Uttar Pradesh has been placed on high alert following the devastating flash floods in neighbouring Nepal, with authorities conducting 24-hour monitoring in border districts and activating emergency arrangements for Indians who may be stranded or missing in the disaster-hit country. Bihar and other states have also stepped up preparedness as officials monitor the possible downstream impact of the floods. 

The flash floods, which struck Nepal's Rasuwa district and areas along the Bhote Koshi river corridor, have caused extensive loss of life and infrastructure. The disaster has also affected foreign tourists and pilgrims, including Indian nationals, prompting Indian state governments and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu to establish helplines for families seeking information about relatives. 

UP Begins 24-Hour Monitoring

The Uttar Pradesh government has directed officials in vulnerable border districts to maintain round-the-clock vigilance amid concerns over possible changes in river levels. The state has also issued emergency helpline number 1070 for people from Uttar Pradesh seeking assistance for relatives stranded in Nepal. 

The precautionary measures are significant because rivers originating in or flowing through Nepal feed into river systems in northern India. The Narayani River, for instance, becomes the Gandak after entering India and flows through Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, creating a direct hydrological link between the two countries. 

Bihar Also on Alert

Bihar has similarly been placed on high alert, with authorities monitoring the Gandak and other river systems for any sudden rise in water levels. The Centre has directed agencies to remain prepared, while National Disaster Response Force teams have been deployed in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh as a precautionary measure. 

The focus is on preventing loss of life in vulnerable areas, particularly settlements located close to rivers and low-lying zones. Officials are also keeping emergency response teams ready in case water levels rise rapidly.

States Open Helplines

Several Indian states have activated dedicated control rooms to help families locate residents who may have been travelling in Nepal. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has also issued emergency contact numbers for Indian nationals requiring assistance. 

According to the latest information compiled by The Statesman, helplines have been activated in states including Karnataka, Telangana, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Kerala, Rajasthan, Odisha and Sikkim. Families have been advised to provide details such as the traveller's full name, passport number, mobile number, last known location, accommodation and travel itinerary when contacting authorities. 

For Uttar Pradesh residents, the emergency number is 1070. The Indian Embassy's emergency contacts listed for people seeking assistance in Nepal are +977 985 131 6807 and +977 970 910 7500, with WhatsApp access also available. 

Hundreds Still Missing

The scale of the Nepal disaster has made the tracing of stranded Indians a major concern. Reports indicate that hundreds of people remain missing following the sudden flood, while the death toll has continued to rise as rescue teams recover bodies from affected areas.

The disaster has affected villages, roads, bridges and hydropower infrastructure along the Himalayan corridor. Rescue operations remain difficult because of damaged communications, blocked roads and the continuing risk of landslides and additional flooding. 

India Keeps Agencies Ready

Indian authorities are treating the situation as both a humanitarian emergency and a potential downstream flood risk. The Centre has maintained close coordination with the governments of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while disaster-response agencies remain prepared for any deterioration in conditions. 

The immediate priority is to protect vulnerable communities on the Indian side, track river levels and assist Indians caught in the Nepal disaster. Officials are also urging families searching for relatives to use the designated control rooms and provide complete identification and travel information to speed up tracing efforts.

The situation remains fluid, with rescue operations continuing in Nepal and authorities on both sides of the border monitoring developments closely.

Heavy rainfall continued across several parts of India on Thursday and Friday, triggering flood-like conditions, waterlogging and disruptions in multiple states. Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Himachal Pradesh were among the regions reporting significant weather-related impacts.

In eastern Madhya Pradesh, continuous rainfall has caused rivers and streams to swell, while authorities have taken precautionary measures in some districts. The weather situation has also remained challenging in parts of Uttar Pradesh, where more than 84,000 people have reportedly been affected by flooding.

Schools Shut In Madhya Pradesh

Several districts of eastern Madhya Pradesh have received persistent rainfall, leading to overflowing rivers and streams.

The Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall alert for Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Panna, Sagar and Damoh.

