Category Archives: Regional

शोधकार्य: डा कमल भुजेलले गरे नेगेटिव एब्जर्ब्सनको नयाँ खोज

कालिमन्युज, कालेबुंग, २६ मई २०२४ : विभिन्न क्षेत्रमा हिमाली पहाडी भेक र अन्य स्थानका गोर्खा र अन्य युवाहरुले धेरै प्रगति गरिरहेका छन् । यसै बीच दिलाराम चिया कमान निवासी डा कमल भुजेलले आफ्नो शोध गर्ने क्रममा नेगेटिव एब्जर्ब्सन नामक एक नयाँ प्रक्रियाको खोज गरेका छन्। डा कमल भुजेलले गत वर्ष २०२३ मा मिजौराम विश्वविद्यालयको भौतिक विज्ञान बिभागबाट विद्यावारिधि प्राप्त गरेका हुन्। तिनको शोधको विषय थीन-फील्म पेरोव्स्काइट सोलर सेल रहेको थियो। 


तिनले यस शोधकार्यका अधिकांश भाग भारतीय प्राद्योगिक संस्थान-धनबाद (IIT-Dhanbad) को सोलर एनर्जी रिसर्च ल्याबमा प्राध्यपक राजालिंगम थंगवेलको अधीनमा गरेका हुन्। तिनले यसै सोलर सेल बनाउने क्रममा निक्कल अक्साइडको पत्ला परत (Thinfilm of nanometer thickness) एफटीओ (Flourine Doped Tin Oxide) माथि तयार पारेर त्यसबाट प्रकासका तरंग (Light wave from 200-3000nm) २००-३००० न्यानोमीटर फ्याकेर कति पार (Transmit) हुन्छ अनि कति सोस्छ (Absorb) भनेर जाँच गर्ने क्रममा इन्फ्रारेड (Infrared region) क्षेत्रमा अचम्मको प्रक्रिया देखा परेको जानकारी दिएका छन्। जसमा फ्याकिएको प्राकाशको मात्रा भन्दा निस्किएको प्रकासको मात्रा बढेर बेसी निस्किएको भेटियो, जुन प्रक्रियालाई त्यसै हेर्दा “ऊर्जाको संरक्षणको नियम” (Law of Conservation of Energy) को विपरित गएको देखियो जुन सम्भव नै छैन। यो प्रक्रिया निक्कल अक्साइडमा भने अहिले सम्म कसैले पनि भेटेका थिएनन्। 
सन १९२८ मा सी भी रमन र के एस कृष्णनले तरलमा एक्यरंग तरंग फ्याक्दा पनि यसै प्रकारको प्रक्रिया भेटेका थिए भने यस क्षेत्रमा धेरै कम मात्रामा मात्र शोध भएका छन्। डा कमल अनुसार यस प्रक्रिया हुनु पछाडीका ठोस् कारण भने अहिले नै किटान गरेर भन्न नसकिने भनेका छन्। तिनी भन्छन् यस प्रक्रियाको अस्तित्व छ भनेर यस शोधले ठोस् प्रमाण गरिसकेको भएता पनि यसका कारणहरू पत्ता लगाउनका निम्ति भने अझै गहनताका साथमा धेरै जाँचहरू गर्न पर्ने बताएका छन्। तथापी तिनले यस प्रक्रियाका सम्भावित कारण यसरी प्रष्टाएर भन्ने कोसिस गर्छन् कि फ्याकिएको प्रकास निक्लँदा आफै बढेर निस्किएका नभएर, एफटिओ र निक्कल अक्साइडको जुन परत निर्माण भएको छ त्यस जोडनमा इन्फ्रारेड तरंगले हिर्काउँदा त्यस क्षेत्रका अणु-परमाणुहरू उत्तेजित भएर उर्जामा परिणत भएको हुन सक्ने अढ्कल गरेका छन्।
यो प्रक्रिया स्थापित भइसकेपछि यसबाट नयाँ प्रकार पदार्थ मेटामटिरियलको (Metamaterials) निर्माण गर्न सक्ने सम्भावना पनि रहेको छ। साथै यसलाई ब्राह्मण्डमा पठाइने यानमा सोलर सेलको निर्माणमा प्रयोग हुन सक्ने छ। डा कमल भुजेललाई यस शोधमा आइ-आइ-टी- धनबाद, भौतिक विज्ञान विभागमा शोध गरिरहेकी दिपाली नायक र स्नाकोत्तर गरिरहेका किरण कुमारी पल र प्रितम सरदारले प्रयोगशालाका नमुना निर्माण (Sample preparation) मा सहयोग पुऱ्याएका थिए भने मिजौराम विश्वविद्यालयका प्रा सुमन राय अनि प्रा निंगथौजम सुरजकुमारसिंहले शोध लेखनमा सहयोग गरेका थिए। अनि यस शोधको सम्पूर्ण दिशा निर्देश प्रा थंगवेलले प्रदान गरेका थिए। 

वैज्ञानिक समुदायमा कुनै पनि नयाँ खोज पत्ता लागेमा त्यसलाई प्रमाण गर्नका निम्ति संसारकै स्तरीय अनि प्रसिद्ध जर्नलमा त्यस शोधलाई प्रकाशित गर्नुपर्ने हुन्छ। यस क्रममा डा कमल भुजेलले यस शोध कार्य २०२० देखि शुरु गरेर २०२२ सम्ममा सिध्याएका भएता पनि यसलाई जर्नलमा प्रकाशित गर्न २४ सम्म पर्खनु पऱ्यो। जसमा प्रथम जर्नलले केहि माप दण्ड नपुगेको भनेर अस्वीकार नै गरिदिएका थिए भने त्यस पछिका ७ वटा जर्नलहरूले आफ्नो क्षेत्र नमिलेर अर्को जर्नलको सुझाव दिएका थिए। अन्त्यमा भने एल्सीभर समूहको फिजिका बी-कन्डेन्स्ड म्याटर (Physica B: Condensed Matter) जर्नलमा २८ फरवरी २०२४ को दिन बुझाए अनि १० मईको दिन जर्नलबाट सोधिएका सम्पूर्ण प्रश्नहरूको उत्तर बुझाए र २० मईको दिन स्वीकृत गरिए पछि २१ मईको दिन अनलाईनमा प्रकाशित भएको छ। यसरी आफ्नो शोध प्रकाशित भएकोमा खुशी व्यक्त गर्दै सम्पूर्ण शुभचिन्तकहरूलाई कृतज्ञता प्रकट गरेका छन् भने, हाम्रा गोर्खा शोधकर्ताहरूलाई पनि यसरी आफ्नो शोधहरू अघि बढाउदै प्रगति गर्ने आग्रह गरका छन्।

Gorubathan has natural resources for adventure tourism

KalimNews, Kalimpong, 24 May 2024: The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) is set to enhance the adventure tourism potential of Gorubathan, leveraging its abundant natural resources. Dawa Gyalpo Sherpa, the chief coordinator of Adventure Tourism for the GTA, conducted a survey in Gorubathan to identify opportunities for both tourists and locals. He highlighted the area’s suitability for activities such as paragliding, rock climbing, and riverside camping.

