All bank branches across Iran are set to resume full operations from Saturday, April 11, bringing an end to weeks of disruption in the country’s banking sector, according to state media. The reopening will cover branches nationwide, including head offices in Tehran, which will also return to normal functioning over the weekend. Iran’s Bank Coordination Council said the move is aimed at restoring full banking services after a period of limited operations caused by regional tensions. State-backed reports noted that “all bank branches across Iran will resume full operations starting Saturday,” with headquarters in Tehran also returning to regular activity. Iran embassy stops accepting donations, thanks Indians for support The Iranian Embassy in India has announced that it has deactivated the bank accounts that were earlier used to receive public donations. The move comes after weeks of financial contributions from people across India in support of Iran, reported ANI. In a post on X, the embassy said the decision was taken in appreciation of the support shown by Indian citizens. It stated, “In appreciation of the commendable support and solidarity of the noble people of India… the Embassy accounts previously designated for receiving monetary contributions have now been deactivated.” In appreciation of the commendable support and solidarity of the noble people of India, it is hereby informed that the Embassy accounts previously designated for receiving monetary contributions have now been deactivated. Accordingly, you are kindly requested to refrain from… pic.twitter.com/jzk4e6Dl24 — Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) April 10, 2026 The embassy has also requested people to stop transferring money to those accounts or any other accounts claiming to represent the mission. It added, “You are kindly requested to refrain from transferring any funds to these accounts or to any other accounts presented as belonging to the Embassy.” Last month, the embassy had publicly thanked Indians for their generosity and solidarity during a difficult period. It described the contributions as an act of “kindness” and “humanity.” In its message, the embassy said, “We will never forget your kindness and humanity. Thank you, India.” The embassy had especially acknowledged support from people in Kashmir, where individuals donated cash, jewellery and other valuables. In one instance, a woman donated gold that she had preserved as a memory of her husband who passed away nearly three decades ago. The embassy described such gestures as deeply moving and a source of comfort. A gesture of solidarity comes to a close with the deactivation of donation accounts.
10 April,2026 07:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJust ahead of the West Bengal assembly election, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday unveiled the BJP's manifesto for 2026. Amit Shah, while reading out the manifesto, outlined a sector-wise roadmap spanning industry, agriculture and port-led development, while promising to revive Bengal's industrial fortunes. As reported by news agency PTI, the Union Home Minister stressed that the BJP would address industrial concerns that have remained politically sensitive in the state. He further claimed that issues such as land acquisition, which have been left unresolved during the Congress-led UPA era, have been successfully tackled elsewhere in the country. Shah further said, "Problems that remained unresolved since the Manmohan Singh era have been solved in other parts of the country and can be resolved in Bengal too," as cited by PTI. Calling the BJP’s manifesto a 'sankalp patra', Shah termed it a roadmap for a developed Bengal and a vow of trust. He further added, "The people of Bengal should trust us. Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, we will also put Bengal on the path of development." BJP promises to resolve long-pending industrial challenges across West Bengal Amit Shah, while reading out the manifesto, also added that a BJP-led government in the state would ensure solutions to long-pending industrial challenges. The BJP leader further asserted, "When the reins of the government come into our hands, the chief minister we choose will find solutions to all these problems. There will be a double-engine government, and we will revive Bengal's industry," as per PTI. He cited Singur in the Hooghly district, where Tata Motors abandoned its Nano car factory in 2008, following an intense anti-land acquisition movement led by the TMC, as a key industrial node. The BJP manifesto promises 50 per cent of land to be reserved for MSME’s "For job creation, an industrial park will be built in Singur," Shah said, adding that 50 per cent of the land would be reserved for MSMEs, while the remaining portion will be allocated to large-scale industries to ensure balanced growth and employment generation. Shah further promised about the jute sector, stating a comprehensive revival mechanism through modernisation and reopening of closed mills. He further added, "We will re-establish the old glory of the 'Golden Fibre. The (BJP) government will launch a nationwide campaign to increase the use of eco-friendly jute products in bags, textiles, and packaging," with an eye on building a