Bihar

Patna, Bihar: Magahi Paan, a prized agricultural product from Bihar, has become a symbol of the state’s rich cultural and culinary heritage, finding its place not just in India but also on international tables in countries like Malaysia and Singapore. Renowned for its unique aroma and sharp, flavorful taste, Magahi Paan has received a GI (Geographical Indication) tag, reflecting its special identity and quality. Once favored in royal courts and nawabs’ gatherings, Magahi Paan is now a thriving business, providing livelihoods to thousands of families in Bihar, particularly in Aurangabad district. Why Is It Called Magahi Paan? The name originates from the Magadh region of southern Bihar, where the crop is primarily cultivated. Magahi Paan is grown across approximately 27 districts i...

Patna/Muzaffarpur: Kanishka Narayan, originally from Bihar, has made a remarkable journey from the heart of India to the corridors of power in the United Kingdom. Born in Muzaffarpur, Kanishka moved to the UK with his parents at the age of 12 in search of better opportunities. Two decades later, he returned to Bihar—not as a visitor, but as the UK’s Minister for Artificial Intelligence. Upon landing in Delhi, memories of his hometown flooded back. He took time out of his busy schedule to visit Muzaffarpur, meeting his extended family, including uncles, aunts, and cousins. Later, in Patna, he was warmly welcomed by JD(U) Member of Parliament and party executive president Sanjay Jha. Early Life and Education Kanishka Narayan was born in November 1989, hailing from his ancestral vill...

Patna, February 21, 2026: The Bihar State Housing Board (BSHB) is once again in the spotlight, this time due to a long-standing grievance raised by senior journalist Surendra Kishore. Kishore has taken to social media to demand accountability for a deposit of ₹2,000 he made in 1981, which was meant to secure a plot of land in Patna’s Digha area. The 1981 Deposit Kishore explained that on April 15, 1981, he deposited ₹2,000 into the Housing Board’s account at the State Bank of India, taking a loan for the amount as he did not have sufficient personal funds. He retained the receipt, which he still carries, as the government, along with land mafias and other vested interests, allegedly sabotaged the housing scheme. The Board later instructed depositors to withdraw their advance payments...

Motihari, February 21, 2026: Breaking traditional farming norms, Prayag Dev Singh, a progressive farmer from Sagar Churarman village in Kotwa block, East Champaran, has successfully cultivated black potatoes—dubbed ‘black gold’—in his fields using seeds imported from the United States. The black potatoes are notably larger and heavier than regular varieties, earning Singh acclaim across the district. While many rural farmers in Bihar continue to rely on conventional methods, often yielding only subsistence-level income, some innovators like Singh are proving that experimenting with new crops can be highly rewarding. Singh’s bold decision to grow black potatoes has not only transformed his fortunes but also set a new example of agricultural innovation in the region. Seeds Imported fro...

Patna, February 21, 2026: In a significant diplomatic and technological engagement, the United Kingdom’s Artificial Intelligence Minister Kanishk Narayan met with Sanjay Kumar Jha, National Working President and Rajya Sabha MP of Janata Dal (United), at his residence in Patna on Saturday morning. The meeting highlighted Bihar’s growing prominence in the field of artificial intelligence and digital innovation. Welcoming the UK Minister in traditional style, Jha honored Narayan with a Mithila Paag and shawl, symbolizing cultural pride and respect. “It Feels Good to Return to Bihar” Speaking after the meeting, Kanishk Narayan expressed deep emotional and professional satisfaction at returning to his birthplace after more than two decades. “It feels truly wonderful to be in Bihar. ...

Patna | February 21, 2026: With the festival of Holi fast approaching, the railways have announced the operation of 21 special trains from Patna, Pataliputra and other stations under the Danapur Division to ease the heavy passenger rush. Thousands of migrant workers and professionals residing in other states travel back to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar during the festival season, often facing difficulties in securing confirmed tickets. To address the surge in demand, the railways have introduced special services on key routes, ensuring smoother travel for passengers heading home to celebrate the festival of colors. According to Abhinav Siddharth, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Danapur Division, special arrangements have also been made at major stations to handle the additional...

Patna, Bihar: In a landmark development, Bihar police announced that the surrender of top Maoist operative Suresh Koda, also known as Mustakeem, marks the state as officially “Naxal-free.” Koda, a resident of Paisra village in Munger district, carried a bounty of ₹3 lakh and was a key member of a lethal Naxal platoon. According to a statement from the police headquarters late Wednesday, Koda had over 60 cases registered against him, including several under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). He surrendered to the Special Task Force (STF) in Munger along with three assault rifles—including an AK-47 and an AK-56—two INSAS rifles, 505 rounds of ammunition, magazines, and some cash. Koda will now benefit from the state’s “Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Scheme,” which provides ...