The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance.

The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats. Smaller allies, the HAM and the VIP won four seats each.

The Lok Janshakti Party, which had quit the NDA in the state in the run-up to the October-November elections, ended up with one seat.

Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats.

Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government.

Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats.

JD(U) spokesperson K C Tyagi told PTI in New Delhi that a "sinister" campaign was run against Nitish Kumar as part of a "conspiracy".

"Apne bhi shamil the aur begane bhi (Our own also harmed us along with the outsiders)," he said, without taking any names.

He, however, expressed confidence that Kumar will become the chief minister again, noting that top BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have made it clear that he will head the government if the ruling NDA retains power.

Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal voiced similar views in Patna when he said in Patna "the issue has been cleared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda much before the elections".

Apart from BJP's 74 seats and JD(U)'s 43, the ruling alliance partners HAM and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) won four seats each.

The drastic fall in the number of JD (U) MLAs, however, will likely make the BJP, which hitherto played a second fiddle to Kumar, more assertive, and it may insist on a larger share in the ministerial pie and greater say in governance.

Apart from Kumar's creditable performance as an administrator, the multiple claimants to Muslim votes, including the Grand Democratic Secular Front (GDSF) comprising Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM, BSP and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP worked in NDA's favour and scuppered the Mahagathbandhan's chances. Muslim and Yadav voters have for long formed the bedrock of the RJD's support base.

Owaisi's AIMIM emerged as a surprise package of the election, winning five seats. The party had gained a foothold winning a seat in a by-election in Bihar earlier, but made significant inroads into the Seemanchanchal region which has a large presence of Muslim voters. Its ally BSP also clinched one seat.

Kumar, who has a clean image and is considered incorruptible, has been credited with ridding the state of the "jungle raj", as the Lalu-Rabri government of 15 years preceding 2005 is often described by its critics.

The JD(U) leader also earned praise for his impetus on infrastructure development and improving health care system and education.

Besides, Modi's enduring charisma not only powered the alliance's victory but also helped the BJP to pre-eminent position in the NDA in Bihar for the first time and cut his former bete noire Nitish Kumar, once considered a secular alternative to him, to size.

The election also saw the coming of age of Tejashwi Yadav, who came across as an indefatigable leader after RJD's unprecedented drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls last year when it failed to open its account.

The NDA had clinched all but one of the 40 seats in the state, leaving the young leader in torpor and his party demoralised. Tejashwi's ability to lead the party in the absence of his charismatic father and party supremo Lalu Prasad, who had landed in jail after conviction in fodder scam cases, was called into question.

However, after the assembly elections were announced, he steeled himself for the struggle ahead and almost single handedly brought the five party Grand Alliance surprisingly close to power in a fight where an army of battle hardened veterans were arrayed against him.

A major upshot of the gruelling electoral tussle between the two alliances was the resurgence of Left, which aligned with the RJD-Congress combine after being pushed to the margins in the post-Mandal era politics of Bihar.

The biggest gainer was the CPI-ML, which clinched 12 seats, followed by the CPI and CPI-M (two each). Barring the CPI-ML, which had three seats in the outgoing assembly, none of the Left parties had a presence in the House.

Brothers Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap won the Raghopur and Hasanpur seats with impressive margins of 38,174 and 21,139 votes respectively.

Prominent losers from the RJD included Abdul Bari Siddiqui, a former state party chief, and Lalu Prasad's Man Friday Bhola Yadav who lost from Keoti and Hayaghat seats in Darbhanga respectively.

Senior Bihar minister Vijendra Prasad Yadav of JD(U) won from Supual, and Niraj Singh Babloo of the BJP, a cousin of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, whose mysterious death became an election issue, retained the Chhatapur seat.

State assembly speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary of the JD(U) was among the victors.

Ace former shooter and Commonwealth gold medalist Shreyasi Singh of BJP won the Jamui seat by over 41,000 votes, but veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav's daughter Subhashini lost in Bihariganj.

HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi defeated former state assembly speaker Uday Narayan Chaudhary in Imamganj of Gaya district.

(With inputs from agencies)

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance. The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats.

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) obtained the majority in Bihar assembly elections with BJP putting up a winning performance. The BJP emerged victorious on as many as 74 seats while the JD (U) managed to win on 43 seats. Smaller allies, the HAM and the VIP won four seats each. The Lok Janshakti Party, which had quit the NDA in the state in the run-up to the October-November elections, ended up with one seat. Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government. Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats. JD(U) spokesperson K C Tyagi told PTI in New Delhi that a "sinister" campaign was run against Nitish Kumar as part of a "conspiracy". "Apne bhi shamil the aur begane bhi (Our own also harmed us along with the outsiders)," he said, without taking any names. He, however, expressed confidence that Kumar will become the chief minister again, noting that top BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have made it clear that he will head the government if the ruling NDA retains power. Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal voiced similar views in Patna when he said in Patna "the issue has been cleared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda much before the elections". Apart from BJP's 74 seats and JD(U)'s 43, the ruling alliance partners HAM and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) won four seats each. The drastic fall in the number of JD (U) MLAs, however, will likely make the BJP, which hitherto played a second fiddle to Kumar, more assertive, and it may insist on a larger share in the ministerial pie and greater say in governance. Apart from Kumar's creditable performance as an administrator, the multiple claimants to Muslim votes, including the Grand Democratic Secular Front (GDSF) comprising Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM, BSP and Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP worked in NDA's favour and scuppered the Mahagathbandhan's chances. Muslim and Yadav voters have for long formed the bedrock of the RJD's support base. Owaisi's AIMIM emerged as a surprise package of the election, winning five seats. The party had gained a foothold winning a seat in a by-election in Bihar earlier, but made significant inroads into the Seemanchanchal region which has a large presence of Muslim voters. Its ally BSP also clinched one seat. Kumar, who has a clean image and is considered incorruptible, has been credited with ridding the state of the "jungle raj", as the Lalu-Rabri government of 15 years preceding 2005 is often described by its critics. The JD(U) leader also earned praise for his impetus on infrastructure development and improving health care system and education. Besides, Modi's enduring charisma not only powered the alliance's victory but also helped the BJP to pre-eminent position in the NDA in Bihar for the first time and cut his former bete noire Nitish Kumar, once considered a secular alternative to him, to size. The election also saw the coming of age of Tejashwi Yadav, who came across as an indefatigable leader after RJD's unprecedented drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls last year when it failed to open its account. The NDA had clinched all but one of the 40 seats in the state, leaving the young leader in torpor and his party demoralised. Tejashwi's ability to lead the party in the absence of his charismatic father and party supremo Lalu Prasad, who had landed in jail after conviction in fodder scam cases, was called into question. However, after the assembly elections were announced, he steeled himself for the struggle ahead and almost single handedly brought the five party Grand Alliance surprisingly close to power in a fight where an army of battle hardened veterans were arrayed against him. A major upshot of the gruelling electoral tussle between the two alliances was the resurgence of Left, which aligned with the RJD-Congress combine after being pushed to the margins in the post-Mandal era politics of Bihar. The biggest gainer was the CPI-ML, which clinched 12 seats, followed by the CPI and CPI-M (two each). Barring the CPI-ML, which had three seats in the outgoing assembly, none of the Left parties had a presence in the House. Brothers Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap won the Raghopur and Hasanpur seats with impressive margins of 38,174 and 21,139 votes respectively. Prominent losers from the RJD included Abdul Bari Siddiqui, a former state party chief, and Lalu Prasad's Man Friday Bhola Yadav who lost from Keoti and Hayaghat seats in Darbhanga respectively. Senior Bihar minister Vijendra Prasad Yadav of JD(U) won from Supual, and Niraj Singh Babloo of the BJP, a cousin of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, whose mysterious death became an election issue, retained the Chhatapur seat. State assembly speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary of the JD(U) was among the victors. Ace former shooter and Commonwealth gold medalist Shreyasi Singh of BJP won the Jamui seat by over 41,000 votes, but veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav's daughter Subhashini lost in Bihariganj. HAM president Jitan Ram Manjhi defeated former state assembly speaker Uday Narayan Chaudhary in Imamganj of Gaya district. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar election results 2020: NDA gets absolute majority with 125 seats, Mahagathbandhan settles with 110 seats

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls.

"People of Bihar have reposed faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The result shows that people are excited about the BJP. This is PM Modi's victory," Paswan tweeted in Hindi.

Nitish Kumar- led NDA was back in power in Bihar on Wednesday with a slender majority.

The ruling coalition won 125 seats in the 243-member state assembly against 110 clinched by the opposition Grand Alliance to pave the way for a fourth successive term for Kumar in office but with diminished clout following a debilitating slide in the number of JD(U) lawmakers that came down to 43 from 71 in 2015.

Kumar was then a partner in the Grand Alliance which included Lalu Prasad's RJD and the Congress.

Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. The BJP, which led the table for several hours during the counting that dragged on for over 16 hours, finished second with a tally of 74 seats.

Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government.

Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls.

Chirag Paswan, the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief on Wednesday said that people of Bihar have reposed their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and credited him with the BJP's victory in the Assembly polls. "People of Bihar have reposed faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The result shows that people are excited about the BJP. This is PM Modi's victory," Paswan tweeted in Hindi. Nitish Kumar- led NDA was back in power in Bihar on Wednesday with a slender majority. The ruling coalition won 125 seats in the 243-member state assembly against 110 clinched by the opposition Grand Alliance to pave the way for a fourth successive term for Kumar in office but with diminished clout following a debilitating slide in the number of JD(U) lawmakers that came down to 43 from 71 in 2015. Kumar was then a partner in the Grand Alliance which included Lalu Prasad's RJD and the Congress. Its defeat notwithstanding, the RJD, whose campaign Tejashwi Yadav, the younger son and heir to party supremo Lalu Prasad helmed, emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats. The BJP, which led the table for several hours during the counting that dragged on for over 16 hours, finished second with a tally of 74 seats. Despite the slump in numbers, Kumar, who was declared the NDA's chief ministerial candidate by the BJP brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief J P Nadda, is set to take over the reins of the government. Much of Kumar's plight can be blamed on the damage Chirag Paswan's LJP inflicted on his JD(U). Down in the dumps with just one MLA, the party spoiled the JD(U)'s chances in at least 30 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Chirag Paswan credits Bihar polls victory to PM Narendra Modi

Bihar election 2020 results have defied exit poll predictions. While PM Narendra Modi helped to overcome the anti-incumbency, Nitish Kumar has won and lost at the same time. Here is Kartikeya Sharma with his opinion on the Bihar Election 2020.