global supply chain for sustainable products. Special commission to examine labour welfare and export potential across West Bengal Focusing on the tea industry in north Bengal, he announced the formation of a special commission to examine labour welfare and export potential, which will submit its report within one year. Shah added, "Tea garden workers will be granted land titles within 100 days of our government forming," as per PTI. To protect the global reputation of Darjeeling Tea, he added that a "dedicated squad" would be created to curb fake products and promote Geographical Indication (GI) tagging. A laboratory would also be set up to develop new, high-yielding tea plant varieties to replace ageing bushes. Amit Shah promises modern deep-sea ports at Tajpur and Kulpi Outlining a maritime strategy, Shah said, "We will tap into the full potential of maritime trade by constructing modern deep-sea ports at Tajpur and Kulpi," while targeting a "130 per cent increase in port capacity" through modernisation of existing infrastructure. He added that Haldia Port would be developed as a key hub for the "Blue Economy" under a time-bound roadmap, supported by new infrastructure for fisheries and aquaculture to position Bengal as a major export centre for marine products. (With inputs from PTI)
10 April,2026 07:02 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondentVantara, the wildlife conservation organisation founded by Reliance Industries Executive Director Anant Ambani, has announced the launch of Vantara University in Jamnagar today, the world’s first integrated institution dedicated to wildlife conservation and veterinary sciences. It aims to position India as a global hub for wildlife education and animal care. A modern Gurukul-inspired vision Vantara University is designed as a modern-day Gurukul, combining traditional Indian knowledge systems with modern science and research. The focus is on animal welfare, veterinary medicine and conservation science. The university will train future professionals to care for wildlife and address global environmental challenges. Anant Ambani said the idea comes from a personal journey and a need to improve animal care systems. He said, “The future of conservation will depend on how we prepare minds and institutions to serve life with compassion, knowledge, and skill.” He also referred to the inspiration from ancient Nalanda University and the Sanskrit phrase “A no bhadraaḥ kratavo yantu visvataḥ”, meaning “let noble thoughts come to us from all directions.” Symbolic foundation ceremony in Jamnagar The foundation ceremony followed Hindu traditions and brought together academics, scientists, conservation experts, and public figures, including Anant Ambani’s teachers and mentors. A symbolic part of the event included placing soil, water, and stones collected from different ecological regions across India such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, deserts and Himalayan regions. This represented India’s biodiversity and natural heritage. Two Bijoliya sandstone pieces, linked to ancient geological formations associated with Nalanda, were also used in the design to symbolise India’s knowledge legacy. What the university will offer Vantara University will bring multiple disciplines under one academic system, combining classroom learning with real-world conservation work. Courses will include: Wildlife medicine and surgery Animal nutrition Behavioural sciences Genetics and epidemiology One Health studies Conservation policy Animal care environment design The university will offer undergraduate, postgraduate, fellowship and specialised programmes. Scholarships will also be provided for students from economically and socially weaker backgrounds. Learning through real-world conservation work The university will use Vantara’s existing wildlife rescue and rehabilitation work as a learning base. Students will gain practical training through fieldwork and scientific research. It will also integrate in-situ (natural habitats) and ex-situ (care centres) conservation methods to improve long-term wildlife protection. The aim is to combine science, compassion, and practical experience to create professionals who can handle complex wildlife and ecosystem challenges. Infrastructure, global collaborations and scholarships The university will have advanced academic buildings, clinical facilities and a residential campus. It will also collaborate with international institutions and focus on research-driven learning. The focus will be on applied research in animal health, conservation systems, and ecosystem management. The initiative also introduces programmes like the “Vantara University Founding Fellows” and “Every Life Matters” scholarships. Officials said the goal is to build not just an educational institution, but a platform that strengthens compassionate conservation and long-term wildlife protection. About Vantara Vantara is a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, healthcare, and conservation initiative based in Jamnagar, Gujarat. It focuses on advanced veterinary care, species recovery, conservation breeding, and long-term animal welfare. The organisation is also working toward global standards in wildlife healthcare and conservation science.
