Anuppur Lodge Collapse: Third Body Found, Rs 9 Lakh Compensation

Three dead as three-storey building caves in near Kotma bus stand; rescue teams from Bhilai and Varanasi join operation.

The death toll in the Anuppur lodge collapse rose to three on Sunday morning as rescue personnel pulled out a woman’s body from the debris. The three-storey building in Kotma bus stand area had caved in on Saturday evening. Officials confirmed two earlier fatalities – Hanuman Deen Yadav (55) and Ram Kripal Yadav (40) – while three persons sustained injuries. The woman’s identity remains unknown.

Rescue Operations Continue

More than 100 personnel from NDRF, SDRF and local teams have been clearing the rubble for nearly 19 hours. Special rescue units from Bhilai and Varanasi reached the site on Sunday to assist. According to officials, the operation will continue until all debris is removed and any remaining trapped persons are accounted for.

Cause Under Investigation

Eyewitnesses said the building tilted towards an adjacent pit before collapsing. Preliminary findings indicate that a 12-feet-deep pit dug for construction work nearby had filled with water, possibly weakening the lodge’s foundation. A senior district official said a structural audit will be conducted once rescue work ends.

Case Registered Against Owners

Anuppur Superintendent of Police Motiur Rahman confirmed that a case has been filed at Kotma police station under BNS sections 290 and 106. The accused are land owner Rajeev Garg and lodge owner Lallu Lal Agrawal. Police said negligence in construction safety and failure to maintain the building’s stability are the primary grounds for the case.

Compensation Announced

Collector Harshal Pancholi announced on Sunday that the state government will provide Rs 9 lakh each to the families of the deceased. Injured persons will receive Rs 2.5 lakh each. “The compensation will be disbursed immediately after verification of documents,” the collector said, adding that medical expenses of the injured will also be borne by the administration.

Former MLA Raises Concerns

Former Kotma MLA Sunil Saraf expressed alarm over the incident, stating that several other buildings in the area face similar risks. “This is not an isolated case. Many structures here have been weakened by nearby excavation. The administration must take strict action to prevent a repeat,” he told reporters.

Market Shut for Safety

Local markets near the bus stand remained closed on Sunday due to the ongoing rescue and barricading. Residents pointed out that the casualty count could have been much higher had the market been open on Saturday. The lodge was undergoing repairs at the time, which kept footfall low, according to shopkeepers.

Search Teams Face Challenges

A 41-member NDRF team from Varanasi along with Bhilai’s rescue unit has been using dog squads and heavy machinery. However, the depth of the debris and the water-filled pit are hampering progress. “The dogs are returning repeatedly because of the unstable ground. We are removing debris in layers,” a rescue official said. CCTV footage of the collapse is being reviewed to trace any other missing persons.

Officials have assured that a full inquiry into the building’s permissions and structural safety will follow. Meanwhile, rescue teams remain on high alert as hopes fade of finding more survivors under the concrete and mud. The district administration has urged the public to avoid the area and report any similar unsafe structures immediately.

Raipur Police Bust Inter-State Cannabis Racket, Seize 22 kg Ganja Worth ₹11 Lakh

Seven arrested including two women and a minor; gang was smuggling cannabis from Odisha to Madhya Pradesh via Chhattisgarh capital

Gang Caught Red-Handed

Raipur police dismantled an inter-state drug smuggling network on Wednesday after arresting seven individuals — including two women and a minor — found carrying over 22 kilograms of cannabis near Telghani Naka in the Ganj police station area of the state capital.

The operation, carried out on the evening of April 2, follows a tip-off received by local police about a group loitering near the naka with bags suspected to contain contraband.

Tip-Off Led to Quick Action

According to police officials, a confidential informant alerted the Ganj police station that several individuals were standing near Telghani Naka with loaded bags, apparently waiting to move to another location.

A police team was immediately deployed to cordon off the area. Upon conducting a search, officers recovered ganja from the personal bags of all seven individuals on the spot.

Accused Named, Odisha Links Confirmed

The arrested accused have been identified as Shantanu Malik, Romeo Malik, Juliet Malik, Rahul Malik, Rashmita Digal, and Deepa Digal — all residents of Odisha — along with one juvenile whose identity has not been disclosed given their age.

Sources indicated that the group had procured the cannabis from Odisha and was in the process of transporting it to Madhya Pradesh when they were intercepted in Raipur.

Over ₹11 Lakh in Contraband Seized

Police seized a total of 22.450 kilograms of ganja from the accused, with the street value of the seized consignment estimated at approximately ₹11.22 lakh.

The recovery was made from individual bags carried by each member of the group, suggesting a deliberate distribution of the contraband to avoid detection at checkpoints.

