Bihar is an Indian state which is located in the eastern part of the country. Bihar gained recognition as an independent state and became the constituent part of India in 1950. Covering an area of 36,357 sq. mi., it is the twelfth largest state by territory and the third-largest populous state in India. The state is bounded by Uttar Pradesh to the west, Nepal to the north, Jharkhand to the south and the northern part of West Bengal to the east.
Patna is the state capital of Bihar, with Hajipur, Barauni and Dalmianagar being the major industrial cities in the state.
Holy river Ganga is the major river that flows through the state which also splits Bihar plain. The three main cultural regions of the state are Magadh, Mithila and Bhojpur. Among several dialects, Bhojpuri, Maithili (recognised regional language under the Constitution of India) and Magahi are the major languages spoken by the people of the state.
Since ancient times (classical India), Bihar is regarded as the centre of culture, learning and power. Worldwide famous Mithila painting better known as Madhubani art is the traditional style of painting practiced in Bihar which depicts the association of human beings with nature. On the other hand, Mathili music represents the vibrant folk of the state.
In addition to this, the vibrant culture of the state is explicitly visible at the time of Chhath Puja, which is also known as Dala Chhath. It is a major traditional festival in Bihar which is celebrated with great pomp and show. Quite similar to the north Indian cuisine, Bihar’s traditional dishes include ‘litti chokha’, ‘khadi bari’, ‘sattu-paratha’, ‘ghugni’, ‘dalpitthi’ and more. Along with these some notable Bihari sweets are ‘balushahi’, ‘malpua’, ‘khaja’ and ‘thekua’.
Bihar attracts tourism due to religious significance as Hindu Goddess Sita is believed to be born in Sitamarhi (district of Bihar) and Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, Bihar. Other ecotourism sites of the state include Valmiki National Park, Kanwar Lake bird Sanctuary, Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary etc. Bihar boasts of the first Yoga University of the world, The Bihar School of Yoga.
On this special broadcast of the Business Today show on India Today, Shweta Singh and Rajdeep Sardesai analyze the expectations and political symbolism surrounding the Union Budget 2026. Shweta Singh highlights the significance of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s attire, noting, 'She's wearing a hand-woven Kanjiwaram saree, sending a message to Tamil Nadu.' The discussion delves into the shift from 'Dream Budgets' to a long-term vision for 'Vixit Bharat 2047'. Rajdeep Sardesai questions the translation of intent into ground-level action, particularly regarding deregulation and the fiscal health of states. Guest Shankar Iyer critiques the slow pace of labor reforms and the persistent 'Tax Inspector Raj' affecting MSMEs. The panel also examines the 16th Finance Commission's role in addressing the North-South divide and the impact of upcoming state elections on fiscal policy. The programme concludes with observations on how the government’s 'reform express' faces challenges in sectors like power and ease of doing business despite a decade of intent.
In this news report, the Bihar government has officially recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the shocking death of a NEET aspirant in Patna. The decision follows a forensic report that revealed the presence of semen on the victim's undergarments, supporting allegations of sexual harassment and potentially rape and murder. The speaker notes that 'Nitish government recommends CBI probe in the NEET aspirant's death' to ensure a transparent investigation after the local police and Special Investigation Team (SIT) failed to make a breakthrough in three weeks. The victim's family recently met with senior police officials, alleging they were being pressured to treat the case as a simple murder. Both the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister have emphasized that a CBI inquiry is necessary to uncover the truth behind the student's death, which was initially dismissed as a suicide by preliminary police reports.
This special edition of India First explores political tensions in Assam after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma urged the economic isolation of the Miya community, whom he labels illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators.