10 April,2026 06:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Raghav Chadha has responded to ongoing tensions within his party by sharing a video on Instagram titled "Voice Raised Price Paid". The video is a compilation of clips showing him raising various issues in Parliament. The post comes amid a reported rift between Chadha and the party leadership. ‘My work will speak for itself’ In his social media post, Chadha said, "With due respect, to those who are questioning my parliamentary performance, I will let my work do the talking." The message is being seen as a direct response to criticism of his role in Parliament. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raghav Chadha (@raghavchadha88) AAP leadership had removed Chadha from key post Earlier, on April 2, the AAP removed Chadha from his position as deputy leader of the party in the Rajya Sabha. The party has accused him of not being vocal enough against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Centre in Parliament, and instead focusing on what it described as "soft PR", according to the PTI. Chadha has strongly denied the allegations, calling them false. He has said that his role in Parliament is to raise public issues rather than create disruption or political confrontation. He maintains that his focus has always been on legislative work and representing citizens’ concerns. Silenced, not defeated: Raghav Chadha Following his removal as Deputy Leader of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Rajya Sabha, Raghav Chadha on Friday said that he has been “silenced, not defeated”. Taking to X, Chadha shared a video message for his party with a short line saying, “Silenced, not defeated. My message to the aam aadmi." In the video message, he questioned the decision to restrict his voice in Parliament, asking whether raising issues concerning the public had become a crime. Chadha alleged that his party had communicated with the Secretariat to prevent him from speaking in Parliament. He expressed concern over being denied opportunities to raise matters affecting citizens. “Whenever I get a chance, I speak about issues related to the people. Why should anyone stop me?” he asked. Continued social media response Since his removal from the post, Chadha has been active on social media, posting videos and messages highlighting his parliamentary contributions. His recent posts indicate that he is pushing back strongly against criticism from within the party. The developments point to continuing internal differences within the AAP over parliamentary strategy and communication. (with PTI inputs)
10 April,2026 05:46 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentWhat initially appeared to be a robbery gone wrong in Madhya Pradesh has turned into a suspected contract killing, with police arresting a woman and her lover for allegedly plotting the murder of her 'dark skinned' husband, officials said. According to the reports, the victim, Purohit Devkrishna (28), was found dead at his home in Bhopal on April 7. His wife, Priyanka Purohit, initially told police that unidentified burglars had broken into the house, tied her up, and stolen valuables worth around Rs 3.5 lakh. She further reportedly claimed that her husband was killed while trying to confront the intruders. Frequently made disparaging remarks about complexion As per a news report, Purohit's relative alleged that Priyanka frequently made disparaging remarks about his complexion. She claimed that Priyanka would often belittle her husband, saying she deserved a more attractive partner than the dark-skinned Devkrishna. Wife and lover held for orchestrating the killing Devkrishna’s wife, Priyanka Purohit, initially told police that unidentified burglars had entered the house, tied her up, and stolen valuables worth around Rs 3.5 lakh. She claimed her husband was killed while trying to confront the intruders. However, investigators later found inconsistencies in her statements. As the investigation progressed, police grew suspicious of Priyanka’s account. Her phone records reportedly showed frequent communication with a man identified as Kamlesh Purohit, a 32-year-old resident of Rajgarh, according to the PTI. The police officials stated the connection played a key role in uncovering the alleged conspiracy. Contract killing angle emerges Police said Priyanka and Kamlesh allegedly conspired to kill Devkrishna and hired a contract killer named Surendra for Rs 1 lakh to carry out the murder, reported the PTI. The victim was attacked with a sharp weapon, resulting in multiple injuries that led to his death. Arrests made, shooter absconding Both Priyanka and Kamlesh have been arrested following the investigation. However, the alleged contract killer is still on the run, and efforts are underway to trace him. Police said the case was solved within 36 hours of the murder after sustained interrogation and analysis of evidence. Background of strained relationship Investigators also revealed that Priyanka was married to Devkrishna when she was around 15 years old. After reaching adulthood, she moved into her matrimonial home, but the relationship reportedly remained strained, leading to frequent disputes. The officials said that further investigation is continuing to establish the full chain of events and identify all those involved. (with PTI inputs)
