Our readers can regularly read a curated list of major and important news related to the industrial, political, and administrative sectors of Jharkhand, as published in various state newspapers, on our website. Stay updated with the latest developments and key stories from across the state. Todays highlights are:
Coal-Dependent States Must Seek Alternatives: B Akla
B. Akla, former CMD of CCL, highlighted rapid changes in the coal industry, urged coal-dependent states to plan for alternatives. With a declining demand for coal and India’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2070, these states must focus on creating new sources of employment and income. The shift in the industry will impact both coal production and related economies.
Jharkhand to Learn from Odisha to Boost Mining Revenue
Jharkhand’s Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore plans to send a team to Odisha to study its successful mining revenue strategies. Despite holding 40% of India’s mineral reserves, Jharkhand generates only Rs. 11000-12000 Crores annually, far less than Odisha’s Rs 40000 Crores. Kishore also discussed plans to boost rural welfare schemes to support self-reliance and economic development.
Jharkhand Chamber Urges Minimum Wage Revision
A delegation from the Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce met with Labor Minister Sanjay Kumar Yadav, urged a revision of the state’s minimum wage, which they deemed impractical for both industries and workers. They also discussed simplifying labor laws, addressing industrial disputes, and revitalizing struggling industries through Government intervention.
Jharkhand’s 6th Assembly will begin today
The 6th Jharkhand Assembly’s first session will start today. Newly elected legislators, including 20 first-timers like Jaya Ram Mahto, will take the oath. The session will lack a Leader of Opposition due to BJP and Congress not electing their leaders yet. The Assembly’s business includes the election of a new Speaker and a trust vote.
BJP Set to Lose Ground in Upcoming Rajya Sabha Elections
After a strong win in Jharkhand’s recent assembly elections, the ruling JMM-led alliance is poised to dominate upcoming Rajya Sabha polls. With no clear majority, BJP lacks enough votes to win a seat. Over the next five years, four seats will be up for grabs, and the BJP is likely to lose two, strengthening JMM’s position.
66% Businesses Forced to Bribe Government Officials: Survey
A recent survey reveals that 66% of businesses in India are compelled to pay bribes to access Government services. The report, released before International Anti-Corruption Day, highlights that 83% of bribes are paid in cash. Key sectors affected include legal, food, health, and GST departments, with 54% of businesses paying bribes under duress to expedite processes.
Jharkhand Nearly Naxal-Free, Says DGP
Jharkhand’s DGP Anurag Gupta announced that 95% of the state’s Naxalism has been eradicated, with only 4-5% remaining in West Singhbhum. A large-scale operation is underway to eliminate these pockets. He also noted that local villagers are now actively resisting Naxals, driving them out. The state’s Naxal issue is expected to be resolved soon.
Charges Framed Against Alam in Rs. 32-Cr Money Laundering Scam
A PMLA court has framed charges against former Jharkhand minister Alamgir Alam and 12 others in a Rs. 32 Crores money laundering case. The charges relate to kickbacks for rural development tenders. Alam, arrested in May, faces serious charges under the PMLA Act, with the Enforcement Directorate set to present evidence in the next hearing on December 21.
Fly Ash Transporting Causes Health Crisis in Jharkhand
Transporting fly ash from NTPC’s Tandwa plant has caused severe air pollution, affecting residents from Tandwa to Ranchi. People struggle to breathe in the dusty environment, with homes covered in white ash. Despite public protests, neither the Government nor the transport department is taking action. The mishandling, allegedly involving powerful individuals, continues to harm public health.
Protest Planned Over Delayed Compensation for Land Acquisition
In a meeting chaired by Shivnarayan Lohra in Mayapur, displaced farmers discussed delays in job allocations and compensation for land acquired for the Macluskiganj to Rajdhar railway line. Frustrated by CCL’s indifference, they plan to disrupt coal transportation and other work on 20th Dec, if their demands for fair compensation and employment are not met.
Manish Jaiswal’s Team: New Representatives Appointed for Effective Development
Hazaribagh MP Manish Jaiswal has appointed three key representatives to enhance regional development and communication. Satyendra Narayan Singh will serve as the Lok Sabha representative, Anil Mishra will represent Hazaribagh district, and Rajeev Jaiaswal will handle Ramgarh district. The appointments aim to improve public interaction and accelerate development initiatives in their respective areas.
Land Looters Will Face Strict Action: Minister Deepak Biruwa
Revenue, Registration, and Transport Minister Deepak Biruwa declared that those involved in land grabbing will not be spared. Speaking in Khunti, he added that anyone involved in such activities will be held accountable. Biruwa also promised to strengthen the Gram Gaadi scheme to ease transportation for elderly, disabled, women, students, and freedom fighters in rural areas.
Equipment Worth Rs. 9L Stolen from CCL Workshop
In a daring robbery at CCL’s Religara Colliery Workshop, over a dozen criminals held security staff hostage and stole equipment valued at Rs. 9 lakh. The thieves, using a van, loaded machine parts and fled after threatening the workers. Police have registered a case and are conducting searches in nearby areas.
Bokaro Steel Introduces Biometric Attendance for Contract Workers
Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) has launched a biometric attendance system for contract workers, ensuring transparency and proper wage payments. The system, effective from today, aligns with the Steel Ministry’s directive for biometric attendance across all SAIL plants. This move aims to enhance accountability, support worker welfare, and contribute to India’s Digital India mission.
Protest Against Anti-Labor Policies at Sayal D Project
A meeting of the Akhil Jharkhand Coal Workers’ Union at Sayal’s union office discussed issues like non-payment of minimum wages, lack of local employment, and poor water supply at Sayal D project. Union leader Satish Sinha announced a one-day protest on 18th Dec against these anti-labor policies, demanding action and submitting a seven-point memorandum to project authorities.
Strategy Meeting Held on Local Employment at Kharkhari Colliery
A meeting was held in Babudih Bastai to discuss local employment opportunities at the Hilltop private company operating under the MDO mode at Kharkhari Colliery. Villagers from nearby areas, including Kharakhari, Sineedih, and Dhamabandh, discussed strategies to ensure employment for local youth. The meeting aimed to address potential conflicts and secure job opportunities for residents in the private company.
Villagers Take a Stand Against Naxals in Chaibasa
In a fierce retaliation, villagers in Chaibasa’s Gudri block killed two PLFI Naxals, including an area commander, after a string of recent attacks on locals. Armed with traditional weapons, around 50 villages launched a search for Naxals, determined to prevent further violence. Police are investigating, while locals vow to keep Naxals out of their villages.
