A&nbsp;38-year-old man with travel history to Qatar succumbed to COVID-19&nbsp;at the AIIMS in Patna, hospital superintendent CM Singh said.

Saif Ali (38), a resident of Munger district in Bihar, was admitted to the hospital with kidney ailment on Friday, he said.

However, doctors noticed that he was also suffering from respiratory problems, following which they sent his swab samples to the Rajendra Memorial Research Institute (RMRI), Patna.

Ali, who was on dialysis, died on Saturday night, but his COVID-19 test results from RMRI came only on Sunday morning, Singh said.

Ali is the first case of COVID-19 death in Bihar.

Six more patients in AIIMS, suspected to have contracted the disease, are currently awaiting their test results from RMRI, he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

A 38-year-old man with travel history to Qatar succumbed to COVID-19 at the AIIMS in Patna, hospital superintendent CM Singh said. Saif Ali (38), a resident of Munger district in Bihar, was admitted to the hospital with kidney ailment on Friday, he said.

A 38-year-old man with travel history to Qatar succumbed to COVID-19 at the AIIMS in Patna, hospital superintendent CM Singh said. Saif Ali (38), a resident of Munger district in Bihar, was admitted to the hospital with kidney ailment on Friday, he said. However, doctors noticed that he was also suffering from respiratory problems, following which they sent his swab samples to the Rajendra Memorial Research Institute (RMRI), Patna. Ali, who was on dialysis, died on Saturday night, but his COVID-19 test results from RMRI came only on Sunday morning, Singh said. Ali is the first case of COVID-19 death in Bihar. Six more patients in AIIMS, suspected to have contracted the disease, are currently awaiting their test results from RMRI, he added. (With inputs from PTI)

First COVID-19 death in Bihar: Man with travel history to Qatar dies in Patna

Pushpam Priya Choudhary, the daughter of former Janata Dal-United MLC Vinod Chaudhary has declared herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" for the Assembly elections in Bihar.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-re-elected-as-jdu-president-unopposed-254079">&nbsp;Bihar CM Nitish Kumar re-elected as JDU president unopposed</a>

Priya, who belongs to Darbhanga but lives in London, announced the same in full-page advertisements which appeared in several Hindi and English newspapers in Bihar on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-deputy-cm-sushil-modi-refuses-to-answer-questions-on-deaths-due-to-encephalitis-in-conference-228669">Bihar Deputy CM Sushil Modi refuses to answer questions on deaths due to Encephalitis in conference</a>

The advertisement mentioned her as president, Plurals, and the CM Candidate, Bihar. Currently, Bihar is ruled by BJP-JDU-LJP coalition headed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-defends-presidents-rule-in-maharashtra-262046">&nbsp;Bihar CM Nitish Kumar defends President's rule in Maharashtra</a>

Pushpam Priya Choudhary, the daughter of former Janata Dal-United MLC Vinod Chaudhary has declared herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" for the Assembly elections in Bihar.

Pushpam Priya Choudhary, the daughter of former Janata Dal-United MLC Vinod Chaudhary has declared herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" for the Assembly elections in Bihar. Also read: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar re-elected as JDU president unopposed Priya, who belongs to Darbhanga but lives in London, announced the same in full-page advertisements which appeared in several Hindi and English newspapers in Bihar on Sunday. Also read: Bihar Deputy CM Sushil Modi refuses to answer questions on deaths due to Encephalitis in conference The advertisement mentioned her as president, Plurals, and the CM Candidate, Bihar. Currently, Bihar is ruled by BJP-JDU-LJP coalition headed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Also read: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar defends President's rule in Maharashtra

London-based woman declares herself 'CM candidate' for Bihar Assembly polls

After Pushpam Priya Choudhary declared herself as Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, former Janata Dal (United) MLC Vinod Choudhary clarified that the party is not supporting her decision as she is challenging the top leadership.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/london-based-woman-declares-herself-cm-candidate-for-bihar-assembly-polls-285184">London-based woman declares herself 'CM candidate' for Bihar Assembly polls</a>

It is her decision to declare herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" and she is educated enough to decide for herself," Vinod Chaudhary told reporters here.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-nitish-kumars-jdu-expelled-prashant-kishor-and-pavan-varma-277573">Why Nitish Kumar's JD(U) expelled Prashant Kishor and Pavan Varma</a>

When asked about the support from the party, Chaudhary said, "Why will the party support me. They have no right to support. My daughter is challenging the top leaders of the party."

Pushpam Priya Choudhary, daughter of Vinod Chaudhary had on Sunday declared herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" for the Assembly elections in Bihar.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-in-a-first-lalu-prasad-yadav-led-rjd-draw-a-blank-in-bihar-221152">Lok Sabha election result 2019: In a first, Lalu Prasad Yadav led-RJD draw a blank in Bihar</a>

Priya, who belongs to Darbhanga but lives in London, announced the same in full-page advertisements that appeared in several Hindi and English newspapers in Bihar on Sunday.

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A poster of Janata Dal (United) leader Vinod Choudhary's daughter Pushpam Priya Choudhary declaring her as 'CM Candidate <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> 2020' put up in Patna. <a href="https://t.co/GQ43EVhXUm">https://t.co/GQ43EVhXUm</a> <a href="https://t.co/n8qlUqNyUB">pic.twitter.com/n8qlUqNyUB</a>
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&nbsp;

Priya mentioned herself as the president of plurals and the CM candidate in the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections. Currently, Bihar is ruled by the BJP-JDU-LJP coalition headed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;

After Pushpam Priya Choudhary declared herself as Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, former Janata Dal (United) MLC Vinod Choudhary clarified that the party is not supporting her decision as she is challenging the top leadership.

After Pushpam Priya Choudhary declared herself as Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, former Janata Dal (United) MLC Vinod Choudhary clarified that the party is not supporting her decision as she is challenging the top leadership. Also read: London-based woman declares herself 'CM candidate' for Bihar Assembly polls It is her decision to declare herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" and she is educated enough to decide for herself," Vinod Chaudhary told reporters here. Also read: Why Nitish Kumar's JD(U) expelled Prashant Kishor and Pavan Varma When asked about the support from the party, Chaudhary said, "Why will the party support me. They have no right to support. My daughter is challenging the top leaders of the party." Pushpam Priya Choudhary, daughter of Vinod Chaudhary had on Sunday declared herself as the "Chief Ministerial candidate" for the Assembly elections in Bihar. Also read: Lok Sabha election result 2019: In a first, Lalu Prasad Yadav led-RJD draw a blank in Bihar Priya, who belongs to Darbhanga but lives in London, announced the same in full-page advertisements that appeared in several Hindi and English newspapers in Bihar on Sunday. A poster of Janata Dal (United) leader Vinod Choudhary's daughter Pushpam Priya Choudhary declaring her as 'CM Candidate #Bihar 2020' put up in Patna. https://t.co/GQ43EVhXUm pic.twitter.com/n8qlUqNyUB — ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2020 × Priya mentioned herself as the president of plurals and the CM candidate in the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections. Currently, Bihar is ruled by the BJP-JDU-LJP coalition headed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

JDU not supporting my daughter as she is challenging top leaders, says Vinod Chaudhary

Firing continues against the ongoing Anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) protests in the capital Delhi. In a third such incident, a gunshot was fired again outside the Jamia Millia Islamia University in south Delhi on Sunday night. Two suspects of firing, one of whom was wearing a red jacket, came on a scooter and fired outside gate number 5. The Jamia Coordination Committee, which is participating in the protest against the amended citizenship law, said no one was injured in the incident.

Jamia, Delhi: Second shooting on Anti-CAA protesters in less than a week

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/refusal-to-take-part-in-npr-by-any-state-or-official-against-constitution-sushil-kumar-modi-272212">Sushil Modi</a> on Sunday accused the opposition parties of spreading myth among Muslims about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-protests-meerut-administration-issues-notice-to-134-people-272279">Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)</a>. 
 
"Congress, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hemant-soren-takes-oath-as-jharkhand-chief-minister-270844">Rashtriya Janata Dal</a> (RJD) and other opposition parties have spread myth among the Muslim community about the CAA," the BJP leader told a gathering. 
 
He said that some clerics, who are staunch opposer of Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-lauds-pm-narendra-modi-for-giving-pace-to-ndrf-271707">Narendra Modi</a>, also instilled fear among Muslims. 
 
"They said that Muslims will be thrown out of India after the implementation of this Act, but the people have now started understanding their lie. That is why the protests against the CAA have died down now," he said. 
 
The event was a part of the BJP's massive public outreach programme on the citizenship law, which grants citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who arrived in India until 2014.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi on Sunday accused the opposition parties of spreading myth among Muslims about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). "Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other opposition parties have spread myth among the Muslim community about the CAA," the BJP leader told a gathering.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi on Sunday accused the opposition parties of spreading myth among Muslims about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). "Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other opposition parties have spread myth among the Muslim community about the CAA," the BJP leader told a gathering. He said that some clerics, who are staunch opposer of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also instilled fear among Muslims. "They said that Muslims will be thrown out of India after the implementation of this Act, but the people have now started understanding their lie. That is why the protests against the CAA have died down now," he said. The event was a part of the BJP's massive public outreach programme on the citizenship law, which grants citizenship to non-Muslim refugees of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who arrived in India until 2014.