10 April,2026 05:26 PM IST | Bhopal | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar after he took oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha, praising his long-standing contribution to governance and development. In a post on X, the Prime Minister highlighted Kumar’s administrative track record, stating that his commitment to good governance has earned widespread appreciation. He credited the JD(U) leader with making a lasting contribution to Bihar’s development over the years. ‘Experienced Leader Will Strengthen Parliament’ PM Modi described Nitish Kumar as one of the most experienced political leaders in the country and expressed confidence that his return to Parliament would add value to legislative functioning. “It will be a great pleasure to see him in Parliament once again,” the Prime Minister said, recalling Kumar’s earlier tenure as a Member of Parliament and his role as a Union Minister. He added that Kumar’s vast political experience would further enhance the dignity of Parliament. The Prime Minister extended his best wishes for Kumar’s upcoming term in the Rajya Sabha, calling it an important new chapter in his public life. Oath Marks New Phase in Nitish Kumar’s Political Journey Nitish Kumar’s induction into the Rajya Sabha is being seen as a significant moment in his long political career. He arrived in New Delhi a day earlier, accompanied by senior leaders Sanjay Jha and Vijay Kumar Choudhary, to complete the formalities related to his entry into the Upper House. His oath marks a transition from state-level legislative responsibilities to a renewed role in national politics, even as he continues to serve as Bihar’s Chief Minister. Rare Milestone: Service Across All Legislative Bodies With this development, Nitish Kumar has joined a select group of Indian politicians who have served in all four key legislative bodies — the State Legislative Assembly, State Legislative Council, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha. This achievement is being viewed as a rare distinction, reflecting the breadth of his political career. Kumar was elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha on March 16 and subsequently resigned from his position as a Member of the Legislative Council on March 30, bringing an end to his long association with the Bihar Legislative Council. JD(U) Leaders Back Kumar’s Continued Leadership Senior leaders of the Janata Dal (United) have strongly backed Nitish Kumar’s new role, asserting that his governance model will continue to guide Bihar even as he takes on responsibilities at the national level. Party leaders expressed confidence that Kumar’s experience and leadership will remain central to the state’s development trajectory, while also contributing meaningfully to parliamentary discussions. The development underscores Nitish Kumar’s enduring influence in both state and national politics, as he balances governance in Bihar with his renewed presence in Parliament. (With inputs from Agencies)
10 April,2026 04:54 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Government of Maharashtra has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AIIMS Nagpur to improve prevention and treatment of childhood Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) today, with strategic and technical support from UNICEF Maharashtra. The agreement was signed at Aarogya Bhavan in Mumbai by the Public Health Department. The agreement aims to respond to the growing burden of diseases such as childhood obesity, Type 1 diabetes, asthma, mental health conditions, congenital heart disease and sickle cell disease. Health officials noted that early onset of these diseases can lead to long-term health problems as well as economic challenges. Key leaders present at the signing The MoU was signed in the presence of several senior leaders, including honourable Health Minister Shri Prakash Abitkar and MLA Shri Nana Patole. Senior officials from the state health system, Member of Legislative Assembly, Maharashtra, and senior leadership from the Government of Maharashtra, including Dr. Nipun Vinayak, IAS, Secretary Health, Dr. Kadambari Balkawade, IAS, Commissioner, Health Services and Mission Director, National Health Mission, Mumbai and Mr. Sanjay Singh, Chief of UNICEF Maharashtra. AIIMS Nagpur and UNICEF roles in the initiative Under the agreement, AIIMS Nagpur will act as a technical centre of excellence, supporting clinical expertise and guideline development. UNICEF Maharashtra will provide strategic support by bringing together stakeholders, helping design solutions, and supporting implementation within government systems. Dr. Prashant Joshi, Executive Director of AIIMS Nagpur, said the initiative combines clinical expertise with public health delivery to create models that can be scaled across the state. Key focus areas and the long-term vision of the programme The initiative will focus on strengthening childhood NCD care through several major steps: Development of evidence-based Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs) for six priority childhood NCDs: Type 1 diabetes, asthma, obesity, mental health conditions, congenital heart disease and sickle cell disease Setting up paediatric NCD clinics in 10 district hospitals Training and capacity building of health workers in selected districts Strengthening screening and referral systems at the community level Building a stronger public health system for children Officials said the partnership is designed as a system-based approach, meaning it will improve not just treatment but also early detection, referral, and long-term care within the public health system. UNICEF Maharashtra highlighted that the initiative focuses on integrated and equitable healthcare for children, ensuring that services reach communities more effectively. The MoU is expected to help institutionalise childhood NCD care within Maharashtra’s public health system. It also aims to improve the state’s response to emerging child health challenges and reduce long-term disease burden among children.
