Jharkhand Budget Session Begins Tomorrow, Strategy Talks Underway
The Jharkhand Legislative Assembly’s budget session starts on 24th February. Administrative preparations are complete, and a strategy meeting will be organized between the ruling and opposition parties today. The session will begin without the Leader of Opposition, as BJP has not yet selected one. Key issues, including paper leaks and the Mainya scheme, will dominate the opposition’s strategy.
First Phase of Coal-to-Gas Project Completed in Jharkhand
In a groundbreaking move, India has successfully completed the first phase of a coal-to-gas conversion project in Jamtara, Jharkhand. Led by CMPDI, the research aims to extract gas from coal reserves where traditional mining is not feasible. The project, in collaboration with Canadian firm ETI, could provide pollution-free green gas for power and chemical sectors once fully implemented.
Shaktikanta Das Appointed Second Principal Secretary to PM
Former RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das (68) has been appointed as the second Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This marks the first time two individuals will serve in this role simultaneously, with P.K. Mishra (76) continuing as the other. Das, a former Revenue Secretary, played a key role in the 2016 demonetization.
NHAI Chairman Santosh Yadav’s Term Extended
Santosh Yadav’s tenure as Chairman of NHAI has been extended by two years, making him the head until 17th February, 2027. Yadav, an IAS officer from the 1995 batch, continues to lead the National Highways Authority of India, overseeing key infrastructure developments.
Rs. 92 Crore Recovery from Two Companies in Jharkhand
Jharkhand’s revenue department is taking action to recover Rs. 92 crore in unpaid registration and stamp fees from two companies in Pakur — WBPDCL and PSPCL. These companies failed to register mining land properly. Additional companies, Aranya Mines and Hindalco, in Palamu are also being pursued for similar dues. The state government is taking strong steps to recover lost revenue.
Seven Arrested in VP Nimanand Pradhan Kidnapping Case
Seven individuals, including a woman, have been arrested in the kidnapping of Nimanand Pradhan, VP of Grewal Minerals & Metals. The masterminds, Mohammad Sahdaba and driver Mohd. Firoz, had been planning the abduction for a year. They demanded Rs. 2 crore, and after receiving Rs. 60 lakh, they released Pradhan. Police recovered Rs. 50.9 lakh during raids.
CCL Raised Awareness on Expansion of Open Cast Project
CCL management conducted an awareness campaign in villages near the Rohini Karkatta Open Cast Project, informed locals about its expansion. The campaign, featuring drum beats and promotional vehicles, reached areas like Karakatta, Tumang, Nawadih, Hesalong, and Mayapur. The project aims to boost coal production, with land acquisition and resettlement plans underway for displaced families, including essential facilities.
MP Manish Jaiswal Visited NTPC and CCL Headquarters
Hazaribagh MP Manish Jaiswal visited the NTPC coal mining headquarters in Ranchi, engaging in productive discussions with senior officials about ongoing coal projects in the Hazaribagh constituency. He also met CCL’s CMD to address local issues and provide necessary directions. The officials honored him with a warm welcome and gifts.