Sushil Modi: 'Opposition parties spreading myth among Muslims about CAA'

By Mallika Singh&nbsp;

NITI Aayog on Monday released its latest SDG India Index 2019, assessing each state and Union Territory’s progress on the sustainable development goals (SDG) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Kerala retained its rank as the top-performing state in the country by being a front runner with a score of 70, while Chandigarh also retained its top spot among the Union Territories with the same net score.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Goa and Sikkim were the other states that achieved above 65 points, taking the total tally to eight with Sikkim showing the highest improvement among them by jumping from 58 to 65 points.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Bihar performed the lowest on the report with a score of 50 even after graduating as a performer, followed by Jharkhand and Arunachal Pradesh with a score of 53. While Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir shared the bottom spot at the list for Union Territories with 59 points each.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Uttar Pradesh marked as the highest gainer for increasing its overall score from 42 in 2018 to 55 in 2019 while observing the biggest improvement in Goal 7 of attaining affordable and clean energy by jumping by 40 points.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Odisha took the second spot in overall improvement, with an increase of 7 points, from 51 to 58 and Sikkim came in third with an improvement from a score of 58 to 65. 
&nbsp; 
India’s overall score improved from 57 to 60 this year, indicating the country’s progress in achieving the goals. However, the report urged special attention to the goals of attaining zero hunger and gender equality, where most states fall short, with India scoring 35 and 42 points in these goals respectively.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The report attributed the significant improvement in Goal 6 to the successful implementation of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan which is aimed at eliminating open defecation, and that of Goal 7 to extensive coverage of LPG for households and saturation of electricity connections.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“Two goals – 2 (zero hunger) and 5 (gender equality) demand special attention, as the overall country score is below 50,” the report said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
SDGs signify global aspirations and efforts to push the frontiers of development. They represent the agenda for governments to achieve social, economic and environmental progress&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“It is now universally acknowledged that the SDGs represent an elaborate agenda for governments, that necessitates achieving progress simultaneously across social, economic and environmental pillars,” said the report.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
India holds the global key to the achievement of SDGs that are intended to be achieved by 2030, due to its vast population that incorporates 17 per cent of the world’s population. According to the report, it is conducive for the country to come up with innovative solutions to solve the problems it presently faces, says the report.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“Today, the country faces multiple challenges in several sectors of development, be it health, nutrition, education, sanitation and infrastructure. However, these challenges also make India conducive for developing innovative solutions to address them and also provide a useful lens for solving similar problems in other parts of the world,” said the report.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
To evaluate the overall progress of India in the mentioned frontiers, the federal structure of the country makes it imperative for the report to assess the individual advancement made by all States and Union Territories as they are best placed to put people first and are essential stakeholders in the realisation of the goals.

By Mallika Singh NITI Aayog on Monday released its latest SDG India Index 2019, assessing each state and Union Territory’s progress on the sustainable development goals (SDG) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015.

By Mallika Singh NITI Aayog on Monday released its latest SDG India Index 2019, assessing each state and Union Territory’s progress on the sustainable development goals (SDG) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015. Kerala retained its rank as the top-performing state in the country by being a front runner with a score of 70, while Chandigarh also retained its top spot among the Union Territories with the same net score. Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Goa and Sikkim were the other states that achieved above 65 points, taking the total tally to eight with Sikkim showing the highest improvement among them by jumping from 58 to 65 points. Bihar performed the lowest on the report with a score of 50 even after graduating as a performer, followed by Jharkhand and Arunachal Pradesh with a score of 53. While Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir shared the bottom spot at the list for Union Territories with 59 points each. Uttar Pradesh marked as the highest gainer for increasing its overall score from 42 in 2018 to 55 in 2019 while observing the biggest improvement in Goal 7 of attaining affordable and clean energy by jumping by 40 points. Odisha took the second spot in overall improvement, with an increase of 7 points, from 51 to 58 and Sikkim came in third with an improvement from a score of 58 to 65. India’s overall score improved from 57 to 60 this year, indicating the country’s progress in achieving the goals. However, the report urged special attention to the goals of attaining zero hunger and gender equality, where most states fall short, with India scoring 35 and 42 points in these goals respectively. The report attributed the significant improvement in Goal 6 to the successful implementation of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan which is aimed at eliminating open defecation, and that of Goal 7 to extensive coverage of LPG for households and saturation of electricity connections. “Two goals – 2 (zero hunger) and 5 (gender equality) demand special attention, as the overall country score is below 50,” the report said. SDGs signify global aspirations and efforts to push the frontiers of development. They represent the agenda for governments to achieve social, economic and environmental progress “It is now universally acknowledged that the SDGs represent an elaborate agenda for governments, that necessitates achieving progress simultaneously across social, economic and environmental pillars,” said the report. India holds the global key to the achievement of SDGs that are intended to be achieved by 2030, due to its vast population that incorporates 17 per cent of the world’s population. According to the report, it is conducive for the country to come up with innovative solutions to solve the problems it presently faces, says the report. “Today, the country faces multiple challenges in several sectors of development, be it health, nutrition, education, sanitation and infrastructure. However, these challenges also make India conducive for developing innovative solutions to address them and also provide a useful lens for solving similar problems in other parts of the world,” said the report. To evaluate the overall progress of India in the mentioned frontiers, the federal structure of the country makes it imperative for the report to assess the individual advancement made by all States and Union Territories as they are best placed to put people first and are essential stakeholders in the realisation of the goals.

Kerala retains top spot in SDG Index, Bihar ranks last: NITI Aayog

Amid the war of words between Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-change-in-leadership-nitish-to-remain-captain-sushil-modi-248999">Sushil Kumar Modi</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/congress-rashtriya-janata-dal-will-push-21st-century-india-into-darkness-pm-modi-in-bihar-218694">Janata Dal</a> (United) vice president Prashant Kishor, state Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday clarified that "all was well" between the two alliance partners in the state.

"All is well, there is no problem," Kumar told ANI in response to a question on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-2019-polls-bjp-jdu-clash-over-seat-sharing-in-bihar-147101">BJP-JDU alliance</a> in Bihar.

The remarks by JD(U) Chief comes after his party's senior leader blazed gun over the alliance by asserting that his party was the senior partner in the alliance and must get more seats. 
Late state's Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi criticised Kishor for his statement and said that the 2020 Assembly elections will be fought under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar.

Responding to the statement, Kishor outlined that in Bihar, Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-re-elected-as-jdu-president-unopposed-254079">Nitish Kumar</a>'s leadership and the role of JU(U) as the biggest party in the 2015 elections were decided by the people of Bihar and not by the leadership of another party or top leadership.

Amid the war of words between Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi and Janata Dal (United) vice president Prashant Kishor, state Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday clarified that "all was well" between the two alliance partners in the state.

Amid the war of words between Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi and Janata Dal (United) vice president Prashant Kishor, state Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday clarified that "all was well" between the two alliance partners in the state. "All is well, there is no problem," Kumar told ANI in response to a question on the BJP-JDU alliance in Bihar. The remarks by JD(U) Chief comes after his party's senior leader blazed gun over the alliance by asserting that his party was the senior partner in the alliance and must get more seats. Late state's Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi criticised Kishor for his statement and said that the 2020 Assembly elections will be fought under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar. Responding to the statement, Kishor outlined that in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's leadership and the role of JU(U) as the biggest party in the 2015 elections were decided by the people of Bihar and not by the leadership of another party or top leadership.

All is well, says Nitish Kumar on BJP-JDU alliance in Bihar

At least four people were killed and five others injured in a boiler blast that took place in East Champaran of Bihar on Saturday. 
 
The incident took place while the workers were preparing a mid-day meal for several schools in an NGO's kitchen in Sugauli, early morning today. 
 
The injured have been shifted to Sugauli Primary Health Centre hospital for the treatment. One of the victims was referred to Muzzafarpur hospital as his condition was critical. 
 
Minutes after the incident, the officials reached the spot and started the rescue and relief operation. 
 
More details in this regard are awaited.

At least four people were killed and five others injured in a boiler blast that took place in East Champaran of Bihar on Saturday. The incident took place while the workers were preparing a mid-day meal for several schools in an NGO's kitchen in Sugauli, early morning today.

At least four people were killed and five others injured in a boiler blast that took place in East Champaran of Bihar on Saturday. The incident took place while the workers were preparing a mid-day meal for several schools in an NGO's kitchen in Sugauli, early morning today. The injured have been shifted to Sugauli Primary Health Centre hospital for the treatment. One of the victims was referred to Muzzafarpur hospital as his condition was critical. Minutes after the incident, the officials reached the spot and started the rescue and relief operation. More details in this regard are awaited.

Bihar: Boiler explosion in East Champaran kills four, injures five

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday defended the decision of President`s rule in Maharashtra saying that there were no other options left with Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari since no party was able to form the government in the state.

"When nobody is forming the government then what is the way out? Political parties in Maharashtra should see the matter. How does it concern us?" he told reporters when asked about the President`s rule in Maharashtra.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also condoled the death of mathematician Vashishtha Narayan Singh and called him the pride of Bihar.

74-year-old Singh passed away earlier in the day at Patna Medical College and Hospital.

Maharashtra came under President`s rule after the BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP indicated they were not willing to form a government. The NCP and Congress too had said they were not in an urgency to form government in the wake of the imposition of President`s Rule and said they will sort out all issues among themselves and their allies before talking to Shiv Sena.

Congress and NCP had fought the assembly polls together. BJP had emerged as the single-largest party with 105 seats and Shiv Sena had finished second with 56 seats in the 288-member assembly.&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday defended the decision of President`s rule in Maharashtra saying that there were no other options left with Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari since no party was able to form the government in the state.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday defended the decision of President`s rule in Maharashtra saying that there were no other options left with Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari since no party was able to form the government in the state. "When nobody is forming the government then what is the way out? Political parties in Maharashtra should see the matter. How does it concern us?" he told reporters when asked about the President`s rule in Maharashtra. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also condoled the death of mathematician Vashishtha Narayan Singh and called him the pride of Bihar. 74-year-old Singh passed away earlier in the day at Patna Medical College and Hospital. Maharashtra came under President`s rule after the BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP indicated they were not willing to form a government. The NCP and Congress too had said they were not in an urgency to form government in the wake of the imposition of President`s Rule and said they will sort out all issues among themselves and their allies before talking to Shiv Sena. Congress and NCP had fought the assembly polls together. BJP had emerged as the single-largest party with 105 seats and Shiv Sena had finished second with 56 seats in the 288-member assembly.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar defends President's rule in Maharashtra

"What can I say in this?" said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday as Shiv Sena exited the BJP-led NDA alliance in the Centre following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-governor-invites-shive-sena-to-stake-claim-in-government-formation-after-bjp-refuses-261219">differences over government</a> formation in Maharashtra.

He was responding to a question on the Shiv Sena-BJP tussle in Maharashtra after which Sena MP Arvind Sawant resigned from his ministerial post at the Centre.

