NewsScoop

Tag: news

  • CDO Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta Reviews NRLM Progress, Pulls Up Poor-Performing Blocks; Directs Timely Supply of Tiranga Flags Through SHGs

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich: In a bid to accelerate the implementation of rural livelihood initiatives and strengthen women-led economic empowerment, Chief Development Officer (CDO) Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta chaired a district-level review meeting under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) at the Vikas Bhawan auditorium on Tuesday.

    The meeting was attended by the Deputy Commissioner (Self Employment), all Block Development Officers (BDOs), District Mission Managers, Assistant Development Officers (Rural Development), Block Mission Managers, Computer Operators and other officials associated with the National Rural Livelihood Mission.

    During the meeting, CDO Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta conducted an extensive review of the district’s performance on key components of the mission, including the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), SHG profiling, Vidyut Sakhi activation, Revolving Fund (RF), Community Investment Fund (CIF) demand generation, and bank credit linkage.

    Reviewing the progress made up to July 2026, the CDO noted that against the annual target of 5,639 Self-Help Groups, only 1,092 SHGs had been formed, indicating the need for a significant improvement in the pace of implementation. He stressed that all departments and field-level officials must work in close coordination to achieve the remaining targets within the stipulated time frame.

    Expressing concern over the unsatisfactory performance of Mahsi, Payagpur, Huzoorpur, Chittaura and Shivpur development blocks, which recorded the lowest progress in the district, the CDO directed the Deputy Commissioner (Self Employment) to seek explanations from the concerned Block Development Officers, Assistant Development Officers (RD) and Block Mission Managers. He emphasised accountability and instructed officials to immediately intensify efforts to improve their performance.

    Sunil Kumar Dhanwanta also directed all development blocks to expedite SHG profiling, strengthen the implementation of the Vidyut Sakhi programme, increase the demand for Revolving Fund (RF) and Community Investment Fund (CIF), and enhance bank credit linkage so that women associated with Self-Help Groups receive timely financial support and livelihood opportunities.

    The CDO underlined that the success of the National Rural Livelihood Mission depends on effective grassroots implementation and regular monitoring. He urged officials to maintain continuous engagement with Self-Help Groups and ensure that eligible beneficiaries are linked with government schemes without delay.

    At the conclusion of the meeting, the Chief Development Officer reviewed the government’s target for the manufacture of Tiranga (National Flag) by Self-Help Groups ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. He instructed officials to motivate SHG women to undertake large-scale flag production and ensure that every Gram Panchayat receives the required Tiranga flags by August 12, 2026, enabling timely distribution before Independence Day.

  • Bahraich Shines Bright: State Honours District for Life-Saving HPV Vaccination Drive

    Bahraich, July 16

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

                   In a moment of immense pride for Bahraich, the district has earned prestigious state-level recognition for its exceptional success in the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign. This initiative is empowering adolescent girls with protection against cervical cancer — a major step forward in women’s health.

                   Chief Development Officer Sunil Dhanvanta (IAS) was warmly felicitated with a Certificate of Appreciation by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel. The honor celebrates the district’s outstanding implementation, seamless coordination across departments, and impressive results achieved in safeguarding young girls.

                   The award was presented during a special ceremony at the Shruti Auditorium of Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI) in Lucknow. Neha Sharma (IAS), Managing Director of the Medical Education Department, also graced the occasion.

                   A visibly delighted CDO Sunil Dhanvanta expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying the recognition truly belongs to the united efforts of the Health Department, Education Department, Women and Child Development Department, Panchayati Raj Department, and the entire district administration.

                   “Together, we conducted extensive awareness drives in schools, Anganwadi centers, and communities to help parents understand the safety and life-saving benefits of the HPV vaccine,” he shared. Special outreach programs ensured that eligible girls received their vaccinations conveniently and confidently.

                   Dhanvanta highlighted the significance of this achievement, noting that cervical cancer remains one of the leading cancers among women, with HPV responsible for nearly 99% of cases. He appealed to parents to get their eligible daughters vaccinated on time, calling it a safe, effective, and powerful preventive step.