Prashant Rana, an expert in paragliding adventure tourism, along with his team, surveyed various locations and confirmed the potential for promoting adventure tourism in the region. During discussions with the Gorubathan Tourism Development Society (GTDS), the team exchanged ideas for developing tourism infrastructure. Sherpa announced that the GTA team plans to conduct test flights for paragliding in selected areas to further assess feasibility.

This initiative aims to boost the local economy by attracting adventure tourists and providing new recreational opportunities for residents. The development of adventure tourism in Gorubathan is expected to capitalize on its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, making it a significant destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
 

Dawa Gyalpo Sherpa, chief coordinator of Adventure Tourism for the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), highlighted the positive impact of last year’s mountain bike racing event in Gorubathan and announced plans to reorganize it for a second time. He emphasized the importance of consistent training for local youths to sustain tourism development in the region. Sherpa acknowledged the efforts of the Gorubathan Tourism Development Society (GTDS) and stressed the need for active participation from local stakeholders and authorities to promote tourism effectively.

Sherpa noted that developing a tourist destination requires years of consistent effort and follow-up. He expressed his pleasure with the positive initiatives taken by GTDS and assured that the GTA’s Department of Tourism will support GTDS in achieving its goals. On behalf of GTDS, President Shyam Thapa thanked the GTA and the team for their support, highlighting GTDS’s efforts to generate income and ensure sustainable development for the local community.

Secretary Tufan Subba of GTDS added that with the help of GTA, adventure tourism in Gorubathan can be significantly boosted, opening new avenues in the tourism sector. He also mentioned plans to organize a workshop to train local tourist guides and encourage more youths to join the profession.

These initiatives aim to leverage Gorubathan’s natural resources for adventure tourism, enhancing the local economy and providing new opportunities for the residents.

HS Council to explore reasons of significant increase of marks

SOUMITRA NANDI, EOI, 25 May 2024, Kolkata: The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) will explore the reasons of the significant increase in the marks of many students following Tatkal Post Publication Review (PPR) and Post Publication Scrutiny (PPS) in connection with the Higher Secondary examination 2024, the results of which were published on May 17. 

The merit list of 58 students ranked among the top 10 witnessed 12 new entries while another three students already in the merit list improved their ranks. “It is indeed highly competitive to figure among the top 10. 
I congratulate all the 12 students who have made it to the merit list but this should have happened earlier during the publication of results itself and not after PPR or PPS. 
We would do a sample study of the scripts that have undergone revision of marks. We want to ensure that similar things are not repeated in future,” said Chiranjib Bhattacharjee, president of WBCHSE. 
In case of the students who had barged into the merit list, the marks have increased by 4-5. The Council president said that he would individually delve deep into some answer scripts to find out what are the types of questions against which the marks have been revised.
The dozen new entries in the merit list has taken the total number of students in the top ten from 58 to 70. 
Ankit Pal of Kenduadihi High School in Bankura who had ranked 5 has jumped to rank 3, Abhra Kishore Bhattacharjee of Hooghly Collegiate School has also improved his rank from 6 to 5 while Bristi Pal of Chinsurah Balika Bani Mandir in Hooghly has advanced to 7th rank from 9th. 
According to Council sources, 11,558 students had applied for PPR and PPS for 22,836 subjects and marks of 4,597 students have witnessed revisions. “In some cases, the same teacher was engaged in checking both Higher Secondary as well as Madhyamik answer scripts. 
The dates for submission of marks were the same in case of both the exams. The distribution of scripts should have been more scientific. The Council should act tough against those having discrepancies in checking of scripts,” said Soudipto Das, secretary of Collegium of Assistant Headmasters’ and Headmistress’. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/hs-council-to-explore-reasons-of-significant-increase-of-marks-565188

Transporters in Darjeeling on warpath against traffic snarls

EOI, DARJEELING, MAY 24, 2024 : With the growing traffic snarls disrupting daily life in Darjeeling, different transport organisations and social organisations on Friday voiced their dissent and anger and warned of an agitation later this month.

Darjeeling has been facing a lot of traffic jams for the past few years, especially during the tourist seasons; with people claiming that a one and half hour trip is now taking them about four hours to complete.
Himalayan Transport Coordination Committee (HTC
C) President Pasang Sherpa said: “The traffic jam in Darjeeling especially during the peak tourist season is proving to be problematic for everyone. All the rules which are being directed by the government have been followed by the drivers but the traffic problem continues to exist. 
We feel that the government is responsible to a great extent for the traffic problem not being solved here. It will definitely be resolved by taking concrete initiatives from the government. 
If they had spent the necessary funds from time to time to improve the traffic system in this area, there would not have been such a big problem today.” 
The HTCC which itself has different vehicle syndicates as its members is a part of the different organisations making this demand.
Other transport organizations with similar demands include associations like Darjeeling Luxury Association, Pahar Terrai Chalak Sangathan, Darjeeling Trucks and Water Tanker Association and others.
The organizations suggested measures like hotels having their own parking facilities, adequate parking facilities at every tourist spot, broadening of the highway leading to Darjeeling in tune with the width of different highways in the country and proper pick-up and drop-off points for passengers and tourists in the entire region. 
They also suggested that the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway should run less number of joy rides during the tourist season as they were also the cause of traffic jams.
“We request that the government hold a meeting in the last week of June to inform us about the plan and time needed to solve the traffic jam problem by taking short term and long term steps. If the government does not take any initiative on this issue, we are thinking of starting a protest from the first week of July,” said Sherpa. 
They said they will be sending memorandums to the West Bengal Chief Minister, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, the Darjeeling Superintendent of Police, M.P.s, and MLAs. 
Supporting this step, Rajesh Gurung of Lakshya Samuha, a social organization, said: “This problem is not only affecting the drivers but other local people as well, especially the students and people going to work. Due to the traffic jam they often do not reach in time even though they start their journey in the morning.
The administration should take concrete measures to solve this problem.