Kumar, who is the president of Janata Dal (U) and a part of the NDA coalition, had earlier refused to be part of the government at the Centre over "proportional representation" in Cabinet.Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut hinted that his party may go with Congress and NCP stating that BJP is not following rotational chief ministers formula.He also took a jibe a Nitish Kumar.

"In Bihar, Nitish Kumar was also giving `BJP hatao` slogan...," he said.

Nitish Kumar is running the government in Bihar with the support of BJP.

He had earlier quit NDA ahead of 2015 Bihar Assembly polls later but later joined the alliance after breaking ties with Lalu Prasad-led RJD and the Congress in 2017.

"What can I say in this?" said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday as Shiv Sena exited the BJP-led NDA alliance in the Centre following differences over government formation in Maharashtra.

"What can I say in this?" said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday as Shiv Sena exited the BJP-led NDA alliance in the Centre following differences over government formation in Maharashtra. He was responding to a question on the Shiv Sena-BJP tussle in Maharashtra after which Sena MP Arvind Sawant resigned from his ministerial post at the Centre. Kumar, who is the president of Janata Dal (U) and a part of the NDA coalition, had earlier refused to be part of the government at the Centre over "proportional representation" in Cabinet.Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut hinted that his party may go with Congress and NCP stating that BJP is not following rotational chief ministers formula.He also took a jibe a Nitish Kumar. "In Bihar, Nitish Kumar was also giving `BJP hatao` slogan...," he said. Nitish Kumar is running the government in Bihar with the support of BJP. He had earlier quit NDA ahead of 2015 Bihar Assembly polls later but later joined the alliance after breaking ties with Lalu Prasad-led RJD and the Congress in 2017.

Nitish Kumar dodges question on Shiv Sena leaving NDA

Chirag Paswan was appointed as the Chief of Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) during the party`s national executive meeting on Tuesday. With this development, Chirag has replaced his father and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan as LJP president.

The decision comes ahead of the next Assembly elections in the state, the sources said.

Ram Vilas Paswan, the sources said, will be the party`s patron now. LJP, which mainly draws support from a section of the Dalit community is set to begin its membership campaign on its foundation day on November 28.

Chirag Paswan is a Member of Parliament from Jamui, Bihar.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Chirag Paswan was appointed as the Chief of Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) during the party`s national executive meeting on Tuesday. With this development, Chirag has replaced his father and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan as LJP president.

Chirag Paswan was appointed as the Chief of Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) during the party`s national executive meeting on Tuesday. With this development, Chirag has replaced his father and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan as LJP president. The decision comes ahead of the next Assembly elections in the state, the sources said. Ram Vilas Paswan, the sources said, will be the party`s patron now. LJP, which mainly draws support from a section of the Dalit community is set to begin its membership campaign on its foundation day on November 28. Chirag Paswan is a Member of Parliament from Jamui, Bihar.

Chirag Paswan appointed chief of LJP

The capital city of Bihar is still in the grip of waterlogging and water-borne diseases like dengue.

"For the past month, there has been water logging in Phulwari Sharif area. I met the Mayor and the Commissioner of the district but they are not doing anything," Arvind Kumar Pankaj, a local, told ANI.

"People are facing many problems. In every house, one person is suffering from disease," added Pankaj.

A total of 615 dengue cases have been reported in the city this year till October 17. School students are also facing the problem because of waterlogging.&nbsp;

Varsha, a student, said that she was not going to school for weeks because of the floodwater.

"This area is always waterlogged but from the past one month, the level of water has increased due to rainwater. The gutter holes are open. We are facing problems," said Dinanath Gupta, a resident said.

Several areas of the city were flooded by rainwater with Rajendra Nagar being one of the worst affected areas.Low-lying areas like Kankarbagh, Gardani Bagh, Dak Bungalow and SK Puri have also been affected severely.

As per the state`s Health Department, as many as 900 dengue cases have been reported from across the city since September.Heavy rains had claimed the lives of over 73 people in Bihar.

The capital city of Bihar is still in the grip of waterlogging and water-borne diseases like dengue. "For the past month, there has been water logging in Phulwari Sharif area.

The capital city of Bihar is still in the grip of waterlogging and water-borne diseases like dengue. "For the past month, there has been water logging in Phulwari Sharif area. I met the Mayor and the Commissioner of the district but they are not doing anything," Arvind Kumar Pankaj, a local, told ANI. "People are facing many problems. In every house, one person is suffering from disease," added Pankaj. A total of 615 dengue cases have been reported in the city this year till October 17. School students are also facing the problem because of waterlogging. Varsha, a student, said that she was not going to school for weeks because of the floodwater. "This area is always waterlogged but from the past one month, the level of water has increased due to rainwater. The gutter holes are open. We are facing problems," said Dinanath Gupta, a resident said. Several areas of the city were flooded by rainwater with Rajendra Nagar being one of the worst affected areas.Low-lying areas like Kankarbagh, Gardani Bagh, Dak Bungalow and SK Puri have also been affected severely. As per the state`s Health Department, as many as 900 dengue cases have been reported from across the city since September.Heavy rains had claimed the lives of over 73 people in Bihar.

Bihar: Waterlogging, water-borne diseases continue to haunt residents of Patna

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was on Sunday re-elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) unopposed for the next three years.

The last date of filing nomination for the post was October 5 and except the Bihar Chief Minister, no other leader had filed the nomination.

Speaking to ANI, national election officer of JD(U), Anil Hedge said, "On September 27, a notification was issued for the election to the post of JDU party president."

He said the last date for filing nomination was October 4.&nbsp;

"As till date, only Nitish Kumar has filed nominations and October 5 being the day for scrutiny and him being the only candidate for the post, therefore, I announced his election unopposed," he said.

The certificate for re-election as JDU president for Nitish Kumar was handed over to his representative Sanjay Kumar Singh, who is an MLC from Bihar, by Hedge at the party office in the national capital.

Bihar`s Water Resources Minister Sanjay Jha congratulated Kumar on his re-election and expressed the hope that under his guidance, the party will retain power in the elections.

"I congratulate Nitish Kumar on becoming the party president again. Under his leadership, the JDU will form government again in Bihar in 2020 and once again he will become the Chief Minister of the state," Jha told ANI here.

"Kumar is a visionary leader not only in Bihar but he is one of the best political figures in the country. I am proud to work under his leadership, " Jha added.

Under Kumar`s leadership, JDU bagged 16 out of the 17 Lok Sabha seats it contested in the 2019 general elections while 7 MLAs of the party won in the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly election.JDU is also planning to fight on all seats in the soon to be held Jharkhand and Delhi assembly elections.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was on Sunday re-elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) unopposed for the next three years. The last date of filing nomination for the post was October 5 and except the Bihar Chief Minister, no other leader had filed the nomination.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was on Sunday re-elected as the president of the Janata Dal (United) unopposed for the next three years. The last date of filing nomination for the post was October 5 and except the Bihar Chief Minister, no other leader had filed the nomination. Speaking to ANI, national election officer of JD(U), Anil Hedge said, "On September 27, a notification was issued for the election to the post of JDU party president." He said the last date for filing nomination was October 4. "As till date, only Nitish Kumar has filed nominations and October 5 being the day for scrutiny and him being the only candidate for the post, therefore, I announced his election unopposed," he said. The certificate for re-election as JDU president for Nitish Kumar was handed over to his representative Sanjay Kumar Singh, who is an MLC from Bihar, by Hedge at the party office in the national capital. Bihar`s Water Resources Minister Sanjay Jha congratulated Kumar on his re-election and expressed the hope that under his guidance, the party will retain power in the elections. "I congratulate Nitish Kumar on becoming the party president again. Under his leadership, the JDU will form government again in Bihar in 2020 and once again he will become the Chief Minister of the state," Jha told ANI here. "Kumar is a visionary leader not only in Bihar but he is one of the best political figures in the country. I am proud to work under his leadership, " Jha added. Under Kumar`s leadership, JDU bagged 16 out of the 17 Lok Sabha seats it contested in the 2019 general elections while 7 MLAs of the party won in the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly election.JDU is also planning to fight on all seats in the soon to be held Jharkhand and Delhi assembly elections.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar re-elected as JDU president unopposed

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday filed his nomination for Janata Dal-United (JDU) national president's post.

According to top party sources, on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-bjp-president-accuses-nitish-kumar-of-negligence-as-flood-death-toll-rises-to-42-253203">Nitish</a>'s behalf, his representative JDU MLC Sanjay Gandhi submitted nomination papers to party's national election officer Anil Hegde here.

Sources said that Kumar will be elected unopposed for the 'second time' to the post of JDU president.

In wake of the flood situation in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-death-toll-due-to-floods-rises-to-73-as-water-starts-to-recede-253405">Bihar</a>, Kumar did not go to Delhi to submit nomination papers, so his representatives have submitted nomination papers to the national election officer.

Today was the last day for submitting nomination papers for the top party post, which will be scrutinized on Saturday.

October 6 is the last day for withdrawal of nomination and the results will be announced on October 19.&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday filed his nomination for Janata Dal-United (JDU) national president's post. According to top party sources, on Nitish's behalf, his representative JDU MLC Sanjay Gandhi submitted nomination papers to party's national election officer Anil Hegde here.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday filed his nomination for Janata Dal-United (JDU) national president's post. According to top party sources, on Nitish's behalf, his representative JDU MLC Sanjay Gandhi submitted nomination papers to party's national election officer Anil Hegde here. Sources said that Kumar will be elected unopposed for the 'second time' to the post of JDU president. In wake of the flood situation in Bihar, Kumar did not go to Delhi to submit nomination papers, so his representatives have submitted nomination papers to the national election officer. Today was the last day for submitting nomination papers for the top party post, which will be scrutinized on Saturday. October 6 is the last day for withdrawal of nomination and the results will be announced on October 19.

Nitish Kumar files nomination for Janata Dal (United) national president's post

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have evacuated more than <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-deluge-orange-alert-in-patna-vaishali-begusarai-and-khagaria-253315">9,000 flood-affected people in Bihar </a>since September 28, said an official statement on Wednesday.