NDPS Act Invoked

Cases have been registered against all seven accused under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at the Ganj police station. All arrested individuals are currently in police custody and are being questioned to uncover the full extent of the trafficking network.

As per reports, investigators are working to identify other members connected to this supply chain — both at the source end in Odisha and the distribution end in Madhya Pradesh.

Officials Vow Continued Crackdown

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime and Cyber), Smritik Rajnala, confirmed that the crackdown on drug trafficking operations will continue without pause.

"Action against those running narcotics trade will remain relentless," the DCP stated, adding that the identities of other associates linked to this gang are being established and arrests are expected soon.

What Comes Next

This latest bust is part of a sustained anti-narcotics drive by Raipur police targeting inter-state drug corridors passing through Chhattisgarh. The state, positioned between Odisha and Madhya Pradesh, has increasingly been flagged as a transit route for cannabis smuggling networks.

Officials are expected to seek police remand of the accused to trace the supplier network back to its origin in Odisha. Further arrests in connection with this case remain likely as interrogation continues, according to sources close to the investigation. The case has been forwarded for judicial proceedings under the NDPS Act.

MP Board 10th, 12th Results Expected Before April 15

Final Preparation Underway for 16 Lakh Students

More than 16 lakh students awaiting their MP Board Class 10 and 12 results can expect the outcome before April 15. The Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (MPBSE) has accelerated final verification processes, with officials indicating a likely release window between April 7 and 12.

School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh confirmed that cross-checking and verification are in the final stage. “The result must be foolproof so students face no trouble,” he said. The board aims to declare results in the first fortnight of April.

Over 16 Lakh Appeared This Year

A total of 16.07 lakh students took the board examinations this year. Class 10 saw around 9.07 lakh candidates, while Class 12 had approximately 7 lakh examinees. The board had set up 3,856 exam centres across the state to manage the large-scale exercise.

Nearly 100 Cheating Cases Registered

Despite strict anti-cheating measures – including flying squads, CCTV surveillance, and videography of question paper distribution – about 100 cheating cases were reported. Morena district recorded the highest with 41 cases, followed by Bhopal with 20. Officials said strict action has been initiated against those involved.

Minister: No Room for Error

Uday Pratap Singh reiterated the department’s priority to release error-free results on time. “We are conducting checks at every level so that no mistake remains,” he stated. The timely declaration will help students secure admissions for higher studies without delay.

Experts Advise Students to Avoid Stress

Education counsellors and doctors have urged parents not to put undue pressure on children awaiting results. “Proper routine, adequate sleep, and balanced diet lead to better performance,” a counsellor associated with the state health department said. Parents are advised to offer mental support rather than create anxiety.

Result Trends Show Fluctuating Pattern

MP Board results have seen significant variations over the years. In 2017, Class 10 pass percentage stood at 49.9% and Class 12 at 67.8%. The numbers improved in 2018 to 66.54% and 68.08% respectively. Class 12 touched 72.37% in 2019. Due to COVID-19, both classes recorded 100% pass rate in 2021. However, 2023 saw a dip with Class 12 at 55.28%. Last year, results rebounded to 76.22% for Class 10 and 74.28% for Class 12.

Timely Results to Ease Admission Process

The education department’s primary objective this year is to avoid delays in result declaration. Once announced, students can immediately apply for next classes or professional courses. Officials said the board is working round the clock to meet the pre-April 15 deadline. For the latest updates on MP Board results 2025, stay tuned to this English News Portal India.

Gurkirat Singh Manocha's Body Reaches Ujjain After Canada Killing

Mortal remains of Indian student murdered in Canada arrive home; CM Mohan Yadav pays tribute and consoles grieving family

The body of Gurkirat Singh Manocha, the young student from Ujjain brutally killed in Canada, reached his hometown early on Friday morning, 21 days after the tragic incident. Large crowds gathered at his residence in Parshwanath City on Dewas Road as the ambulance carrying the mortal remains arrived from Ahmedabad. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav visited the family home, offered floral tributes, and extended support to the bereaved relatives.

Body Repatriation After Weeks of Wait

The mortal remains arrived in Ahmedabad on April 2 following completion of customs and documentation formalities in Canada. From there, an ambulance transported the body overnight, reaching Ujjain on Friday. Family members, including Gurkirat’s mother and father Gurjeet Singh Manocha, broke down inconsolably upon seeing the body. His mother was heard saying through tears, “What will this mother do without you, my son?”

According to family friend Abhilash Jain, the last rites are scheduled for April 3. The final journey will begin after ardas and last darshan at the residence.