Cyclonic storm in the southern Bengal may cause light to heavy rainfall in the north from 27 to 28 May

KalimNews, Kalimpong, 25 May 2024  Depression over Eastcentral Bay of Bengal (Pre-Cyclone Watch for West Bengal Coast)

The Depression over central Bay of Bengal moved north-northeastwards with a speed of 16 kmph during past 06 hours and lay centered at 1130 hrs IST of today, the 24th May, 2024 over Eastcentral Bay of Bengal near latitude 15.8°N and longitude 88.9°E, about 700 km south-southwest of Khepupara (Bangladesh), about 660 km south-southeast of Sagar Islands (West Bengal) and 710 km south of Canning (West Bengal). 
It is very likely to continue to move north-northeastwards and intensify into a Cyclonic Storm over eastcentral Bay of Bengal by 25th May morning. 
Subsequently, it would move nearly northwards, intensify into a Severe Cyclonic Storm by 25th night. Continuing to move nearly northwards, it is very likely to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara around 26th May midnight as a Severe Cyclonic Storm.

Forecast: (South Bengal)
Light to moderate rainfall very likely at many places over the districts on 25th and moderate rainfall at most places over the districts during 26th to 27th May 2024.

Warning: South Bengal

Rainfall Warning
25-05-2024: (Yellow warning: be updated)
1. Heavy rain (07–11 cm) is likely to occur at one or two places over North and South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore districts.

26-05-2024: 1. (Red warning: take action)
Heavy (07–11 cm) to very heavy rain (12 – 20 cm) at a few places with extremely heavy rain (> 20 cm) at one or two places is very likely over North and South 24 Parganas districts. 

2. (Orange warning: be prepared)
Heavy (07–11 cm) to very heavy rain (12 – 20 cm) is likely at one or two places over Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia and East Midnapore districts. 

3. (Yellow warning: be updated)
Heavy rain (7-11 cm) at one or two places is likely over West Midnapore and East Bardhaman districts.

27-05-2024: 1. (Orange warning: be prepared)
Heavy (07–11 cm) to very heavy rain (12 – 20 cm) is likely at one or two places over North and South 24 Parganas, Kolkata, Nadia, Hooghly, Howrah and Murshidabad districts. 
2. (Yellow warning: be updated)
Heavy rain (7-11 cm) is likely at one or two places over East and West Bardhaman, Birbhum, East and West Midnapore districts.

Wind Warning
25-05-2024:
Thunderstorm with gusty wind speed reaching 40 to 50 kmph likely over North and South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore districts and reaching 30 to 40 kmph likely over rest of the districts.

26-05-2024 to 27-05-2024:
Thunderstorm with wind speed reaching 100 to 110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph likely over South 24 Parganas; reaching 90 to 100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph likely over North 24 Parganas; reaching 80 to 90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph likely over Kolkata, Howrah, Nadia, East Midnapore; reaching 60 to 70 kmph gusting to 80 kmph likely over Hooghly, East Bardhaman; reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph likely over rest of the districts.


Forecast: (North Bengal)
Light to moderate rainfall very likely at most places over the districts during 27th to 28th May 2024.

Warning:
North Bengal

Rainfall Warning
27-05-2024: 
1. (Orange warning: be prepared)
Heavy (07–11 cm) to very heavy rain (12 – 20 cm) is likely at one or two places over Malda and South Dinajpur districts. 

2. (Yellow warning: be updated)
Heavy rain (7-11 cm) is likely at one or two places over North Dinajpur, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts.

28-05-2024: 
1. (Orange warning: be prepared)
Heavy (07–11 cm) to very heavy rain (12 – 20 cm) is likely at one or two places over Cooch Behar, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri districts. 

2. (Yellow warning: be updated)
Heavy rain (7-11 cm) is likely at one or two places over Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts.

Wind Warning for Sea:
 Squally wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph is likely to prevail over central and adjoining South Bay of Bengal on 24th May. It would become 50-60 kmph gusting to 70 kmph over central Bay of Bengal on 24th May evening.
 It would extend to adjoining areas of North Bay of Bengal with gale wind speed reaching 60-70 kmph gusting to 80 kmph from 25th May morning. It would further increase becoming 100-110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph over North Bay of Bengal from morning and 110-120 kmph gusting to 120 kmph from evening of 26th May. Gale wind speed reaching 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph is likely over adjoining central Bay of Bengal from 26th morning for subsequent 24 hours.
Squally wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph is likely along & off Bangladesh, West Bengal and adjoining North Odisha coasts from 25th May evening It is likely to increase becoming gale wind speed reaching 60-70 kmph gusting to 80 kmph from morning of 26th May and 100-120 kmph gusting to 135 kmph along & off Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts from evening of 26th evening for subsequent 12 hours.
Sea condition:
 Rough to very rough sea condition is likely over central and adjoining south Bay of Bengal on 24th May. It would become high over central Bay of Bengal on 25th May & 26th May and High to Very High over North Bay of Bengal from 25th evening till 27th May morning.
 Rough to very rough sea condition is likely along & off Bangladesh, West Bengal and adjoining North Odisha coasts from 25th May evening and high to very high along & off Bangladesh and West Bengal coasts from 26th morning onwards till 27th May morning.
Storm surge:
Storm surge of about 1.0 meter above astronomical tide likely to inundate low lying areas of coastal West Bengal at the time of landfall.
Fishermen Warning (RED WARNING: TAKE ACTION)
Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea from 24th May till 27th May.
Port Warning: –
Hoist Distant Cautionary Signal No. 1 at Hooghly ports along with Sectional Signal No. III at Sagar Island Port.
Damage Expected over Coastal and adjoining districts of South Bengal:
 Major damage to thatched houses/ huts. Possibilities of damage to vulnerable structure.
 Unattached metal sheets may fly.
 Breaking of tree branches, uprooting of trees. Major damage to banana and papaya trees. Dead limbs may blow off from trees.
 Damage to power and communication lines due to breaking of branches and uprooting of trees.
 Damage to Kutcha and minor damage to Pucca roads due to heavy rain.
 Damage to paddy crops, horticultural crops and orchards.
 Inundation of low lying areas and localized flooding
 Occasional reduction in visibility due to heavy rainfall.
 Disruption of traffic due to water logging and squally winds
Action Suggested for South Bengal:
 Total suspension of fishing operations.
 Surface transport and shipping operations need to be regulated
 Onshore & Offshore operation need to be regulated as per guidelines
 Coastal hutment dwellers to be in safer places.
 People in affected areas to remain indoors.
 Avoid going to areas that face the water logging problems often.
 Avoid staying in vulnerable structure.
 Use Mausam/Damini app for real time weather alert.
Damage Expected over North Bengal:
Possible Impact
1. Damage to loose/unsecured structure.
2. Water lodging in low-lying areas.
3. Communication / Traffic disruption in urban areas.
4. Damage to standing crops and horticulture, Reduction of visibility.
Action suggested:
1. Take shelter in safe place.
2. Movement of traffic may be regulated judiciously.
3. Avoid taking shelter under tree/electric pole and avoid contact with water bodies.
4. Use Mausam/Damini app for real time weather alert.