On this India Today special report, the panel discusses critical expectations for the upcoming Union Budget and the necessity of structural reforms. Naina Lal Kidwai, Chairperson of Rothschild & Co India, emphasizes the need for tax clarity, stating, 'the way our tax regimes are very complicated muddy the works and it's going to be very critical to have a principle by which we can actually set these frameworks in advance.' She highlights the challenges faced by Global Capability Centres (GCCs) regarding transfer pricing and ESOPs. Neelesh Surana, CIO of Mirae Asset Investment Managers, proposes an 'Ease of Doing Business Commission' to assist entrepreneurs with compliance. Neelkanth Mishra, Chief Economist at Axis Bank, addresses the fiscal indiscipline in states and the pivotal role of the 16th Finance Commission in creating incentives for capital expenditure. The discussion underscores the importance of urban governance, skilling, and the federal dynamics between central and state finances in driving India's long-term economic growth.
On this Special Report, host Gaurav Sawant leads a debate regarding Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s remarks on the 'Miya' community and illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators. The discussion features BJP spokesperson Radhika Khera, Congress spokesperson Dr. Pooja Tripathi, political analyst Suhas Chakma, and India Today Executive Editor Kaushik Dekha. The panel examines the constitutional validity of the Chief Minister’s call for the economic isolation of suspected illegal immigrants versus the risks of ethnic profiling of Indian Muslims. Key topics include the demographic shifts in Assam, the failure of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) process, and the implications of the Social Impact Resources (SIR) exercise. While the BJP defends these measures as necessary to protect indigenous communities, the opposition labels the narrative as communal dog-whistling and electoral polarization. The program explores whether these policies represent a battle for survival for the Assamese people or a political tool, analyzing the complex legal and social dynamics of migration and citizenship in Northeast India.
This news bulletin, anchored by Nagarjun Dwarkanath, covers significant political and criminal developments across Southern India. A primary focus is the finalized alliance between the DMK and Congress for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections following high-level talks between Kanimozhi and Rahul Gandhi. In Andhra Pradesh, the CBI has submitted a final charge sheet regarding the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) ladoo ghee adulteration scam. Criminal reports include a triple murder in Chennai involving a migrant family from Bihar, resulting in five arrests. Environmental concerns in Kanyakumari are highlighted, specifically regarding rare earth element mining and coastal erosion affecting deep-sea fishermen. Additional coverage includes the Karnataka Contractors Association's strike threat over pending dues, a SIT probe involving actor Jayaram in the Sabarimala gold theft case, and food poisoning incidents in Telangana government schools. The report also notes political developments in Kerala involving Rahul Gandhi and Shashi Tharoor, providing a comprehensive overview of current regional affairs and legal proceedings.
This news report provides details on a horrific triple murder case in Chennai's Adyar that has shocked Tamil Nadu. Three individuals from Bihar have been arrested in connection with the slaughter of a migrant family. The investigation revealed that the father's body, identified as Gauru Kumar, was found stuffed in a gunny bag in Indranagar, while the body of a two-year-old child was recovered near a canal by the Kasturbanagar metro station. The mother remains missing, with police currently combing the Perungudi dump yard. The speaker notes, 'The police are also trying to verify if a sexual assault was the trigger why the attack happened,' pending a post-mortem examination. Suspects were reportedly identified through CCTV footage and a mobile phone found in a pocket. The police continue to search for the missing woman's body as they investigate the motives behind this brutal crime.
This special report examines the India Today-CVoter Mood of the Nation tracker findings. While the poll projects the NDA to secure 352 seats if elections were held today, driven by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's high leadership ratings and perceived political stability, analysts Yashwant Deshmukh, Raj Chengappa, and Tuhin Sinha discuss the state of the opposition, where Rahul Gandhi remains the primary challenger despite a significant rating gap.
This special report examines the India Today-CVoter 'Mood of the Nation' January 2026 poll results, where panelists discuss findings suggesting a consolidation for the NDA, which is projected to win 352 seats if Lok Sabha elections were held today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi maintains a 57% approval rating, reflecting a perceived political stability despite global turbulence. In contrast, the INDIA alliance is projected to slip to 182 seats.