Tragic Incident in Canada

Gurkirat Singh Manocha, aged around 25-26, had moved to Canada about 15 months ago to pursue a post-degree diploma in Business Management at Northern Lights College in Fort St. John, British Columbia. On the night of March 14, he became involved in an altercation near Charlie Lake boat ramp. Reports indicate that 10-12 youths assaulted him and then ran him over with a vehicle. He sustained critical injuries and succumbed at the hospital. Canadian authorities, including the RCMP, are investigating the case as a homicide.

The family had been anxiously waiting to bring their son home for the last rites. The process involved significant paperwork, consular procedures, and costs, estimated earlier at around Rs 40-50 lakh. Both the Central and Madhya Pradesh governments extended support to expedite the repatriation.

Leaders Extend Condolences

Soon after the body reached the residence, Ujjain MP Anil Firojiya arrived and paid his respects. He noted that the Central government had borne the entire expense of bringing the body back, which was delayed due to Canadian legal requirements.

Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav reached the family home shortly after. He offered shraddhanjali to Gurkirat, embraced his father, and assured the family of continued support. Sources indicated the CM is likely to join the funeral procession as well. Gurkirat’s father expressed gratitude to both the state and Central governments for their efforts and appealed for justice in the case.

Grief Engulfs Family and Community

The Sikh community and local residents turned out in large numbers to pay their last respects. Emotional scenes unfolded as relatives and friends consoled the grieving parents. Gurkirat’s mother folded her hands in thanks before the ambulance driver who brought the body from Ahmedabad.

The family had earlier shared their pain, waiting desperately for their son’s return. Gurkirat was described as a bright, hardworking young man close to completing his studies and planning to return home.

Route of the Funeral Procession

The funeral procession is set to begin around 9:30 am from Parshwanath City. It will proceed via Dewas Road, Sanjivani Hospital Chowraha, Sukh Sagar Gurudwara in Freeganj, Tower Chowk, Chamunda Mata Mandir, Agar Road, Mangalnath Marg, and Piplia Naka before reaching Chhatri Tirth Cremation Ground. Social organisations are expected to pay tributes along the route.

Safety Concerns for Students Abroad

This incident has once again highlighted concerns over the safety of Indian students pursuing higher education overseas. Gurkirat’s death has sparked discussions on support mechanisms for families in such crises and the need for stronger diplomatic coordination in repatriation cases.

As the family prepares to bid a final goodbye, the entire city of Ujjain stands united in grief. Officials and community leaders have urged calm and assured full cooperation in the ongoing investigation.

Gurkirat Singh Manocha’s untimely demise serves as a sombre reminder of the challenges faced by young Indians chasing dreams abroad, even as governments step in to support grieving families during their darkest hours. The family continues to seek justice for their son as they lay him to rest in his hometown.

Lawrence Bishnoi gang associate Rajpal surrenders in Madhya Pradesh

High-profile criminal confesses to businessman firing incident; claims links to the 2022 Mohali Intelligence HQ rocket attack.

 In a significant development for inter-state crime investigations, Rajpal, a known associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, surrendered to the police in his native village of Ratnyakhedi on Thursday. The surrender follows sustained pressure from multiple law enforcement agencies regarding his alleged involvement in high-stakes criminal conspiracies across northern India.

During his surrender, Rajpal reportedly admitted to orchestrating a firing incident at the residence of a local businessman. While the identity of the target remains under investigation, the accused claimed the attack was a "punitive measure." This surrender marks a breakthrough for the Madhya Pradesh police, who have been monitoring the region for spillover activities of Punjab-based gangs.

Targeted firing in Nagda

Rajpal confessed that the shooting at the businessman’s house was premeditated. He alleged that the target was involved in the exploitation of local farmers and maintained "inappropriate intentions" toward young girls. According to Rajpal, his initial attempts to execute the plan through local associates had failed, leading him to seek professional assistance from another gang member identified as "Harry Boxer."

Mohali rocket attack link

The surrender has reignited interest in the 2022 rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) attack on the Punjab Police Intelligence Headquarters in Mohali. Rajpal was previously named as a key suspect in that case. Investigators believe he played a logistical role, specifically in providing a safe haven to the primary accused, Deepak Ranga, during the high-profile manhunt that followed the terror strike.

Allegations of police pressure

Before being taken into custody, Rajpal spoke briefly to the media, stating that his decision to surrender was prompted by the "harassment" of his family by various police departments. He claimed that the constant scrutiny from national agencies and state police forces had made his continued evasion impossible. He alleged that his family members were being targeted despite having no links to his criminal history.

Deep-seated gang networks

Rajpal’s criminal trajectory is closely tied to Yogesh Bhati, another individual previously interrogated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The duo is suspected of facilitating the movement of Lawrence Bishnoi’s shooters across state lines. The NIA had earlier raided several locations in Nagda and surrounding areas to dismantle the sleeper cells providing logistics to the Bishnoi-Brar syndicate.