                   Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sanjay Kumar said common myths, clarifying that HPV does not spread through casual contact like handshakes, sitting together, or sharing food. The virus transmits primarily through intimate skin-to-skin or mucosal contact. This makes vaccination before any potential exposure especially vital and protective.

  • Constructive criticism is essential for improvement: Bahraich DM Akshay Tripathi

    Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich, February 8

                   In a candid address to local journalists, District Magistrate Akshay Tripathi, IAS, called upon the media fraternity to prioritize truth, responsibility, and ethical reporting, describing the press as a vital “mirror” reflecting the functioning of the district administration.

                   Speaking at a meeting organized by the Shramjivi Patrkar Union at the LRP Guest House near Police Lines on Sunday, the DM emphasized the media’s dual role. He acknowledged that the administration welcomes constructive criticism through reporting, as it exposes systemic gaps and enables timely corrective action. “Such coverage is essential for improvement,” he noted, underlining how honest reporting helps strengthen governance.

                   However, Tripathi cautioned against the growing trend of sensationalizing headlines solely to garner attention of the viewers/readers. He appealed to journalists to resist such practices and commit to ethical journalism that serves the broader public interest rather than short-term gains.

                   The event also marked a significant moment for the Shramjivi Patrkar Union, Bahraich, as Union’s incumbent president Sanjay Mishra was unanimously re-elected for an unprecedented fifth consecutive term. With no contest, all members present expressed unwavering confidence in his leadership, re-electing him unopposed amid applause and support.

                   The meeting was skillfully anchored by senior journalist Abdul Rahman, popularly known as Bachche Bharti. Prominent figures from the local media fraternity, including Bipin Chandra Agarwal, Hemant Mishra, Manish Malhotra, Azim Mirza, Parvez Rizvi, and many others, attended the gathering and shared their satisfaction with the seamless election process.

                   The proceedings concluded on a positive and unified note, with participants reaffirming their dedication to journalistic integrity, professional solidarity, and collaborative engagement with the district administration for the welfare of Bahraich. The event highlighted the mutual respect between the administration and the media, setting a constructive tone for ongoing cooperation.

  • Constructive criticism is essential for improvement: Bahraich DM Akshay Tripathi

    Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich, February 8

                   In a candid address to local journalists, District Magistrate Akshay Tripathi, IAS, called upon the media fraternity to prioritize truth, responsibility, and ethical reporting, describing the press as a vital “mirror” reflecting the functioning of the district administration.

                   Speaking at a meeting organized by the Shramjivi Patrkar Union at the LRP Guest House near Police Lines on Sunday, the DM emphasized the media’s dual role. He acknowledged that the administration welcomes constructive criticism through reporting, as it exposes systemic gaps and enables timely corrective action. “Such coverage is essential for improvement,” he noted, underlining how honest reporting helps strengthen governance.

                   However, Tripathi cautioned against the growing trend of sensationalizing headlines solely to garner attention of the viewers/readers. He appealed to journalists to resist such practices and commit to ethical journalism that serves the broader public interest rather than short-term gains.

                   The event also marked a significant moment for the Shramjivi Patrkar Union, Bahraich, as Union’s incumbent president Sanjay Mishra was unanimously re-elected for an unprecedented fifth consecutive term. With no contest, all members present expressed unwavering confidence in his leadership, re-electing him unopposed amid applause and support.

                   The meeting was skillfully anchored by senior journalist Abdul Rahman, popularly known as Bachche Bharti. Prominent figures from the local media fraternity, including Bipin Chandra Agarwal, Hemant Mishra, Manish Malhotra, Azim Mirza, Parvez Rizvi, and many others, attended the gathering and shared their satisfaction with the seamless election process.

                   The proceedings concluded on a positive and unified note, with participants reaffirming their dedication to journalistic integrity, professional solidarity, and collaborative engagement with the district administration for the welfare of Bahraich. The event highlighted the mutual respect between the administration and the media, setting a constructive tone for ongoing cooperation.