Severe cyclone forming in Bay of Bengal to make landfall on Sunday night, red alert in stat

PTI, Kolkata/New Delhi, May 24, 2024 :  A depression in the Bay of Bengal is likely to concentrate into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall along the adjoining coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh around May 26 midnight, bringing heavy rain in the coastal districts of the state and in north Odisha, the Met department said on Friday.


This is the first cyclone in the Bay of Bengal this pre-monsoon season and will be named Remal, given by Oman, according to a system of naming cyclones in the north Indian Ocean region.

The system is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh, the IMD said in a bulletin.

The cyclone could reach a wind speed of 120 kilometres per hour (kmph) on Sunday.

The Met office has warned of extremely heavy rainfall in the coastal districts of West Bengal and north Odisha on May 26-27. Extremely heavy precipitation may hit parts of northeast India on May 27-28.

Storm surge of up to 1.5 metre is expected to inundate low-lying areas of coastal West Bengal and Bangladesh at the time of landfall.

The weather office warned fishermen not to venture into the sea in north Bay of Bengal till May 27 morning.

The Met issued a red alert for West Bengal’s coastal districts of South and North 24 Parganas district on May 26 and 27.

It warned of 100 to 110 km per hour wind speed gusting to 120 kmph in South 24 Parganas and 90 to 100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph in North 24 Parganas on May 26-27, accompanied by extremely heavy rainfall at one or two places on both days.

An orange alert was issued for Kolkata, Howrah, Nadia and Purba Medinipur districts by the Met, warning of 80 to 90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph wind speed, accompanied by heavy to very heavy rain at one or two places on the two days.

The depression, which lies over the central Bay of Bengal, about 660 km south-southeast of Sagar island, is likely to concentrate into a cyclonic storm by May 25 morning, the Met said.

The weather office forecast heavy rain in Purba Medinipur on May 25, on which date elections are scheduled to be held in Tamluk and Kanti Lok Sabha constituencies located within the coastal district.

Moving in a northward direction, the system will further concentrate into a severe cyclonic storm by May 25 evening and cross the coast between Sagar Island and Khepupara around midnight of May 26, the weather office said.

Wind speed will reach 60 to 70 kmph gusting to 80 kmph over Hooghly, Purba Bardhaman and Paschim Medinipur districts, accompanied by heavy rain.
    
The rest districts in south Bengal will experience wind speed of 40 to 50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph, it said.

In north Odisha, the coastal districts of Balasore, Bhadrak and Kendrapara will receive heavy rain on May 26-27, while precipitation is likely in Mayurbhanj on May 27.

The IMD warned of localised flooding and major damage to vulnerable structures, power and communication lines, kutcha roads, crops and orchards in South and North 24 Parganas districts of West Bengal.

People in the affected areas have been asked to remain indoors and vacate vulnerable structures.

Scientists say cyclonic storms are intensifying rapidly and retaining their potency for longer periods due to warmer sea surface temperatures, a result of oceans absorbing most of the excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions.

The past 30 years have witnessed the highest sea surface temperatures since records started being maintained in 1880.

According to senior IMD scientist D S Pai, warmer sea surface temperatures mean more moisture, which is favourable for the intensification of cyclones.

Madhavan Rajeevan, former secretary of the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences, said a sea surface temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and above is needed for a low-pressure system to intensify into a cyclone.

The sea surface temperature in the Bay of Bengal is around 30 degrees Celsius at present.

“The Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea are very warm at present, so a tropical cyclone can easily form,” Rajeevan said.

But tropical cyclones are not only controlled by the ocean but the atmosphere also plays an important role, especially in terms of vertical wind shear — a change in wind speed and/or wind direction with altitude.

    “A cyclone will not intensify if the vertical wind shear is very large. It will weaken,” Rajeevan said.

Will move higher court after summer vacation to challenge Calcutta HC order on OBC certificates: Mamata Banerjee

 I respect the courts, but a few judges are only following the diktats of the BJP and the CPI(M), says the Bengal Chief Minister
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee

PTI, Calcutta, 24.05.24 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday announced that her government will approach a higher court, challenging the Calcutta High Court order that cancelled all OBC certificates issued in the state since 2010.

Addressing an election rally in Sagar in South 24 Parganas district, she said the state government would appeal to the higher court against the order after summer vacation.

“We do not accept the order that scrapped OBC certificates. We will contest at a higher court after summer vacation,” Banerjee said.

The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday struck down as illegal the OBC status of several classes in the state granted since 2010, sparking a political debate in the middle of the Lok Sabha elections.

The court observed that the inclusion of 77 classes of Muslims in the list of backward categories was to “treat them as a vote bank”.

“I respect the courts, but a few judges are only following the diktats of the BJP and the CPI(M).” Banerjee urged electors “not to cast a single vote to the BJP or any other party except the TMC so that the INDIA bloc can form a government at the Centre”.

She also accused the BJP of planning to implement the Uniform Civil Code to “undermine” the rights of people belonging to the SC and ST community.

Banerjee appealed to the families of Haj pilgrims to vote judiciously, as the “implementation of the Uniform Civil Code and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) could disenfranchise citizens”.

She alleged that the BJP has “made attempts to disrespect women in Sandeshkhali, incite riots, and revoke reservations and employment rights of backward classes” and its only aim is to “defame TMC and Bengal”.