Bihar election defy exit poll predictions | Opinion

Several people missing after a boat carrying at least 50 people capsized in Naugachhia area of Bihar's Bhagalpur on Thursday. The boat, rescue and search operation underway.

"One person died and seven people are missing. Rescue and search operation are underway by SDRF teams, nine people have been rescued so far," Pranav Kumar, District Magistrate, Bhagalpur said.

Meanwhile, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Teajshwi Yadav expressed concerns over the incident and conveyed condolences to the deceased's kin.

"Tragic news of drowning of many people after a boat capsized in the river under the limits of Gopalpur police station. My deepest condolences to the victims. The administration is urged to expedite rescue operations with the help of SDRF," Tejashwi tweeted in Hindi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Several people missing after a boat carrying at least 50 people capsized in Naugachhia area of Bihar's Bhagalpur on Thursday. The boat, rescue and search operation underway.

Several people missing after a boat carrying at least 50 people capsized in Naugachhia area of Bihar's Bhagalpur on Thursday. The boat, rescue and search operation underway. "One person died and seven people are missing. Rescue and search operation are underway by SDRF teams, nine people have been rescued so far," Pranav Kumar, District Magistrate, Bhagalpur said. Meanwhile, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Teajshwi Yadav expressed concerns over the incident and conveyed condolences to the deceased's kin. "Tragic news of drowning of many people after a boat capsized in the river under the limits of Gopalpur police station. My deepest condolences to the victims. The administration is urged to expedite rescue operations with the help of SDRF," Tejashwi tweeted in Hindi. (With inputs from agencies)

One killed, several missing after a boat Carrying 50 People capsizes in Bihar

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided.&nbsp;

The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-2020-first-phase-voter-turnout-over-54-amid-peaceful-polling-338643">Bihar elections 2020: First phase voter turnout over 54% amid peaceful polling</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The tightly-contested election is India's first amid the pandemic and held in three phases with the first phase summed up on October 27 the final phase scheduled to vote on November 7.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-election-2020-technical-snag-glitches-in-75-evms-hassle-voters-in-phase-1-polling-338531">Bihar Election 2020: Technical snag, glitches in 75 EVMs hassle voters in phase 1 polling</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters on Tuesday to vote in large numbers and follow safety measures while voting to avoid contracting the deadly virus.&nbsp;

"Make this festival of democracy successful by voting in large numbers. During the exercise, apart from maintaining social distancing, also wear a mask," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Grand alliance's (Mahagathbandhan) chief ministerial face and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav asked voters to vote for a developed Bihar

"A change is necessary for building a new Bihar in a new era," the RJD leader tweeted.&nbsp;

Several key players will be participating in this phase, which includes Tejashwi himself, his brother Tej Pratap Yadav, four other state ministers and Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha's son Luv Sinha, among others.&nbsp;

The voter turnout was more than 55 per cent in the first phase, which is marginally better than the figures in 2015 despite the pandemic.&nbsp;

The results of the election will be announced on November 10.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided. The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms.

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided. The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms. Also read | Bihar elections 2020: First phase voter turnout over 54% amid peaceful polling The tightly-contested election is India's first amid the pandemic and held in three phases with the first phase summed up on October 27 the final phase scheduled to vote on November 7. Also read | Bihar Election 2020: Technical snag, glitches in 75 EVMs hassle voters in phase 1 polling Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters on Tuesday to vote in large numbers and follow safety measures while voting to avoid contracting the deadly virus. "Make this festival of democracy successful by voting in large numbers. During the exercise, apart from maintaining social distancing, also wear a mask," he tweeted. Grand alliance's (Mahagathbandhan) chief ministerial face and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav asked voters to vote for a developed Bihar "A change is necessary for building a new Bihar in a new era," the RJD leader tweeted. Several key players will be participating in this phase, which includes Tejashwi himself, his brother Tej Pratap Yadav, four other state ministers and Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha's son Luv Sinha, among others. The voter turnout was more than 55 per cent in the first phase, which is marginally better than the figures in 2015 despite the pandemic. The results of the election will be announced on November 10.

Bihar Assembly election 2020: Voting for second phase begins

The second phase of Bihar assembly polls ended with 53.51 per cent voting in 94 constituencies on Tuesday evening. &nbsp;

The figure was likely to go up as voting continued beyond schedule in several places, the Election Commission said.

The combined voter turnout in the two phases was recorded at 53.79 per cent till 5 PM, the Commission said.

In the corresponding constituencies which went to poll in the 2015 assembly polls, the turnout was 55.35 per cent, the EC said.

The 94 constituencies of Bihar assembly went to poll in the second phase of elections which will decide the electoral fate of RJD leader and Mahagathbandhan's chief ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav and more than 1,450 other candidates.

(With inputs from agencies)

The second phase of Bihar assembly polls ended with 53.51 per cent voting in 94 constituencies on Tuesday evening. The figure was likely to go up as voting continued beyond schedule in several places, the Election Commission said.

The second phase of Bihar assembly polls ended with 53.51 per cent voting in 94 constituencies on Tuesday evening. The figure was likely to go up as voting continued beyond schedule in several places, the Election Commission said. The combined voter turnout in the two phases was recorded at 53.79 per cent till 5 PM, the Commission said. In the corresponding constituencies which went to poll in the 2015 assembly polls, the turnout was 55.35 per cent, the EC said. The 94 constituencies of Bihar assembly went to poll in the second phase of elections which will decide the electoral fate of RJD leader and Mahagathbandhan's chief ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav and more than 1,450 other candidates. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar Elections 2020: 53.51% polling recorded in the second phase, says Election Commission

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Thursday released the BJPs manifesto for the Bihar assembly polls which promised free COVID-19 vaccine once it has been cleared by the ICMR.

It also sought to reach out to the youth with the promise of 19 lakh jobs in the next five years and farmers with the assurance of bringing lentils under the MSP regime.

"The NDA government in Bihar has set an example before the country in the fight against corona. It's our resolve that once the vaccine against the coronavirus has been cleared by the ICMR, we will make it available to the people of Bihar free of cost," said the manifesto. The promise figured at the top of the BJP's election document.

Carrying the tagline 'BJP hai to bharosa hai', the party drew heavily upon the trust enjoyed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi among the masses by virtue of pro-people measures like the Jan Dhan scheme and the Ujjwala Yojana.

"Bihar is a politically sensitive state. Here people cannot be fobbed off with empty promises. Claims made by parties are likely to be weighed against their past track record. This is where the BJP scores," Sitharaman told a press conference where she released the manifesto.

"We have the confidence that we can deliver on our promises. In the last six years, all the programmes announced by the prime minister have been implemented, be it electrification of villages, gas cylinders for poor women or financial inclusion of all citizens by getting accounts opened in their name in banks," she asserted.

Speaking about the coronavirus vaccine, the minister said India has reached a point where it is on the verge of producing three vaccines after different stages of trial.

"When we reach the stage where scientists give clearance for large-scale production of the vaccine, we will make it available to the people of Bihar free of cost," she said.

The highlights of the party's vision document, displayed through a power point presentation, include recruitment of three lakh teachers in primary, secondary and higher educational institutions.

The party also proposed to develop the state, which has so far remained largely untouched by the boom in information technology, into an IT hub holding out the promise of five lakh jobs in the sector.

The manifesto also said a large number of people will be provided employment in the health sector which is in for a major facelift through projects like the AIIMS at Darbhanga.

Other attractive promises include self-reliance for one crore women through micro finance, pucca houses for 30 lakh people, and a boost to fisheries making Bihar number one in the sector.

It also promised a fresh impetus to the dairy sector with setting up of 15 milk processing units.

A boost to production of maize, fruits, vegetables, betel leaves, honey and makhana etc. Has been promised, and to facilitate these a conglomerate of 1,000 farm producer organisations has also been proposed.

Yet another promise made in the manifesto which is likely to find resonance among students is introducing Hindi as a medium of instruction for medical, engineering and other technical courses.

"Our promises are backed by credibility. Compare the situation in Bihar between 1990 and 2005 (when the RJD was in power) with the changes that occurred after we took over. You will get a clear picture," Sitharaman said.

"During the NDA rule, the state's growth rate in the industrial sector has been 17 per cent. In contrast, we are unable to find the figures for the preceding 15 years, apparently because industries were never on the radar of the previous government," she remarked with a smirk.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Thursday released the BJPs manifesto for the Bihar assembly polls which promised free COVID-19 vaccine once it has been cleared by the ICMR.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Thursday released the BJPs manifesto for the Bihar assembly polls which promised free COVID-19 vaccine once it has been cleared by the ICMR. It also sought to reach out to the youth with the promise of 19 lakh jobs in the next five years and farmers with the assurance of bringing lentils under the MSP regime. "The NDA government in Bihar has set an example before the country in the fight against corona. It's our resolve that once the vaccine against the coronavirus has been cleared by the ICMR, we will make it available to the people of Bihar free of cost," said the manifesto. The promise figured at the top of the BJP's election document. Carrying the tagline 'BJP hai to bharosa hai', the party drew heavily upon the trust enjoyed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi among the masses by virtue of pro-people measures like the Jan Dhan scheme and the Ujjwala Yojana. "Bihar is a politically sensitive state. Here people cannot be fobbed off with empty promises. Claims made by parties are likely to be weighed against their past track record. This is where the BJP scores," Sitharaman told a press conference where she released the manifesto. "We have the confidence that we can deliver on our promises. In the last six years, all the programmes announced by the prime minister have been implemented, be it electrification of villages, gas cylinders for poor women or financial inclusion of all citizens by getting accounts opened in their name in banks," she asserted. Speaking about the coronavirus vaccine, the minister said India has reached a point where it is on the verge of producing three vaccines after different stages of trial. "When we reach the stage where scientists give clearance for large-scale production of the vaccine, we will make it available to the people of Bihar free of cost," she said. The highlights of the party's vision document, displayed through a power point presentation, include recruitment of three lakh teachers in primary, secondary and higher educational institutions. The party also proposed to develop the state, which has so far remained largely untouched by the boom in information technology, into an IT hub holding out the promise of five lakh jobs in the sector. The manifesto also said a large number of people will be provided employment in the health sector which is in for a major facelift through projects like the AIIMS at Darbhanga. Other attractive promises include self-reliance for one crore women through micro finance, pucca houses for 30 lakh people, and a boost to fisheries making Bihar number one in the sector. It also promised a fresh impetus to the dairy sector with setting up of 15 milk processing units. A boost to production of maize, fruits, vegetables, betel leaves, honey and makhana etc. Has been promised, and to facilitate these a conglomerate of 1,000 farm producer organisations has also been proposed. Yet another promise made in the manifesto which is likely to find resonance among students is introducing Hindi as a medium of instruction for medical, engineering and other technical courses. "Our promises are backed by credibility. Compare the situation in Bihar between 1990 and 2005 (when the RJD was in power) with the changes that occurred after we took over. You will get a clear picture," Sitharaman said. "During the NDA rule, the state's growth rate in the industrial sector has been 17 per cent. In contrast, we are unable to find the figures for the preceding 15 years, apparently because industries were never on the radar of the previous government," she remarked with a smirk.