Amid deteriorating weather conditions, schools have been closed in Dindori and Panna as a precautionary measure.

The continuing rainfall has also increased the risk of waterlogging and disruption of road connectivity in low-lying areas.

13 UP Districts Face Flood Risk

Uttar Pradesh has also been significantly affected by the ongoing rainfall.

Flood-like conditions have been reported in 13 districts, with more than 84,000 people affected by rising water levels.

In Varanasi, rising water levels have affected areas around the Ganga. The Ganga gate of the Kashi Vishwanath Templehas been closed, while cremation grounds at Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats have also been submerged.

Prayagraj has experienced rainfall for three consecutive days, resulting in waterlogging on several roads and streets.

Bihar Under Heavy Rain Alert

Several parts of Bihar are also experiencing heavy rainfall.

The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rain and lightning in various areas on August 21, 22 and 23.

An orange alert for heavy rainfall and strong winds has been issued for seven districts in northeastern Bihar, prompting residents and authorities to remain cautious.

Himachal Reports ₹1,033 Crore Damage

The monsoon has also caused extensive damage in Himachal Pradesh.

Rainfall, floods, landslides and other weather-related incidents have resulted in estimated property damage of approximately ₹1,033 crore so far this monsoon season.

According to the available information, 205 people have died in the state during the monsoon. Of these, 121 deaths were reportedly linked to road accidents.

The state has also witnessed landslides, damaged roads and disruption of infrastructure in several areas.

Low-Pressure System Driving Rain

According to the Meteorological Department, a well-marked low-pressure area persists over north Jharkhand, southwest Bihar and southeast Uttar Pradesh.

The monsoon trough is also passing through the system.

Under its influence, rainfall activity is expected to remain active in Chhattisgarh over the next few days, while several other parts of the country could continue to receive rain.

With rivers already running high in several regions, authorities are monitoring vulnerable areas and advising residents in flood-prone locations to exercise caution.

Weather Disruptions Across States

The continuing monsoon activity has affected daily life beyond the major flood-hit areas.

Parts of Agra experienced waterlogging following rainfall, while several areas of Jharkhand, including Hazaribagh, also reported water accumulation.

In Chhattisgarh's Korba, a villager reportedly died after being swept away in the Kharun river. Rescue teams were involved in recovering the body.

In Uttarakhand, infrastructure has also been affected by the weather. After a bridge collapsed in Kulagad in Pithoragarh, an alternative route is being constructed.

The widespread impact highlights the continuing risks from heavy rainfall, swollen rivers and landslides as monsoon activity remains strong across several parts of the country.

As India marks its 80th Independence Day, the country enters its ninth decade with one of the world's largest working-age populations. With an estimated population of around 1.46 billion and a median age of about 29 years, India has a significant demographic advantage. But the opportunity is not evenly distributed across the country.

Around 68 per cent of Indians, or nearly one billion people, are between 15 and 64 years of age. This large working-age population could support economic growth through manufacturing, services and domestic consumption. However, India now faces a widening demographic divide between an ageing South and a younger North, along with the challenge of creating enough jobs and increasing women's participation in the workforce.

South India Starts Ageing

Several southern and western states entered the demographic transition earlier after decades of investment in education, healthcare and family planning.

States such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu now have fertility rates well below the replacement level of 2.1 births per woman. Kerala, in particular, is experiencing a rapid increase in its elderly population, with people aged 60 and above accounting for a significant share of the state's population.

For these states, the demographic challenge is changing. Governments will increasingly have to prepare for a larger elderly population, smaller school-age cohorts and a reduced pool of young workers.

Industries in the South and West could also face greater competition for labour in the coming decades.

North Has Young Workforce

The demographic picture is markedly different in several northern states.

Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh continue to have relatively young populations and are expected to contribute a substantial share of India's labour-force growth in the years ahead.

Bihar's median age is below 23, while its fertility rate remains higher than the national average.

This creates a potential economic connection between two parts of India. Industrial centres in the South and West will increasingly need workers, while younger populations in the North will need skills, employment and opportunities.