The teams are also helping district authorities in providing essential supplies like food, medicines, drinking water to the people through NDRF boats while 2 medical teams are providing medical assistance to needy.

"Flood situation is improving but few areas of Patna districts like Rajendra Nagar, Kankarbagh, Hanuman Nagar and Vaishali, Golambar are still submerged under 4-5 feet water. The NDRF has concentrated into the restoration of normalcy and relief distribution in these affected areas," NDRF said in the statement.

Watch: Floods in India - parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge

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According to the NDRF, 6 NDRF teams, equipped with 36 Inflatable Rubberised Boats (IRBs) and other flood rescue equipment are engaged in worst affected areas of the state capital.

"The teams carried out extensive evacuation with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Home Guards and other central and state agencies. Every effort has been made by NDRF rescuers to reach to every household and evacuate them to safer locations," NDRF said.

NDRF control rooms in New Delhi and Patna are also closely monitoring the situation.

 
&nbsp;

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have evacuated more than 9,000 flood-affected people in Bihar since September 28, said an official statement on Wednesday.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have evacuated more than 9,000 flood-affected people in Bihar since September 28, said an official statement on Wednesday. The teams are also helping district authorities in providing essential supplies like food, medicines, drinking water to the people through NDRF boats while 2 medical teams are providing medical assistance to needy. "Flood situation is improving but few areas of Patna districts like Rajendra Nagar, Kankarbagh, Hanuman Nagar and Vaishali, Golambar are still submerged under 4-5 feet water. The NDRF has concentrated into the restoration of normalcy and relief distribution in these affected areas," NDRF said in the statement. Watch: Floods in India - parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge × According to the NDRF, 6 NDRF teams, equipped with 36 Inflatable Rubberised Boats (IRBs) and other flood rescue equipment are engaged in worst affected areas of the state capital. "The teams carried out extensive evacuation with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Home Guards and other central and state agencies. Every effort has been made by NDRF rescuers to reach to every household and evacuate them to safer locations," NDRF said. NDRF control rooms in New Delhi and Patna are also closely monitoring the situation.

Bihar: NDRF evacuated over 9,000 flood-affected people since September 28

With Patna returning to normalcy, district magistrate on Thursday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-ndrf-evacuated-over-9000-flood-affected-people-since-september-28-253380">initiated fogging in different localities</a> of the city to prevent the likelihood of epidemics.

District Magistrate, Kumar Ravi told ANI, "We have started fogging in all the flood-affected areas and are especially in the regions that were waterlogged. Along with the fogging, we are also spraying bleach. We have distributed bleach powder packets to people to use it inside their homes."

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-death-toll-due-to-floods-rises-to-73-as-water-starts-to-recede-253405">death toll due to incessant rainfall</a> and floods in different parts of Bihar rose to 73, news agency ANI reported on Thursday. At least nine people are also reported to be injured.

The heavy downpour has caused flash flooding in the region and rescue operation is still undergoing.

The dirty rainwater has seeped into the houses of people making it difficult for the locals to move out of their houses.

Superintendent of Public Health Engineering Department told ANI, "Due to heavy downpour, the electric motor pumps are not working. These motors were being used to reduce the water level in the city. We have been carrying out the process of de-watering and will soon repair the machines too."

Locals were seen wading through knee-deep water clutching their belongings.

Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge

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Speaking to ANI, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Commandant, Vijay Sinha said, "We have rescued more than 10,000 people from their homes till now. The level of water in the city has come down comparatively. But still, the situation is not normal."

Whereas, the locals have different things to say about the relief measures taken by the government.

"Rainwater has entered our homes. We don't have access to clean drinking water and we are facing problems," a local resident of Patna, Pallavi Devi said.

"The way the roads are constructed here are adding to our problems. We need a permanent solution for this. We will face the same issues every year if these are not addressed. The dirty rainwater has entered our homes and I have even seen snakes in the water. So the environment for us here is getting dangerous," another local said.

With Patna returning to normalcy, district magistrate on Thursday initiated fogging in different localities of the city to prevent the likelihood of epidemics. District Magistrate, Kumar Ravi told ANI, "We have started fogging in all the flood-affected areas and are especially in the regions that were waterlogged.

With Patna returning to normalcy, district magistrate on Thursday initiated fogging in different localities of the city to prevent the likelihood of epidemics. District Magistrate, Kumar Ravi told ANI, "We have started fogging in all the flood-affected areas and are especially in the regions that were waterlogged. Along with the fogging, we are also spraying bleach. We have distributed bleach powder packets to people to use it inside their homes." The death toll due to incessant rainfall and floods in different parts of Bihar rose to 73, news agency ANI reported on Thursday. At least nine people are also reported to be injured. The heavy downpour has caused flash flooding in the region and rescue operation is still undergoing. The dirty rainwater has seeped into the houses of people making it difficult for the locals to move out of their houses. Superintendent of Public Health Engineering Department told ANI, "Due to heavy downpour, the electric motor pumps are not working. These motors were being used to reduce the water level in the city. We have been carrying out the process of de-watering and will soon repair the machines too." Locals were seen wading through knee-deep water clutching their belongings. Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge Speaking to ANI, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Commandant, Vijay Sinha said, "We have rescued more than 10,000 people from their homes till now. The level of water in the city has come down comparatively. But still, the situation is not normal." Whereas, the locals have different things to say about the relief measures taken by the government. "Rainwater has entered our homes. We don't have access to clean drinking water and we are facing problems," a local resident of Patna, Pallavi Devi said. "The way the roads are constructed here are adding to our problems. We need a permanent solution for this. We will face the same issues every year if these are not addressed. The dirty rainwater has entered our homes and I have even seen snakes in the water. So the environment for us here is getting dangerous," another local said.

Bihar floods: District magistrate initiates fogging in waterlogged areas of Patna

Even as Bihar continues to be under the deluge, an Orange Alert has been issued for Patna, Vaishali, Begusarai, and Khagaria districts for October 3 and 4, as these areas are expected to receive heavy rainfall.

People formed long queues to collect food packets and water bottles which were distributed by National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC) in Rajendra Nagar area here.

Meanwhile, to take stock of the situation, Ravi Shankar Prasad, the Union Minister and member Lok Sabha from Patna Sahib Constituency had also visited the flood-affected Rajendra Nagar area.

"I have visited all the areas of Kankarbag. The water has receded there to a great level. The biggest challenge is regarding health. Bleaching, fogging should be done...The administration is preparing a plan regarding that. As soon as the water level recedes, work will begin on it," said the Minister.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has rescued over ten thousand people from the state capital.

The rescue teams have been rowing people across the flooded streets in inflated boats from the past few days.

Five NDRF teams have been deployed in Patna`s Rajendra Nagar and Kankarbagh alone to assist people amid the flood situation.

Water had also entered the Kankarbagh Police Station.

Indian Air Force helicopters have also been dropping relief material to the flood-affected areas.

According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, 40 people have died in the state due to the floods so far. 
&nbsp;

Even as Bihar continues to be under the deluge, an Orange Alert has been issued for Patna, Vaishali, Begusarai, and Khagaria districts for October 3 and 4, as these areas are expected to receive heavy rainfall.

Even as Bihar continues to be under the deluge, an Orange Alert has been issued for Patna, Vaishali, Begusarai, and Khagaria districts for October 3 and 4, as these areas are expected to receive heavy rainfall. People formed long queues to collect food packets and water bottles which were distributed by National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC) in Rajendra Nagar area here. Meanwhile, to take stock of the situation, Ravi Shankar Prasad, the Union Minister and member Lok Sabha from Patna Sahib Constituency had also visited the flood-affected Rajendra Nagar area. "I have visited all the areas of Kankarbag. The water has receded there to a great level. The biggest challenge is regarding health. Bleaching, fogging should be done...The administration is preparing a plan regarding that. As soon as the water level recedes, work will begin on it," said the Minister. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has rescued over ten thousand people from the state capital. The rescue teams have been rowing people across the flooded streets in inflated boats from the past few days. Five NDRF teams have been deployed in Patna`s Rajendra Nagar and Kankarbagh alone to assist people amid the flood situation. Water had also entered the Kankarbagh Police Station. Indian Air Force helicopters have also been dropping relief material to the flood-affected areas. According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, 40 people have died in the state due to the floods so far.

Bihar deluge: Orange alert in Patna, Vaishali, Begusarai and Khagaria

The death toll due to incessant rainfall and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-waives-off-penalties-on-cancellation-refund-for-flights-to-and-from-patna-till-october-3-253086">floods in different parts of Bihar </a>rose to 42, officials said on Wednesday.

"Ganga river is on the rise in Bhagalpur. Kahalgaon belt has been affected badly. NDRF teams have been stationed there. Relief camps and community kitchens have also been set up. 42 deaths have been reported so far," Partyaya Amit, Principal Secretary of the State Disaster Management Department, told ANI.

Meanwhile, Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal attacked the Nitish Kumar-led government, accusing it of administrative negligence on dealing with the flood situation in Patna.

"I have been disturbed over the situation in Patna for the last three days. Although the rain stopped 24 hours ago, the waterlogging still persists. This shows that there has been administrative negligence," Jaiswal wrote on his Facebook post on Tuesday.

He said that the Bihar government should analyse the entire situation in the next 10 days and take action against erring officials.

Nitish Kumar on Tuesday visited the flood relief camps set up at Krishna Memorial Hall in Patna and said that all relief efforts are being made for the affected people in the city.

He also said that the state government has been dealing with everything to its best capability.

On Monday, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi and his family were bailed out by National and State Disaster Response Forces (NDRF) as they were stranded after flood-water burst into their house.

Five NDRF teams have been deployed in Rajendra Nagar and Kankarbagh areas of Patna to assist people facing difficulties while Indian Air Force helicopters are dropping relief material to the flood-affected areas of the state.

The NDRF has deployed 19 teams in 14 districts of Bihar and has evacuated more than 4,000 people including women, patients, children and elderly and shifted them to the safer places.

Many districts of Bihar, including state capital Patna, have been affected by floods triggered by incessant rainfall in the state recently.

