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Taroki–Rowghat Rail Project Reaches Major Milestone

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Raipur, September 29, 2026: The 17.5-kilometre Taroki–Rowghat section of the Dallirajhara–Rowghat New Rail Line Project has reached a major milestone following inspection and successful speed trials.

The single-line electrified broad-gauge section will improve railway connectivity in southern Chhattisgarh. The project is expected to strengthen links between remote communities, industrial centres and larger transport networks.

The new rail infrastructure will support passenger movement, trade and economic activity in the region. It will also create better opportunities for tourism, local enterprise and the movement of goods.

The project is particularly important for southern Chhattisgarh, where improved connectivity can help accelerate development and expand access to education, healthcare, markets and employment.

The completion of the latest section marks another significant step towards a more connected and economically vibrant Chhattisgarh.

Chhattisgarh Leads National Water – Conservation Campaign

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Chhattisgarh has secured first position nationally in the third phase of the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari campaign, highlighting the state’s strong commitment to water conservation and community participation.

The state completed 77,719 of 79,775 registered water-conservation structures under the campaign. The initiative includes the construction and restoration of ponds, check dams, water-harvesting systems and other local water assets.

The campaign has brought communities, local institutions and government agencies together to improve water availability. These conservation structures will support agriculture, strengthen groundwater resources and improve rural resilience during irregular rainfall.

The state’s achievement demonstrates the impact of public participation in environmental programmes. It also reflects the government’s effort to make water conservation an integral part of rural development.

Chhattisgarh’s community-led approach is emerging as an important model for sustainable water management and long-term agricultural security.

Chhattisgarh Approves ₹500-Crore Startup and NIPUN Mission

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Raipur: Nipun SchemeThe Chhattisgarh Cabinet has approved a ₹500-crore Chief Minister’s Startup and NIPUN Mission to create new employment opportunities, promote entrepreneurship and equip young people with advanced skills.

The five-year mission will establish entrepreneurship development centres in all 33 districts of the state. It will also create 100 emerging-technology laboratories and five industry excellence centres.

The programme will focus on practical training in new-age fields including artificial intelligence, big data, blockchain and the Internet of Things. Through district-level support centres, young people will be able to access guidance, training and opportunities to develop their own business ideas.

The initiative is designed to connect education and skill development with the changing needs of industry. It will give youth in smaller towns and rural areas greater access to technology, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.

With this mission, Chhattisgarh is building a strong foundation for innovation-led growth and preparing its young workforce for the jobs of the future.

The Matriarchal Multiplier: How the ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana’ Restructured Chhattisgarh’s Grassroots Economy

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Two years after its high-profile launch, the Mahtari Vandan Yojana has transitioned from an ambitious electoral promise into the baseline architectural framework of Chhattisgarh’s rural fiscal policy. Overseen by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s administration, the monthly direct benefit transfer (DBT) of ₹1,000 to over 70 lakh registered married women represents an uninterrupted capital stream that injects roughly ₹700 crore directly into the household economy every single month. By mandating individual bank accounts tied via the Aadhaar-Enabled Payment System (AEPS), the state has eliminated bureaucratic leakage, structurally reinforcing the financial dignity of women aged 21 and above across the state’s 33 districts.

Tsomgo Lake and Gnathang Valley in Sikkim Witness Season’s First Snowfall


1. Sikkim transforms into a snowy paradise with the season’s first snowfall.
2. Iconic Tsomgo Lake and tranquil Gnathang Valley are now blanketed in snow.
3. The winter charm captivates visitors with pristine beauty and serene landscapes.


Gangtok, Nov 23: Sikkim, famed for its pristine natural beauty, has turned into a snowy paradise with the arrival of the season’s first snowfall.

The much-anticipated transformation has graced the state’s iconic locations, including the mesmerizing Tsomgo Lake and the serene Gnathang Valley, blanketing them in a soft, white coat of snow.

Tsomgo Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake located near Gangtok, is a major attraction for tourists and locals alike.

Its shimmering, frozen surface now reflects the magical winter charm, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking snow-clad landscapes. Similarly, Gnathang Valley, often referred to as the “Ladakh of the East,” has become even more enchanting with its fresh snowfall.


Also Read: NPP Leads in Gambegre Bypolls After Three Rounds of Counting

Known for its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking views, the valley has drawn adventurers and nature enthusiasts eager to experience its ethereal beauty.

The snowfall has boosted tourism in the region, with visitors flocking to Sikkim to enjoy winter activities such as snow trekking and sightseeing.