Migration Could Bridge Gap

Interstate migration and vocational training could therefore become increasingly important to India's economic future.

Workers from states with large young populations could be connected with employment opportunities in manufacturing, construction, logistics and services in states facing labour shortages.

However, migration will require more than employment opportunities. Affordable housing, transportation, healthcare, social security and access to public services will also be important for workers moving between states.

Women Remain Underused

India's demographic challenge is not limited to regional differences. Women's participation in the workforce remains another major gap.

Female labour force participation is significantly below male participation, particularly in urban areas. Women continue to face barriers including safety concerns, unpaid domestic responsibilities, limited childcare facilities and a shortage of flexible employment options.

Rural women have relatively higher participation, partly because of their involvement in agriculture and family-based economic activities. Urban female participation, however, remains considerably lower.

Increasing women's participation could significantly expand India's effective workforce and add to economic growth.

Job Creation Is Critical

A large working-age population does not automatically translate into a demographic dividend.

India must create enough productive employment to absorb millions of new entrants into the labour market. The focus will need to extend beyond low-productivity informal employment towards manufacturing, services, technology, green industries and export-oriented sectors.

Labour-intensive manufacturing could play an important role by creating jobs for workers with different levels of education and skills.

The challenge is particularly important for states such as Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where large numbers of young people will enter the workforce over the coming decades.

Demographic Window Closing

India's demographic advantage also has a time limit.

Demographers expect the country's dependency ratio to reach a historic low around 2041, after which population ageing is likely to increase the proportion of dependants relative to the working-age population.

This gives India roughly the next 15 years to maximise the benefits of its demographic structure.

The priority will be to ensure that today's young population becomes a skilled and productive workforce before the window begins to narrow.

Three Priorities Ahead

India's demographic strategy will require action on three broad fronts.

First, stronger interstate skill and employment corridors can connect young workers with regions where labour demand is growing.

Second, investment in urban care infrastructure, including childcare, safe public transport and workplace support, can help more women enter and remain in paid employment.

Third, India needs job creation at scale, particularly in labour-intensive manufacturing and emerging industries.

India’s Demographic Test

India enters its 80th year of Independence with a rare demographic opportunity: a huge population, a relatively young workforce and a growing economy.

But population size alone will not guarantee prosperity.

The country must bridge the demographic gap between its younger North and ageing South, bring more women into productive employment and create millions of quality jobs.

If India manages this transition effectively, its demographic dividend could become one of the country's strongest economic advantages. If the opportunity is missed, the same demographic pressures could eventually become a constraint on growth.

Heavy rainfall continued across several parts of north and central India over the past 24 hours, triggering waterlogging and flood-like conditions in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Several areas reported severe waterlogging, overflowing rivers and disruption to normal life as monsoon systems remained active over the region.

Bhopal Gets Over 7 Inches

Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal has been receiving continuous rainfall for the past two days. The city recorded more than 7 inches of rain in 24 hours, leading authorities to keep schools closed for two days.

Water reportedly accumulated to nearly 5 feet in some parts of the city, affecting more than 1,000 houses and disrupting movement in several neighbourhoods.

A low-pressure area is currently active over Madhya Pradesh, while the monsoon trough is passing through the Gwalior region. The weather system is drawing moisture into the state and is expected to trigger heavy rainfall in 11 districts.

Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to remain cautious as water levels continue to rise in several locations.

Orange Alert in Rajasthan

Rajasthan has also witnessed intense rainfall, particularly across the Hadoti region.

The weather department has issued an orange alert for six districts and a yellow alert for 17 districts amid the possibility of further heavy rain.

Kota, Baran, Bundi and Jhalawar recorded up to 12 inches of rainfall in the past 24 hours.

The situation worsened after the gates of the Kalisindh and Chhapi dams were opened, resulting in flood-like conditions in several low-lying areas.

Cars Swept Away in Bundi

Heavy rainfall caused extensive waterlogging in Bundi, where vehicles parked along roads were reportedly swept away by rapidly moving floodwater.