10 April,2026 04:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRemoval proceedings initiated by Lok Sabha against Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma have become "infructuous" following his resignation, senior officials said on Friday. As reported by news agency PTI, the resignation process was initiated to prevent removal by Parliament, popularly called 'impeachment'; resignation was the only option left for the judge accused of corruption. Justice Varma’s resignation letter, sent to the President on Thursday noted, "Your Excellency, While I do not propose to burden your august office with the reasons which have constrained me to submit this missive, it is with deep anguish that I hereby tender my resignation from the office of Judge of the Hon'ble High Court of Judicature at Allahabad, with immediate effect. It has been an honour to serve in this office," as reported by PTI. Earlier Justice Varma was repatriated from the Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court after burnt wads of currency notes were found at his official residence in New Delhi on March 14 last year. Justice Varma will be entitled to pension by tendering his resignation By tendering his resignation, he will be entitled to a pension. However, if he had been removed by Parliament (impeachment), he would not have been entitled to a pension and other benefits a retired judge is entitled to, officials aware of the procedure to appoint and remove Supreme Court and high court judges pointed out. They also underlined that once a Supreme Court or high court judge resigns without giving a "prospective date", it is accepted immediately, and there is no need for it to be approved or disallowed. If a prospective date is mentioned, the judge can withdraw the resignation before that day. According to Article 217 of the Constitution, a high court judge "may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his office". A judge's resignation does not require any approval. A simple resignation letter is sufficient. A judge may give a prospective date to step down. In such cases, the judge can withdraw the resignation before the date he or she has mentioned as the last day in office. Since Justice Varma will now become a private citizen not holding a constitutional office, the government can initiate criminal proceedings against him. The then Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, had written to the president and the prime minister to remove Justice Varma, mired in the cash discovery row. Justice Khanna’s report on burnt cash found at Justice Varma's residence Sources from PTI had earlier said that Justice Khanna's report was based on the findings of a three-judge in-house panel that investigated the case. Earlier, Justice Khanna had prodded Varma to resign, but he had refused. On August 12 last, the Speaker had constituted the three-member committee to probe charges against Justice Varma after admitting a multi-party notice for his removal, setting in motion the process of removal of the Allahabad High Court judge. Supreme Court judge V Ramaswami and Calcutta High Court judge Soumitra Sen had earlier faced impeachment proceedings, but they too had resigned. (With inputs from PTI)
10 April,2026 04:32 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentFive children and a driver was injured after a school bus caught fire in Uttar Pradesh's Samaspur village, officials said, adding that those injured sustained serious burn injuries and were rushed to a hospital following the incident, reported the PTI. According to the officials, the incident took place on Friday morning when the vehicle, belonging to a school was carrying around 10 children in the bus. Quick rescue operation by police and fire brigade Circle Officer Ravishankar said the incident occurred when a van belonging to the Ashish English Academy was carrying around 10 children. On receiving information, police and fire brigade teams rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital, according to the PTI. Sources said that the condition of the injured remains serious. Possible short circuit suspected According to preliminary findings, the fire is suspected to have been caused by a short circuit. However, authorities have said a detailed investigation is underway to determine the exact cause, as per the PTI. The vehicle has been seized for further examination. Fire guts shops in Lucknow market, no casualties reported Meanwhile, in a separate incident, A fire broke out at a fruit and vegetable market in the Krishna Nagar area of Lucknow, gutting around 15 shops, police said on Friday. Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Amit Kumar Anand said no casualties were reported in the incident that took place on Thursday night., the news agency reported. Police and fire brigade teams rushed to the location soon after receiving information about the blaze. Officials said firefighters managed to bring the fire under control after efforts at the scene. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident. Preliminary assessment suggests that the fire may have started due to a short circuit in one of the shops before spreading to nearby establishments. "Prima facie, the fire appears to have started due to a short circuit in one of the shops and subsequently spread to nearby shops," he said. Officials said a detailed investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the fire, and further legal action is being taken. (with PTI inputs)
10 April,2026 04:01 PM IST | Lucknow | mid-day online correspondentThe India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday has forecast continued hot and humid conditions in isolated pockets across Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and Ratnagiri for Friday and Saturday, urging residents to take precautions. According to the IMD’s latest five-day district forecast, the region will experience humid weather conditions today (April 10), with similar conditions likely to persist on Saturday. From Sunday onwards, dry weather is expected to prevail across Mumbai and the wider Konkan belt, bringing some relief. While Palghar and Sindhudurg are expected to remain dry today, these districts may witness hot and humid spells in isolated areas on Saturday. Rain possible in some parts of Maharashtra: IMD In other parts of Maharashtra, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely over the Ghats of Kolhapur as well as Kolhapur, Sangli, Sholapur, Latur and Dharashiv on Friday. However, most districts including Pune, Nashik, Aurangabad, Nagpur and the Vidarbha region are expected to remain dry, with no weather warnings issued. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for coastal districts, indicating the persistence of hot and humid conditions over the next two days. IMD's advisory As part of its advisory, the IMD has urged residents to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially between 11 am and 4 pm, and to stay well hydrated even if not feeling thirsty. People are advised to wear light-coloured, loose cotton clothing and cover their heads with caps, cloths or umbrellas when stepping outdoors. Those working outside are encouraged to take frequent breaks and schedule strenuous activities during cooler parts of the day. The IMD also cautioned residents to watch for symptoms such as heat cramps, rashes, dizziness, nausea or headaches, and to seek immediate medical attention if needed. The forecast is valid from 8:30 am IST on Friday to 8:30 am IST on Saturday, with the IMD noting that weather conditions may change and residents should stay updated with the latest advisories. Maharashtra weather update: Rising temperatures across coastal and interior regions Several parts of Maharashtra are experiencing warm to hot weather conditions, with temperatures hovering around or slightly above normal across coastal and interior regions. In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Mumbai recorded a maximum temperature of 33.2 degrees Celsius at Colaba and 33.5 degrees Celsius at Santacruz. Minimum temperatures were 25 degrees Celsius and 22.2 degrees Celsius respectively, indicating warm and humid conditions, with morning humidity levels around 60 per cent. Temperatures in Maharashtra Coastal areas such as Alibag and Dahanu reported maximum temperatures of 32.2 degrees Celsius and 34.2 degrees Celsius respectively. Higher humidity along the coast continues to result in sultry weather. Interior districts are witnessing more intense heat. Sholapur recorded one of the highest temperatures at 38.2 degrees Celsius, followed by Sangli at 37.7 degrees Celsius and Parbhani at 37.1 degrees Celsius. Jalgaon and Jeur also reported temperatures above 36 degrees Celsius. Relatively cooler conditions prevailed in hilly regions, with Mahabaleshwar recording a maximum of 28.4 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 17.6 degrees Celsius. Nashik saw a maximum of 32.5 degrees Celsius with cooler night temperatures around 17.4 degrees Celsius. Among other regions, Aurangabad recorded 35.6 degrees Celsius (below normal), Kolhapur 35.6 degrees Celsius (near normal), Osmanabad 36.9 degrees Celsius, and Ratnagiri 33.7 degrees Celsius with high humidity.