  • Former Minister Naseemuddin Siddiqui Explores New Political Avenues after quitting Congress

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich, January 30

                Former Uttar Pradesh minister and senior leader Naseemuddin Siddiqui, who recently resigned from the Indian National Congress along with several supporters, visited Bahraich today to gauge grassroots support for his future political plans.

                Speaking to media persons during the visit, Siddiqui emphasized that he harbors no personal animosity toward the Congress party. “I hold Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi in high regard,” he said, adding that his departure stemmed from differences in working style rather than any grudge.

                The veteran politician, who once served as a cabinet minister in the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) government before joining Congress in 2018, stressed his desire to focus on grassroots work for the underprivileged sections of society. “Politics is not merely about delivering speeches from stages. I want to work at the ground level according to my own style, which differs from the Congress party’s approach,” he explained.

                When questioned about his next move—whether forming a new political party or joining an existing one—Siddiqui said he is actively consulting supporters and people across various regions. “I will take a final decision within the next week,” he stated.

                He categorically ruled out any return to the BSP but expressed support for Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s PDA (Pichhde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) formula, describing it as a valid and unproblematic strategy for social justice.

                Siddiqui also weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new equity regulations for 2026. Noting that the Supreme Court has stayed their implementation, he remarked, “There must be something wrong with these regulations, which is why the apex court has put them on hold.” Without naming any specific party, he alleged that “communal forces” are behind a broader conspiracy to sow division.

                He accused these forces of a pattern of targeting minorities and marginalized groups: “First, they kill Muslims in mob lynchings, then hoist saffron flags in mosques, and later try to provoke conflict between Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to reap political benefits.”

                Referring to the ethnic violence in Manipur, Siddiqui questioned the Prime Minister’s engagement with the state, asking whether he had visited even once amid the prolonged crisis. He further highlighted injustices faced by backward Hindus and Brahmins, pointing out that even the Shankaracharya has not been spared from such treatment. Siddiqui strongly opposed what he described as attempts to use the UGC regulations to create divisions in society and reiterated his stance against any insult to the Shankaracharya.

                The former minister’s visit to Bahraich comes at a time when Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape is heating up ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, with several parties repositioning themselves in the wake of recent developments. Siddiqui’s statements indicate a potential realignment in the state’s opposition space as he seeks a platform aligned with his vision of grassroots activism and social equity.

  • Former Minister Naseemuddin Siddiqui Explores New Political Avenues after quitting Congress

    By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    Bahraich, January 30

                Former Uttar Pradesh minister and senior leader Naseemuddin Siddiqui, who recently resigned from the Indian National Congress along with several supporters, visited Bahraich today to gauge grassroots support for his future political plans.

                Speaking to media persons during the visit, Siddiqui emphasized that he harbors no personal animosity toward the Congress party. “I hold Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi in high regard,” he said, adding that his departure stemmed from differences in working style rather than any grudge.

                The veteran politician, who once served as a cabinet minister in the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) government before joining Congress in 2018, stressed his desire to focus on grassroots work for the underprivileged sections of society. “Politics is not merely about delivering speeches from stages. I want to work at the ground level according to my own style, which differs from the Congress party’s approach,” he explained.

                When questioned about his next move—whether forming a new political party or joining an existing one—Siddiqui said he is actively consulting supporters and people across various regions. “I will take a final decision within the next week,” he stated.

                He categorically ruled out any return to the BSP but expressed support for Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s PDA (Pichhde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) formula, describing it as a valid and unproblematic strategy for social justice.

                Siddiqui also weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new equity regulations for 2026. Noting that the Supreme Court has stayed their implementation, he remarked, “There must be something wrong with these regulations, which is why the apex court has put them on hold.” Without naming any specific party, he alleged that “communal forces” are behind a broader conspiracy to sow division.