The incident highlighted the dangers posed by sudden water accumulation and strong currents in urban areas following intense rainfall.

Authorities are monitoring vulnerable locations and assessing the impact of the continuing downpour.

Flood Risk Rises in UP

Parts of Uttar Pradesh have also been affected by heavy rainfall and rising water levels.

In Saharanpur, a bridge built over the Gangrao River was damaged after a sudden rise in the river's flow.

The rising level of the Ganga has also increased concerns in low-lying areas. Reports said water entered around 25 houses, forcing residents to remain alert and prepare for possible evacuation.

Two Rescued in Chhattisgarh

In Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district, two young men were swept away by strong currents near Narhara Waterfall during heavy rainfall.

Local residents managed to rescue both men.

Authorities have repeatedly warned people against entering rivers, waterfalls and other water bodies during periods of heavy rain because water levels can rise rapidly without warning.

Families Move to Safer Areas

In Bihar's Khagaria district, residents of the Diyara region have started moving towards safer locations amid concerns over rising water levels.

Several families were seen relocating along with their livestock as a precaution.

The Diyara areas, which are situated close to river channels, are particularly vulnerable to flooding when rivers swell during the monsoon.

Waterlogging in Haryana

Heavy rain also disrupted normal life in Haryana's Gohana, where Jind Road was waterlogged.

Accumulated rainwater affected traffic movement and created difficulties for commuters.

With monsoon systems remaining active across several states, authorities are keeping a close watch on rainfall, river levels and vulnerable low-lying areas.

The coming hours will be crucial for Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, where further heavy rainfall could worsen waterlogging and flood conditions.

The 27-year-old cleared the Bihar Public Service Commission's 67th Combined Competitive Examination with All India Rank 330, securing selection as Assistant Director in the Social Security Cell. Reports on her achievement describe her as having a short stature that made her a frequent target of ridicule while growing up — accounts vary slightly on the exact height, with some putting it at around three feet and others closer to four, but the consistent detail across coverage is that her physical stature became something people used to mock her.

Rather than let that define her, Shweta turned the years of ridicule into motivation, treating the very comments meant to discourage her as steps toward her eventual success. Her BPSC result has since drawn wide attention and appreciation, both within her community and more broadly, with her story being held up as inspiration for young people navigating similar prejudice.

Her selection as Assistant Director places her within Bihar's Social Security Cell, a department responsible for administering welfare and pension schemes across the state — a role that puts her in a position to directly shape the kind of support systems available to others facing their own difficult circumstances.

Beyond the specifics of her exam result, Shweta's story fits into a broader, recurring pattern in India's competitive exam landscape: candidates who face visible physical difference or disability continuing to clear some of the country's toughest recruitment exams despite entrenched social stigma, often becoming reference points for other aspirants facing similar bias long after their own result is announced.

The decision comes ahead of the peak pilgrimage period, when lakhs of Shiva devotees travel through Bihar and Jharkhand to participate in the month-long religious fair. Railway authorities have been making special operational arrangements to handle the seasonal rush, with the restoration of the South Bihar Express expected to ease pressure on regular services.

The train's return is likely to benefit passengers travelling from Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring regions who rely on the route for onward connectivity towards eastern India during the Shravan month. The service had remained unavailable earlier, forcing many passengers to depend on alternative trains that witnessed heavy demand.

Every year, Shravani Mela witnesses a sharp rise in passenger movement as devotees collect holy water from Sultanganj before undertaking the Kanwar Yatra to Deoghar. The growing number of pilgrims often results in packed trains, prompting Indian Railways to introduce additional services and restore important routes wherever operationally feasible.

Officials have indicated that railway operations during the festival period are being closely monitored to ensure smoother travel. Along with restoring key trains, several Shravani Mela special services are also being scheduled across different railway zones to manage the expected influx of passengers. These trains are intended to reduce overcrowding and improve connectivity for devotees travelling to Baba Baidyanath Dham.