BJP's Bihar poll manifesto promises free COVID vaccine, 19L jobs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address 12 rallies in Bihar for the upcoming Assembly election in the eastern Indian state.&nbsp;

Senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis addressed a press conference on Friday where he said Modi will address rallies in Sasaram, Gaya and Bhagalpur on October 23 for the first phase of the election.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/47-open-grounds-19-halls-to-be-used-for-public-rallies-during-bihar-polls-only-100-people-to-be-allowed-332385">47 open grounds, 19 halls to be used for public rallies during Bihar polls; only 100 people to be allowed</a>

He will then hold rallies in Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur and Patna on October 28, Fadnavis, who is also BJP's election in-charge of Bihar said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-gears-up-for-first-election-amid-pandemic-as-dates-for-bihar-assembly-polls-announced-330130">India gears up for first election amid pandemic as dates for Bihar Assembly polls announced</a>

His third set of rallies will be in Chapra, East Champaran and Samastipur on November 1. He will also hold public meetings in West Champaran, Saharsa and Forbesganj,&nbsp;

Fadnavis also said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other leaders of National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will also be present at Modi's rallies.&nbsp;

Keeping in view of the coronavirus pandemic, the senior BJP leader said sanitisers will be provided at the rallies and people participating in the gatherings will have to wear masks and maintain social distancing. &nbsp;

The Assembly election of the crucial state of Bihar will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3 and November 7 and the results would be announced on November 10.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address 12 rallies in Bihar for the upcoming Assembly election in the eastern Indian state. Senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis addressed a press conference on Friday where he said Modi will address rallies in Sasaram, Gaya and Bhagalpur on October 23 for the first phase of the election.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address 12 rallies in Bihar for the upcoming Assembly election in the eastern Indian state. Senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis addressed a press conference on Friday where he said Modi will address rallies in Sasaram, Gaya and Bhagalpur on October 23 for the first phase of the election. Also read | 47 open grounds, 19 halls to be used for public rallies during Bihar polls; only 100 people to be allowed He will then hold rallies in Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur and Patna on October 28, Fadnavis, who is also BJP's election in-charge of Bihar said. Also read | India gears up for first election amid pandemic as dates for Bihar Assembly polls announced His third set of rallies will be in Chapra, East Champaran and Samastipur on November 1. He will also hold public meetings in West Champaran, Saharsa and Forbesganj, Fadnavis also said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other leaders of National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will also be present at Modi's rallies. Keeping in view of the coronavirus pandemic, the senior BJP leader said sanitisers will be provided at the rallies and people participating in the gatherings will have to wear masks and maintain social distancing. The Assembly election of the crucial state of Bihar will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3 and November 7 and the results would be announced on November 10.

Bihar election 2020: PM Narendra Modi to address 12 rallies

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday condoled the death of Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, stating that he was an efficient administrator who worked closely with him and was an important Dalit leader face in the Central government of many parties.

In his condolence letter to Ram Vilas Paswan`s son, Chirag Paswan, who is an MP from Jamui in Bihar and is the chief of the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), the former Prime Minister said,&nbsp;

"I have learnt with profound sorrow about the passing away of your beloved father. He was an important Dalit leader face in the Central government of many parties.

"Recalling his stint with Ram Vilas Paswan from 2004 to 2014 during the United Progressive Alliance 1 and 2 governments at the Centre, Singh said, "I have very warm recollections of my association with him as a member of the UPA government which I led in 2004. The veteran socialist leader was also a very efficient administrator who worked very closely with me as a Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers, and also served as Minister in various ministries."

The veteran Congress leader said Ram Vilas Paswan was a mass leader with a wide popularity, which was evident from the fact that he won Parliament elections with a record majority from his constituency.

"He was also a leader who was loved and respected by all irrespective of their political leniency. In his death, the country has lost one of its greatest Dalit and socialist leaders, who always stood for the cause of poor and downtrodden of the scoiety," he said.Earlier today, the mortal remains of Paswan were taken to his residence in New Delhi from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), where he breathed his last on Thursday.

The Union Minister, who hailed from Bihar, passed away at the age of 74. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President JP Nadda, and several senior leaders paid tribute to the late leader at his residence in the national capital.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday condoled the death of Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, stating that he was an efficient administrator who worked closely with him and was an important Dalit leader face in the Central government of many parties.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday condoled the death of Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, stating that he was an efficient administrator who worked closely with him and was an important Dalit leader face in the Central government of many parties. In his condolence letter to Ram Vilas Paswan`s son, Chirag Paswan, who is an MP from Jamui in Bihar and is the chief of the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), the former Prime Minister said, "I have learnt with profound sorrow about the passing away of your beloved father. He was an important Dalit leader face in the Central government of many parties. "Recalling his stint with Ram Vilas Paswan from 2004 to 2014 during the United Progressive Alliance 1 and 2 governments at the Centre, Singh said, "I have very warm recollections of my association with him as a member of the UPA government which I led in 2004. The veteran socialist leader was also a very efficient administrator who worked very closely with me as a Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers, and also served as Minister in various ministries." The veteran Congress leader said Ram Vilas Paswan was a mass leader with a wide popularity, which was evident from the fact that he won Parliament elections with a record majority from his constituency. "He was also a leader who was loved and respected by all irrespective of their political leniency. In his death, the country has lost one of its greatest Dalit and socialist leaders, who always stood for the cause of poor and downtrodden of the scoiety," he said.Earlier today, the mortal remains of Paswan were taken to his residence in New Delhi from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), where he breathed his last on Thursday. The Union Minister, who hailed from Bihar, passed away at the age of 74. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President JP Nadda, and several senior leaders paid tribute to the late leader at his residence in the national capital.

Ram Vilas Paswan was efficient administrator, stood for cause of poor, downtrodden: Manmohan Singh

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday clarified that it is not forming any back door alliance with Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) for Assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar.&nbsp;

BJP's Bihar unit said it was fighting the upcoming state election under the leadership of Chief Minister and Janata Dal-United (JD-U) chief Nitish Kumar and described him as the "undisputed leader of the National Democratic Alliance".&nbsp;

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"Our party is contesting the elections under Nitish`s leadership. Whosoever goes against him or challenges him will not be a part of the NDA," said Sanjay Jaiswal, BJP Bihar's chief, as quoted by news agency IANS.&nbsp;

On October 4, LJP leader Chirag Paswan announced LJP's exit from BJP-JDU alliance in Bihar over differences with Kumar but said it would continue to be a part of BJP-led NDA at the Centre.

Paswan also said that the move would not hamper its relations with BJP, hinting of a possible post-poll alliance in Bihar with BJP&nbsp;if BJP and JDU were unable to notch the required number of seats.&nbsp;

The assembly election in the state will be held in three phases starting from October 28 and the results would be declared on November 10.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday clarified that it is not forming any back door alliance with Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) for Assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday clarified that it is not forming any back door alliance with Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) for Assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar. BJP's Bihar unit said it was fighting the upcoming state election under the leadership of Chief Minister and Janata Dal-United (JD-U) chief Nitish Kumar and described him as the "undisputed leader of the National Democratic Alliance". Also read | 47 open grounds, 19 halls to be used for public rallies during Bihar polls; only 100 people to be allowed "Our party is contesting the elections under Nitish`s leadership. Whosoever goes against him or challenges him will not be a part of the NDA," said Sanjay Jaiswal, BJP Bihar's chief, as quoted by news agency IANS. On October 4, LJP leader Chirag Paswan announced LJP's exit from BJP-JDU alliance in Bihar over differences with Kumar but said it would continue to be a part of BJP-led NDA at the Centre. Paswan also said that the move would not hamper its relations with BJP, hinting of a possible post-poll alliance in Bihar with BJP if BJP and JDU were unable to notch the required number of seats. The assembly election in the state will be held in three phases starting from October 28 and the results would be declared on November 10.

No back door alliance with LJP, Nitish Kumar our 'undisputed leader': BJP

The Election Commission of India on Friday announced the assembly election dates of one of the largest states Bihar.&nbsp;

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora said more than 700,000 hand santisers, 600,000 PPE kits, 670,000 units of face-shields and 2.3 million pair of hand gloves have been arranged for the polls.

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The election will be in three phases and the voting for the first phase will be on October 28, with the declaration of results on November 10.&nbsp;

The voting for the second and third phase will be on November 3 and 7 respectively.

The election commission said in the first stage, voting will be held for 71 seats, followed by next stages where polling will take place for 94 and 78 seats.&nbsp;

The election commissioner also said the candidates can file their nomination online and the security money can also be transferred in online mode.&nbsp;

The door-to-door campaigning is also restricted to three people and not more than a convoy of five cars can be used for campaigning.&nbsp;

Also, only 1,000 voters will be allowed to cast their vote at a polling station, which was earlier 1,500.&nbsp;

He also said Covid-19 patients will also be able to cast their vote on the last day of voting at their respective polling stations under the supervision of health authorities. He said this facility is provided to them apart from the the option of postal ballot already extended to such people.&nbsp;

Earlier, the apex court on Friday refused to postpone the upcoming Bihar elections in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India on Friday announced the assembly election dates of one of the largest states Bihar. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora said more than 700,000 hand santisers, 600,000 PPE kits, 670,000 units of face-shields and 2.