This Special Report, led by Rajdeep Sardesai and Preeti Choudhry, analyzes the January 2026 'Mood of the Nation' poll featuring over 125,000 respondents. The survey projects a significant victory for the NDA with 352 seats, while the BJP alone is projected at 287 seats. Data indicates the NDA is returning with an increased vote share and seat share. The program evaluates Rahul Gandhi’s performance as Leader of the Opposition, noting a 44% positive rating despite a slight decline since August 2025. Panellists Yashwant Deshmukh and Raj Chengappa discuss election freebies, noting 50% of the public opposes doles while 44% believe the Election Commission should intervene. Analysis shows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity remains stable despite concerns regarding unemployment and price rises. Political stability is now cited as the government's primary success over the Ram Temple or Article 370. While a majority believe Congress should lead the opposition, 62% of respondents identify the party as the weakest link within the India bloc.
On this Special Report, Rajdeep Sardesai leads a panel discussion on the latest 'Mood of the Nation' poll findings. Sardesai highlights a significant shift in public perception, noting, 'For the first time, we are seeing political stability as the number one achievement' of the NDA government, surpassing previous milestones like Article 370. The discussion explores the paradox of high concern for unemployment and inflation alongside rising trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Panelists Raj Chengappa and Yashwant Deshmukh contribute insights on how targeted welfare schemes and a fragmented opposition bolster the NDA's position. The program further examines the 'Goldilocks period' of the Indian economy, characterized by low inflation and high growth, and how this contributes to the Prime Minister's enduring popularity. The analysis concludes that despite economic challenges, the electorate views the current leadership as a symbol of resilience and stability in a period of global turmoil.
On this Special Report, Preeti Choudhry and Rajdeep Sardesai anchor the 'Mood of the Nation' poll, dissecting public sentiment on electoral integrity and political accountability. Preeti Choudhry highlights a significant finding, stating, '44% of respondents feel it is the responsibility of the Election Commission' to curb the distribution of freebies before elections. The discussion explores the dichotomy between voters rejecting the idea of freebies in principle while often voting for parties that provide them. The panel, including Sanjay Jha and Tuhin Sinha, debates the 'level playing field' in Indian democracy, with 38% of respondents expressing concerns over potential bias in the electoral process. Further data reveals a complex view of the opposition, where 55% believe the Congress should lead the India bloc, yet 62% label it the 'weakest link.' The program examines the rock-solid popularity of the BJP and Prime Minister Modi despite these institutional concerns and opposition narratives regarding 'vote chori' and the misuse of central agencies.
On this Special Report, anchor Preeti Choudhry examines the impact of Rahul Gandhi's 'vote chori' (voter theft) allegations against the Election Commission and the government. Citing recent survey data, Choudhry notes that '54% of our respondents say vote chori is an issue and it matters to the public,' challenging the notion that the narrative is failing to gain traction. The discussion features BJP National Spokesperson Tuhin Sinha, who argues that Gandhi's allegations lack consistency and were rejected by voters in Bihar. Sinha contends that the 40% who find the issue significant likely represent the existing opposition base rather than a shift in public sentiment. The programme analyses whether these allegations reflect a lack of confidence in the Election Commission or if they remain electorally insignificant despite the high visibility of the narrative in the microdata presented during the broadcast.
Narendra Modi is best suited to be the next Prime Minister with 55% support in January 2026, marking a rise from 52% in August 2025, according to the India Today-CVoter Mood of the Nation survey.
On this Special Report, anchor Rajdeep Sardesai discusses the findings of the January 2026 'Mood of the Nation' poll. The data reveals a significant surge in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity, with 'Narendra Modi is at 55%, Rahul Gandhi is at 27%' when citizens were asked who is best suited to lead India. The transcript highlights that despite global economic uncertainties and turbulence, the Prime Minister's approval rating stands at a high of 57%. The discussion involves analysts like Raj Chengappa and political representatives Sanju Verma and Sanjay Jha, who debate the reasons behind the NDA's projected seat share of 352. While the opposition points to economic distress and 'crony capitalism,' the ruling party attributes the surge to successful foreign policy deals and welfare schemes. The programme explores why the 'trust factor' remains with the incumbent government after twelve years in power.