The TMC supremo accused the saffron camp of running advertisements to “mislead” people.

Banerjee said the ‘Gangasagar Mela’ must be recognised as a national fair, and claimed that her government is independently managing the annual affair while the “Centre has not been providing adequate support for it”.

She also promised completion of a bridge over the Muriganga river in the next 2-3 years, even though the “Centre has not provided support in the Rs 1,500 crore project”.

“You must come to vote even if there is rain,” she said at the rally, emphasising the need to defeat the BJP in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

A depression in the Bay of Bengal is likely to concentrate into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall between Sagar island in West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh around May 26 midnight, bringing heavy rain in the coastal districts of the state, the Met department said on Friday.

Banerjee’s comment came after it was found that voter turnout in the fifth round of polling in seven Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal was lower, as compared to the polling percentage in 2019, due to a two-hour rain.

Inclusivity and safety top mission: HMI scales new heights in mountaineering coaching

 The institute started a campaign to encourage the physically-challenged people to join mountaineering
Uday Kumar with Gp Capt JaiKishan at the summit of Mt Renok: Picture courtesy: HMI

Bitan Sikdar, Darjeeling, 24.05.24 : As the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) approaches its 70th anniversary in a few months, it is not only about scaling new heights in excellence but also about fostering inclusivity.

The institute started a campaign to encourage the physically-challenged people to join mountaineering.
One 36-year-old Uday Kumar from Calcutta, who had lost his left leg in a 2015 railway accident, climbed Mt. Renok at 16,500 feet in the Khangchendzonga National Park in March — with the support of HMI instructors. The expedition was led by Gp. Capt. JaiKishan, the principal of the HMI, and Kumar’s training and expenditure were sponsored by the HMI.

“Uday sustained all weights with his hands and negotiated the difficult terrains all along. We want to say if he can do it, anybody can do it. Adventure sports are for the divyangjan,” he said.

Currently, the institute has around 150 students in the mountains, with a special focus on encouraging women climbers.

One notable example is Neha Rai from Sikkim, who previously worked as a guide over there.

The HMI is also focussing on mountaineering education and safety.

For example, it has introduced lightweight equipment such as chest crawl, kong stretcher, the avalanche victim detector and some other equipment.

The avalanche victim detector (AVD) is also known as an avalanche transceiver. These are small, compact radios used to identify avalanche burial sites and they transmit electromagnetic signals that are picked up by another transceiver on the receive mode.

The AVD works in two modes — receiving and transmit or search mode, explained a trainee, Julian.

Similarly, a kong stretcher is made of durable and lightweight materials. With its help, it becomes easier for rescuers to act promptly in emergencies. This helps in secure and stable transport across difficult terrains — steep slopes or rocky surfaces.

It can be easily folded or strapped, facilitating rescuers to carry this without adding much weight to their load, she explained.

“With the help of these tools, it is now possible for a small rescue team of mountaineers to conduct a big rescue operation in high-altitude mountains,” said Rohit Sanga, another trainee at this institute.

Writers workshop on creative writing held in Kalimpong

Kalimnews, Kalimpong, 23 May 2024: People have lost interest in reading and writing, so to rekindle the love for the both and generate interest in reading and writing and sharpening their writing skills, a one-day creative writing workshop was organized at the Worship Center in Kalimpong.

Organized jointly by Kalimpong Christian Library and Himali Upasana Isai Kala Sarakshan Samity (Upasana Production), the workshop was held today in which training was imparted on creative writing and translation along with writing essays, articles, poetries and short stories.

70 young and old people participated in this workshop and according to the members of the workshop organizing committee, such a large number of participants was very much encouraging for smaller organisations.

In the workshop, the resource persons trained the participants by explaining about the important and essential points which initiates the art of writing, develops it and even could make it possible to pursue it as a profession. Rev. Solon Karthak, the well-known travelogue author and writer gave detailed information from his experiences during his delivery of keynote address on reading and creative writing.

In response to the growing disinterest in reading and writing, a one-day creative writing workshop was organized at the Worship Center in Kalimpong. The workshop aimed to rekindle a passion for reading and writing and to enhance participants’ writing skills. It was a joint effort by the Kalimpong Christian Library and Himali Upasana Isai Kala Sarakshan Samity (Upasana Production).

The workshop included training sessions on creative writing, translation, and composing essays, articles, poetry, and short stories. A total of 70 participants, both young and old, attended, which was a highly encouraging turnout for the organizing committee, indicating a strong community interest in such initiatives.

Resource persons provided essential guidance on initiating and developing writing skills, with a focus on the potential for writing as a professional pursuit. Rev. Solon Karthak, a well-known travelogue author and writer, delivered the keynote address. He shared his extensive experiences, offering detailed insights into the art of reading and creative writing, which inspired and informed the participants.

This workshop highlights the community’s effort to promote literacy and creative expression, ensuring that the love for reading and writing continues to thrive across generations.

In an effort to reignite interest in reading and writing, a one-day creative writing workshop was held at the Worship Center in Kalimpong. Organized by the Kalimpong Christian Library and Himali Upasana Isai Kala Sarakshan Samity (Upasana Production), the event focused on various forms of writing, including articles, essays, short stories, poetry, and translation.

Prominent figures in the literary field shared their expertise: Dr. Anjana Rai spoke on writing articles and essays, Elder Raju Rai, an editor and writer, provided insights into writing short stories, Ujjwal Prakash Bomjan, a poet and lyricist, explained the art of writing poetry. Dr. Abrona Lee Pandi from the English Department of Sikkim University discussed creative writing and translation skills.


To apply the skills learned, participants engaged in a writing competition in English and Nepali across four genres: essay, short story, poetry, and translation. Winners received book prizes, and all participants were awarded certificates. The winners included: Essay Writing: Edwin Rezom Aden (English) and Sunita Lama (Nepali)
Short Story Writing: Sharon Shreya Rai (English) and Tabita Sarki (Nepali), Poetry: Legain Phipon (English) and Grace Pakhrin Pulami (Nepali), Translation: Ananya Bomjan (English) and Nurzong Lepcha (Nepali).


The workshop was conducted by Asst. Professor Anukampa Subba, Head of the English Department at Kalimpong College, and began with a welcome address by Rev. J.S. Caleb Subba and a prayer by President Rev. Ruel Pakhrin. The event concluded with the announcement of winners by Jeenat Mary Lepcha and a thanksgiving by Rev. Lochan Kabo.

