Congress from Rejinagar, Sheikh Saifuddin is the candidate from the Ritabrata-led faction from the same constituency. On the other hand, in case of Nandigram, Sanchita Pradhan Dey, is the candidate from the Mamata Banerjee-led faction in the Trinamool Congress, Mohammad Etesamul Haque is the candidate from the Ritabrata-led faction from the constituency.
Silver Lord Ram Statue, Gold-Plated Art Among Items At PM Mementos e-Auction
The collection has been sourced from different parts of the country, with larger representations from states including West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar and Odisha.
Faced Them Like Freedom Fighters Faced Bullets: Mahua Moitra After Egg Attack
Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra alleges eggs were thrown at her by BJP supporters during a constituency visit in West Bengal on Wednesday. MP claims eggs pelting incident happened despite police alerts Krishnanagar MP says incident occurred as part of a
Weather Tomorrow: The Meteorological Department has issued a new weather advisory for various regions of India. On Thursday, September 17, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in areas such as Delhi-NCR, Bihar, and Odisha, which may also experience lightning strikes. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan could receive light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms. Scattered showers and storms are predicted for Haryana and West Bengal as well.
Weather Tomorrow: The Meteorological Department has issued a new weather advisory for various regions of India. On Thursday, September 17, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in areas such as Delhi-NCR, Bihar, and Odisha, which may also experience lightning strikes. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan could receive light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms. Scattered showers and storms are predicted for Haryana and West Bengal as well.
'Modinomics' basis of India's rapid economic growth, says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's economic vision. He stated that Modinomics has fostered India's rapid economic growth and development. Singh highlighted the nation's improved regulation and governance, ensuring public funds reach intended beneficiaries. India's defense exports now reach over one hundred countries, showcasing its growing capabilities. The minister also commended West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's work in the state.
Pranati, India's only gymnast selected for Asiad, left home for gymnastics
Pranati Nayak is preparing for her fourth Asian Games after a journey that began with leaving her family in West Bengal at a young age to pursue gymnastics. A Tokyo Olympian, Nayak has overcome injuries and setbacks to remain India's lone gymnast at the 2026 Games. Her story is one of sacrifice, resilience and an enduring passion for gymnastics.
West Bengal Holiday Alert: Vishwakarma Puja Shifted to Friday
West Bengal has officially shifted the Vishwakarma Puja holiday to Friday, 18 September 2026. Students and parents should check institutional notices for exam rescheduling, as Thursday remains a working day for many.
West Bengal TMC Rift Escalates as 10 MLAs Face Disqualification Proceedings
The internal strife in the Trinamool Congress is set to enter yet another phase as the West Bengal Assembly Secretariat issued notices to 10 MLAs of the rebel faction over a disqualification petition. The legislators, including the Leader of Opposition Ritabrata
TheHindu Legal Fund, a right-wing outfit, had filed a complaint with West Bengal Home Secretary regarding IPS officer Bushra Banosvideo statement
On PM Modis birthday, West Bengal will light Blessing Lamps from 6 PM to 7 PM to honor his service and pray for his health. West Bengal to Light Blessing Lamp on PM Modis Birthday, Chief Minister Appeals to Citizens
WBCHSE Releases Revised Schedule for West Bengal HS 3rd Semester 2027 Exam
The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has issued a partially revised routine for the Higher Secondary Semester III Examination 2027. The latest revision changes the dates of three papers that were originally scheduled for October 5, 6 and
Bengal Govt Transfers IPS Officer Bushra Bano After Assalam Aleikum Video Row
IPS officer Bushra Bano has been transferred by the West Bengal government days after a video she posted on X drew criticism from some right-wing organisations. Bano, who was serving as Additional SP of Kharagpur, has been posted as Deputy Commandant of the West Bengal Armed Police. In the September 13 video, she spoke about her UPSC journey and credited Aligarh Muslim Universitys Residential Coaching Academy for helping her prepare for the exam. Her use of Islamic expressions including Assalamualaikum, Inshallah and Jazakallah drew criticism from some social media accounts and organisations. Opposition leaders, including TMC MP Mahua Moitra, criticised the governments decision.