Warning to rivals

In a defiant tone prior to his arrest, Rajpal issued a warning, suggesting that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang would continue to target those they deemed "wrongdoers." He made the unconventional claim that the gang’s actions were intended to "assist the administration" by cleansing society of corrupt elements, a narrative often pushed by gang associates to gain local sympathy.

Recent security crackdowns

Security agencies view this surrender as part of the larger India news update regarding the crackdown on organized crime. The latest news today suggests that the Nagda police had been coordinating with the Punjab and Haryana police to corner Rajpal. This public interest story highlights the expanding footprint of the Bishnoi gang into the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh.

Judicial proceedings ahead

The Nagda police moved Rajpal to an undisclosed location for initial interrogation immediately after the surrender. He is expected to be produced before a local court on Friday afternoon. Officials have indicated that they will seek maximum remand to investigate his recent communications and uncover any planned operations of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang in the state.

Raisen Wheat Crop Fire: 50 Acres Burnt as Flames Spread Rapidly

In a shocking Raisen wheat crop fire incident on Wednesday afternoon, nearly 50 acres of standing wheat were reduced to ashes in Madhya Pradesh. The blaze spread swiftly from one field to another, catching farmers off guard just days before harvest. Over 25 tractors were pressed into service as locals fought the flames with whatever they could find, while the fire brigade’s water supply ran out midway through the operation.

Massive Fire Erupts

The fire broke out in the wheat fields of Raisen district around midday. Within minutes, strong winds turned a small outbreak into a raging inferno that jumped across boundaries between neighbouring plots.

Flames Spread Rapidly

Eyewitnesses said the blaze moved with alarming speed. Dry crop and gusty winds helped it leap from field to field, giving farmers little time to react. Many watched helplessly as months of hard work vanished in smoke.

Farmers Battle Flames

Local cultivators immediately swung into action. They risked their lives by running into the burning fields, using tree branches to beat back the flames and trying to create breaks in the crop to stop the spread.

Tractors Join Fight

More than 25 tractors were mobilised in an urgent bid to control the fire. Farmers drove them through the fields, ploughing lines and carrying equipment to douse the flames, turning the rescue effort into a community operation.

Fire Teams Mobilised

As soon as the alert was raised, district officials and fire tenders from Sanchi Nagar Palika rushed to the spot. The teams worked continuously alongside the farmers to bring the situation under control.

Water Supply Runs Dry

The fire brigade’s efforts hit a major hurdle when its water stock got exhausted. The teams had to pause operations briefly before resuming with whatever resources remained on the ground.

Cause Remains Unknown

Preliminary inquiries point to a possible short circuit or burning stubble as the trigger, though the exact reason is yet to be confirmed. Affected farmers have accused the electricity company of negligence, claiming poor maintenance sparked the blaze.

The fields belonging to 11 farmers were completely destroyed in the Raisen wheat crop fire. Those who lost their standing crop include Diwan Singh, Avatar Singh, Badan Singh, Surendra Patel, Rambabu Patel, Bahadur Singh, Sandeep Thakur, Atar Thakur, Golu Thakur, Sanju Thakur and Omkar Singh.

Farmers Face Crisis

The timing could not have been worse. With harvesting just around the corner, the loss has dealt a severe financial blow to these families. Months of investment in seeds, fertiliser and labour have turned into ash, leaving them staring at an immediate livelihood crisis.

District administration officials were present at the site and oversaw the firefighting operations. However, no official statement on possible compensation or relief has been issued so far. Sources indicated that a detailed probe is underway to determine the precise cause and fix responsibility.

This Raisen wheat crop fire has once again drawn attention to the vulnerability of standing crops to sudden outbreaks in the region. Wheat is a key rabi crop in Madhya Pradesh, and such incidents directly affect the income of small and marginal farmers who depend entirely on a successful harvest.

As the smoke finally cleared after several hours of intense effort, the affected farmers began assessing the damage. With no immediate relief announced, many are worried about meeting daily expenses and repaying farm loans. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly fortune can change for those who feed the nation.

Ambush Outside Cinema Hall

A woman and her friend were set upon the moment they stepped out of Abhinav Talkies in the Kotwali police station area of Dewas late Monday night. The accused — identified as Ravi, the woman's estranged husband — had been waiting outside with at least one accomplice. The two were stopped, physically attacked, and then dragged into a waiting Maruti car.

The woman's companion, Chirayu Pathak, a resident of Bhaurasa, sustained a head injury during the assault. Eyewitnesses at the spot immediately alerted Kotwali police, describing how a woman and a young man were being taken away by force.