On this Special Report, Group Editorial Director Raj Chengappa analyses the latest 'Mood of the Nation' poll findings, suggesting a significant political turnaround for the ruling dispensation. Chengappa notes, 'I think Prime Minister Modi has regained his mojo if you would like to call that,' highlighting the Prime Minister's perceived resilience despite international challenges such as global tariffs and regional instability. The discussion contrasts the BJP's recovery from its 2024 setback with the India alliance's struggle to maintain momentum. The transcript details projections showing the NDA potentially reaching 352 seats, driven by a 'trust factor' and a 'Goldilocks period' in the economy characterized by high growth and low inflation. Panellists including Sanju Verma and Rajat Sethi debate whether these numbers reflect a consolidation of leadership or a lack of a cohesive opposition strategy, while Congress representative Rajesh Kalappa raises questions regarding national security and the accuracy of such polling narratives.
On this Special Report, senior journalist and political commentator Neeraj Choudhury analyses the political dilemma facing the BJP regarding new UGC regulations. Discussing the potential for social friction, Choudhury notes, 'Now this too looks like a hot potato going by the kind of reaction that's coming, and obviously it's coming from the upper caste.' She explains that while the BJP risks alienating its core upper-caste vote bank by implementing these rules, it also faces a backlash from Dalits and OBCs if it withdraws them. The discussion highlights the historical context of the 1990 Mandal Commission protests and the current legal pressure from the Supreme Court following a petition by Rohit Vemula’s mother. Choudhury further explores the 'OBC-ization' of Indian politics, suggesting that while the BJP seeks to balance identity politics, the threat of campus unrest and shifting electoral consolidations remains a significant challenge for the government.
In this exclusive interaction, former Congress leader Shakeel Ahmed levels serious allegations against the party leadership, claiming his life is under threat following his recent remarks. Ahmed asserts, 'Mr. Rahul Gandhi is the Chief Minister today in Congress,' implying that Rahul Gandhi, not Mallikarjun Kharge, wields absolute control over the party. He details his long history of travelling and working closely with Gandhi but alleges a shift in the leader's strategy to sideline senior veterans in favour of a younger cadre that offers unquestioning loyalty. Ahmed claims that instructions were sent from Delhi to attack his residences in Madhubani and Patna. Having resigned from the party's primary membership two months ago, Ahmed maintains he offered critiques as a well-wisher to address the party's weaknesses. He further alleges that the Congress leadership is insecure about senior leaders with grassroots support and prefers those who only chant 'Rahul, Rahul.' The administration has been alerted regarding the alleged threats to his safety.
On this Special Report, anchor Anjali Istowal examines the deepening internal crisis within the Congress party following a series of high-profile exits and public dissent. The program highlights the resignation of former MP Shakeel Ahmed, who launched a blistering attack on Rahul Gandhi, calling him a 'darpok' and 'insecure leader' who ignores senior voices. The discussion also covers veteran leader Rashid Alvi’s concerns regarding the lack of communication forums within the party and Shashi Tharoor’s apparent friction with the high command. Featuring a panel with BJP spokesperson Sanju Verma, analyst Syed Asad Abbas, and author Rashid Kidwai, the report debates whether the party's recent electoral setbacks in Bihar and other states have triggered this wave of opportunism or if there is a genuine organizational failure. The guests analyze the impact of Rahul Gandhi’s leadership style on party unity as the BJP claims the Congress is 'self-destructing' from within due to hubris and inaccessibility.
On this Special Report, BJP National Spokesperson Sanju Verma joins a panel to discuss the internal turmoil within the Indian National Congress following recent electoral setbacks. Verma asserts that 'Rahul Gandhi is self-destructive' and claims the party is imploding due to a leadership consumed by hubris and inaccessibility. The debate, moderated by Anjali, features insights from political commentator Rashid Kidwai and analyst Syed Asad Abbas. Kidwai notes that the Congress is becoming a party of 'people who are happy to be unhappy,' while Abbas defends the party by pointing out historical dissent within the BJP. The discussion highlights leadership vacuums in states like Karnataka and Maharashtra, the impact of the Bihar election losses, and the perceived communication gap between the Congress high command and its ground workers. The programme explores whether the current dissent is a sign of democratic space or a terminal decline for the grand old party.
