West Bengal Power Minister Aroop Biswas inaugurated a new 132 kV Gas Insulated (GI) substation control room near Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata. With an installed capacity of about 186.3 MVA, the facility will cater to nearly 1 lakh consumers across the metro corridor, IT hubs, industrial units, and commercial establishments.  The advanced setup is expected to enhance power reliability, reduce outages, and support the growing demand in the rapidly developing Salt Lake and adjoining areas,...

Former West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra has strongly responded to Union Finance Minister’s remarks on the state’s tax share growth.  While the Centre highlighted a 291% rise in Bengal’s tax devolution between 2014 and 2024, Mitra attributed the figures largely to the state’s robust GSDP growth. Sharing detailed tax collection and devolution data, he argued that the Centre’s claims overlook Bengal’s economic contribution.  The debate...

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert predicting light to moderate rain and thunderstorms during the Durga Puja celebrations this year. Starting from Mahalaya, showers are expected to continue through Navami and Dashami, with intensity likely to peak due to a low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal.  While this may bring relief from humid conditions, it could also disrupt outdoor festivities, pandal hopping, and cultural programs. Devotees are...

After unrest in Nepal, West Bengal and the Centre have agreed on a security “truce” in border districts. Joint deployment of the BSF and state police has increased vigilance in areas like Panitanki, Siliguri. The coordination aims to maintain law and order, prevent cross-border spillovers, and ensure the safety of residents along sensitive border regions.

The BJP’s West Bengal unit is conducting a mass contact programme during Durga Puja. Party workers will distribute saris at pandals to boost visibility and engage with voters ahead of elections. The initiative has sparked debate over blending religious festivities with political campaigns, as parties seek grassroots support and greater electoral outreach in key constituencies.

The Election Commission (EC) has started training ADMs and EROs ahead of the May 2026 assembly elections. Block Level Officers (BLOs) will soon join the Special Intensive Revision of voter rolls. This preparation aims to ensure accurate voter lists, smooth polling, and strict adherence to guidelines, minimizing errors and ensuring transparency in the upcoming elections.

On Hindi Divas, CM Mamata Banerjee announced major steps for Hindi-speaking residents in West Bengal. Plans include establishing a Hindi University in Howrah, introducing Hindi medium colleges, and offering expanded exam paper options. She also pledged welfare support for unorganised sector workers. While praised by some, the move has sparked debate over cultural identity and regional language balance.

A bomb blast rocked Murshidabad district, leaving one person injured and sparking fresh concerns over local security. Police quickly detained three suspects for questioning. Investigators are working to uncover the source of the explosion and any hidden networks. Authorities are probing the motive behind the blast, including possible links to larger groups. Security has been tightened across the region.