Hotels and local businesses are witnessing a surge in bookings, signaling a promising start to the winter tourism season.

Meanwhile, the state authorities have issued advisories for tourists to gear up adequately for the chilly weather. Travelers are urged to carry warm clothing, follow safety protocols, and check road conditions before heading to high-altitude regions.

The fresh snowfall marks the beginning of an exciting winter in Sikkim, promising unforgettable experiences for all who visit its magical snowy landscapes.

NPP Leads in Gambegre Bypolls After Three Rounds of Counting


1. A total of 26,461 votes were counted in three rounds during the Gambegre by-polls.
2. 8,433 votes in Round 1, 9,113 in Round 2, and 8,915 in Round 3.
3. Gambegre saw a high voter turnout of 90.93% on polling day.


Shillong, Nov 23: In the Gambegre constituency by-polls, three rounds of vote counting have been completed, tallying a total of 26,461 votes.

The distribution of votes per round stands at 8,433 in Round 1, 9,113 in Round 2, and 8,915 in Round 3.

The polling, held on November 13, witnessed an impressive voter turnout of 90.93%, with 33,088 registered voters participating in the democratic exercise.

As of Round 3, Dr. Mehtab Chandee A. Sangma of the National People’s Party (NPP) has emerged as the leading candidate with 3,885 votes. Sadhiarani M. Sangma of AITC follows her with 2,428 votes and Congress’ Jingjang M. Marak, who has secured 2,050 votes.


Also Read: Manipur: Centre to Deploy 50 More CAPF Companies in Response to Escalating Tensions

Among the other contenders, BJP’s Bernard N. Marak received 287 votes, Independent candidate Jerry A. Sangma garnered 193 votes, and Independent Sengkrabirth M. Marak secured 46 votes. Additionally, 26 votes were cast for NOTA (None of the Above).

While the NPP is dominant, the outcome remains pending as the counting progresses.

Manipur: Centre to Deploy 50 More CAPF Companies in Response to Escalating Tensions


1. Centre deploys 50 additional CAPF companies, over 5,000 personnel, to Manipur this week.
2. Deployment aims to address growing violence and unrest in the region.
3. Reinforcements part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the security situation in Manipur.


Imphal, Nov 18: In response to the growing security challenges in Manipur, the Centre has ordered the deployment of an additional 50 Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) companies, comprising over 5,000 personnel, to the northeastern state this week.

This decision comes as part of efforts to address the escalating violence and unrest in the region.

The latest deployment follows the earlier dispatch of 20 CAPF companies after violent clashes broke out in the Jiribam district and spread to other parts of the state.

Of the newly deployed units, 35 companies will be provided by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), while the remaining 15 will come from the Border Security Force (BSF), according to official sources.

With these reinforcements, the total number of CAPF companies deployed in Manipur will rise to 218. CRPF Director General A.D. Singh, accompanied by senior officials from other CAPFs, is already in Manipur to oversee operations and assess the ground situation.


Also Read: Indian Aviation Makes History, Records Over 5 Lakh Passengers in a Single Day

A detailed deployment strategy is being developed in consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Manipur government. These additional forces will be stationed in areas experiencing the highest levels of violence to enhance security and restore law and order.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to chair a crucial meeting on Monday to review the security situation in Manipur. The meeting aims to devise a comprehensive strategy to tackle the “volatile” situation and ensure long-term peace in the region.

Manipur has been grappling with ethnic strife since May 2023, following tensions between the Meitei community, based in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo groups living in the hills. The recent discovery of the bodies of women and children has further intensified protests and violent clashes.

In response to the worsening situation, the Centre has reimposed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in six police station areas, including Jiribam, which has witnessed severe violence in recent days.

Indian Aviation Makes History, Records Over 5 Lakh Passengers in a Single Day


1. On November 17, 2024, Indian aviation hit a historic milestone, carrying over 5 lakh passengers in a single day.
2. A total of 5,05,412 domestic passengers were flown.
3. Airlines operated 3,173 domestic departures to achieve this record.


New Delhi, Nov 18: On November 17, 2024, Indian aviation achieved a historic milestone as airlines collectively carried over 5 lakh domestic passengers in a single day for the first time ever.

A total of 5,05,412 passengers were flown across 3,173 domestic departures. This marks the culmination of a two-week surge in air traffic, which saw daily peaks, with November 8 recording 4.9 lakh passengers, November 9 reporting 4.96 lakh, and subsequent days seeing similar increases, peaking on November 17.