CCTV Footage Surfaces

Video of the incident — believed to have been captured by a closed-circuit camera near the theatre — has since emerged and is being examined by police. The footage, according to sources, corroborates witness accounts of the forcible abduction and is expected to aid further investigation.

Police Trace Accused to Indore

Acting on the eyewitness tip, Kotwali police formed a rapid response team and began tracing the vehicle. Late the same night, investigators tracked down two of the accused in the MIG Colony area under the jurisdiction of MIG police station in Indore. Both were arrested on the spot, and the Maruti car used in the kidnapping was seized.

Background: Estrangement and Dispute

Kotwali Station In-charge Shyamchandra Sharma told reporters that the victim is originally from Indore and had been living separately from her husband Ravi for some time due to domestic disputes. At the time of the incident, she had come to Dewas and gone to watch a film with Pathak.

According to police, Ravi had allegedly been tracking the woman's movements. The ambush appears to have been pre-planned, with the accused lying in wait near the cinema.

FIR Registered, Charges Framed

A case has been registered against the accused under multiple sections of law, covering assault, kidnapping, and criminal intimidation including death threats. Sharma confirmed that while two accused are in custody, a manhunt is underway for a third individual believed to have been involved in the crime.

Officials Speak

"We acted swiftly on the information received and managed to apprehend two accused the same night," Sharma said, adding that the car used as the abduction vehicle has been formally seized as evidence. Investigators are reviewing CCTV feeds and questioning those in custody to establish the full sequence of events.

What Happens Next

The two arrested accused are expected to be produced before a local court and remanded to police custody for further interrogation. Authorities said efforts to nab the third suspect are in full swing, with teams deployed across likely locations in and around Indore. The investigation is also expected to examine whether the accused had prior criminal antecedents linked to domestic violence or intimidation of the victim.

Dainik Jagran Exclusive: Gyan Bharatam Mission Takes Shape in Madhya Pradesh

In an exclusive interview with Dainik Jagran, Madhya Pradesh’s Nodal Head for the Gyan Bharatam Mission, Nilesh Lokhande, detailed how the national initiative is uncovering centuries-old manuscripts through technology and public participation.

Interview Highlights Mission Goals  

The Union Ministry of Culture launched the Gyan Bharatam Mission following its announcement in the Union Budget 2025 (Paragraph 84). Madhya Pradesh has moved swiftly, with the Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums leading the state-level rollout. The 90-day National Manuscript Survey, running from March to May 2026, aims to map manuscripts across all districts.

Nodal Officer Shares Progress  

Speaking to Dainik Jagran ,  Lokhande explained the core objective. “Our rich knowledge tradition is preserved in old records and ancient manuscripts that hold immense medicinal, literary and religious wisdom,” he said. Many such treasures remain tucked away in homes and temples, untouched by modern documentation. The mission seeks to bring this hidden heritage into the light without disturbing private ownership.

Gyan Bharatam App Empowers Citizens  

A user-friendly mobile application is at the heart of the drive. Citizens can download the Gyan Bharatam App from the Google Play Store and upload details in seven simple steps — personal information, preferred language, followed by manuscript specifics such as quantity, script, material (paper, palm leaf or others) and current condition. “The process is straightforward and completely voluntary,” Lokhande noted. Since the app’s official launch on 16 March 2026, more than 75,000 manuscripts have already been reported from various institutions and districts in Madhya Pradesh.

House-to-House Survey Underway  

Beyond digital reporting, teams will conduct physical outreach. Local administration will visit homes, temples and private collections to verify entries and encourage participation.  Lokhande clarified that the government will digitise and conserve manuscripts only with consent. “Physical ownership stays with the custodians. We create digital copies for preservation and return the originals safely,” he assured.

Committees Ensure Smooth Coordination  

An MoU between the Centre and state government has paved the way for structured implementation. A state-level committee has been formed, followed by district-level bodies that will oversee ground-level surveys. These panels will assess the historical importance of reported items and coordinate further digitisation work. The entire exercise is designed to run in phases, ensuring every corner of Madhya Pradesh is covered within the stipulated 90 days.

Rich Manuscript Tradition at Stake  

India’s manuscript heritage represents generations of accumulated knowledge copied painstakingly by hand long before printing technology existed. Many valuable texts still lie in private custody, vulnerable to time and neglect. The Gyan Bharatam Mission combines modern tools with grassroots effort to safeguard this legacy. In Madhya Pradesh, the response so far signals strong public enthusiasm for protecting cultural assets that connect the past with the future.

Digitisation and Conservation Planned  

Once verified, selected manuscripts will undergo professional scanning and, where needed, expert conservation. The digitised versions will eventually be made accessible to researchers and scholars while originals remain in private hands. Mr Lokhande emphasised that the mission is a collective national endeavour, with Madhya Pradesh playing an active role.