The capital city has been witnessing acute waterlogging, with residents resorting to unusual modes of transportation in order to move from one place to another.

The death toll due to incessant rainfall and floods in different parts of Bihar rose to 42, officials said on Wednesday. "Ganga river is on the rise in Bhagalpur.

The death toll due to incessant rainfall and floods in different parts of Bihar rose to 42, officials said on Wednesday. "Ganga river is on the rise in Bhagalpur. Kahalgaon belt has been affected badly. NDRF teams have been stationed there. Relief camps and community kitchens have also been set up. 42 deaths have been reported so far," Partyaya Amit, Principal Secretary of the State Disaster Management Department, told ANI. Meanwhile, Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal attacked the Nitish Kumar-led government, accusing it of administrative negligence on dealing with the flood situation in Patna. "I have been disturbed over the situation in Patna for the last three days. Although the rain stopped 24 hours ago, the waterlogging still persists. This shows that there has been administrative negligence," Jaiswal wrote on his Facebook post on Tuesday. He said that the Bihar government should analyse the entire situation in the next 10 days and take action against erring officials. Nitish Kumar on Tuesday visited the flood relief camps set up at Krishna Memorial Hall in Patna and said that all relief efforts are being made for the affected people in the city. He also said that the state government has been dealing with everything to its best capability. On Monday, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi and his family were bailed out by National and State Disaster Response Forces (NDRF) as they were stranded after flood-water burst into their house. Five NDRF teams have been deployed in Rajendra Nagar and Kankarbagh areas of Patna to assist people facing difficulties while Indian Air Force helicopters are dropping relief material to the flood-affected areas of the state. The NDRF has deployed 19 teams in 14 districts of Bihar and has evacuated more than 4,000 people including women, patients, children and elderly and shifted them to the safer places. Many districts of Bihar, including state capital Patna, have been affected by floods triggered by incessant rainfall in the state recently. The capital city has been witnessing acute waterlogging, with residents resorting to unusual modes of transportation in order to move from one place to another.

Bihar: BJP president accuses Nitish Kumar of negligence as flood death toll rises to 42

Amid the worsening conditions in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-ndrf-teams-rescue-4000-from-flooded-areas-in-patna-death-toll-reaches-29-252878">Bihar due to floods</a> triggered by rains in which the death toll has climbed to 40 so far, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Tuesday said that four big pumps were being brought to Bihar to remove floodwater and accelerate relief work.

"I have cancelled my plans back at Delhi and will stay here for few more days. To speed up the relief work, I have asked for four big pumps that will reach here till afternoon. The pumps are of 2-3 tonnes and are very efficient," Prasad said while speaking to media here.

Today the union minister reiterated that the Centre will provide all support to the Bihar government to provide relief to people in Patna and other parts of the state, which has been battered by heavy rain and flooding.

On Monday, Prasad had said he had asked for additional pumps from Coal India to pump out water. "I was told to pump out water it is better that Coal India sends its big pumps. Regarding this, I spoke to Union Coal Minister Prahlad Joshi and a big pump is coming from coal fields in Chhattisgarh," he had said.

According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, until now, 40 people have died in the state due to floods.

The Indian Air Force helicopters are dropping relief material to the flood-affected areas of the state. Five teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Rajendra Nagar and Kankarbagh areas of Patna to assist people facing difficulties

"It has become easy as the rainfall has stopped. But we are focussing now on providing food as people are stuck inside their houses. We are sending boats for old and ill patients. We are sending boats filled with relief material especially clean drinking water," Vijay Sinha, NDRF commandant in Rajendra Nagar here told ANI.

Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge

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About the total number of people rescued, Sinha said that around 7000 people were rescued till yesterday by the NDRF. "The data for today can be determined by the night," he said.

"We are facing a lot of difficulties to find clean drinking water. NDRF is helping but we want more help from the government side," a local told ANI.

Where many people are dependent on NDRF for flood relief material, people at the Sri Krishna Memorial Hall in Patna have gathered in special groups to collect and pack relief material for the flood-affected people.

"We are packing food material like chuda, milk, sattu for the people who are stuck inside their houses. Bihar is flooded and we have to help each other. Around 300 workers are here helping us to pack the food material," Shashi Sneh, a worker told ANI.

Dewatering machines have also been sought by state to provide relief in the flood-affected areas.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday afternoon visited the severely flooded areas of the state capital and issued necessary instructions to the officials for resolving the issue.

Amid the worsening conditions in Bihar due to floods triggered by rains in which the death toll has climbed to 40 so far, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Tuesday said that four big pumps were being brought to Bihar to remove floodwater and accelerate relief work.

Amid the worsening conditions in Bihar due to floods triggered by rains in which the death toll has climbed to 40 so far, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Tuesday said that four big pumps were being brought to Bihar to remove floodwater and accelerate relief work. "I have cancelled my plans back at Delhi and will stay here for few more days. To speed up the relief work, I have asked for four big pumps that will reach here till afternoon. The pumps are of 2-3 tonnes and are very efficient," Prasad said while speaking to media here. Today the union minister reiterated that the Centre will provide all support to the Bihar government to provide relief to people in Patna and other parts of the state, which has been battered by heavy rain and flooding. On Monday, Prasad had said he had asked for additional pumps from Coal India to pump out water. "I was told to pump out water it is better that Coal India sends its big pumps. Regarding this, I spoke to Union Coal Minister Prahlad Joshi and a big pump is coming from coal fields in Chhattisgarh," he had said. According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, until now, 40 people have died in the state due to floods. The Indian Air Force helicopters are dropping relief material to the flood-affected areas of the state. Five teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Rajendra Nagar and Kankarbagh areas of Patna to assist people facing difficulties "It has become easy as the rainfall has stopped. But we are focussing now on providing food as people are stuck inside their houses. We are sending boats for old and ill patients. We are sending boats filled with relief material especially clean drinking water," Vijay Sinha, NDRF commandant in Rajendra Nagar here told ANI. Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge About the total number of people rescued, Sinha said that around 7000 people were rescued till yesterday by the NDRF. "The data for today can be determined by the night," he said. "We are facing a lot of difficulties to find clean drinking water. NDRF is helping but we want more help from the government side," a local told ANI. Where many people are dependent on NDRF for flood relief material, people at the Sri Krishna Memorial Hall in Patna have gathered in special groups to collect and pack relief material for the flood-affected people. "We are packing food material like chuda, milk, sattu for the people who are stuck inside their houses. Bihar is flooded and we have to help each other. Around 300 workers are here helping us to pack the food material," Shashi Sneh, a worker told ANI. Dewatering machines have also been sought by state to provide relief in the flood-affected areas. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday afternoon visited the severely flooded areas of the state capital and issued necessary instructions to the officials for resolving the issue.

Bihar: Four pumps brought to remove floodwaters, accelerate relief work; death toll reaches 40

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rainfall-throws-life-out-of-gear-in-patna-17-dead-252694">death toll</a> due to incessant <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/floods-hit-normal-life-as-floodwater-swamps-roads-in-india-252770">rainfall and flood</a> in different areas of the state has risen to 29, officials said on Monday.

According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, till now, 29 people have died in the state due to rainfall.

The state government has requested the Indian Air Force (IAF) for two helicopters for lifting and airdropping food packets and medicines, in the flood-affected areas of the region.

Dewatering machines have also been sought by state to provide relief in the flood-affected areas.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday afternoon visited the severely flooded areas of the state capital and issued necessary instructions to the officials for resolving the issue.

The Chief Minister first visited the Dak Bungalow Chauraha.

He then visited Gandhi Maidan, Exhibition road, Kankarbagh Road, NMCH, Agamkuan bridge and Anishabad which are severely waterlogged.

Earlier while speaking to media in Patna, the Chief Minister said, "There has been heavy rainfall in some areas since yesterday and water in Ganga River is rising constantly. But there are proper arrangements and administration is at the spot and making all the efforts to help people."

According to the India Meteorological Department, Patna will receive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-predicts-heavy-rainfall-over-bihar-sikkim-252670">more rainfall</a> for the next few days accompanied by thunderstorms.

The death toll due to incessant rainfall and flood in different areas of the state has risen to 29, officials said on Monday. According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, till now, 29 people have died in the state due to rainfall.

The death toll due to incessant rainfall and flood in different areas of the state has risen to 29, officials said on Monday. According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, till now, 29 people have died in the state due to rainfall. The state government has requested the Indian Air Force (IAF) for two helicopters for lifting and airdropping food packets and medicines, in the flood-affected areas of the region. Dewatering machines have also been sought by state to provide relief in the flood-affected areas. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday afternoon visited the severely flooded areas of the state capital and issued necessary instructions to the officials for resolving the issue. The Chief Minister first visited the Dak Bungalow Chauraha. He then visited Gandhi Maidan, Exhibition road, Kankarbagh Road, NMCH, Agamkuan bridge and Anishabad which are severely waterlogged. Earlier while speaking to media in Patna, the Chief Minister said, "There has been heavy rainfall in some areas since yesterday and water in Ganga River is rising constantly. But there are proper arrangements and administration is at the spot and making all the efforts to help people." According to the India Meteorological Department, Patna will receive more rainfall for the next few days accompanied by thunderstorms.

Bihar: Death toll due to incessant rains, flood rises to 29

Floods&nbsp;triggered by torrential <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-predicts-heavy-rainfall-over-bihar-sikkim-252670">rains</a> have inundated houses, swamped&nbsp;roads, and paralysed&nbsp;normal&nbsp;life&nbsp;in&nbsp;India's northern Uttar Pradesh and eastern Bihar states on Sunday (September 29).

Scores of people in Bihar's capital city, Patna were rendered homeless by the&nbsp;floods&nbsp;as water inundated their houses and forced them to wade through waist-deep water with their belongings clenched in their hands.

Watch Video:&nbsp;Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge

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At least 17 people have been killed in the region due to flash&nbsp;floods, local media reports said on Saturday (September 28).

Water-logged&nbsp;roads&nbsp;have made emergency services like ambulances inaccessible in the region, owing to which, a man was seen carrying a body on a cart.