This impressive feat comes after a relatively subdued October, leading up to Diwali. IndiGo, which had reported a loss after seven consecutive profitable quarters in its Q2-FY25 results just before Diwali, had previously mentioned that yields had normalized following a period of high yields.


Also Read: Centre Urged to Ensure Safety of Mizo Students Amid Manipur Unrest

The surge in passenger numbers following Diwali indicates that air traffic is picking up after the festive season, driven by the wedding season, along with a notable shift from school holiday-related travel to travel centered around festivals.

High Fares, High Load Factors, But Limited Flights

Despite the surge in passenger numbers, the total number of flights deployed has hovered around 3,161 per day this month, slightly higher than the previous month’s average but still below the number of flights operated during the peak Diwali period.

On November 12, following the merger of Vistara with Air India, some flights between metro cities were upgraded to Dreamliners by the newly combined airline, temporarily increasing capacity.

This move came at a time when the airline had canceled several international flights, resulting in an overall increase in seat deployment, even with a relatively stable number of daily flights.

The combination of high fares, increased load factors, and strategic flight adjustments signals a robust recovery and growth trajectory for Indian aviation, as the industry adapts to evolving demand patterns while managing operational challenges.

Centre Urged to Ensure Safety of Mizo Students Amid Manipur Unrest


1. Mizoram’s student body, Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), urged the Centre to ensure the safety of Mizo students in violence-hit Manipur.
2. The appeal follows rising tensions after the killing of 10 tribal individuals in the region.
3. MZP called for temporarily transferring Mizoram’s reserved seats in Manipur’s institutions to other states for students’ safety.


Aizawl, Nov 18: Mizoram’s apex student body, Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), has called upon the Central Government to take immediate steps to safeguard Mizo students in violence-hit Manipur. The appeal comes in the wake of heightened tensions following the tragic killing of 10 tribal individuals in the region.

Concerns for Mizo Students’ Safety

The MZP expressed deep concerns over the security of Mizo students residing in Manipur, which has been marred by escalating violence.

Acknowledging the deteriorating situation, the organisation suggested that the Centre temporarily transfer Mizoram’s reserved seats in technical and medical institutions based in Manipur to other states until peace is restored.


Also Read: Amit Shah Cancels Rallies Amid Escalating Violence in Manipur

Call for Protection of Meitei Residents in Mizoram

In a show of mutual solidarity, the MZP urged the Mizoram government to ensure the safety of the Meitei community residing in the state.

The organisation also appealed to Manipuris in Mizoram to take necessary precautions to protect themselves amidst the turmoil.

Criticism Over Post-Mortem Delays

The MZP criticised both the Central and Manipur governments for the delayed post-mortem examinations of the 10 tribal victims at Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) in Assam. It alleged that such delays were adding to the unrest and tension in the already volatile region.

The unrest in Manipur has created widespread unease across the northeastern states, with various organisations urging swift measures to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of all communities affected by the conflict.

Amit Shah Cancels Rallies Amid Escalating Violence in Manipur


1. Union Home Minister Amit Shah canceled his Maharashtra rallies amid Manipur’s escalating crisis.
2. Shah returned to Delhi after the killing of six civilians, including three women and three children, in Jiribam.
3. The deteriorating security situation in Manipur demands urgent attention.


Mumbai, Nov 17: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has canceled his planned election rallies in Maharashtra to address the escalating crisis in Manipur’s Imphal Valley.

Shah returned to Delhi as the situation in Manipur worsened following the killing of six civilians, including three women and three children, in the Jiribam district.

Protests Escalate Over Civilian Killings

The violent protests, which began on Saturday, have seen mobs targeting the residences of political leaders.


Also Read: Bodies of Six Abductees Recovered Near Assam-Manipur Border

Among the affected were BJP’s PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam, BJP MLAs Y Radheshyam and Paonam Brojen, and Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar. Residences were stormed, vandalized, and partially set ablaze, although no legislators or their families were present during the attacks.

Attempted Attack on CM’s Residence

In another incident, protesters tried to storm the ancestral residence of Chief Minister N Biren Singh in Imphal East.

Security forces, including Assam Rifles and BSF personnel, intervened by firing tear gas and rubber bullets, stopping the mob within 100-200 meters of the residence. Protesters continued to block roads leading to the CM’s house, setting tyres on fire and erecting barricades to disrupt movement.

Security Measures Tightened

As protests intensify, indefinite curfews remain in place, and security forces struggle to restore regional order. The violent backlash reflects deep anger and unrest over the civilian killings, with tensions showing no signs of easing.

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