The Election Commission of India on Friday announced the assembly election dates of one of the largest states Bihar. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora said more than 700,000 hand santisers, 600,000 PPE kits, 670,000 units of face-shields and 2.3 million pair of hand gloves have been arranged for the polls. Also read | India reports 86,052 new cases as total infections near 6 million-mark The election will be in three phases and the voting for the first phase will be on October 28, with the declaration of results on November 10. The voting for the second and third phase will be on November 3 and 7 respectively. The election commission said in the first stage, voting will be held for 71 seats, followed by next stages where polling will take place for 94 and 78 seats. The election commissioner also said the candidates can file their nomination online and the security money can also be transferred in online mode. The door-to-door campaigning is also restricted to three people and not more than a convoy of five cars can be used for campaigning. Also, only 1,000 voters will be allowed to cast their vote at a polling station, which was earlier 1,500. He also said Covid-19 patients will also be able to cast their vote on the last day of voting at their respective polling stations under the supervision of health authorities. He said this facility is provided to them apart from the the option of postal ballot already extended to such people. Earlier, the apex court on Friday refused to postpone the upcoming Bihar elections in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.

India gears up for first election amid pandemic as dates for Bihar Assembly polls announced

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday sharply criticised opposition and its ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) over farm sector reform bills, saying those opposing the measures are "deceiving", "lying" to peasants. &nbsp;

Modi's remarks came after its ally SAD quit government on Thursday with the resignation of Harsimrat Kaur Badal as the union minister of the food processing industry.&nbsp;

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The three bills that were passed by the Lower House (Lok Sabha) of the Parliament on Thursday and will now be tabled in the Upper House (Rajya Sabha) has been described as "anti-farmers" by the Opposition members.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-launch-seven-urban-infra-projects-in-bihar-327433">"</a>There are people who had ruled the country but are now attempting to confuse the farmers on this subject. They are spreading lies about these Bills. They are propagating that the benefit of MSP will not be given to the farmers by the government. It is also being said by them that the government will not buy paddy-wheat etc from farmers. This is a lie. Farmers of the country have to be careful of these people," Modi said, at a virtual event to launch rail projects in Bihar ahead of the assembly election in the state. &nbsp;

He also accused the opposition of standing with the "middlemen", adding that these leaders "pocketed" profits from these middlemen. &nbsp;

The prime minister asserted that the government will keep purchasing produce from the farmers and is committed to supporting them with the Minimum Support Price (MSP) as it has always been.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday sharply criticised opposition and its ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) over farm sector reform bills, saying those opposing the measures are "deceiving", "lying" to peasants.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday sharply criticised opposition and its ally Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) over farm sector reform bills, saying those opposing the measures are "deceiving", "lying" to peasants. Modi's remarks came after its ally SAD quit government on Thursday with the resignation of Harsimrat Kaur Badal as the union minister of the food processing industry. Also read | SAD's Harsimrat Kaur Badal resigns from union cabinet over farm bills The three bills that were passed by the Lower House (Lok Sabha) of the Parliament on Thursday and will now be tabled in the Upper House (Rajya Sabha) has been described as "anti-farmers" by the Opposition members. Also read | PM Modi to inaugurate, launch seven urban infra projects in Bihar "There are people who had ruled the country but are now attempting to confuse the farmers on this subject. They are spreading lies about these Bills. They are propagating that the benefit of MSP will not be given to the farmers by the government. It is also being said by them that the government will not buy paddy-wheat etc from farmers. This is a lie. Farmers of the country have to be careful of these people," Modi said, at a virtual event to launch rail projects in Bihar ahead of the assembly election in the state. He also accused the opposition of standing with the "middlemen", adding that these leaders "pocketed" profits from these middlemen. The prime minister asserted that the government will keep purchasing produce from the farmers and is committed to supporting them with the Minimum Support Price (MSP) as it has always been.

They are 'lying', 'deceiving' peasants: PM Modi slams opposition over agri bills

Union Power&nbsp;Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, RK Singh said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised earlier that Article 370 will be scrapped from Jammu and Kashmir and he scrapped it last year. No doubt that this will be one of the political issues in the Bihar Assembly election for BJP.

Arrah Lok Sabha MP RK Singh further stated that Article 370 was removed because it increased Jammu and Kashmir`s isolation from the country.

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"Our Prime Minister worked to provide electricity in most of the houses of the country. The Prime Minister further decided that every household will be given a gas connection and most of the poor people have been given a gas connection. Did any other Prime Minister think on these lines?" Singh questioned.&nbsp;

"The Prime Minister decided that he will give pucca houses to every poor and are providing. A total of 1,40,00,000 houses were built. The public knows that six months of free food grains were provided, funds were made available in the Jan Dhan account," he added.

Bihar has 243 Assembly seats and elections in the state are expected in October-November as the tenure of the current Assembly will end on November 29 this year. Election Commission has not yet taken a final call on poll dates in Bihar.

Union Power Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year.

Union Power Minister RK Singh on Thursday said that the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will be one of the political issues in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections due to be held before November 29 this year. Speaking to ANI, RK Singh said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised earlier that Article 370 will be scrapped from Jammu and Kashmir and he scrapped it last year. No doubt that this will be one of the political issues in the Bihar Assembly election for BJP. Arrah Lok Sabha MP RK Singh further stated that Article 370 was removed because it increased Jammu and Kashmir`s isolation from the country. ALSO READ | India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China "Our Prime Minister worked to provide electricity in most of the houses of the country. The Prime Minister further decided that every household will be given a gas connection and most of the poor people have been given a gas connection. Did any other Prime Minister think on these lines?" Singh questioned. "The Prime Minister decided that he will give pucca houses to every poor and are providing. A total of 1,40,00,000 houses were built. The public knows that six months of free food grains were provided, funds were made available in the Jan Dhan account," he added. Bihar has 243 Assembly seats and elections in the state are expected in October-November as the tenure of the current Assembly will end on November 29 this year. Election Commission has not yet taken a final call on poll dates in Bihar.

Scrapping of Article 370 will be an issue in Bihar Assembly polls: RK Singh

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>will on Tuesday inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of seven urban infrastructure projects worth Rs 541 crore in the poll-bound Bihar via video conference.

The Prime Minister's Office said on Monday that out of these projects, four are related to water supply, two to sewage treatment and one to riverfront development.

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The implementation of these projects has been undertaken by the Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (BUIDCO) under the urban development and housing department of the state.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will also be present at the ceremony.

Giving details of the projects, the PMO said the sewage treatment plants have been built under the Namami Gange mission, at Beur and Karmalichak, in Patna Municipal Corporation.

Water supply projects built under the AMRUT Mission in Siwan Municipal Council and Chhapra Municipal Corporation will help local residents get pure drinking water 24 hours a day, it said.

Modi will lay the foundation stone of Munger water supply scheme under AMRUT Mission, and it will help residents of Munger Municipal Corporation get pure water through pipelines.

The foundation stone of Jamalpur water supply scheme under AMRUT Mission will also be laid, the PMO said.

The foundation stone of Muzaffarpur Riverfront Development Scheme, being built under Namami Gange, will also be laid by the prime minister.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Tuesday inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of seven urban infrastructure projects worth Rs 541 crore in the poll-bound Bihar via video conference.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Tuesday inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of seven urban infrastructure projects worth Rs 541 crore in the poll-bound Bihar via video conference. The Prime Minister's Office said on Monday that out of these projects, four are related to water supply, two to sewage treatment and one to riverfront development. Also read | Till there is no medicine, no laxity: PM Modi ahead of Monsoon Session The implementation of these projects has been undertaken by the Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (BUIDCO) under the urban development and housing department of the state. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will also be present at the ceremony. Giving details of the projects, the PMO said the sewage treatment plants have been built under the Namami Gange mission, at Beur and Karmalichak, in Patna Municipal Corporation. Water supply projects built under the AMRUT Mission in Siwan Municipal Council and Chhapra Municipal Corporation will help local residents get pure drinking water 24 hours a day, it said. Modi will lay the foundation stone of Munger water supply scheme under AMRUT Mission, and it will help residents of Munger Municipal Corporation get pure water through pipelines. The foundation stone of Jamalpur water supply scheme under AMRUT Mission will also be laid, the PMO said. The foundation stone of Muzaffarpur Riverfront Development Scheme, being built under Namami Gange, will also be laid by the prime minister.

PM Modi to inaugurate, launch seven urban infra projects in Bihar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Bihar’s administration has been exemplary in making sure that government schemes reach the common people and we must ensure that the good work done in the last 15 years must continue.

He said that we must ensure sushasan (good governance) in Bihar and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has a very important role to play in taking Bihar forward on the path to progress.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated&nbsp;three petroleum sector projects in poll-bound Bihar today.

These projects include state-run Indian Oil Corporation’s 193-km long Durgapur-Banka section of the Paradip-Haldia-Durgapur liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) pipeline that will supply domestic cooking gas for bottling at Banka in the state.

PM Modi also dedicated state-run Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd’s LPG bottling plant at Harsidhi in East Champaran district through video conferencing.

He said, “We do not live in the age where one generation saw the inauguration of a project and another generation saw its completion. New India and new Bihar believes in fast-paced development.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Bihar’s administration has been exemplary in making sure that government schemes reach the common people and we must ensure that the good work done in the last 15 years must continue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Bihar’s administration has been exemplary in making sure that government schemes reach the common people and we must ensure that the good work done in the last 15 years must continue. He said that we must ensure sushasan (good governance) in Bihar and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has a very important role to play in taking Bihar forward on the path to progress. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three petroleum sector projects in poll-bound Bihar today. These projects include state-run Indian Oil Corporation’s 193-km long Durgapur-Banka section of the Paradip-Haldia-Durgapur liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) pipeline that will supply domestic cooking gas for bottling at Banka in the state. PM Modi also dedicated state-run Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd’s LPG bottling plant at Harsidhi in East Champaran district through video conferencing. He said, “We do not live in the age where one generation saw the inauguration of a project and another generation saw its completion. New India and new Bihar believes in fast-paced development.” (With inputs from agencies)

We must ensure 'sushasan' in Bihar: PM Modi at petroleum project inauguration

The poll panel held a meeting on Tuesday regarding campaigning during a pandemic.