Public Call to Preserve Heritage  

With the survey gaining momentum, officials urge citizens across the state to download the Gyan Bharatam App and share information about any manuscripts in their possession or knowledge. “Your contribution can help secure centuries of wisdom for coming generations,”  Lokhande told Dainik Jagran. The next few weeks are critical as the 90-day window progresses, and more reports are expected from remote areas.

Madhya Pradesh Govt Nominates Eldermen for 65 Nagar Parishads

Fresh order under Nagar Palika Act ensures seamless urban governance till polls or next directive

In a significant administrative step, the Madhya Pradesh government today notified the nomination of eldermen for 65 Nagar Parishads across the state. The Urban Development and Housing Department issued the order  of the Madhya Pradesh Nagar Palika Adhiniyam, 1961, appointing four eldermen each to these urban local bodies. The nominations will remain in force till the existing councils complete their term or until further orders, whichever comes earlier.

The notification aims to prevent any administrative vacuum in civic bodies where regular elections are yet to be scheduled. Senior officials confirmed the move will ensure uninterrupted delivery of essential services such as water supply, sanitation, road maintenance, street lighting and solid waste management in these towns.

Nominations Span Multiple Divisions  

The comprehensive list covers urban bodies in districts including Sagar, Rewa, Mauganj, Shahdol, Umaria, Katni, Dindori, Narsinghpur, Balaghat, Seoni, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Narmadapuram, Harda, Betul, Burhanpur and Khargone. Key councils include Karoulapur, Bilhara, Surkhi and Rahatgarh in Sagar division; Vaikunthpur, Sirmour, Dabhoura, Semariya, Tyonthar and Chakghat in Rewa; Budhar in Shahdol; and several others in the Narmada and southern regions.

Legal Framework and Immediate Effect  

The state government exercised its statutory powers to nominate these eldermen for smooth functioning of the councils. Every nominee’s full name, father’s or husband’s name and ward number have been explicitly mentioned in the official order, making the entire process transparent and verifiable. The nominations take immediate effect upon publication.

Ward-Wise Details of Nominated Eldermen  

The order features a balanced mix of experienced local leaders, women representatives and community figures from different wards. In Nagar Parishad Karoulapur (Sagar), Shri Prabhu Singh (Ward 15, Majhgawan), Smt. Kamlesh Rani Ray (Ward 5), Shri Shripal Jain (Ward 11) and Shri Vikram Singh (Ward 8) have been nominated. In Bilhara, Shri Manish Garg (Ward 1, Singwahani), Shri Raju Patel (Ward 4, Ganesh Chowk), Shri Pushpendra Thakur (Ward 1) and Shri Hiralal Ahirwar (Ward 5) find place. Similar ward-specific appointments have been made in Surkhi, Rahatgarh, Vaikunthpur, Sirmour, Dabhoura, Semariya and dozens of other councils, ensuring broad local representation.

Ensuring Continuity of Civic Services  

With local body polls not yet notified in these areas, the fresh nominations of eldermen will allow the councils to convene meetings, sanction development works and resolve public grievances without any delay. This is especially important for ongoing schemes under state and central urban missions.

Impact on Urban Governance  

The decision is expected to strengthen grassroots democracy in smaller towns where elected bodies sometimes face delays in reconstitution. Residents of these 65 Nagar Parishads can now directly approach the newly nominated eldermen for civic issues. It also reflects the government’s priority to keep urban development on track while preparations for the next municipal elections are underway.

What Lies Ahead  

The state is likely to announce the schedule for regular Nagar Parishad elections in the coming months. Till then, the newly nominated eldermen will work alongside any existing elected members to implement development projects and maintain public services. The complete list of names, parentage and wards has been published in the official gazette for public information and easy reference.

This proactive step by the Madhya Pradesh government underscores its commitment to robust urban local self-governance and timely public service delivery across the state.

CM Mohan Yadav Performs Bhumi Pujan for Narmada Fourth Phase in Indore

Indore Receives Major Boost with 1356 Crore Narmada Water Project and STP Inauguration

Narmada Blessings for Development

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Sunday said Maa Narmada’s blessings have ushered in a new stream of development across Madhya Pradesh. Addressing a programme in Indore, he performed the bhumi-pujan for the fourth phase of the Narmada water project under the Amrut 2.0 scheme.

Key Projects Launched

Dr. Yadav laid the foundation for drinking water infrastructure works worth ₹1356 crore and inaugurated a ₹62.72 crore Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at the Ramsar site in Sirpur. The projects aim to strengthen Indore’s water supply and sanitation infrastructure significantly.