The restoration of the South Bihar Express is expected to reduce dependence on connecting trains, particularly for passengers travelling long distances. Railway officials have advised travellers to check updated schedules and reservation availability before planning their journey, as festival traffic generally leads to high occupancy across major routes.

Indian Railways has been strengthening preparations for the Shravan season through additional train services, crowd management measures and passenger facilities at important stations. Government agencies have also initiated special arrangements in areas witnessing heavy pilgrim movement to ensure safe and orderly travel during the fair.

The Shravani Fair remains one of eastern India's largest religious gatherings, attracting devotees from across the country every year. Rail transport plays a crucial role in handling this seasonal movement, making the restoration of major passenger services particularly significant.

With the South Bihar Express returning to operation, pilgrims are expected to have a more convenient travel option during one of the busiest periods on the railway network. Authorities are expected to continue reviewing passenger demand throughout the festival and introduce further operational measures if required.

Further railway advisories regarding timings, stoppages and any additional festival-related services are expected in the coming days as preparations for the Shravani Fair gather momentum.

The second day of the Bihar Legislature's Monsoon Session witnessed intense political exchanges, with the Opposition protesting against the proposed panchayat tax collection in the Assembly, while the issue of drug abuse sparked a heated debate in the Legislative Council. The government also made key announcements on teacher recruitment, school infrastructure, and industrial development during the proceedings.

The Opposition created a ruckus in the Assembly after raising concerns that the proposed panchayat tax would impose an additional financial burden on poor families. Left legislators demanded a discussion on the proposed tax and the contingency fund, submitting an adjournment motion that was later rejected by the Speaker.

Following the rejection, Opposition MLAs entered the well of the House and staged a protest. Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar urged members to return to their seats, while Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary said the matter would be discussed when the relevant bill is introduced. He also invited the Opposition to bring amendment proposals during the legislative process, after which the protesting legislators returned to their seats.

Drug Abuse Issue Sparks Heated Debate

In the Legislative Council, RJD MLC Sunil Singh raised concerns over the increasing use of narcotic substances in Bihar. He alleged that marijuana and charas consumption had become common and claimed that drug use was visible even near religious places.

His remarks triggered strong objections from BJP members after he referred to temples and monasteries. A verbal exchange followed, adding to the tense atmosphere inside the House.

Sunil Singh also accused the state government of collecting higher taxes on petrol and diesel, alleging that Bihar was earning an additional ₹200 crore from fuel taxation.

Later in the day, BJP MLC Anamika Singh and RJD MLC Munni Rajak were involved in a heated argument outside the chamber of Leader of Opposition Rabri Devi over the same issue.

JD(U) MLA Questions Teacher Shortage

The government also faced criticism from within the ruling alliance. JD(U) MLA Shyam Rajak questioned the Education Department over the shortage of teachers in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar residential schools.

He claimed that nearly 62% of teaching positions remained vacant, raising concerns about the quality of education in these institutions.

Responding to the issue, Education Minister Lakhendra Kumar informed the House that 91 schools are currently operational with 1,290 teachers working against 2,406 sanctioned posts. He added that vacancies have been forwarded to the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) under the TRE-4 recruitment process.

When Rajak sought a clear timeline for appointments, the minister assured that recruitment would begin once BPSC completes the selection process.

Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary later intervened and directed the Education Department to ensure that teachers are appointed in the residential schools within one month.

Government Announces Major Education Initiatives

During Question Hour, the issue of inadequate school infrastructure was also discussed. Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced that schools without land would be provided suitable land within the next six months.

Education Minister Lakhendra Kumar further announced that the state government plans to recruit one lakh teachers over the next five years, while proposals for the TRE-4 recruitment drive would be sent to the BPSC by the end of July.

Other Key Announcements

The government also announced plans to establish three new sugar mills, including in Gopalganj and Madhubani, to boost the state's agro-based economy.

Meanwhile, Opposition legislators staged demonstrations outside the Assembly before the session began, accusing the government of rising corruption, deteriorating law and order, and mishandling issues such as examination paper leaks.