During the workshop, KCL secretary Yangden S. Ghising discussed the Kalimpong Christian Library, and film director Gyan Gurung shared information about an upcoming film by Himali Upasana Isai Kala Sankarsan Samiti (Upasana Production). Participants found the workshop effective and encouraging, contributing significantly to their writing skills and creative development..

कालेबुंगमा एक दिने सृजनात्मक लेखन कार्यशाला सम्पन्न

कालिमन्युज, कालेबुंग, २३ मई २०२४ : वर्तमान समयमा सर्वत्र पठन र लेखनमा चासो राख्नेहरुको संख्या दिनोदिन कम भैरहेको समय यसमा चासो जगाउने र पाठक अनि लेखक जन्माउन अनि उनीहरुमा लेखना कला भए तिखार्ने उद्धेश्यले कालेबुंगको वर्शिप सेन्टरमा एक दिने सृजनात्मक लेखन कार्यशाला आयोजना भयो |

कालेबुंग क्रिश्चियन लाइब्रेरी अनि हिमाली उपासना इसाई कला संरक्षण समिति (उपासना प्रोडक्सन) को संयुक्त आयोजनामा उक्त कार्यशाला आज सम्पन्न भयो जसमा गद्य, कविता, लघु कथा लेखन संगसंगै सृजनात्मक लेखन र अनुवाद बारे तालिम दिइएको थियो |   
यस कार्यशालामा ७० जना सहभागीहरुले भाग लिएका थिए  l यति ठुलो संख्यामा सहभागीहरुले भाग लिनु सम्भवत यस भेकको निम्ति प्रथम चोटि हुन सक्ने कार्यशाला आयोजक समितद्वयका ससस्यहरुले बताए   |
कार्यशालामा स्रोत व्यक्तिहरुले कसरी लेखन कलालाई जन्म दिने, विकाश गर्ने र यसलाई पेशा पनि बनाउने भन्नेबारे खुबै मुख्य र अति आवश्यकीय कुराहरु बताउदै तालिम दिए | श्रोत व्यक्तिहरुमध्ये चर्चित नियात्राका लेखक साहित्यकार रेभ सलोन कार्थकले सृजनात्मक पठन र लेखनको महत्वबारे आफ्नो अनुभवहरूबाट विस्तृत जानकारी गराउदै केही मुख्य बुँदाहरुको विषयमा व्याखा गरे |
गद्य लेखनबारे लेखक डा. श्रीमती अञ्जना राईले जानकारी गराए भने लघु कथा लेखनबारे सम्पादक एवं लेखक एल्डर राजु राईले साथै कवि औ गीतकार श्री उज्जवल बम्जनले कविता रचनाबारे तालिम दिए | 
सिक्किम युनिभर्सीटीको  अंग्रेजी विभागबाट आएका डा. अब्रोना ली पन्दीले सृजनात्मकता र अनुवाद साहित्यबारे बडो रोचक ढंगमा जानकारी गराए  |
सहभागीहरुले कार्यशालाको समय सिकेका कुराहरु र आफ्नो दक्षता अनुसार अभ्यासको निम्ति चारै विधा गद्य, लघु कथा, कविता अनि अनुवाद मा सहभागीहरुलाई अंग्रेजी र नेपाली दुवै भाषामा लेखन प्रतियोगिता गराइयो | प्रतियोगीहरुको मुल्यांकन श्रोत व्यक्तिहरुले गरे अनुसार सर्वश्रेष्ठ अनि उत्कृष्ट लेखनलाई प्रोत्साहन पुरस्कार प्रदान अनि सबै सहभागीहरुलाई प्रमाण पत्र वितरण गरियो |    
पुरस्कारहरुमा अग्रेजी भाषामा निबन्ध लेखनको निम्ति एडविन रेजोम आदेनलाई र नेपाली भाषामा निबन्ध लेखनको निम्ति सुनिता लामालाई सर्वश्रेष्ठ चयन गरियो भने अग्रेजी भाषामा लघु कथा लेखनको निम्ति स्यारोन श्रेया राईलाई र नेपाली भाषामा लघु कथा लेखनको निम्ति तबिता सार्कीलाई पुरष्कृत गरियो | अग्रेजी भाषामा कविता रचनाको निम्ति लिगेन फिपनलाई र नेपाली भाषामा कविता रचनाको निम्ति ग्रेस पाख्रीनलाई पुरष्कृत गरियो | उसरीनै अनुवादको निम्ति अग्रेजी भाषामा अनन्य बम्जनलाई र नेपाली भाषामा नर्जोङ लेप्चालाई पुरष्कृत गरियो । कार्यशाला खुबै प्रभावकारी अनि प्रोत्साहनात्मक भएको सहभागीहरुले जनाए |
कालेबुङ कलेजका अंग्रेजी विभागका एचओडी प्राध्यापक अनुकम्पा सुब्बाले संचालन गरेको कार्याशाला रेभ. जे.एस. कालेब सुब्बाको स्वागत सम्बोधन अनि अध्यक्ष रेभ. रुएल पाख्रिनको प्रार्थनाद्वारा आरम्भ भएको अनि जीनत मेरी लेप्चाद्वारा विजेताहरुको घोषणा र रेभ लोचन काबोद्वारा धन्यबाद ज्ञापन गरिएको थियो | कार्यशाला कै समय कालिम्पोङ क्रिश्चियन लाइब्रेरीबारे केसीएलका सचिव याङ्देन एस घिसिङले जनाए भने, फिल्म निर्देशक ज्ञान गुरुङले हिमाली उपासना इसाई कला संरक्षण समिति (उपासना प्रोडक्सन) को आगामी फिल्म बारे अवगत गराए |  

North Bengal-based online platform launches three new travel shows to boost homestays

 Homestaying.in, a north Bengal-based online platform which connects around 500 homestays in the hills and plains, has taken the initiative to offer accommodations which suit the requirements of tourists
A grab of the video released by homestaying.in shows Manpreet Kaur, a yoga instructor, performing a yoga session at a homestay in  the Darjeeling hills.: The Telegraph

Binita Paul, TT, Siliguri, 24.05.24 : A website dedicated to homestays in north Bengal has launched three new travel shows on its YouTube channel to draw more tourists to the region.

Homestaying.in, a north Bengal-based online platform which connects around 500 homestays in the hills and plains, has taken the initiative to offer accommodations which suit the requirements of tourists.