                He accused these forces of a pattern of targeting minorities and marginalized groups: “First, they kill Muslims in mob lynchings, then hoist saffron flags in mosques, and later try to provoke conflict between Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to reap political benefits.”

                Referring to the ethnic violence in Manipur, Siddiqui questioned the Prime Minister’s engagement with the state, asking whether he had visited even once amid the prolonged crisis. He further highlighted injustices faced by backward Hindus and Brahmins, pointing out that even the Shankaracharya has not been spared from such treatment. Siddiqui strongly opposed what he described as attempts to use the UGC regulations to create divisions in society and reiterated his stance against any insult to the Shankaracharya.

                The former minister’s visit to Bahraich comes at a time when Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape is heating up ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, with several parties repositioning themselves in the wake of recent developments. Siddiqui’s statements indicate a potential realignment in the state’s opposition space as he seeks a platform aligned with his vision of grassroots activism and social equity.

  • UP Govt Mandates Daily Newspaper Reading in Government Schools

    UP Govt Mandates Daily Newspaper Reading in Government Schools

    Shamikh Rais Siddiqui
    Bahraich, January 21

                In a move aimed at nurturing reading habits and enhancing awareness of current affairs among students, the Uttar Pradesh government has made daily newspaper reading mandatory in all government-run schools across the state.

                Acting on the directive, Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) of Bahraich, Ashish Kumar Singh, has instructed all Block Education Officers (BEOs) to ensure strict compliance with the order at the ground level. Under the initiative, students of the Basic Education Department will now read Hindi and English newspapers every day after the morning assembly.

                The directive was issued by Director General of School Education Monica Rani to all Basic Education Officers, mandating uniform implementation in government primary and secondary schools. Following the winter vacation, which ended on January 14, 2026, all school heads in the district have been directed to implement the order without delay.

    BSA Ashish Kumar Singh

                Speaking on the initiative, BSA Ashish Kumar Singh said the programme is designed to strengthen students’ reading ability, improve language skills, promote critical thinking, and enhance general knowledge. He added that encouraging newspaper reading would also help reduce excessive screen time among children by fostering healthy reading habits.

                Providing further details, Chittaura Block Education Officer Anurag Kumar Mishra said teachers have been instructed to purchase reputed Hindi and English newspapers using the composite grant fund available to schools. Teachers have also been asked to encourage students to read newspapers not only after the morning assembly but also during recess or free periods.

    BEO Anurag Kumar Mishra

                According to official sources, the initiative is based on a government order issued on December 23, 2025, by Additional Chief Secretary (Secondary and Basic Education) Parth Sarathi Sen Sharma. The order mandates that at least 10 minutes every day be earmarked exclusively for newspaper reading during the morning assembly in all government schools.

                As per the guidelines, schools must make reputed Hindi and English newspapers available in their libraries. During the designated reading time, students will take turns reading important national, international, and sports news, along with selected editorials. Teachers will also encourage students to identify difficult words as the “Word of the Day,” which will be displayed on school notice boards to help build vocabulary. Younger students will be motivated to prepare scrapbooks using newspaper clippings.

                While the formal order was issued by the Additional Chief Secretary, its statewide implementation is being monitored by Director General of School Education Monica Rani. The government has also made provisions for newspapers to be supplied at government expense, and compliance has been made mandatory for all government schools.

                Education experts have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a positive step towards reviving the reading culture in schools and making students more informed and aware of the world around them.

  • Minister distributed relief kit to flood victims in Bahraich

    Swatantra Dev Singh Leads Response as Ghaghra River Floods Devastate Bahraich

    By: Shamikh Siddiqui

    Bahraich, August 10, 2025 – The Ghaghra River has unleashed chaos in Bahraich district, surging 27 cm above the danger mark at Elglin Bridge and 12 cm above the danger mark at Ghoor Devi. Floodwaters have engulfed numerous villages in Mahsi and Mihinpurwa tehsils, submerging crops and leaving farmers grappling with catastrophic losses.