With education, taxation, law and order, and governance dominating discussions, the second day of the Monsoon Session reflected both political confrontation and significant policy announcements that are expected to shape Bihar's administrative agenda in the coming months.

Speaking in Patna, Khesari praised Prashant Kishor's vision for Bihar and described him as a leader working with long-term intentions for the state. The actor said people should support individuals who are trying to bring positive change rather than viewing politics only through the lens of traditional party loyalties.

The statement comes as the Bankipur bypoll has evolved into one of Bihar's most closely watched political contests. Prashant Kishor, who founded the Jan Suraaj Party after years as a political strategist, is making his electoral debut from the constituency, challenging the BJP in one of its long-standing strongholds.

Khesari said he believes Bihar deserves leadership that focuses on education, development and opportunities for the younger generation. Referring to Prashant Kishor, he remarked that supporting the "right person" was his responsibility and indicated that Bihar needs politics driven by public welfare rather than personal interests.

The Bhojpuri star also extended support to social activist Sonam Wangchuk's campaign on education-related issues, saying that any movement aimed at securing a better future for children deserves public backing. Alongside his political remarks, Khesari wished RJD president Lalu Prasad Yadav a speedy recovery, describing him as a senior leader whose health was a matter of concern for many people in Bihar.

Khesari's endorsement is significant because of his massive popularity across Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Although he has occasionally commented on public issues, his direct backing of a political leader during an election campaign has attracted considerable attention.

Prashant Kishor's decision to contest the Bankipur seat has already intensified political activity in the state. He has described the by-election as an opportunity for voters to assess the performance of the current Bihar government and has urged people to move beyond caste and religion while casting their votes.

The Bankipur contest has become politically important because the constituency has traditionally been regarded as a BJP bastion. Several senior leaders from the BJP have joined the campaign, while Jan Suraaj is attempting to convert the bypoll into a larger political statement ahead of future electoral battles in Bihar.

Khesari Lal Yadav's latest remarks have also revived discussion around his earlier statements about Prashant Kishor. During previous political campaigns, the actor had publicly praised Kishor's political vision and described him as someone committed to Bihar's development, comments that continue to resurface whenever elections approach.

With campaigning gathering pace, endorsements from well-known public figures are expected to remain part of the political conversation. Whether Khesari Lal Yadav's support translates into electoral influence will become clear only after voters cast their ballots, but his intervention has undoubtedly added fresh momentum to an already closely watched by-election in Bihar.

The Chief Minister, who was visiting Begusarai for the first time after assuming office, inaugurated the schools through video conferencing and described the initiative as a significant step towards transforming Bihar’s education landscape. The schools, officially launched under the Saraswati Vidya Niketan Adarsh Vidyalaya programme, are expected to provide modern learning facilities to students studying in Classes 9 to 12.

Addressing a public gathering, Choudhary said the day marked a historic moment for Bihar and emphasized that the state’s future would be shaped through education rather than infrastructure alone.

“People often think inaugurations are about buildings and infrastructure. I believe this is the inauguration of Bihar’s future,” he said while highlighting the role of education in social and economic transformation.

The newly launched model schools have been equipped with smart classrooms, e-libraries and other digital learning tools. According to the government, experienced teachers will be deployed in these institutions and students will also receive preparation support for competitive examinations such as NEET and JEE.

The Chief Minister said nearly four lakh students are expected to benefit from the project. He also announced that the FILO learning application would be integrated into the system, allowing students to access online learning support even during late-night hours.

The declaration regarding a university named after Ramdhari Singh Dinkar received a positive response from local residents and political leaders. Dinkar, one of India’s most celebrated Hindi poets and writers, hailed from Bihar and continues to hold immense cultural significance in the state.

Union Minister and Begusarai MP Giriraj Singh, who was present at the programme, welcomed the announcement and said the people of the region had long demanded a university in the poet’s name. He thanked the state government for choosing Begusarai as the launch venue for the statewide education initiative.