India's first polls amid pandemic | Bihar assembly tenure set to expire in November

India is gearing up to stage its first election since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. With more than 70 million voters the elections in Bihar will be the biggest elections to be held under the shadow of the pandemic.

Biggest election exercise in virus-hit South Asia: Pandemic looms over polls in Bihar

The flood situation in Bihar worsened on Sunday as water from overflowing rivers inundated fresh areas, while a total of 53.67 lakh people across 14 districts were affected, the Disaster Management Department said in Patna.

No fresh casualty was reported and the number of people who died in flood-related incidents stood at 13.

The number of people affected by the deluge has gone up by 4.62 lakh since Saturday, though that of the district remained at 14, the department said in a bulletin.

The number of panchayats hit by the calamity, however, rose to 1,059 from 1,043 on the previous day.

It said that an embankment of Tirhut canal breached in the early hours of Sunday inundating at least a dozen villages in Muraul block of Muzaffarpur district. Two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed at the site.

With 16.89 lakh flood-affected people, Muzaffarpur is the worst-hit district, followed by 12.40 lakh people in Darbhanga and 8.09 lakh in East Champaran.

More than half of the affected populace live in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga districts.

Of the 13 deaths in flood-related incidents, Darbhanga registered the highest seven casualties, followed by four in West Champaran and two in Muzaffarpur.

A total of 20 teams of the NDRF and 11 of the SDRF are involved in the rescue operations and they have evacuated 4.03 lakh people from the affected areas so far, the bulletin said.

It said that 26,734 people are staying in 19 relief camps while nearly 9.29 lakh people were being fed at 1,385 community kitchens in the affected districts.

Rivers such as Baghmati, Burhi Gandak, Kamlabalan, Adhwara, Khiroi, Mahananda and Ghaghra are flowing above the danger level at various places.

The Met Department has forecast light rain in the catchment areas of all rivers flowing in the state on Monday.

The 14-flood affected districts are Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Supaul, Kishanganj, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, West Champaran, East Champaran, Khagaria, Saran, Samastipur, Siwan and Madhubani.&nbsp;

The flood situation in Bihar worsened on Sunday as water from overflowing rivers inundated fresh areas, while a total of 53.67 lakh people across 14 districts were affected, the Disaster Management Department said in Patna.

The flood situation in Bihar worsened on Sunday as water from overflowing rivers inundated fresh areas, while a total of 53.67 lakh people across 14 districts were affected, the Disaster Management Department said in Patna. No fresh casualty was reported and the number of people who died in flood-related incidents stood at 13. The number of people affected by the deluge has gone up by 4.62 lakh since Saturday, though that of the district remained at 14, the department said in a bulletin. The number of panchayats hit by the calamity, however, rose to 1,059 from 1,043 on the previous day. It said that an embankment of Tirhut canal breached in the early hours of Sunday inundating at least a dozen villages in Muraul block of Muzaffarpur district. Two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed at the site. With 16.89 lakh flood-affected people, Muzaffarpur is the worst-hit district, followed by 12.40 lakh people in Darbhanga and 8.09 lakh in East Champaran. More than half of the affected populace live in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga districts. Of the 13 deaths in flood-related incidents, Darbhanga registered the highest seven casualties, followed by four in West Champaran and two in Muzaffarpur. A total of 20 teams of the NDRF and 11 of the SDRF are involved in the rescue operations and they have evacuated 4.03 lakh people from the affected areas so far, the bulletin said. It said that 26,734 people are staying in 19 relief camps while nearly 9.29 lakh people were being fed at 1,385 community kitchens in the affected districts. Rivers such as Baghmati, Burhi Gandak, Kamlabalan, Adhwara, Khiroi, Mahananda and Ghaghra are flowing above the danger level at various places. The Met Department has forecast light rain in the catchment areas of all rivers flowing in the state on Monday. The 14-flood affected districts are Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Supaul, Kishanganj, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, West Champaran, East Champaran, Khagaria, Saran, Samastipur, Siwan and Madhubani.

Bihar flood situation worsens, 53.67 lakh people affected

Flood situation remained grim in Bihar where swollen rivers originating in Nepal and flowing through the states northern districts have affected more than 45 lakh people so far, the disaster management department said on Friday.

No loss of life was reported on account of floods in the last 24 hours, causing the death toll to remain stable at 11, though the number of people troubled by the calamity grew by more than half a million during the period, according to the bulletin issued by the department.

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The number of distressed people, across 1012 panchayats of 14 districts, has reached 45.39 lakh, compared with the previous days figure of 39.63 lakh, said the department.

The state's response to floods has triggered wordy duel between rival parties, keeping in view the approaching assembly election.

Leader of the opposition Tejashwi Yadav, who toured flood-hit parts of East Champaran, expressed bewilderment over "only 19 relief camps" having been set up by the Nitish Kumar government so far.

"The states water resources minister is busy gathering resources for the ruling JD(U) ahead of assembly polls. Nobody has seen the states minister for disaster management in the past four months when the state has been hit by crisis after crisis.

"And the Chief Minister has not stepped out of his residence for 135 days. The people are left to despair", Yadav tweeted.

He was lambasted by the ruling JD(U)-BJP combine which charged the RJD leader with trying to gain publicity by his tours instead of extending cooperation to the state government in its flood control measures.

According to the disaster management department, 3.76 lakh people have so far been evacuated from flood-ravaged localities out of whom 26,732 have taken shelter at the relief camps.

Besides, 1193 community kitchens are catering to 7.71 lakh people in the inundated areas.

Relief and rescue operations were being carried out by National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).

"Our 21 teams are deployed across 12 of the flood- affected districts. Our personnel have so far rescued more than 8600 people", said Vijay Sinha, commandant of 9th battalion of NDRF, stationed at Bihta in Patna district.

"Saving lives and beyond is our motto and we pay special attention to vulnerable populace like children, the elderly and pregnant women," he added.

Sinha highlighted the case of a young woman from Darbhanga, who went into labour late Thursday night and could get timely medical care because of timely response to her familys distress call.

Our men picked her up from her marooned village and carried her to the nearest primary health centre, which was 10 kms away, the NDRF commandant said.

The districts hit by the floods are West Champaran, East Champaran, Saran, Gopalganj, Siwan, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Khagaria, Samastipur, Kishanganj, Supaul and Sheohar.

Only West Champaran (four) and Darbhanga (seven) have reported flood-related deaths.

East Central Railway zone Chief Public Relation Officer, Rajesh Kumar, said that with flood waters flowing above danger level near three Railway bridges in the Samastipur-Darbhanga section, routes of some special trains have been diverted, while services of some others stopped for the time being.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Flood situation remained grim in Bihar where swollen rivers originating in Nepal and flowing through the states northern districts have affected more than 45 lakh people so far, the disaster management department said on Friday.

Flood situation remained grim in Bihar where swollen rivers originating in Nepal and flowing through the states northern districts have affected more than 45 lakh people so far, the disaster management department said on Friday. No loss of life was reported on account of floods in the last 24 hours, causing the death toll to remain stable at 11, though the number of people troubled by the calamity grew by more than half a million during the period, according to the bulletin issued by the department. Also read | Kohli, Rahul and others auction prized possession to raise funds for Bihar, Assam flood victims The number of distressed people, across 1012 panchayats of 14 districts, has reached 45.39 lakh, compared with the previous days figure of 39.63 lakh, said the department. The state's response to floods has triggered wordy duel between rival parties, keeping in view the approaching assembly election. Leader of the opposition Tejashwi Yadav, who toured flood-hit parts of East Champaran, expressed bewilderment over "only 19 relief camps" having been set up by the Nitish Kumar government so far. "The states water resources minister is busy gathering resources for the ruling JD(U) ahead of assembly polls. Nobody has seen the states minister for disaster management in the past four months when the state has been hit by crisis after crisis. "And the Chief Minister has not stepped out of his residence for 135 days. The people are left to despair", Yadav tweeted. He was lambasted by the ruling JD(U)-BJP combine which charged the RJD leader with trying to gain publicity by his tours instead of extending cooperation to the state government in its flood control measures. According to the disaster management department, 3.76 lakh people have so far been evacuated from flood-ravaged localities out of whom 26,732 have taken shelter at the relief camps. Besides, 1193 community kitchens are catering to 7.71 lakh people in the inundated areas. Relief and rescue operations were being carried out by National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). "Our 21 teams are deployed across 12 of the flood- affected districts. Our personnel have so far rescued more than 8600 people", said Vijay Sinha, commandant of 9th battalion of NDRF, stationed at Bihta in Patna district. "Saving lives and beyond is our motto and we pay special attention to vulnerable populace like children, the elderly and pregnant women," he added. Sinha highlighted the case of a young woman from Darbhanga, who went into labour late Thursday night and could get timely medical care because of timely response to her familys distress call. Our men picked her up from her marooned village and carried her to the nearest primary health centre, which was 10 kms away, the NDRF commandant said. The districts hit by the floods are West Champaran, East Champaran, Saran, Gopalganj, Siwan, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Khagaria, Samastipur, Kishanganj, Supaul and Sheohar. Only West Champaran (four) and Darbhanga (seven) have reported flood-related deaths. East Central Railway zone Chief Public Relation Officer, Rajesh Kumar, said that with flood waters flowing above danger level near three Railway bridges in the Samastipur-Darbhanga section, routes of some special trains have been diverted, while services of some others stopped for the time being.

Bihar floods: Situation remains grim, more than 4.5 million affected

The Indian state of Bihar will re-impose a 15-day lockdown to fight coronavirus and curb the surge in cases, as per state's deputy chief minister said Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-reopens-for-tourists-with-sops-and-guidelines-313249" hreflang="en">Kashmir reopens for tourists with SOPs and guidelines</a>

"Bihar government has decided on a 15-day lockdown from July 16 to July 31. All city municipalities, district headquarters, block headquarters will stay under lockdown. The guidelines are being finalised," Sushil Kumar Modi tweeted.