Sankalp Se Samadhan Benefits Distributed

During the event at Dashahara Maidan, the Chief Minister distributed benefits to beneficiaries under the Sankalp Se Samadhan campaign. Officials said over 1.44 lakh applications have been resolved in Indore district alone under this initiative, which is running successfully across all 55 districts of the state.

Focus on Water Conservation

Dr. Yadav highlighted ongoing water conservation efforts, including the Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan, which began on Gudi Padwa and will continue till Ganga Dashami. The campaign targets rejuvenation of nearly three lakh water bodies such as wells, stepwells, ponds, and canals. He also spoke about the Ken-Betwa and Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking projects that will benefit multiple districts in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states.

Indore’s Long-Term Water Security

The fourth phase of the Narmada project is designed to meet Indore’s water needs for the next 25 years. Once completed by 2029, it will supply 900 MLD of water, serving an estimated population of 65 lakh. Current phases already deliver about 450 MLD to over 35 lakh residents.

Dr. Yadav noted that Indore-Ujjain is emerging as a major metropolitan region that could become the country’s second-largest with a population of around 1.5 crore in coming decades.

Ministerial Views on Progress

Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya described the day as historic for Indore and praised the long-term vision for water management up to 2040. Water Resources Minister Tulsiram Silawat congratulated citizens on the new scheme, which targets 900 MLD supply, and highlighted the state’s irrigation expansion from 55 lakh to 65 lakh hectares in the coming year.

Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava recalled former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s contribution to the Narmada project and said the fourth phase will support both residential and industrial growth while advancing the ‘Green Indore’ vision.

Future Outlook

The Chief Minister reiterated commitment to cleaning the Shipra River ahead of Simhastha 2028 and conserving every drop of water for agriculture and drinking purposes. He said integrated planning will ensure sustainable development in the Narmada basin.

A development exhibition showcasing government schemes was also inaugurated at the venue. Several dignitaries, including MPs, MLAs, and senior officials, attended the event.

The Narmada fourth phase project in Indore marks another milestone in Madhya Pradesh’s journey towards water security and urban development, reflecting the state government’s focus on long-term infrastructure under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

April Electricity Tariff Hike: MP Power Rates to Rise by 4.8% from April 1 — Check Your New Bill

 Just when households were bracing for the summer heat, there is unwelcome news from the power sector. The Madhya Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (MPERC) has approved a 4.8% hike in electricity tariffs for the financial year 2026-27, effective from April 1, 2026 .

The revised rates mean that consumers, particularly those with higher electricity usage, will see an impact on their bills starting May 2026 . The Commission's decision comes as a partial relief to consumers, considering power distribution companies (DISCOMs) had initially sought a much steeper increase of 10.19% to cover losses exceeding ₹6,000 crore .

Who Will Be Affected? Understanding the New Slabs

The tariff hike is not uniform across all consumer categories. The Commission has provided some relief to low-income and rural households while increasing the burden on middle-class families with higher consumption .

Consumers Protected from the Hike:

• LV-1 Category & Rural Households: No change in existing tariffs .

• Consumption up to 100 Units: Existing concessions will continue .

• Low-Income Group (LT4 Category): Existing rates remain unchanged .

Consumers Who Will Face Higher Bills:
The biggest impact will be felt by consumers who use more than 100 units per month. Once consumption crosses 150 units, both the fixed charges and the per-unit energy charges will increase .

Source: ETV Bharat / Aaj Tak 

Fixed Charges and Peak Hour Pricing: Key Changes to Note

1. Increased Fixed Charges
The monthly fixed charges have been increased from ₹28 to ₹30 per 0.1 kW of sanctioned load . This means that even if you use less electricity in a particular month, the fixed component of your bill will be higher.

2. Time of Day (TOD) Tariff
Electricity will now be costlier during peak hours. The Commission has enforced a Time of Day (TOD) tariff system, under which power used between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM will be charged at a higher rate . Consumers using appliances like air conditioners, geysers, and washing machines during this window could see their bills increase by an additional 10-20% .

3. Smart Meter Users Get Relief
To encourage energy efficiency, the Commission has announced a 20% rebate for smart meter users during off-peak daytime hours . This is a significant incentive for consumers to shift heavy power usage to daytime.

Impact on Other Consumer Categories

The tariff hike is not limited to domestic users. Industrial and commercial consumers have also seen an increase in both fixed and energy charges .

• Industrial Consumers: Fixed charges at the 11 kV level have been raised from ₹363/kVA to ₹409/kVA. Energy charges have increased from ₹6.50/kWh to ₹6.79/kWh .

• Commercial Consumers: Fixed charges at the 11 kV level rose from ₹363/kVA to ₹373/kVA. Energy charges increased from ₹6.95/kWh to ₹7.25/kWh .