    On Sunday, Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh toured the flood-ravaged and erosion-hit areas to evaluate the devastation and spearhead relief efforts. At the Gram Panchayat Pachdevri in Mahsi tehsil, Singh connected with affected families, pledging unwavering government support. “Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, the state is fully dedicated to standing by flood victims,” Singh declared, assuring that funding shortages would not stall relief operations.

    Swift Action for Relief and Recovery

    Singh issued urgent orders to maintain cleanliness in villages where floodwaters have receded, alongside implementing anti-larva spraying and fogging to curb disease outbreaks. He prioritized medical care for both residents and livestock, directing the distribution of medicine kits to tackle common ailments like fever and diarrhea. Health Department teams are working around the clock to bolster medical services in the region.

    To restore connectivity, Singh emphasized the urgent repair of damaged roads, ensuring residents can move freely. During his visit, he reviewed anti-erosion measures completed in 2023, which locals praised for effectively halting erosion in their communities.

    Relief Efforts and Key Officials

    Joined by MLC Dr. Pragya Tripathi, MLA Mahsi Sureshwar Singh, BJP District President Brijesh Pandey, District Officer Akshay Tripathi, Superintendent of Police Ram Nayan Singh, and other officials, Singh handed out food kits to families hit hard by the floods. The relief operations were supported by Additional District Magistrate Amit Kumar, SDM Mahsi Ramdayal, SDM Kaiserganj Akhilesh Singh, SDM Nanpara Laldhar Yadav, and CO Kaiserganj Ravi Khokhar, ensuring a coordinated response to the crisis.

    The state government remains on high alert, with teams working relentlessly to alleviate the suffering of those impacted by the floods.

  • Shravasti DM Issues Advisory amid Flood threat

    📍Shravasti | 🗓️ August 5, 2025
    ✍️ By: Shamikh Rais Siddiqui

    District Magistrate Issues Advisory Amid Rising Flood Threat

    As rainfall continues and river levels rise across the district, District Magistrate Ajay Kumar Dwivedi has issued a public advisory urging residents to adopt precautionary measures to stay safe in view of the potential flood situation.

    “Stay away from waterlogged and low-lying areas, and avoid rivers, drains, ponds, dams, and wells,” the District Magistrate emphasized.

    ⚠️ Stay Away from Electric Poles

    Dwivedi specifically warned the public to avoid walking near electric poles during rain, citing high risk of electric current leakage.

    “Do not step out in heavy rain unless absolutely necessary,” he added. “Watch over children to ensure they stay away from flooded areas.”

    🏚️ Avoid Dilapidated Buildings

    Residents have also been advised to stay out of old or damaged buildings that may collapse during storms or heavy rainfall.

    📢 Flood Advisory Issued by DDMA

    The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has released a comprehensive flood advisory to protect lives and property. The advisory is especially directed toward residents of flood-prone and rural areas, including farmers and those living near riverbanks.

    🚗 Driving Near Riverbanks is Risky

    The District Disaster Expert cautioned that it is dangerous to drive along riverbanks or near submerged paddy fields during floods.

    “Even if you know the road well, do not take the risk. Water levels can blur the road boundaries, leading vehicles into danger. Safety must come first.”

    ⚡ Use the ‘Damini’ App

    To prevent lightning-related injuries, the advisory recommends using the ‘Damini’ mobile application, which tracks lightning activity and provides timely alerts.

    🐄 Secure Livestock

    Farmers and cattle rearers are advised to relocate livestock to higher and safer grounds. Constant vigilance is essential to prevent animal loss or injury.

    🐍 Snakebite Risk Rises

    With waterlogging becoming common, the risk of snakebites has increased, particularly during the night or inside flooded homes. Citizens are urged to stay cautious and in case of any snakebite incident, immediately seek treatment at the nearest Community Health Center (CHC).

    🤝 Public Cooperation is Crucial

    District Magistrate Dwivedi reiterated:

    “We must all remain alert and help each other during this time. Your caution and cooperation can save lives.”