HC quashes Bengal Fire Services' eviction notice to Abhishek Banerjees Kolkata office
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 16 (IANS) A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court on Wednesday quashed the notice of eviction served by the West Bengal Fire Services Department to the office of the Trinamool Congress general secretary and the partys Diamond Harbour MP, Abhishek Banerjee, on Camac Street in Central Kolkata. Previously, the Calcutta High Court had given an interim stay on the notice by the fire services department. The matter came up for hearing again on Wednesday, and at the end of the hearing, the single-judge bench of Justice Krishna Rao quashed the same notice. The single-judge bench directed the state fire services department to first serve a notice in advance to Trinamool Congress, intimating the date of inspection of the Camac Street office. Justice Rao ruled that the fire services department should inform the Trinamool Congress about the fire safety measures that were required to be adopted at the same office. Thereafter, according to the single-judge bench, Trinamool Congress will have to take the necessary steps for security and safety in accordance with those guidelines. If the Trinamool would not follow those guidelines even then, the fire services department would take appropriate action as per the legal provisions, ruled Justice Rao. The office of Abhishek Banerjee has been in the midst of controversy since last month after Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) staff and police removed an illegal billboard from the roof of the building. Trinamool workers led by Abhishek Banerjee, the partys Rajya Sabha member, Derek OBrien, and leaders like Humayun Kabir and Baishwanar Chatterjee got involved in scuffles with KMC staff and police personnel. Thereafter, three FIRs were registered at the local Shakespeare Sarani Police Station, naming Abhishek Banerjee, OBrien, Kabir and Chatterjee. At the same time, the officials from the state fire services department conducted a fire safety audit at the office and thereafter served an eviction notice.
Tripartite MoU to be signed next week for developing 4 more regional airports in Bengal
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 16 (IANS) A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) involving the Union Government, West Bengal Government and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for developing four more regional airports in West Bengal, will be signed next week. The tripartite MoU will be signed at the main auditorium at the state secretariat, Nabanna on September 23, said a West Bengal government official. The proposed sites of the four regional airports are Chharra in Purulia district, Balurghat in South Dinajpur district, Hasimara in Alipurduar district and Kalaikunda in West Midnapore district. Hasimara and Kalaikunda are also important bases of the Indian Air Force. The state government will be responsible for providing the land, electricity, water and other services for the projects. The Union government will look after the development of airport infrastructure, and the Airports Authority of India will look after the air traffic. The MoU will be signed in the presence of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu, West Bengal Transport Minister Arjun Singh, Chief Secretary, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, Secretary of the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, Chairman of the Airports Authority of India and MPs and MLAs from the respective districts are expected to be present on the occasion, said a senior state government official. According to him, the signing of this MoU will pave the way for further strengthening of air connectivity infrastructure and regional air services in Purulia, South Dinajpur, Alipurduar and West Midnapore. As per the Regional Connectivity Scheme of the Union Government, the state government will take responsibility for the necessary land, connecting roads, power supply, water supply and basic security as per the agreement. On the other hand, the Union government will build the basic infrastructure of the airport, the state government official said. It is learnt that the initial work for the project at Chharra in Purulia district has already progressed a lot. The airport was built in 1942 for military needs during World War-II. It was actively used until 1945. However, since then it has been completely abandoned. Although initiatives had been taken to start this airport again in the Left Front regime of West Bengal, the work did not progress much then.
West Bengals Revenue Rises 33% After Curbing Resource Theft, Says Minister Dilip Ghosh
Minister Dilip Ghosh announced a 33% increase in West Bengals revenue after halting the theft of natural resources like coal and sand. West Bengals Revenue Rises 33% After Curbing Resource Theft, Says Minister Dilip Ghosh
Their mindset needs a change: Dilip Ghosh hits back at Cong over BRICS dinner menu
Digital Desk | Newtown, Sep 16 (IANS) West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Wednesday hit back at Congress over its criticism of the vegetarian menu served at the BRICS Summit dinner, saying that those who actually attended the dinner had no complaints and praised the Indian cuisine. The menu served at the high-profile dinner at the BRICS Summit drew criticism from Congress leaders, who accused the BJP-led government of attempting to promote vegetarianism. The dinner featured more than 10 dishes, including starters such as Khumb Galauti, while the dessert section included Shahdoot Firni and fruit cream with jalebi. The main course comprised entirely vegetarian dishes, including paneer, mushrooms, millet pulao and beetroot raita, prepared with contemporary variations. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, in a post on social media platform X, said, For the record: 80 per cent of Indians are non-vegetarian. Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister's chole bhature. Reacting to the criticism, Ghosh said Congress leaders should focus on issues concerning the people rather than questioning the food served to foreign delegates. Congress has given nothing to the people; it has only looted them. If the public feels it is too much, they will protest. They jump into everything, even expressing concern over what foreign guests will be served at BRICS, asking why beef or chicken wasn't served. Everyone from Rahul Gandhi to Chidambaram had an issue with it. But those who actually ate had no problem; they went home praising the Indian food. So, their mindset needs a change, Ghosh told reporters. Ghosh also commented on the proposed 0.4 per cent charge on certain UPI merchant transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, saying that a nominal fee could help maintain the digital payments system and generate revenue. Any company providing services charges a fee. The governments UPI service has provided great convenience, so a minimal fee should be charged to maintain system discipline and generate revenue, he said. According to the new UPI Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework, a 0.4 per cent charge will apply to eligible merchant transactions above Rs 2,000, while person-to-person transactions will remain outside the charge. The new framework is scheduled to come into effect from October 15. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has outlined the provisions in its updated rules for Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The charge has been capped at Rs 300 per transaction. The Finance Ministry has also advised banks to ensure that merchants do not pass the additional cost on to consumers. Ghosh further claimed that efforts to curb the illegal exploitation of natural resources in West Bengal had contributed to higher state revenue. Natural resources like coal, sand, and timber in Bengal were being looted for years without yielding revenue for the state. Curbing this theft has led to a 33 per cent increase in government revenue, and this positive trend will continue, he said.