The event also featured a public interaction programme and inspection of educational facilities. Choudhary visited classrooms, interacted with students and reviewed projects displayed by them. He spent time observing educational exhibits and discussing academic aspirations with students.

Photographs from the event showed the Chief Minister interacting with students inside smart classrooms and visiting exhibition stalls set up by schools.

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Choudhary described the education reforms as part of a larger development journey that began during previous NDA governments in Bihar. He said the state was entering a second phase of educational transformation aimed at improving quality and accessibility.

“History shows that when Begusarai progresses, Bihar progresses. Major reforms in education have already laid a strong foundation, and now the focus is on expanding quality learning opportunities,” he said.

The state government has instructed district administrations to closely monitor the functioning of the model schools and ensure that no essential infrastructure work remains incomplete. Education Department officials have also been directed to personally review implementation at the district level.

Officials said the project is designed to bridge the gap between government and private schooling by offering advanced learning facilities to students in both urban and rural areas.

The Chief Minister also reiterated the government’s broader development goals. He claimed that within the next two years, efforts would be made to help one crore women in Bihar achieve financial self-reliance and become “Lakhpati Didis.”

The Begusarai event came just days after the state government launched degree colleges in 211 blocks across Bihar. The administration has projected education as a key pillar of its governance agenda, alongside employment generation and infrastructure development.

Security arrangements remained extensive throughout the programme, with personnel deployed across key venues and routes ahead of the Chief Minister’s visit.

The siblings — Rajnish Kumar, Sakshi Kumari and Prahlad Kumar — belong to a family supported by a small grocery business. Their father, Rohit Kumar, runs a kirana shop, while their mother, Poonam Devi, stood firmly behind their education despite the family’s limited financial resources. Their success has brought celebrations not only to their home but also across their neighbourhood and village.

The achievement is even more significant because all three prepared without relocating to major coaching hubs. Instead, they continued their studies while staying in Saharsa, relying on local educational support and consistent self-discipline. Their journey has become an example that success in competitive examinations does not always depend on studying in large metropolitan coaching centres.

According to available information, Rajnish and Sakshi secured success in their third attempt at the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET UG), while their younger brother, Prahlad Kumar, cleared the examination in his very first attempt. The differing paths of the three siblings underline the importance of perseverance, with repeated setbacks eventually giving way to success.

The siblings completed their schooling in their home region before preparing for India's highly competitive medical entrance examination. Rajnish and Sakshi studied under both the CBSE and Bihar Board systems during different stages of their education, while Prahlad completed both his matriculation and intermediate studies through the Bihar Board before qualifying for NEET on his first attempt.

Their parents described the result as the reward for years of sacrifice and hard work. Despite financial constraints, the family ensured that education remained the highest priority. Relatives, neighbours and well-wishers have continued visiting their residence since the results were announced to congratulate the family. Local representatives also joined the celebrations to honour the siblings' achievement.

Prahlad Kumar said he now hopes to specialise as an orthopaedic surgeon in the future. Sakshi Kumari expressed her desire to become a paediatrician after completing medical education. Rajnish highlighted that financial limitations should never discourage students from pursuing ambitious goals, adding that determination and disciplined preparation can overcome difficult circumstances.

The success comes at a time when competition in NEET UG continues to intensify each year, with lakhs of students competing for a limited number of medical seats across India. Stories such as this continue to resonate because they demonstrate that persistence, family support and consistent effort remain critical factors behind success in one of the country's toughest entrance examinations.

For many aspiring doctors, the Saharsa siblings' achievement offers a powerful reminder that opportunities can be created even without access to expensive resources, provided the commitment to learning remains strong.

Rahulendra Kumar has been selected for the post of Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), while his sister, Sushmita Gupta, has been appointed as a Block SC/ST Welfare Officer. Their achievement has drawn attention across Bihar, with many describing it as a rare example of two siblings entering the state civil services together.

The siblings belong to Bairgania in Sitamarhi district, where their success has become a source of pride for the local community. According to reports, the family has long prioritised education despite facing personal and financial challenges over the years. Their journey is now being seen as an inspiration for thousands of civil services aspirants preparing for the highly competitive BPSC examination.