An administrative official said rescue forces have been posted to evacuate stranded locals and around 8000-9000 people have been evacuated.

"SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) and NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams have been posted here.

Almost 8000-9000 people have been evacuated today since morning," said District Magistrate, Patna, Kumar Ravi.

In the temple city of Varanasi, water-logging affected commuters.

Uttar Pradesh has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-after-heavy-rains-fish-swim-into-bihar-hospital-icu-155484">witnessed constant rainfall</a> in the recent few days and water from the rain-swollen rivers have reached the low-lying residential areas inundating houses and property.

India's monsoon usually starts retreating at the start of September but has been delayed by a month this year. Intense rainfall in many parts of the country has triggered&nbsp;floods&nbsp;that have swamped cane and rice fields and caused deaths in some cases.

Floods triggered by torrential rains have inundated houses, swamped roads, and paralysed normal life in India's northern Uttar Pradesh and eastern Bihar states on Sunday (September 29).

Floods triggered by torrential rains have inundated houses, swamped roads, and paralysed normal life in India's northern Uttar Pradesh and eastern Bihar states on Sunday (September 29). Scores of people in Bihar's capital city, Patna were rendered homeless by the floods as water inundated their houses and forced them to wade through waist-deep water with their belongings clenched in their hands. Watch Video: Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge × At least 17 people have been killed in the region due to flash floods, local media reports said on Saturday (September 28). Water-logged roads have made emergency services like ambulances inaccessible in the region, owing to which, a man was seen carrying a body on a cart. An administrative official said rescue forces have been posted to evacuate stranded locals and around 8000-9000 people have been evacuated. "SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) and NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams have been posted here. Almost 8000-9000 people have been evacuated today since morning," said District Magistrate, Patna, Kumar Ravi. In the temple city of Varanasi, water-logging affected commuters. Uttar Pradesh has witnessed constant rainfall in the recent few days and water from the rain-swollen rivers have reached the low-lying residential areas inundating houses and property. India's monsoon usually starts retreating at the start of September but has been delayed by a month this year. Intense rainfall in many parts of the country has triggered floods that have swamped cane and rice fields and caused deaths in some cases.

Floods hamper normal life as floodwater swamps roads in India

Heavy rains in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have claimed hundreds of lives. A red alert of heavy rainfall - has been issued by the weather office in most districts of eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, including Patna.

Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday said that the Centre will extend all support to the Bihar government to provide relief to people in Patna and other parts of the state, which has been battered by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-reaches-122-in-northern-india-due-to-heavy-rains-252853">heavy rain and flooding</a> that claimed the lives of at least 29 people.

Speaking to media, Prasad, who is here to take stock of the situation said, "We are with the Bihar government and people of the state. The Centre will work along with the state government and do everything possible to help the flood-affected in the state and in Patna."

One helicopter has reached the city and another is set to arrive from Gorakhpur to provide relief materials, he said.

Several areas of Patna are witnessing severe waterlogging with locals wading about in knee-deep water in several areas. Five teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Rajendra Nagar and Kankarbagh areas of Patna to assist people facing difficulties.

Prasad, the Lok Sabha MP from Patna Sahib, said, "I have had meetings with our MLAs and officials. I am informed that all gates of Farakka Barrage have been opened and we have asked for bigger pumps from Coal India, which will be made available to remove the floodwater."

"I have been discussing with officials and they told me that there is an ample amount of boats available. The officials also told me that electricity has been cut so that there are no chances of short circuit."

"I was told to pump out water it is better, that Coal India sends its big pumps. Regarding this, I spoke to Union Coal Minister Prahlad Joshi and a big pump is coming from coal fields in Chhattisgarh," he said.

The state government had requested the Indian Air Force (IAF) for two helicopters for lifting and airdropping food packets and medicines, in the flood-affected areas of the region.

The union minister said that he had asked Cabinet Secretary for an Air Force plane to carry the pump.

"I also spoke to Defence secretary Ajay Kumar and one helicopter has reached while another one is coming from Gorakhpur so that people are provided food and candles," he said.

The Union Minister further said that he empathised with the people and that due to the massive rainfall the level of Ganga had risen. "I know there are a lot of difficulties but we are standing with the people. I am going into the fields to see where pumps are placed. The administration and municipal corporation are doing their best. The relief and rescue efforts are going on," he said.

"Just like Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has said, we need to be patient as this is a natural calamity and its solution will have to be worked out," he added.

BJP MLA Arun Sinha said, "We are continuously monitoring the situation." However, he added, "Since there is a lack of support from the administration so Ravi Ji (Ravi Shankar Prasad) came here."

According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, till now, 29 people have died in the state due to rainfall.

Dewatering machines have also been sought by state to provide relief in the flood-affected areas.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday afternoon visited the severely flooded areas of the state capital and issued necessary instructions to the officials for resolving the issue.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday said that the Centre will extend all support to the Bihar government to provide relief to people in Patna and other parts of the state, which has been battered by heavy rain and flooding that claimed the lives of at least 29 people.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday said that the Centre will extend all support to the Bihar government to provide relief to people in Patna and other parts of the state, which has been battered by heavy rain and flooding that claimed the lives of at least 29 people. Speaking to media, Prasad, who is here to take stock of the situation said, "We are with the Bihar government and people of the state. The Centre will work along with the state government and do everything possible to help the flood-affected in the state and in Patna." One helicopter has reached the city and another is set to arrive from Gorakhpur to provide relief materials, he said. Several areas of Patna are witnessing severe waterlogging with locals wading about in knee-deep water in several areas. Five teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Rajendra Nagar and Kankarbagh areas of Patna to assist people facing difficulties. Prasad, the Lok Sabha MP from Patna Sahib, said, "I have had meetings with our MLAs and officials. I am informed that all gates of Farakka Barrage have been opened and we have asked for bigger pumps from Coal India, which will be made available to remove the floodwater." "I have been discussing with officials and they told me that there is an ample amount of boats available. The officials also told me that electricity has been cut so that there are no chances of short circuit." "I was told to pump out water it is better, that Coal India sends its big pumps. Regarding this, I spoke to Union Coal Minister Prahlad Joshi and a big pump is coming from coal fields in Chhattisgarh," he said. The state government had requested the Indian Air Force (IAF) for two helicopters for lifting and airdropping food packets and medicines, in the flood-affected areas of the region. The union minister said that he had asked Cabinet Secretary for an Air Force plane to carry the pump. "I also spoke to Defence secretary Ajay Kumar and one helicopter has reached while another one is coming from Gorakhpur so that people are provided food and candles," he said. The Union Minister further said that he empathised with the people and that due to the massive rainfall the level of Ganga had risen. "I know there are a lot of difficulties but we are standing with the people. I am going into the fields to see where pumps are placed. The administration and municipal corporation are doing their best. The relief and rescue efforts are going on," he said. "Just like Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has said, we need to be patient as this is a natural calamity and its solution will have to be worked out," he added. BJP MLA Arun Sinha said, "We are continuously monitoring the situation." However, he added, "Since there is a lack of support from the administration so Ravi Ji (Ravi Shankar Prasad) came here." According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, till now, 29 people have died in the state due to rainfall. Dewatering machines have also been sought by state to provide relief in the flood-affected areas. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday afternoon visited the severely flooded areas of the state capital and issued necessary instructions to the officials for resolving the issue.

We stand with Bihar, Centre will do everything possible to provide relief: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Heavy rains have killed at least 122&nbsp;people in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-death-toll-due-to-incessant-rains-flood-rises-to-29-252777">Uttar Pradesh and Bihar </a>over the past three days, officials said on Monday, as floodwaters swamped a major city, inundated hospital wards and forced the evacuation of inmates from jail.

An official said that at least 93 people had died in Uttar Pradesh since Friday after its eastern areas were lashed by intense monsoon showers.

Rising water levels forced authorities to shift 900 inmates from a prison in eastern Ballia district, police officer Santosh Verma said.

The death toll due to incessant rainfall and flood in different areas of Bihar&nbsp;has risen to 29, officials said. According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, till now, 29 people have died in the state due to rainfall.

Patna, home to around 2 million, has been badly hit, with waist-deep floodwaters across many streets, and entering homes, shops, and even the wards of a major hospital. In some parts, authorities deployed boats to rescue residents.

Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge

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The state government has requested the Indian Air Force (IAF) for two helicopters for lifting and airdropping food packets and medicines, in the flood-affected areas of the region.

"The rains have stopped but there is waterlogging in many areas," Bihar's Additional Secretary in the Disaster Relief Department Amod Kumar Sharan said.

In its bulletin on Monday, India's Meteorological Department said the intensity of rainfall over Bihar was very likely to reduce. Showers in Uttar Pradesh are also expected to abate this week.

Weather department officials said this month that monsoon rains were likely to be above average for the first time in six years.

India's monsoon season that begins in June usually starts to retreat by early September, but heavy rains have continued across parts of the country this year, triggering floods.

Heavy rains have killed at least 122 people in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar over the past three days, officials said on Monday, as floodwaters swamped a major city, inundated hospital wards and forced the evacuation of inmates from jail.

Heavy rains have killed at least 122 people in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar over the past three days, officials said on Monday, as floodwaters swamped a major city, inundated hospital wards and forced the evacuation of inmates from jail. An official said that at least 93 people had died in Uttar Pradesh since Friday after its eastern areas were lashed by intense monsoon showers. Rising water levels forced authorities to shift 900 inmates from a prison in eastern Ballia district, police officer Santosh Verma said. The death toll due to incessant rainfall and flood in different areas of Bihar has risen to 29, officials said. According to the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, till now, 29 people have died in the state due to rainfall. Patna, home to around 2 million, has been badly hit, with waist-deep floodwaters across many streets, and entering homes, shops, and even the wards of a major hospital. In some parts, authorities deployed boats to rescue residents. Floods in India: Parts of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh face deluge The state government has requested the Indian Air Force (IAF) for two helicopters for lifting and airdropping food packets and medicines, in the flood-affected areas of the region. "The rains have stopped but there is waterlogging in many areas," Bihar's Additional Secretary in the Disaster Relief Department Amod Kumar Sharan said. In its bulletin on Monday, India's Meteorological Department said the intensity of rainfall over Bihar was very likely to reduce. Showers in Uttar Pradesh are also expected to abate this week. Weather department officials said this month that monsoon rains were likely to be above average for the first time in six years. India's monsoon season that begins in June usually starts to retreat by early September, but heavy rains have continued across parts of the country this year, triggering floods.