“We have released three new travel shows on our official YouTube channel. The idea is to popularise the local homestays and promote the tourism industry in north Bengal. The shows will feature three distinct hosts, taking the viewers for a travelling experience throughout the region,” said Prabhakar Thapa, the founder of homestaying.in.

He said the travel hosts were from different walks of life and would promote various homestays and travel destinations, particularly from the hilly region.

Among them, Priyanka Chakraborty is a travel content creator, Manpreet Kaur is a yoga instructor and Jigme Singh is a hotelier.

The travel shows, Thapa said, will have weekly episodes and have been introduced while keeping in mind the exponential growth of homestays.

Priyanka, who will run a show called ‘The Modern Traveller,’ will guide tourists to find popular tourist destinations, covering the colonial architecture built by the British.

Manpreet Kaur, on the other hand, will take tourists on a spiritual retreat. “People will know how to rejuvenate themselves during a trip. There will be sessions on sound healing,” she said.

Jigme, on the other hand, will showcase the local cuisine.

“Our region has its own food platter and we will motivate every individual to venture beyond their familiar territories in cuisine,” said the travel host.

Thapa, while elaborating on their activities, said through their website, tourists can find only homestays.

“There is no option for hotels. Through our website, they can filter their requirements. We have categories like tea bungalows, high-altitude stays, hostels, B&B, and camping sites. All these are being run by the local people,” he said.

Forest dept to monitor wildcats in North Bengal post monsoon

Dibyendu Sinha, MP, 20 May 2024, Jalpaiguri: The role of different species of wildcats is crucial in maintaining the balance of forests. To understand their lifestyle and contribution better, the Forest department is set to start special monitoring of wildcat species. 

This project will commence in the protected forest areas of North Bengal after the end of the monsoon season. 
Camera traps will be installed to track the movement of these species. According to Forest department sources, various species of wildcats often resemble leopards, sometimes causing unnecessary fear among people. 
This resemblance can lead to these animals facing human wrath. For instance, a few years ago in Latapota village of Mathabhanga, a wildcat mistaken for a leopard fell victim to such an incident. 
Forest department officials note that species like the marbled cat, golden cat and leopard cat play a significant role in protecting the forest environment. Therefore, the Forest department is launching this 
initiative in collaboration with the West Bengal Zoo Authority across the protected forest areas of North Bengal. Dwijaa Pratim Sen, Divisional Forest Officer of Gorumara Wildlife Division, said: “Trap cameras will be installed in forest areas of Gorumara National Park, Chapramari, Neoravalli, as well as Jaldapara, Buxa, Central Singalila, Mahananda Sanctuary and Kurseong once the monsoon ends. 
Cameras are already installed in several places and hundreds more will be set up for this special purpose. Through these cameras, different species of wildcats, including marbled cat, leopard cat and golden cat will be monitored. 
We aim to determine the number of species present and understand how the forest balance is being maintained for these species. Detailed information will be collected about their behavior and lifestyle.” 
Recently, a multi-level meeting was held regarding this initiative, with consultations from all reserved forest authorities. The officials of the Forest department in North Bengal have also held a meeting to discuss the plan further. 
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/forest-dept-to-monitor-wildcats-in-north-bengal-post-monsoon-564587

North Bengal Med Hosp takes steps to curb brokering racket

MP, 20 May 2024, Siliguri: The hospital authorities have taken an initiative to make patients and their families aware of fraud by brokers in North Bengal Medical College and Hospital (NBMCH). 
The hospital authorities will put up boards with awareness messages in this regard and contact numbers of hospital authorities will be mentioned on the boards. 
These boards will display awareness messages saying that if any broker demands any kind of money from the patient’s family, they should immediately report
matter to the officials of NBMCH. Along with this, the Rogi Sahayata Kendra (Patients help desk) and Grievance Cell have been operational round-the-clock. Patients’ families were asked to report any untoward matter to these cells as well. 
“We have made all kinds of arrangements to restrict brokering rackets inside the hospital. However, patients’ families do not inform us about the brokers and they usually come to us after they have lost their money,” said Dr Sanjay Mallick, Superintendent of NBMCH. 
He further said: “It is not possible to take action at that time which is why we request everyone to inform us immediately if any broker asks anyone for money. That will make it possible to take action in the moment.” 
A brokering racket has been going on here for many years. 
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/north-bengal-med-hosp-takes-steps-to-curb-brokering-racket-564591

Main accused in Jalpaiguri child-trafficking case gets bail after 7 yrs

Dibyendu Sinha, MP, 20 May 2024, Jalpaiguri: Chandana Chakraborty, the main accused in the Jalpaiguri child-trafficking case, was granted bail after spending almost 7.5 years in jail. 

On Monday, the Circuit Bench of the Calcutta High Court in Jalpaiguri, comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Ajay Kumar Gupta approved her bail plea, as stated by Sourav Ganguly, the lawyer representing the accused. It has been reported that there were three cases against Chandana Chakraborty related to the child-trafficking incident. 
In 2016, the Jalpaiguri Child Welfare Committee alleged that 17 children were illegally adopted from the Specialized Adoption Agency’s Bimala Children’s Home in Jalpaiguri, which operated under the North Bengal People’s Development Centre, Jalpaiguri. The centre was affiliated with the Central Adoption Resource Authority. Following this complaint, the CID initiated an investigation in mid-January 2017. 
Chandana Chakraborty, chairperson of the North Bengal People’s Development Centre in Jalpaiguri, was arrested in February 2017. Sonali Mondal, Jalpaiguri District Child Protection Officer Sushmita Ghosh, Darjeeling District Child Protection Officer Mrinal Ghosh, and Chandana Chakraborty’s brother, Manas Bhowmik, were arrested. 
Sourav Ganguly, Chandana Chakraborty’s lawyer, stated: “Among the 7 accused in this case, 4 have already been granted bail. Besides Chandana, Mrinal Ghosh and Sonali Mondal are currently in jail custody. 
Last November, the Supreme Court rejected Mrinal Ghosh’s bail plea and ordered the case to be completed within 6 months without extension. However, it appears that the trial was ongoing in the trial court even after the stipulated period. 
The bail was granted only after raising these issues.” Nilay Chakraborty, assistant public prosecutor of the circuit bench, said: “There was a Supreme Court order in this case and the testimony of most of the 73 witnesses has been accepted. Hence, the division bench granted bail.” 
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/main-accused-in-jalpaiguri-child-trafficking-case-gets-bail-after-7-yrs-564593

Following HC order, TMC accuses ECI of ‘batting for BJP’

MP, 20 May 2024, Kolkata: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday criticised the Election Commission of India (ECI) accusing it of “batting for the ruling party. 