• EV Charging Stations: In a move to promote green mobility, the tariff for electric vehicle (EV) charging and battery-swapping stations has been set at ₹7.44/kWh .

• Green Energy: Consumers opting for green energy to reduce their carbon footprint will pay an additional charge of ₹0.30/kWh .

Why Did the Tariff Increase?

The power distribution companies had proposed a 10.19% tariff hike, citing a massive revenue gap of around ₹6,044 crore in the previous financial year . The Commission, after reviewing stakeholder objections and exercising prudence, limited the increase to 4.8% .

For comparison, tariffs were increased by 3.46% in the previous financial year (2025–26) .

Political Reaction

The tariff hike has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition. Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the hike, describing it as a "direct assault on the pockets of the common people" . The Congress has warned of a statewide agitation if the government does not roll back the decision .

Tips to Manage Your Electricity Expenses

With the new rates coming into effect, here are some ways to keep your bill from ballooning:

• Check Your Sanctioned Load: Optimize your sanctioned load to avoid higher fixed charges .

• Avoid Peak Hours: Shift use of heavy appliances like washing machines, geysers, and ACs to daytime (outside 6 PM–10 PM) .

• Pay Bills Online: Incentives for online and timely bill payments remain unchanged .

• Consider Smart Meters: If you have a smart meter, take advantage of the 20% daytime rebate .

The Bottom Line

The 4.8% electricity tariff hike in Madhya Pradesh, effective April 1, 2026, will increase the financial burden on middle-class families, especially during the peak summer months. While the government has provided relief to low-income groups and those consuming up to 100 units, households with higher usage will need to carefully manage their power consumption to avoid bill shocks.

MP Petrol Prices Hold Steady: Bhopal at ₹106.52, Indore at ₹106.41

 If you are a vehicle owner in Madhya Pradesh, there is some relief amid the global energy turmoil. Petrol and diesel prices across the state remained largely unchanged on March 27, 2026, despite the ongoing Middle East war pushing global crude oil prices above $100 per barrel .

The average petrol price in Madhya Pradesh currently hovers around ₹107.43 per litre, with slight variations across cities due to local taxes and transportation costs .

Here is a look at the latest petrol prices in major Madhya Pradesh cities as of March 27:

Source: NDTV, Economic Times, V3Cars 

Premium Petrol Sees Hike Earlier This Month

While regular petrol and diesel have remained stable, users of premium fuels—such as Indian Oil's XP95, BPCL's Speed, and HPCL's Power—have felt the pinch. In mid-March, state-run oil companies hiked premium petrol prices by ₹2.09 to ₹2.35 per litre amid rising global crude costs .

In Bhopal, premium petrol now nears ₹117 per litre, significantly higher than regular fuel. The hike, implemented around March 20, was directly linked to the surge in international oil prices following escalating tensions in the Middle East .

Government Cuts Excise Duty to Shield Consumers

The central government stepped in on March 26 to ease the burden on both oil companies and consumers. The Finance Ministry slashed the special additional excise duty on petrol from ₹13 to ₹3 per litre, while diesel was fully exempted from the levy .

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that the government has taken a "huge hit" on taxation revenues to absorb losses faced by oil marketing companies, which were estimated at around ₹24 per litre on petrol due to frozen retail prices .

Despite the excise cut, retail pump prices have not changed immediately—the move primarily helps state-run oil companies like IOC, BPCL, and HPCL manage their losses .

Private Retailer Nayara Hikes Rates

In a contrasting move, private fuel retailer Nayara Energy raised petrol prices by ₹5 per litre and diesel by ₹3 per litre on March 26, passing on the increased input costs to consumers. At Nayara pumps, petrol now costs approximately ₹100.71 per litre . However, state-run oil companies continue to hold prices steady, absorbing the volatility .

Why MP Petrol Prices Vary Across Cities

If you are wondering why petrol costs ₹106.41 in Indore but ₹107.03 in Ujjain, the answer lies in local taxation. While the central government sets a base price, each state adds its own Value Added Tax (VAT), and within the state, local transportation costs and dealer commissions create minor variations .

Madhya Pradesh currently has one of the more moderate fuel tax structures among central Indian states, keeping prices slightly lower than neighboring Maharashtra but higher than Delhi .

What Lies Ahead?

With Brent crude trading around $107 per barrel and the rupee hovering near record lows against the dollar, pressure on fuel prices remains high . However, for now, the combination of excise duty relief and state-run oil companies absorbing losses has kept the MP petrol price stable.

The big question remains: if crude prices stay elevated for a prolonged period, how long can oil companies continue to absorb the losses? For the moment, Madhya Pradesh consumers can breathe easy.