Bihar has a population of around 125 million and reported almost 19,000 cases including 134 deaths, as per local health authorities. On Tuesday, the state witnessed a record jump of new cases in one day after reporting 1,432 cases in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

"There is no medicine or vaccine for corona. We have to ensure that we cover our faces with masks, handkerchiefs or towels," the deputy chief minister said.

India's number of case in deadly coronavirus infections crosses 9 lakh mark with 28,498 new cases and 553 deaths reported in the last 24 hours. The total cases stand at 9, 06,752 including 3, 11,565 active cases, 5, 71,460 cured and 23,727 deaths, according to the latest update from the Ministry of Health.&nbsp;

The recovery rate among COVID-19 patients has increased to 63.02%, while the recoveries deaths ratio is 96.01%:3.99%, stated the Government of India.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, India tested 1, 20, 92,503 samples tested for COVID-19 till July 13, of these 2, 86,247 samples were tested yesterday.

The World Health Organisation has said the pandemic is getting worse and worse with time as too many countries are going in the wrong direction. Tedros called for countries to come up with comprehensive strategies, and noted that roughly half of all new cases are in the Americas.&nbsp;

The number of deadly coronavirus cases around the world increased by a million in just five days.

As many as 13,236,252 people have been diagnosed with Covid-19 around the world so far. While more than 7,691,451 have recovered, 575,540 have died, according to Worldometer.&nbsp;

The Indian state of Bihar will re-impose a 15-day lockdown to fight coronavirus and curb the surge in cases, as per state's deputy chief minister said Tuesday. Also read: Kashmir reopens for tourists with SOPs and guidelines "Bihar government has decided on a 15-day lockdown from July 16 to July 31.

The Indian state of Bihar will re-impose a 15-day lockdown to fight coronavirus and curb the surge in cases, as per state's deputy chief minister said Tuesday. Also read: Kashmir reopens for tourists with SOPs and guidelines "Bihar government has decided on a 15-day lockdown from July 16 to July 31. All city municipalities, district headquarters, block headquarters will stay under lockdown. The guidelines are being finalised," Sushil Kumar Modi tweeted. Bihar has a population of around 125 million and reported almost 19,000 cases including 134 deaths, as per local health authorities. On Tuesday, the state witnessed a record jump of new cases in one day after reporting 1,432 cases in the last 24 hours. "There is no medicine or vaccine for corona. We have to ensure that we cover our faces with masks, handkerchiefs or towels," the deputy chief minister said. India's number of case in deadly coronavirus infections crosses 9 lakh mark with 28,498 new cases and 553 deaths reported in the last 24 hours. The total cases stand at 9, 06,752 including 3, 11,565 active cases, 5, 71,460 cured and 23,727 deaths, according to the latest update from the Ministry of Health. The recovery rate among COVID-19 patients has increased to 63.02%, while the recoveries deaths ratio is 96.01%:3.99%, stated the Government of India. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, India tested 1, 20, 92,503 samples tested for COVID-19 till July 13, of these 2, 86,247 samples were tested yesterday. The World Health Organisation has said the pandemic is getting worse and worse with time as too many countries are going in the wrong direction. Tedros called for countries to come up with comprehensive strategies, and noted that roughly half of all new cases are in the Americas. The number of deadly coronavirus cases around the world increased by a million in just five days. As many as 13,236,252 people have been diagnosed with Covid-19 around the world so far. While more than 7,691,451 have recovered, 575,540 have died, according to Worldometer.

Bihar to impose 15-day lockdown to curb surge in COVID-19 cases

The floods in Bihar claimed at least 10 lives till Friday and hit as many districts in the northern parts of the state, leaving nearly one million affected by the deluge, the state's disaster management department said.

Heavy rainfalls caused the rivers to swell, leading to breach in embankments at more than one place. The state government said repair work would resume only after two-three days, during which the downpour is expected to become less intense.

Also read- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/24-million-children-affected-by-recent-floods-in-india-unicef-315491">2.4 million children affected by recent floods in India: UNICEF</a>

In the meantime, help will be sought from the Indian Air Force so that relief material could be dropped for people marooned in places, which have become inaccessible.

According to the bulletin issued by the state's disaster management department, West Champaran district, situated along the border with Nepal and through which flows the Gandak river, originating in the neighbouring country and currently in full spate, has borne the brunt accounting for seven of the deaths.

It is home to about 1.43 lakh people affected by the floods, out of whom more than 5,000 have so far been evacuated and taken to safer places by two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and one of the SDRF.

The floods in Bihar claimed at least 10 lives till Friday and hit as many districts in the northern parts of the state, leaving nearly one million affected by the deluge, the state's disaster management department said.

The floods in Bihar claimed at least 10 lives till Friday and hit as many districts in the northern parts of the state, leaving nearly one million affected by the deluge, the state's disaster management department said. Heavy rainfalls caused the rivers to swell, leading to breach in embankments at more than one place. The state government said repair work would resume only after two-three days, during which the downpour is expected to become less intense. Also read- 2.4 million children affected by recent floods in India: UNICEF In the meantime, help will be sought from the Indian Air Force so that relief material could be dropped for people marooned in places, which have become inaccessible. According to the bulletin issued by the state's disaster management department, West Champaran district, situated along the border with Nepal and through which flows the Gandak river, originating in the neighbouring country and currently in full spate, has borne the brunt accounting for seven of the deaths. It is home to about 1.43 lakh people affected by the floods, out of whom more than 5,000 have so far been evacuated and taken to safer places by two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and one of the SDRF.

Floods claim 10 lives in Bihar, nearly 1 million people affected in 10 districts

RJD president Lalu Prasad Friday charged Nitish Kumar with remaining cocooned inside his official bungalow in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, a criticism that prompted a sharp reaction from Chief Minister's deputy and BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi.

The jailed former chief minister, serving sentences in Ranchi in fodder scam cases, came out with a couple of tweets in his native dialect Bhojpuri to take potshots at Kumar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihars-covid-19-tally-reaches-21558-with-over-1000-new-cases-313852">Bihar's COVID-19 tally reaches 21,558 with over 1,000 new cases</a>

"Does a Chief Minister lead from the front or sleep with a blanket pulled over himself? In the four months since the first lockdown, Nitish has not ventured out of his bungalow even four times", said the septuagenarian, whose Twitter account is operated by people close to him.

He alleged that the people of the state have been left to fend for themselves amid the pandemic while the chief minister was busy in "rangai putai" (polishing) of the "mask of his good governance, characterized by unemployment, starvation, corruption and crime".

"This game of hide and seek will not drive coronavirus away. Who will fight the battle if the commander of the army runs away,"&nbsp;Prasad added, sharing a tweet from his wife and successor as CM Rabri Devi, who had expressed similar views on the micro-blogging site, albeit in plain Hindi.

Kumar, who is known to be techno-savvy, has remained active politically and administratively through digital mediums like video conferencing.

This has not gone down well with the party founded and headed by Prasad who used to pose as a luddite in his hey days in a bid to underscore his humble roots which had endeared him to the masses.

Meanwhile, Modi, a senior BJP leader who was one of the litigants on whose PIL in the 1990s the Patna High Court had ordered a CBI probe into the fodder scam cases, hit back.

"At a time when the lockdown has been re-imposed because of coronavirus spike and people are being advised to work from home, Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi are asking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to go among the people, throwing physical distancing to the winds,"&nbsp;Modi, one of the most prolific social media users among politicians in Bihar, tweeted.

The Deputy CM also wondered why the couple did not give similar advice to their younger son and heir-apparent Tejashwi Yadav, who had remained away from the state for a long time after the nationwide lockdown was first clamped.

"Is the RJD wishing the chief minister to become infected with the coronavirus? A party known for its belief in black magic can go to any extent, driven by political envy", remarked Modi.

He was alluding to Shankar Charan Tripathi, a self-styled occultist whom Prasad had appointed as a spokesman of his party a few years ago, but sacked within months.

Sushil Modi also referred to the drubbing received in the Lok Sabha polls last year by the RJD, which failed to win a single seat in the state where the total number was 40, and the torpor exhibited by Tejashwi Yadav later who failed to attend the assembly session soon afterwards, which continued for over a month, despite being the leader of the opposition.

"Why did Lalu-Rabri not tweet at that time, babua, Janata ke beech rah ke chaheen (son, one must remain among the people)", remarked the BJP leader as a parting note, trying his hands at the colorful dialect.

As election for Bihar is approaching, wordy duel between rivals are intensifying.

Lalu Prasad, despite being in jail, keeps taking potshots at Kumar and the BJP to make his presence felt and boost RJD's prospects. 
&nbsp;

RJD president Lalu Prasad Friday charged Nitish Kumar with remaining cocooned inside his official bungalow in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, a criticism that prompted a sharp reaction from Chief Minister's deputy and BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi.

RJD president Lalu Prasad Friday charged Nitish Kumar with remaining cocooned inside his official bungalow in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, a criticism that prompted a sharp reaction from Chief Minister's deputy and BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi. The jailed former chief minister, serving sentences in Ranchi in fodder scam cases, came out with a couple of tweets in his native dialect Bhojpuri to take potshots at Kumar. Also read | Bihar's COVID-19 tally reaches 21,558 with over 1,000 new cases "Does a Chief Minister lead from the front or sleep with a blanket pulled over himself? In the four months since the first lockdown, Nitish has not ventured out of his bungalow even four times", said the septuagenarian, whose Twitter account is operated by people close to him. He alleged that the people of the state have been left to fend for themselves amid the pandemic while the chief minister was busy in "rangai putai" (polishing) of the "mask of his good governance, characterized by unemployment, starvation, corruption and crime". "This game of hide and seek will not drive coronavirus away. Who will fight the battle if the commander of the army runs away," Prasad added, sharing a tweet from his wife and successor as CM Rabri Devi, who had expressed similar views on the micro-blogging site, albeit in plain Hindi. Kumar, who is known to be techno-savvy, has remained active politically and administratively through digital mediums like video conferencing. This has not gone down well with the party founded and headed by Prasad who used to pose as a luddite in his hey days in a bid to underscore his humble roots which had endeared him to the masses. Meanwhile, Modi, a senior BJP leader who was one of the litigants on whose PIL in the 1990s the Patna High Court had ordered a CBI probe into the fodder scam cases, hit back. "At a time when the lockdown has been re-imposed because of coronavirus spike and people are being advised to work from home, Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi are asking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to go among the people, throwing physical distancing to the winds," Modi, one of the most prolific social media users among politicians in Bihar, tweeted. The Deputy CM also wondered why the couple did not give similar advice to their younger son and heir-apparent Tejashwi Yadav, who had remained away from the state for a long time after the nationwide lockdown was first clamped. "Is the RJD wishing the chief minister to become infected with the coronavirus? A party known for its belief in black magic can go to any extent, driven by political envy", remarked Modi. He was alluding to Shankar Charan Tripathi, a self-styled occultist whom Prasad had appointed as a spokesman of his party a few years ago, but sacked within months. Sushil Modi also referred to the drubbing received in the Lok Sabha polls last year by the RJD, which failed to win a single seat in the state where the total number was 40, and the torpor exhibited by Tejashwi Yadav later who failed to attend the assembly session soon afterwards, which continued for over a month, despite being the leader of the opposition. "Why did Lalu-Rabri not tweet at that time, babua, Janata ke beech rah ke chaheen (son, one must remain among the people)", remarked the BJP leader as a parting note, trying his hands at the colorful dialect. As election for Bihar is approaching, wordy duel between rivals are intensifying. Lalu Prasad, despite being in jail, keeps taking potshots at Kumar and the BJP to make his presence felt and boost RJD's prospects.