10 April,2026 03:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnion Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday officially launched the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 'Sankalp Patra' for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, positioning it as a definitive roadmap to transition the state from "despair to development," aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat and focuses on development, employment, women's empowerment, and national security. Addressing a press conference, Shah launched a scathing critique of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), alleging that 15 years of their governance has resulted in a complete breakdown of law and order. "People gave Mamata Didi a mandate with great hope, but today they are seeking change from the heart," Shah stated, asserting that the BJP's vision is strictly aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Viksit Bharat mission, reported ANI. Shah said, "This manifesto is a path to bring every section of Bengal out of despair. It will show a new way out for farmers surrounded by various kinds of fears. It will also place before the people of Bengal the roadmap for the developed India envisioned by Prime Minister Modi." He added, "The people are frightened and disillusioned. The people want change from the heart. Today we are working as the main opposition party in the Bengal Assembly." BJP manifesto aims development, security in West Bengal According to ANI, the manifesto, themed around the concept of "Sonar Bangla" (Golden Bengal), promises a radical shift in governance, focusing heavily on national security, youth employment, and women's safety. Listing key commitments, Amit Shah said the BJP has outlined 15 major promises in its manifesto, aimed at addressing governance, development, and security concerns in West Bengal. The party has pledged a strict crackdown on infiltration to safeguard national security, assuring that illegal entrants will be identified and removed through a "detect, delete and deport" policy. Alongside this, the BJP has promised to release a detailed white paper highlighting alleged corruption, deterioration of law and order, and governance failures during the 15-year rule of the TMC, reported ANI. To tackle grassroots-level corruption, the manifesto proposes ending syndicate activities and curbing the widely criticised "cut money" culture. For government employees and pensioners, the BJP has assured payment of pending Dearness Allowance (DA) and implementation of the 7th Pay Commission within a stipulated timeframe. BJP manifesto promises jobs boost, women’s empowerment and farmer support As per ANI, focusing on employment, the party has committed to generating one crore jobs and self-employment opportunities over the next five years. Additionally, unemployed youth are proposed to receive financial assistance of Rs 10,000 as part of efforts to address rising joblessness. On women's empowerment, the manifesto promises the formation of women-only police battalions, implementation of the "Durga Suraksha Sahaya" scheme, and 33 per cent reservation for women in state government jobs. It also includes a monthly financial assistance of Rs 3,000 for women beneficiaries. The BJP has also pledged cultural and linguistic recognition by proposing the inclusion of Kurmali and Rajbanshi languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. In the agricultural sector, enhanced support for crops such as rice, potato, and mango has been promised to boost farmers' income, reported ANI. For the fisheries sector, the party aims to register all fishermen under the "PM Matsya Sampada Yojana" and transform West Bengal into a fisheries export hub. On legal and governance reforms, the BJP has proposed implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and introducing strict laws to curb cattle smuggling. Industrial and regional development also features prominently, with plans to rejuvenate tea gardens, strengthen the Darjeeling tea brand, and modernise the jute industry. In healthcare and education, the manifesto promises implementation of Ayushman Bharat and other central schemes, along with free HPV vaccination, breast cancer screening, and expansion of premier institutions such as AIIMS, IIT, and IIM in North Bengal, reported ANI. Additionally, the BJP has proposed establishing a 'Vande Mataram' museum to promote national heritage and enacting a law to ensure freedom of religious practices. (Inputs from ANI)
10 April,2026 02:52 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1775827933753_d.png?tr=w-436,h-271 "Nationwide bank reopening announced in Iran. Representational Image")
-1775823978044_d.png "A new global centre for wildlife education launched. PIC/INSTA")
-1775818516588_d.png "New MoU aims to improve care for childhood diseases in Maharashtra. Pic/By Special Arrangement")