Death toll rises to 122 as heavy rains lash north India

Patna on Sunday witnessed another spell of heavy rains, causing traffic jams and water-logging at low lying areas. So far, 17 people have been killed in rain-related incidents in the region after relentless downpour lashed the capital city since late Friday night.

The heavy downpour has caused flash flooding in the region. The dirty rainwater has seeped into the houses of people making it difficult for the locals to move out of their houses.

Locals were seen wading through knee-deep waters with belongings in their hands. Some were also seen using buckets to pump out water from their premises.

District Magistrate Kumar Ravi told ANI that contingents of SDRF and NDRF has been pressed into service for carrying out rescue operations.

"The situation is now under control. SDRF and NDRF teams have been deployed to carry rescue operations. Several narrow streets have been blocked due to stagnation of water. Today, we have rescued around 8000 to 9000 people and have taken them to safer places. Bus service was provided to college and school children to reach the Railway station. Now, our next aim is to provide clean drinking water and other basic facilities to the stranded," he said.

Another official, Jitendra Kumar also spoke to ANI on the issue and said,"Our first priority is to rescue aged people, children studying in colleges and schools. The NDRF and SDRF are carrying out relief work with the help of boats. We are making all efforts to bring back normalcy in the region."

Yesterday, Nalanda Medical College hospital was inundated with water, forcing doctors and paramedical staff to carry out practice in knee-deep waters.

Visuals from the medical center showed wards and corridors flooded with unclean water.

According to IMD, Patna will receive more rainfall for the next three days accompanied by thunderstorms. The temperature in the area will oscillate between 23 degree Celsius and 28 degree Celsius.&nbsp;

Patna on Sunday witnessed another spell of heavy rains, causing traffic jams and water-logging at low lying areas. So far, 17 people have been killed in rain-related incidents in the region after relentless downpour lashed the capital city since late Friday night.

Patna on Sunday witnessed another spell of heavy rains, causing traffic jams and water-logging at low lying areas. So far, 17 people have been killed in rain-related incidents in the region after relentless downpour lashed the capital city since late Friday night. The heavy downpour has caused flash flooding in the region. The dirty rainwater has seeped into the houses of people making it difficult for the locals to move out of their houses. Locals were seen wading through knee-deep waters with belongings in their hands. Some were also seen using buckets to pump out water from their premises. District Magistrate Kumar Ravi told ANI that contingents of SDRF and NDRF has been pressed into service for carrying out rescue operations. "The situation is now under control. SDRF and NDRF teams have been deployed to carry rescue operations. Several narrow streets have been blocked due to stagnation of water. Today, we have rescued around 8000 to 9000 people and have taken them to safer places. Bus service was provided to college and school children to reach the Railway station. Now, our next aim is to provide clean drinking water and other basic facilities to the stranded," he said. Another official, Jitendra Kumar also spoke to ANI on the issue and said,"Our first priority is to rescue aged people, children studying in colleges and schools. The NDRF and SDRF are carrying out relief work with the help of boats. We are making all efforts to bring back normalcy in the region." Yesterday, Nalanda Medical College hospital was inundated with water, forcing doctors and paramedical staff to carry out practice in knee-deep waters. Visuals from the medical center showed wards and corridors flooded with unclean water. According to IMD, Patna will receive more rainfall for the next three days accompanied by thunderstorms. The temperature in the area will oscillate between 23 degree Celsius and 28 degree Celsius.

Heavy rainfall throws life out of gear in Patna, 17 dead

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted that isolated places over Bihar, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim and Gujarat region are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The weather forecast agency further predicted that Saurashtra, Kutch, East Rajasthan and Gangetic West Bengal are also likely to receive heavy downpour later in the day.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls are very likely at isolated places over Assam, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand, East Uttar Pradesh, West Rajasthan, Jharkhand, south Tamilnadu, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura," IMD said in its all India weather warning bulletin.

Squally weather likely to prevail over Gujarat coast and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea, southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining equatorial Indian Ocean and Comorin area.The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted that isolated places over Bihar, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim and Gujarat region are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted that isolated places over Bihar, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim and Gujarat region are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency further predicted that Saurashtra, Kutch, East Rajasthan and Gangetic West Bengal are also likely to receive heavy downpour later in the day. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls are very likely at isolated places over Assam, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand, East Uttar Pradesh, West Rajasthan, Jharkhand, south Tamilnadu, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura," IMD said in its all India weather warning bulletin. Squally weather likely to prevail over Gujarat coast and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea, southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining equatorial Indian Ocean and Comorin area.The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

IMD predicts heavy rainfall over Bihar, Sikkim

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that isolated places over Bihar, Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The weather forecast agency further stated that areas over Sub-Himalayan, West Bengal and Sikkim are also likely to receive heavy downpour throughout the day.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls very likely at isolated places over Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam and Meghalaya," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning are very likely to occur at isolated places over Madhya Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha and Odisha.

Squally weather is likely to prevail over Gujarat coast and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea and east Indian Ocean and adjoining the southwest Bay of Bengal.Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, is likely to prevail over north Bay of Bengal.

The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that isolated places over Bihar, Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that isolated places over Bihar, Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency further stated that areas over Sub-Himalayan, West Bengal and Sikkim are also likely to receive heavy downpour throughout the day. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls very likely at isolated places over Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam and Meghalaya," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning are very likely to occur at isolated places over Madhya Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha and Odisha. Squally weather is likely to prevail over Gujarat coast and adjoining northeast Arabian Sea and east Indian Ocean and adjoining the southwest Bay of Bengal.Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, is likely to prevail over north Bay of Bengal. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days.

IMD predicts heavy rainfall for Bihar, Himachal Pradesh

The India Meteorological Department (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-schools-to-remain-shut-as-indian-meteorological-department-predicts-heavy-rainfall-in-mumbai-250483">IMD</a>) on Friday said that isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The weather forecast agency also predicted that heavy rains are also likely to fall over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab.<iframe data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

"Heavy to very <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-monsoon-rains-above-average-for-third-straight-week-imd-250421">heavy rainfall</a> very likely at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Saurashtra, Kutch, Konkan and Goa," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is also very likely to occur at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim and Odisha, as per weather forecasting agency.

Squally weather is likely to prevail over Gujarat coast.

The organisation had advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency also predicted that heavy rains are also likely to fall over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency also predicted that heavy rains are also likely to fall over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall very likely at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Saurashtra, Kutch, Konkan and Goa," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is also very likely to occur at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim and Odisha, as per weather forecasting agency. Squally weather is likely to prevail over Gujarat coast. The organisation had advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

Parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat likely to receive heavy rainfall: IMD

Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Tuesday said that he is not a candidate for chief minister`s post in the state and now the time has come for him to retire from politics.

"I am not a candidate for the chief minister`s post in Bihar. Now the time has come for me that I should bid adieu to politics," Singh told ANI.

In a nostalgic tone, the Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries said, "I saw a great leader like Narendra Modi becoming the Prime Minister of the country."

In reference to abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said, "When I joined politics, I came with the call for the integration of Kashmir with India. For the same our ideologue Syama Prasad Mookerjee gave up his life."

"Slowly all our wishes are getting fulfiled and I hope it will continue in the future. And after that what is the scope left for me to remain in politics," he added.&nbsp;

Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Tuesday said that he is not a candidate for chief minister`s post in the state and now the time has come for him to retire from politics.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Tuesday said that he is not a candidate for chief minister`s post in the state and now the time has come for him to retire from politics. "I am not a candidate for the chief minister`s post in Bihar. Now the time has come for me that I should bid adieu to politics," Singh told ANI. In a nostalgic tone, the Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries said, "I saw a great leader like Narendra Modi becoming the Prime Minister of the country." In reference to abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said, "When I joined politics, I came with the call for the integration of Kashmir with India. For the same our ideologue Syama Prasad Mookerjee gave up his life." "Slowly all our wishes are getting fulfiled and I hope it will continue in the future. And after that what is the scope left for me to remain in politics," he added.

Not a candidate for Bihar's CM post, time has come for me to retire: Giriraj Singh

Andhra Pradesh is the first state in India to enact a law guaranteeing 75 per cent job reservation for locals in private industrial units, factories, joint ventures, including public-private partnership concerns.

The enactment prescribes that if locals lack the requisite skills, companies and factories are mandated to train them with state government’s assistance and hire them.

While no state can afford to ignore local talent, shutting the doors on the migrant labour force is a regressive step. This model will prove to be very complex and a threat to the overall economic and industrial growth of the newly bifurcated state.

Lately, many regional satraps are taken in by parochial considerations and jingoist sentiments. State governments such as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Bannerjee’s preference for Bengali-speakers over non-Bengalis in employment in the state, MP Chief Minister’s penchant for 70 per cent employment for locals in the state’s industrial units, Gujarat CM Vijaya Rupani’s promise of 80 per cent job reservations for locals in the industrial and service sector, are examples that may prompt other states to follow suit.

According to Census 2011, there are 139 million internal migrants in the country, who are also a captive source of labour. Their employment does help them in earning and contributing to the state GDP. The xenophobic reaction and nativism is often an excuse to hide failures by governments for their utter misgovernance.

Viewing the whole world as one community has become a term of abuse in the hands of regional political leaders. These leaders view outsiders with suspicion and self-righteousness. According to them, “rootless cosmopolitans” are a threat to the integrity of the state.

For example, beating up Hindi-speaking auto drivers in Mumbai and a proposal from Raj-Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navanirman Sena to issue licenses only to Marathi-speaking autorickshaw drivers, the “Bongal Kheda” agitation in Assam and the fight against “dikus” (outsiders) in Jharkhand, are all examples of this disturbing trend.