Lalu targets Nitish for not venturing out of home; Sushil Modi hits back

Bihar reported 10 more coronavirus-related deaths and 1,385 fresh cases on Thursday, taking the number of infections in the state to 21,558, the state health department said.

In the last 24 hours, four fresh deaths were reported in Patna district, followed by two in Muzaffarpur and one each in Bhagalpur, Gaya, East Champaran and Purnea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-to-impose-15-day-lockdown-to-curb-surge-in-covid-19-cases-313252">Bihar to impose 15-day lockdown to curb surge in COVID-19 cases</a>

The new fatalities have taken the toll to 167, with Patna accounting for the highest number of 27 deaths, followed by Bhagalpur (14), Darbhanga and Gaya (10 each), Muzaffarpur (eight) and Begusarai, Nalanda, East Champaran and Samastipur (seven each) among others.

Patna district reported its biggest single-day spike of 378 cases, raising the total number of those infected to 2,880, according to a bulletin issued by the state health department. 
 
The district, which also covers the state capital, has an alarmingly high number of 1,315 active cases, the bulletin said.

Other districts reporting fresh cases were Nalanda (93), Muzaffarpur (68), Siwan (63), Bhagalpur (55), Bhojpur (54) and West Champaran (53). In terms of total number of COVID-19 cases, Patna is followed by Bhagalpur (1,318), Begusarai (1,014), Muzaffarpur (968) and Siwan (919).

Altogether, 14,101 people have recovered so far. The state's recovery rate is 65.41 per cent, a drop of more than 10 per cent points in a week.

More than 5,000 cases have been added to the state's tally in the last four days.

In view of a rapid spurt in cases, a 16-day complete lockdown came into force across the state on Thursday.

Meanwhile, at a high-level meeting to review the situation, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed satisfaction over the state achieving the target of 10,000 tests per day.

He, however, asked Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar to raise the testing capacity to 20,000 tests per day.

He said the state's recovery rate was still better than the national average and urged people to avoid panic but remain vigilant and observe norms like wearing of masks and maintaining physical distance.

State minister Ashok Choudhary, addressing a webinar on how Bihar was tackling the pandemic, said the recent spurt in the state's COVID tally came in the backdrop of an unprecedented spike on the national level.

"We were ready for the challenges as scientists had predicted a sharp rise in July," he said.

Bihar reported 10 more coronavirus-related deaths and 1,385 fresh cases on Thursday, taking the number of infections in the state to 21,558, the state health department said.

Bihar reported 10 more coronavirus-related deaths and 1,385 fresh cases on Thursday, taking the number of infections in the state to 21,558, the state health department said. In the last 24 hours, four fresh deaths were reported in Patna district, followed by two in Muzaffarpur and one each in Bhagalpur, Gaya, East Champaran and Purnea. Also read | Bihar to impose 15-day lockdown to curb surge in COVID-19 cases The new fatalities have taken the toll to 167, with Patna accounting for the highest number of 27 deaths, followed by Bhagalpur (14), Darbhanga and Gaya (10 each), Muzaffarpur (eight) and Begusarai, Nalanda, East Champaran and Samastipur (seven each) among others. Patna district reported its biggest single-day spike of 378 cases, raising the total number of those infected to 2,880, according to a bulletin issued by the state health department. The district, which also covers the state capital, has an alarmingly high number of 1,315 active cases, the bulletin said. Other districts reporting fresh cases were Nalanda (93), Muzaffarpur (68), Siwan (63), Bhagalpur (55), Bhojpur (54) and West Champaran (53). In terms of total number of COVID-19 cases, Patna is followed by Bhagalpur (1,318), Begusarai (1,014), Muzaffarpur (968) and Siwan (919). Altogether, 14,101 people have recovered so far. The state's recovery rate is 65.41 per cent, a drop of more than 10 per cent points in a week. More than 5,000 cases have been added to the state's tally in the last four days. In view of a rapid spurt in cases, a 16-day complete lockdown came into force across the state on Thursday. Meanwhile, at a high-level meeting to review the situation, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed satisfaction over the state achieving the target of 10,000 tests per day. He, however, asked Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar to raise the testing capacity to 20,000 tests per day. He said the state's recovery rate was still better than the national average and urged people to avoid panic but remain vigilant and observe norms like wearing of masks and maintaining physical distance. State minister Ashok Choudhary, addressing a webinar on how Bihar was tackling the pandemic, said the recent spurt in the state's COVID tally came in the backdrop of an unprecedented spike on the national level. "We were ready for the challenges as scientists had predicted a sharp rise in July," he said.

Bihar's COVID-19 tally reaches 21,558 with over 1,000 new cases

Seven persons died due to lightning in Bihar on Tuesday, state Disaster Management Department said. 
 
Three persons died in Begusarai and one each in Bhagalpur, Munger, Kaimur and Jamui.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/climate-change-fuelling-deadly-india-lightning-strikes-310899" hreflang="en">Climate change 'fuelling deadly India lightning strikes'</a> 
 
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds have been predicted for Bihar by Indian Meteorological Department for the next few days. 
 
IMD said in its evening bulletin that moderate to intense thunderstorm and lightning is "very likely" to occur over Uttrakhand, Uttar Pradesh, coastal Karnataka, north coastal Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands during the next 12 hours.

Seven persons died due to lightning in Bihar on Tuesday, state Disaster Management Department said. Three persons died in Begusarai and one each in Bhagalpur, Munger, Kaimur and Jamui.

Seven persons died due to lightning in Bihar on Tuesday, state Disaster Management Department said. Three persons died in Begusarai and one each in Bhagalpur, Munger, Kaimur and Jamui. Also read: Climate change 'fuelling deadly India lightning strikes' Heavy rainfall, thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds have been predicted for Bihar by Indian Meteorological Department for the next few days. IMD said in its evening bulletin that moderate to intense thunderstorm and lightning is "very likely" to occur over Uttrakhand, Uttar Pradesh, coastal Karnataka, north coastal Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands during the next 12 hours.

Lightning kills 7 in Bihar

Bihar Special Branch has issued a high alert to all districts in the state after a warning was issued regarding possible terrorists from Taliban and Jaish-e-Mohammad entering the state through the Nepal border.

It is learnt that the ISI has formulated a plan to send about 5-6 Taliban and Jaish terrorists, trained by the Pakistan army, through the Nepal border into the state.

"As per an input, a threatening email was received on NIA control room indicating a hit list having names of Hon`ble Union Home Minister and other BJP Leaders. Please keep a lookout for the movements of Kashmiri terrorists, Muslim Fundamentalists ie Jaish-e-Mohomed, Al Qaeda and all Pakistan, Taliban, Afganistan, Jihad, terrorist organisation, Islamic Terrorist Organisation, Left-wing extremist elements, and North-eastern Insurgent Groups, All India Security Suspect and Rabid Communalists who could threaten the security of the VVIP," read the alert.

"Requested to keep a close watch in your jurisdiction from now onwards till the VVIP visits are over. A watch would also be required individuals who have come to notice for addressing threatening letters to VVIP and those noticed moving under suspicious circumstances near VVIP locations," it added.

Local police authorities may also be sensitised to such threats, the order stated.

Bihar Special Branch has issued a high alert to all districts in the state after a warning was issued regarding possible terrorists from Taliban and Jaish-e-Mohammad entering the state through the Nepal border.

Bihar Special Branch has issued a high alert to all districts in the state after a warning was issued regarding possible terrorists from Taliban and Jaish-e-Mohammad entering the state through the Nepal border. It is learnt that the ISI has formulated a plan to send about 5-6 Taliban and Jaish terrorists, trained by the Pakistan army, through the Nepal border into the state. "As per an input, a threatening email was received on NIA control room indicating a hit list having names of Hon`ble Union Home Minister and other BJP Leaders. Please keep a lookout for the movements of Kashmiri terrorists, Muslim Fundamentalists ie Jaish-e-Mohomed, Al Qaeda and all Pakistan, Taliban, Afganistan, Jihad, terrorist organisation, Islamic Terrorist Organisation, Left-wing extremist elements, and North-eastern Insurgent Groups, All India Security Suspect and Rabid Communalists who could threaten the security of the VVIP," read the alert. "Requested to keep a close watch in your jurisdiction from now onwards till the VVIP visits are over. A watch would also be required individuals who have come to notice for addressing threatening letters to VVIP and those noticed moving under suspicious circumstances near VVIP locations," it added. Local police authorities may also be sensitised to such threats, the order stated.

Bihar on high alert over possible terrorist intrusion through Nepal border

J&K cadre IAS officer Navin Choudhary from Bihar has been granted domicile certificate of Jammu and Kashmir.

IAS officer Navin Choudhary granted domicile certificate in J&K

As many as 22 people have died due to thunderstorms in Bihar in the last 24 hours, the State Disaster Management Department informed.

RK Jenamani, Senior Scientist, IMD, said, "Over the next three days, heavy to very heavy rainfall warning has been given to Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. There are also chances of flooding so we have informed State and the central government."