Delhi-NCR braces for another rainy day as IMD forecasts thunderstorms, lightning
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 16 (IANS) Delhi-NCR is likely to remain partly cloudy on Wednesday, with rain and thunderstorms expected in several areas as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast continued wet weather across the region and adjoining parts of northwest India. The national capital and neighbouring regions are likely to experience another spell of unsettled weather on Wednesday, with thunderstorms and lightning possible at isolated places. The IMD has forecast isolated heavy rainfall over Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Punjab. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also likely at isolated locations in Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Punjab and Uttarakhand. The weather system could result in short spells of rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in some areas, rather than continuous rainfall throughout the day. The wet conditions are expected to continue into Thursday, with the IMD forecasting fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Punjab on Wednesday and Thursday. Isolated areas could also receive heavy rain during this period. Bihar is also likely to witness rain and thunderstorm activity on Wednesday. Several parts of the state may receive showers, while thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are possible in some areas. Odisha is expected to experience partly cloudy conditions with rain and thunderstorms in several districts. The IMD has warned of lightning and thunderstorm activity, along with the possibility of gusty winds in some parts of the state. In Rajasthan, weather conditions are likely to shift from partly sunny skies to increased cloud cover, followed by rain and thunderstorms in some areas. The IMD has issued thunderstorm and lightning warnings for both East and West Rajasthan, with gusty winds likely at isolated places. Himachal Pradesh is likely to remain partly cloudy, with scattered showers mainly expected during the afternoon. Temperatures are likely to remain relatively moderate, although weather conditions could stay unsettled in some parts of the state. Haryana is expected to witness rain, with thunderstorms possible during the morning and thundery showers likely in the afternoon. Uttar Pradesh may experience cloudy periods, with light rain in the morning followed by brief showers in the afternoon. Thunderstorms could occur at isolated places, prompting residents to exercise caution during lightning and sudden downpours. Uttarakhand is likely to receive light to moderate rain and thundershowers at a few places. The IMD has warned of thunderstorms with lightning and intense to very intense spells of rainfall at isolated locations, particularly in the hill districts. The rainfall activity is expected to extend beyond northwest India. Heavy rain is likely at isolated places over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya, Kerala, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal on September 16.
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CM Adhikari thanks Centre for allocating road infra projects worth Rs 1,042 crore in Bengal
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 16 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday thanked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways for administrative approval for six major road infrastructure projects in the state under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) scheme with a total investment of Rs 1,042 crore. On behalf of the Government and the People of West Bengal, I express our sincere gratitude to Honble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji, Honble Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari Ji and the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), Government of India, for according administrative approval to 6 major road infrastructure projects under the CRIF Scheme for 202627, amounting to Rs 1,042.62 crore, said the Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari in a social media post on Tuesday. The Chief Minister claimed that the state public works department (PWD) had earlier sent a proposal on this count to the Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. Following that proposal, the Union Minister has now sanctioned covers for over 194 kilometres of vital road networks across North Bengal, South Bengal and the tribal-dominated Junglemahal region scattered over the four districts of Bankura, Purulia, West Midnapore and Jhargram, the Chief Minister informed. Strengthening rural and highway connectivity remains a top priority for our administration. Our State PWD will ensure timely execution and adherence to the highest quality standards for these projects, ensuring smoother journeys, improved logistics and robust economic growth for our citizens, the Chief Minister claimed. A state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader claimed that the sanction of the Rs 1,042 crore road infrastructure project is yet another example of how the double-engine government in the state is working for infrastructure and economic development. The Union Government was keen on extending support for the economic and infrastructure development in the state even during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime. However, the previous regime was only interested in constantly quarrelling with the Union Government, as a result of which the worst sufferers were the common people of the state, the BJP leader added.
The Election Commission of India has not yet decided on the Trinamool Congress symbol row. Nominations for the West Bengal bypolls close today, September 16. The Election Commission will meet on September 17 to discuss the symbol dispute. Both Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata factions are contesting the October 6 bypolls. The bypolls are now set to turn into a five-cornered fight.
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