Rahulendra Kumar secured a place in the Bihar Administrative Service after successfully clearing the 70th BPSC examination. The SDM post is among the most sought-after positions offered through the state civil services, carrying responsibilities related to revenue administration, law and order, and implementation of government schemes at the subdivision level.

His sister, Sushmita Gupta, also achieved success in the same examination by earning selection as a Block SC/ST Welfare Officer. The role focuses on implementing welfare programmes for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, monitoring social welfare initiatives and ensuring that government benefits reach eligible communities at the grassroots level.

Reports indicate that the siblings remained focused on their preparation despite setbacks and competition associated with the BPSC examination. Their disciplined study routine and consistent efforts eventually resulted in both securing government service through the same recruitment process.

The 70th BPSC Combined Competitive Examination witnessed intense competition from candidates across Bihar. Thousands of aspirants appeared for the examination, which involved preliminary, mains and interview stages before the final merit list was announced. Successful candidates were allocated various administrative and allied services based on their ranks and preferences.

Stories of candidates overcoming difficult circumstances have become a defining feature of this year's BPSC results. Alongside Rahulendra Kumar and Sushmita Gupta, several candidates from economically weaker backgrounds and rural areas secured top government posts, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of successful aspirants.

The simultaneous success of the Sitamarhi siblings has generated widespread appreciation on social media and among civil services aspirants. Many have described their achievement as proof that perseverance, planning and family support can help candidates overcome the challenges associated with one of Bihar's toughest competitive examinations.

For Rahulendra Kumar and Sushmita Gupta, the BPSC results mark the beginning of careers in public service. While Rahulendra will take charge as an SDM, Sushmita will work in the state's welfare administration, with both expected to contribute to governance and development in Bihar through their respective roles.

Tiwari announced his resignation on Thursday, ending a long association with the Lalu Prasad Yadav-led party. His exit comes at a politically significant time, with Bihar preparing for Assembly elections and opposition parties working to consolidate their strategies.

In his resignation statement, Tiwari alleged that there was no longer any respect for committed and loyal party workers. He claimed that despite repeatedly raising concerns before senior leaders, including RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, his grievances were not addressed.

He also alleged that Tejashwi Yadav was surrounded by people who had weakened the party from within, comparing them to "termites" that had gradually damaged the organisation. According to Tiwari, continuing in the party after repeated humiliation was no longer possible.

Mrityunjay Tiwari has been regarded as one of the prominent public faces of the RJD for more than a decade. Appointed as the party's spokesperson and media in-charge in 2014, he regularly defended the party's position on political issues and represented it across television debates and public platforms. Party workers also credit him with playing an active role in connecting young voters with the organisation.

Reflecting on his association with the party, Tiwari said he had stood with the RJD even during difficult political periods and had fulfilled every responsibility entrusted to him. However, he maintained that the current organisational atmosphere no longer offered space for workers who had remained committed over the years.

The resignation has triggered fresh speculation over internal dissatisfaction within the RJD, although the party has not issued a detailed official response on Tiwari's allegations. Political observers believe the development could become a talking point as Bihar's electoral battle gathers momentum in the coming months.

Reports have also suggested that some senior RJD leaders attempted to persuade Tiwari to reconsider his decision. However, he reportedly remained firm and has not indicated whether he plans to join another political party.

Tiwari's political journey began during his student years before he joined the RJD, where he gradually emerged as one of its most recognisable spokespersons. Over the years, he became a familiar face in Bihar's political discourse, frequently articulating the party's stand on governance, elections and state politics.

His departure comes at a sensitive time for the opposition party, which is expected to play a central role in the upcoming Assembly elections. Any signs of internal discord are likely to attract attention as rival parties intensify their campaigns.

For now, Mrityunjay Tiwari has not announced his next political move. Whether he remains independent or joins another party is expected to become clearer in the coming weeks as Bihar's political landscape continues to evolve.