The Nitish Kumar-led government in the state had earlier asked the district authorities to take "suitable precautionary measures" as the rain may result in the "inundation of low lying areas."&nbsp;

As many as 22 people have died due to thunderstorms in Bihar in the last 24 hours, the State Disaster Management Department informed. RK Jenamani, Senior Scientist, IMD, said, "Over the next three days, heavy to very heavy rainfall warning has been given to Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim.

As many as 22 people have died due to thunderstorms in Bihar in the last 24 hours, the State Disaster Management Department informed. RK Jenamani, Senior Scientist, IMD, said, "Over the next three days, heavy to very heavy rainfall warning has been given to Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. There are also chances of flooding so we have informed State and the central government." The Nitish Kumar-led government in the state had earlier asked the district authorities to take "suitable precautionary measures" as the rain may result in the "inundation of low lying areas."

22 casualties due to thunderstorms in Bihar in 24 hours

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a massive rural public works scheme, the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan. After Modi flagging off the Abhiyan from village Telihar in Bihar's Khagaria district via video-conferencing, Modi said that the country was proud of the sacrifice made by ''our braves'' in Ladakh.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a massive rural public works scheme, the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan. After Modi flagging off the Abhiyan from village Telihar in Bihar's Khagaria district via video-conferencing, Modi said that the country was proud of the sacrifice made by ''our braves'' in Ladakh. ''Today when I am speaking to people of Bihar, I will say the valour was of Bihar Regiment, every Bihari is proud of it. I pay tributes to the braves who laid down their lives for the nation,'' Modi said. ''My labourer friends, the country understands your emotions and needs. 'Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan' starting from Khagaria, Bihar is a major tool to fulfil this need and emotion,'' the prime minister said. On coronavirus, he said the virus is a huge menace, the whole world has been shaken by it but the way India's villages have fought corona, it has taught a lesson even to the cities. The massive rural public works scheme `Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan` is aimed at empowering and providing livelihood opportunities to the returnee migrant workers and rural citizens. The campaign of 125 days across 116 districts in 6 states aims to work in mission mode to help migrant workers. It will involve intensified and focused implementation of 25 different types of works to provide jobs and create infrastructure in the rural regions of the country with a resource envelope of Rs 50,000 crore, the PMO office had said.

PM Modi launches massive rural public works scheme 'Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan'

One Indian died, three injured after Nepal police fired on them at the Indo-Nepal border. According to a local eyewitness account, a group of Indians farming in the area were fired upon. Sashastra Seema Bal IG of Bihar sector has confirmed the development.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/nepal/nepals-parliament-likely-to-vote-on-new-map-on-saturday-305229">Nepal's Parliament likely to vote on new map on Saturday</a>

Nepali forces said they restored to firing after Indians were trying to cross the Indo-Nepal border. One injured has been taken away by Nepal police. Nepal's Armed Police Force (APF) Personnel at Narayanpur, Sarlahi border claimed that clashes erupted after a group of Indian nationals "forcefully" tried to enter Nepal via the border point.

Nepali media reports claimed that APF personnel fired at least ten shots in the air to disperse the Indians.&nbsp;

The incident has come at a time of increased border row between India and Nepal. Nepali govt last month issued a new map showing Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura as its own irking New Delhi. On Saturday, the Nepali parliament will vote on the amendment of Nepal map in the coat of arms which is expected to deepen the row.

Meanwhile, massive protests have been happening against PM Oli in the country over lack of ability to contain the COVID crisis and corruption. Demonstrators have been asking resignation of PM Oli.

 
 
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One Indian died, three injured after Nepal police fired on them at the Indo-Nepal border. According to a local eyewitness account, a group of Indians farming in the area were fired upon.

One Indian died, three injured after Nepal police fired on them at the Indo-Nepal border. According to a local eyewitness account, a group of Indians farming in the area were fired upon. Sashastra Seema Bal IG of Bihar sector has confirmed the development. Also read | Nepal's Parliament likely to vote on new map on Saturday Nepali forces said they restored to firing after Indians were trying to cross the Indo-Nepal border. One injured has been taken away by Nepal police. Nepal's Armed Police Force (APF) Personnel at Narayanpur, Sarlahi border claimed that clashes erupted after a group of Indian nationals "forcefully" tried to enter Nepal via the border point. Nepali media reports claimed that APF personnel fired at least ten shots in the air to disperse the Indians. The incident has come at a time of increased border row between India and Nepal. Nepali govt last month issued a new map showing Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura as its own irking New Delhi. On Saturday, the Nepali parliament will vote on the amendment of Nepal map in the coat of arms which is expected to deepen the row. Meanwhile, massive protests have been happening against PM Oli in the country over lack of ability to contain the COVID crisis and corruption. Demonstrators have been asking resignation of PM Oli.

One Indian killed in firing by Nepal forces at Indo-Nepal border

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, requesting her to release Rs 7,434 crore grants, recommended by the 15th Finance Commission, within this quarter of the current fiscal amid declining state revenue due to coronavirus lockdown.&nbsp;

He requested her to release Rs 5, 018 crores for panchayat raj institutions and Rs 2,416 crore for urban local bodies for the financial year 2020-21, as per the recommendation of the Finance Commission, according to news agency PTI.

If the amount is released in the first quarter of the fiscal, it will be helpful for the government to implement piped drinking water project and drainage scheme, the state finance minister wrote in the letter.

The deputy chief minister also urged the Centre to extend funds for payment of salaries of the university teachers and the central share of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan.

An amount of Rs 2,499 crore under the SSA programme will be spent to pay salaries of contractual teachers in the first quarter.

Besides, around Rs 999 crore will be used towards salary payment to university teachers in this April-June quarter, the state finance minister said.

He said an amount of Rs 767 crore has already been paid to universities for salary payment, as per the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission.

According to the guidelines laid down by the UGC, 50 per cent of it has to be borne by the central government, he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, requesting her to release Rs 7,434 crore grants, recommended by the 15th Finance Commission, within this quarter of the current fiscal amid declining state revenue due to coronavirus lockdown.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, requesting her to release Rs 7,434 crore grants, recommended by the 15th Finance Commission, within this quarter of the current fiscal amid declining state revenue due to coronavirus lockdown. He requested her to release Rs 5, 018 crores for panchayat raj institutions and Rs 2,416 crore for urban local bodies for the financial year 2020-21, as per the recommendation of the Finance Commission, according to news agency PTI. If the amount is released in the first quarter of the fiscal, it will be helpful for the government to implement piped drinking water project and drainage scheme, the state finance minister wrote in the letter. The deputy chief minister also urged the Centre to extend funds for payment of salaries of the university teachers and the central share of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. An amount of Rs 2,499 crore under the SSA programme will be spent to pay salaries of contractual teachers in the first quarter. Besides, around Rs 999 crore will be used towards salary payment to university teachers in this April-June quarter, the state finance minister said. He said an amount of Rs 767 crore has already been paid to universities for salary payment, as per the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission. According to the guidelines laid down by the UGC, 50 per cent of it has to be borne by the central government, he added. (With inputs from PTI)

Bihar deputy CM Sushil Modi writes to Sitharaman seeking grants for Bihar

A village in Bihar witnessed the world's highest peaks due to a drop in pollution levels amid the&nbsp;coronavirus lockdown.

People of Sitamarhi district saw snow-capped mountains from their plains. The head Panchayat Singhwahini, Ritu Jaiswal took to Twitter to share the photo.&nbsp;

The villagers claimed one of the peaks to be the mighty Mount Everest. The picture soon became a topic of discussion among the Twitteratis if it was the Everest or notp&nbsp;

Ritu Jaiswal shared a zoomed-in image of the Himalayan peak captioning it: "Nature is balancing itself." She also added that the Himalayan ranges are usually visible when the village experiences rain or clearer skies but it was for the first time that Everest was visible.&nbsp;

If seen geographically, the village district is situated in the Tirhut division, near India-Nepal border and according to Google Maps, the distance between Mt. Everest and Sitamarhi is 205 kilometres whereas the aerial distance is approximately 194 km.&nbsp;

The picture sparked a debate between the netizens and Ritu Jaiswal.&nbsp;

Earlier, People of Saharanpur witnessed snow-capped mountains of Himalayas. Indian Forest Services (IFS) officer Ramesh Pandey took to Twitter to share the photos of snow peaks of Gangotri visible from a house.&nbsp;

He wrote: "Snow-capped peaks of Himalaya are now visible from Saharanpur! Lockdown and intermittent rains have significantly improved the AQI. These pictures were taken by Dushyant, an Income Tax inspector, from his house at Vasant Vihar colony on Monday evening."

A village in Bihar witnessed the world's highest peaks due to a drop in pollution levels amid the coronavirus lockdown. People of Sitamarhi district saw snow-capped mountains from their plains.

A village in Bihar witnessed the world's highest peaks due to a drop in pollution levels amid the coronavirus lockdown. People of Sitamarhi district saw snow-capped mountains from their plains. The head Panchayat Singhwahini, Ritu Jaiswal took to Twitter to share the photo. The villagers claimed one of the peaks to be the mighty Mount Everest. The picture soon became a topic of discussion among the Twitteratis if it was the Everest or notp Ritu Jaiswal shared a zoomed-in image of the Himalayan peak captioning it: "Nature is balancing itself." She also added that the Himalayan ranges are usually visible when the village experiences rain or clearer skies but it was for the first time that Everest was visible. If seen geographically, the village district is situated in the Tirhut division, near India-Nepal border and according to Google Maps, the distance between Mt. Everest and Sitamarhi is 205 kilometres whereas the aerial distance is approximately 194 km. The picture sparked a debate between the netizens and Ritu Jaiswal. Earlier, People of Saharanpur witnessed snow-capped mountains of Himalayas. Indian Forest Services (IFS) officer Ramesh Pandey took to Twitter to share the photos of snow peaks of Gangotri visible from a house. He wrote: "Snow-capped peaks of Himalaya are now visible from Saharanpur! Lockdown and intermittent rains have significantly improved the AQI. These pictures were taken by Dushyant, an Income Tax inspector, from his house at Vasant Vihar colony on Monday evening."

Amid coronavirus lockdown, village in Bihar witness Mount Everest from rooftops

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