Overindulgence in the domestic politics of parochialism constitute the greatest threats to regional peace and stability among different states. It is nothing but splitting the general population into groups and putting their own state citizens’ needs ahead of other citizens’ needs.

These man-created barriers do not come up overnight, but evolve over a period of time. It comes in handy for cynical politicians to hide their failures and mismanagement of the economy. Agendas such as these are often backed by selfish and personal goals at the expense of national interest.

If implemented, such laws would violate Article 14 and 16 of the Indian Constitution. Article 19(d) and 19(e) of the Constitution, which are ingrained in our fundamental rights, guarantees freedom of movement to Indian citizens within the territory of India. In the past, many Indian states have enacted such laws, but have never implemented it vigorously.

Interestingly, Andhra Pradesh has excluded some areas such as fertilisers, coal, pharmaceuticals, petroleum, cement and IT industry from the ambit of such a job guarantee statute.

Similarly, while formulating the 100 per cent reservation plan for the Kannadigas in blue-collar industries in Karnataka, both infotech and biotech have been kept outside its purview.

However, none of these local reservations have been challenged in any court of law, nor does the Constitution contain any provision for non-discriminatory commercial clause.

While responding to the changed law of job reservation for locals, the companies will be busy in adjusting the composition of the workforce to meet the changed quota regime. However, the number and nature of jobs will remain unaffected. Hence, states, instead of changing the job composition, should focus more on new job creation.

At a time, when states are competing fiercely to attract investment, it would be counter-productive for them to discriminate and reserve jobs for sons of the soil.

States who do so, will lose in the long run since the investment flow prefers places where there is low compliance costs and freedom of hiring employees, as per their choice.

To achieve higher growth rate, there is no substitute to employing skilled professionals. In order to survive and excel in the competitive globalised world, the country needs to focus on overall skill development and national goals over regional preferences.

The politics of local preference will dilute the pace of economic growth. A level playing field puts merit over domicile.

The populist stand by state governments could have a bearing on the quantity and quality of investment coming in. When the central government is seeking to achieve the goal of “One Nation One Tax” with the introduction of GST, reservation for locals take us to the other extreme.

In a hypothetical situation, if other states decide to retaliate by not employing personnel hailing from Andhra Pradesh or states reserving jobs for locals, it will add another dimension to the problem of parochialism.

No state can afford to ignore local talent, but shooing away skilled/unskilled migrants is a regressive step. Political compulsions and electoral promises made by politicians apart, reservation for the locals in the private sector is not an effective model to tackle burgeoning unemployment and underemployment.

It may prove regressive and dissuade the corporate sector to invest in a state where such a rule is prevalent. India being a labour surplus country, the internal migration of labour is quite natural.

Many studies indicate that movement of labour is good for the economy, since the regions suffering deficit of labour forces imports from the labour surplus states. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-politics-of-native-preference-2789345">original article</a>) 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Andhra Pradesh is the first state in India to enact a law guaranteeing 75 per cent job reservation for locals in private industrial units, factories, joint ventures, including public-private partnership concerns.

Andhra Pradesh is the first state in India to enact a law guaranteeing 75 per cent job reservation for locals in private industrial units, factories, joint ventures, including public-private partnership concerns. The enactment prescribes that if locals lack the requisite skills, companies and factories are mandated to train them with state government’s assistance and hire them. While no state can afford to ignore local talent, shutting the doors on the migrant labour force is a regressive step. This model will prove to be very complex and a threat to the overall economic and industrial growth of the newly bifurcated state. Lately, many regional satraps are taken in by parochial considerations and jingoist sentiments. State governments such as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Bannerjee’s preference for Bengali-speakers over non-Bengalis in employment in the state, MP Chief Minister’s penchant for 70 per cent employment for locals in the state’s industrial units, Gujarat CM Vijaya Rupani’s promise of 80 per cent job reservations for locals in the industrial and service sector, are examples that may prompt other states to follow suit. According to Census 2011, there are 139 million internal migrants in the country, who are also a captive source of labour. Their employment does help them in earning and contributing to the state GDP. The xenophobic reaction and nativism is often an excuse to hide failures by governments for their utter misgovernance. Viewing the whole world as one community has become a term of abuse in the hands of regional political leaders. These leaders view outsiders with suspicion and self-righteousness. According to them, “rootless cosmopolitans” are a threat to the integrity of the state. For example, beating up Hindi-speaking auto drivers in Mumbai and a proposal from Raj-Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navanirman Sena to issue licenses only to Marathi-speaking autorickshaw drivers, the “Bongal Kheda” agitation in Assam and the fight against “dikus” (outsiders) in Jharkhand, are all examples of this disturbing trend. Overindulgence in the domestic politics of parochialism constitute the greatest threats to regional peace and stability among different states. It is nothing but splitting the general population into groups and putting their own state citizens’ needs ahead of other citizens’ needs. These man-created barriers do not come up overnight, but evolve over a period of time. It comes in handy for cynical politicians to hide their failures and mismanagement of the economy. Agendas such as these are often backed by selfish and personal goals at the expense of national interest. If implemented, such laws would violate Article 14 and 16 of the Indian Constitution. Article 19(d) and 19(e) of the Constitution, which are ingrained in our fundamental rights, guarantees freedom of movement to Indian citizens within the territory of India. In the past, many Indian states have enacted such laws, but have never implemented it vigorously. Interestingly, Andhra Pradesh has excluded some areas such as fertilisers, coal, pharmaceuticals, petroleum, cement and IT industry from the ambit of such a job guarantee statute. Similarly, while formulating the 100 per cent reservation plan for the Kannadigas in blue-collar industries in Karnataka, both infotech and biotech have been kept outside its purview. However, none of these local reservations have been challenged in any court of law, nor does the Constitution contain any provision for non-discriminatory commercial clause. While responding to the changed law of job reservation for locals, the companies will be busy in adjusting the composition of the workforce to meet the changed quota regime. However, the number and nature of jobs will remain unaffected. Hence, states, instead of changing the job composition, should focus more on new job creation. At a time, when states are competing fiercely to attract investment, it would be counter-productive for them to discriminate and reserve jobs for sons of the soil. States who do so, will lose in the long run since the investment flow prefers places where there is low compliance costs and freedom of hiring employees, as per their choice. To achieve higher growth rate, there is no substitute to employing skilled professionals. In order to survive and excel in the competitive globalised world, the country needs to focus on overall skill development and national goals over regional preferences. The politics of local preference will dilute the pace of economic growth. A level playing field puts merit over domicile. The populist stand by state governments could have a bearing on the quantity and quality of investment coming in. When the central government is seeking to achieve the goal of “One Nation One Tax” with the introduction of GST, reservation for locals take us to the other extreme. In a hypothetical situation, if other states decide to retaliate by not employing personnel hailing from Andhra Pradesh or states reserving jobs for locals, it will add another dimension to the problem of parochialism. No state can afford to ignore local talent, but shooing away skilled/unskilled migrants is a regressive step. Political compulsions and electoral promises made by politicians apart, reservation for the locals in the private sector is not an effective model to tackle burgeoning unemployment and underemployment. It may prove regressive and dissuade the corporate sector to invest in a state where such a rule is prevalent. India being a labour surplus country, the internal migration of labour is quite natural. Many studies indicate that movement of labour is good for the economy, since the regions suffering deficit of labour forces imports from the labour surplus states. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Politics of native preference: Shooing away migrants is economically disastrous

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020.

Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi took to Twitter to clarify party`s position, days after senior BJP leader and former union minister Sanjay Paswan said Nitish Kumar should now step down as Chief Minister and make way for the BJP.

"Nitish Kumar is the Captain of NDA in Bihar and will remain its Captain in next assembly elections in 2020 also. When Captain is hitting four and six and defeating rivals by inning where is the question of any change," Modi said.

Assembly elections in the state are scheduled to be held in October-November 2020.

Paswan, also a member of the state legislative council, had earlier said the BJP entrusted him with the Chief Minister`s post for 15 long years and now he should reciprocate the gesture.

His remarks came after a poster war began between the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal-United and the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).

The JD-U had released a poster with the slogan "kyon kare vichar, thike to hain Nitish Kumar (why should we discuss over when it`s okay to have Nitish Kumar) but they revised it when RJD responded by putting up a poster with a slogan criticising Kumar for the "increasing crime, corruption, AES deaths and stealing the mandate".

The revised version of JD-U`s poster came up with slogan "Kyon kare vichar, jab hain hi Nitish Kumar" (Why should we mull over, when there is Nitish Kumar).

Following that, RJD hit back with another slogan - `Kyun na karein vichar, Bihar jo hai bimar` (Why should we not think, Bihar is not well).&nbsp;

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020.

Amid talks of change in leadership in Bihar's ruling NDA, the BJP on Wednesday clarified that the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will continue to lead the alliance in the next Assembly polls scheduled in 2020. Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi took to Twitter to clarify party`s position, days after senior BJP leader and former union minister Sanjay Paswan said Nitish Kumar should now step down as Chief Minister and make way for the BJP. "Nitish Kumar is the Captain of NDA in Bihar and will remain its Captain in next assembly elections in 2020 also. When Captain is hitting four and six and defeating rivals by inning where is the question of any change," Modi said. Assembly elections in the state are scheduled to be held in October-November 2020. Paswan, also a member of the state legislative council, had earlier said the BJP entrusted him with the Chief Minister`s post for 15 long years and now he should reciprocate the gesture. His remarks came after a poster war began between the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal-United and the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The JD-U had released a poster with the slogan "kyon kare vichar, thike to hain Nitish Kumar (why should we discuss over when it`s okay to have Nitish Kumar) but they revised it when RJD responded by putting up a poster with a slogan criticising Kumar for the "increasing crime, corruption, AES deaths and stealing the mandate". The revised version of JD-U`s poster came up with slogan "Kyon kare vichar, jab hain hi Nitish Kumar" (Why should we mull over, when there is Nitish Kumar). Following that, RJD hit back with another slogan - `Kyun na karein vichar, Bihar jo hai bimar` (Why should we not think, Bihar is not well).

No change in leadership, Nitish to remain captain: Sushil Modi

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