The Calcutta High Court on Monday restrained the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from publishing any kind of derogatory advertisements against the Trinamool Congress (TMC) till further orders. 
TMC’s Rajya Sabha MP Saket Gokhale wrote on X: “ECI’s conduct throughout this election has been shameful. 
At every given opportunity, rules have been bent to favour Modi & BJP. Now even Calcutta HC has strongly rebuked the ECI for failing to take action on BJP’s fake & disparaging ads about @AITCofficial. The Hon’ble court has also restrained BJP & banned the ads. 
This is an election where the ECI openly bats for the ruling party.” Trinamool leader Chandrima Bhattacharya said: “There was an ad of BJP published a few days back in newspapers. 
A media house went to High Court and complained in a writ petition under Article 226 of the Constitution. Important order was passed by the court saying these ads should not have been published in newspapers because they are derogatory and have violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in spirit and letter. 
This should not have happened. ECI should have taken a significant step in this regard. It showed how BJP can stoop to any level.” 
TMC leader Mahua Moitra wrote on X: “Official twitter handle of@ECISVEEP should be changed to ECISLEEP.” 
Earlier, Moitra had accused the Election Commission (EC) of acting with bias for BJP since it is allegedly not taking action against the communal speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi or his party leaders. 
Moitra had pointed out: “We know that it is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct when a candidate uses communal speeches to polarise the electorate. However, the Election Commission as an independent body seems to be turning a blind eye and not taking any action”. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/following-hc-order-tmc-accuses-eci-of-batting-for-bjp-564616

Will PM Modi take action against ‘corrupt’ BJP leaders, asks TMC

Soumyadip Mullick, MP, 20 May 2024, Kolkata: In the wake of the alleged recovery of unaccounted cash from two BJP leaders in two separate incidents, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) questioned whether PM Modi, who vociferously champions the fight against corruption, will take any decisive action against his party leaders. 

On Monday, Abhishek Banerjee wrote on X: “On Stage: Na Khaunga Na Khane Doonga. Off Stage: Kaala Paisa Jamaunga Aur Jamaane Doonga! Will PM @narendramodi stick to his words and take action against BJP leader Samit Mandal, caught with unaccounted cash worth ₹35 lakhs right after the PM’s meeting in Kharagpur yesterday?” 
He further wrote: “Yesterday, BJP leader Samit Mondal, who was on the dais at PM Modi’s meeting, was caught red-handed by district police with ₹35 lakh unaccounted cash. Today, the ECI has transferred the SP of the same district. 
This is Modi’s guarantee: SAFE HAVEN FOR RAPISTS AND THE CORRUPT!” On Sunday night, TMC shared on social media that the district police seized Rs 35 lakh “unaccounted” cash from a BJP man identified as Samit Mondal, a close confidante of party candidate Agnimitra Paul. 
TMC wrote on X: “Irony died a thousand deaths! On the same stage from which PM @narendramodi made this grand statement against corruption, stood BJP leader and @paulagnimitra1’s close aide, Samit Mandal, from whom the Dist. Police seized over Rs. 35 lakh of unaccounted cash. ‘
Khaunga bhi, aur khane bhi dunga [as long as you’re in the BJP]’ seems to be the real mantra of our PM Modi – the self-proclaimed crusader against corruption.” On Monday, Trinamool further alleged that unaccounted cash and firearms were seized from another BJP leader in Hooghly. 
’ It wrote on X: “First Medinipur, now Hooghly – BJP’s corruption trail is spreading like wildfire. Rs. 35 lakh of undocumented cash was seized from BJP leader Samit Mandal at a Kharagpur hotel. If that weren’t enough, another BJP leader was nabbed in Hooghly with Rs. 2 lakh of unaccounted cash and unlicensed firearms. 
All this is unfolding while PM Modi is gallivanting across Bengal, preaching against corruption. The hypocrisy!” Trinamool leader Chandrima Bhattacharya told the media that the BJP needs to answer what their leader was doing with so much unaccounted cash. 
She said it was clear that this cash was meant for election purposes as Midnapore seat polls are due. She said it is not just a coincidence that the cash was recovered from a person close to BJP’s Midnapore seat candidate Agnimitra Paul. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/will-pm-modi-take-action-against-corrupt-bjp-leaders-asks-tmc-564621

‘Start with UG admission process for academic year 2024-25 soon’

MP, 20 May 2024, Kolkata: The All Bengal Principals’ Council urged the Higher Education department to commence the admissions for undergraduate courses for the academic year 2024-25 in state colleges as soon as all the private and government aided Minority colleges in the state have already opened their admission portal. 

The Council fears that if the admissions are not started sooner, the government colleges will lag behind. 
“In the last academic session 2023-24, Higher Education department took late decision for opening the admission portal which resulted in scarcity of students, especially in science and arts streams,” the Council in their letter stated, while adding that more than 75 per cent seats were lying vacant for the mentioned streams. 
With regards to the centralised portal, they urged the department principal secretary to give clearance for colleges to start admission using a standalone portal like last year if the uncertainty over the portal’s introduction still looms. 
Admissions under the centralised admission portal for undergraduate courses may start after Lok Sabha polls, a Higher Education official said. The last phase poll in the state is going to take place on June 1 and counting will take place on June 4. 
Through a centralised platform, a student will be able to apply to various colleges under the state just by logging into a single portal instead of going to individual institutions. 
The centralised online admission portal for UG will be used in all government-aided colleges, unitary universities and state-aided affiliating universities, excluding autonomous colleges, minority educational institutions or colleges, training colleges and law colleges. 
The Higher Secondary result was published on May 8. The successful candidates have started preparing for entrance examinations and applying for different colleges. 
Even though few colleges under the ones which will be excluded from centralised portal like Scottish Church College have opened their standalone portal to start the admission procedure. 
However, many colleges under Calcutta University are awaiting notice from the Higher Education department as to when the admission process through the centralised portal will start. 
According to a college principal, the testing of the centralised portal was successfully conducted and data was collected from them. Although no communication has been made either by the department or Calcutta University as to when the admission process can be started. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/start-with-ug-admission-process-for-academic-year-2024-25-soon-564622