Nitin Gadkari Unveils Mega Road Plan for Jharkhand
The Central Government will invest Rs. 2 lakh crore to improve Jharkhand’s road infrastructure, announced Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Several major highway projects were inaugurated, and future plans include green corridors, electric buses, and cultural initiatives to boost development and connectivity.
Eight IPS Officers Assigned Additional Charge in Jharkhand
The Jharkhand government has assigned additional responsibilities to eight IPS officers to fill vacant posts temporarily. A notification was issued by the Home, Jail, and Disaster Management Department. Officers, including SPs from Dhanbad, Jamtara, and Ranchi, will hold dual roles until regular appointments are made. The move follows a reversal of previous unauthorized postings by police headquarters.
Coal India’s New Land Policy Offers Bigger Compensation
Coal India has revised its land compensation policy, offering landowners Rs. 89 lakh to Rs. 1.2 crore for 2 acres instead of a job. Those opting out of employment will now receive Rs. 5 lakh per acre plus a Rs. 44,000 monthly pension for 45 years, with 1% annual increment. The move aims to better suit educated youth and ensure long-term support.
Despite Low Output, Coal Stock Sufficient for Power Plants
Despite reduced coal production in June, India faces no power shortage in July. Thermal power plants have a robust stock of 58 million tons, enough for 25–30 days of electricity supply. Coal India’s sources confirmed sufficient reserves. The government is also enhancing silo loading infrastructure to speed up and streamline coal dispatch via railways.
Coal Prices Revised, Royalty Now Based on Market Rates
Jharkhand’s Mines Department has released new coal rates effective June 2025. Royalty will now be calculated based on market prices, even for coal sent to power plants. The highest coal grade is priced at Rs. 4650.96 per ton. In Rajmahal, Rs. 700 will be added for royalty calculations. Monthly rate updates will continue until further notice.
Protests Erupted Over Closure of 109-Year-Old Jitpur Colliery
Workers and locals staged protests demanding the reopening of SAIL’s historic Jitpur Colliery, recently shut down over alleged water seepage. Protesters claim the closure was a ploy to protect a contractor from penalties. Around 950 workers are affected. Demonstrators, led by union leaders, have launched an indefinite sit-in, calling for a CBI probe into the matter.
EPFO to Reward with Rs. 15000 Bonus on First-Time Job
From 1st Aug 2025, new employees joining EPFO for the first time in Jharkhand will get a one-month bonus salary, up to Rs. 15,000, under the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) scheme. The incentive is paid in two installments. Employers hiring more staff also get benefits. The scheme runs until 31st July 2027.
Tribal Youth Died, Villagers Demand Justice from Bauxite Company
A tribal youth from the Asur community died after falling into an abandoned bauxite mining pit in Bishunpur. Villagers and local leaders accuse the private mining company of negligence and pressuring the family to drop the case to avoid compensation. They demand safety measures at mining sites and warn of protests if justice and compensation aren’t provided promptly.
Nine Members of Uttam Yadav Gang Nabbed in Hazaribagh
Hazaribagh police arrested nine members of the notorious Uttam Yadav gang involved in a 22nd June firing at Shri Jewelers. The arrests followed a raid near St. Columba College. Weapons, vehicles, and mobile phones were seized. The accused confessed to crimes in Hazaribagh, Chatra, and Ranchi. Prime accused Uttam Yadav remains at large. A public parade was conducted.
Sikidiri Plant Shutdown Sparked Power Crisis in Jharkhand
Jharkhand’s Sikidiri hydel project, once a pride with 125 MW capacity, is stalled due to 12 years of neglect and poor maintenance. A broken penstock halted power generation despite abundant monsoon water, forcing the state to buy expensive electricity. Repairs await low water levels, exposing serious management failures and causing financial strain with loss of cheap, clean energy.
OB Removal Begins for Amrapali Coal Project Phase 3 Mining
OB (overburden) removal work has started in Phase 3 of the Amrapali coal project in Tandwa, Chatra, after a ceremonial launch by CCL and Caliber Mining JV. The ₹1,206 crore tender spans eight years, targeting 233 million tons of coal production. Around 900 families will be displaced, while CCL seeks clearance for 431 hectares of forest land.
Big Fine of Rs. 1.47 Crores on Patratu Power Plant (PUVNL)
The PVUNL power plant in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh district was fined Rs. 1.47 crore for transporting minerals without valid mining challans. The district administration also issued a warning, stressing strict action against revenue loss and illegal mineral transport in the state.
SAIL Sets Foot in Dubai to Boost Global Steel Presence
SAIL has opened its first international representative office in Dubai to expand its global footprint. Inaugurated by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, the office aims to boost exports, strengthen trade ties, and tap into MENA markets. This strategic move supports India’s goal of reaching 300 million tonnes of steel production by 2030 and enhances SAIL’s international competitiveness.
NTPC Funded Renovation of Hazaribag’s Shaheed Smarak under CSR
NTPC Mining Limited, through its Pakri Barwadih project, has contributed Rs. 15.11 lakh towards renovating Hazaribag’s Shaheed Smarak under its CSR initiative. The final cheque was handed over to the Deputy Commissioner, marking a tribute to India’s martyrs. The project highlights NTPC’s commitment to heritage preservation and community development, aiming to inspire future generations through a revitalized memorial.
9 Arrested in Shree Jewelers Firing Case in Hazaribagh
Hazaribagh Police arrested nine criminals linked to the 22nd June firing at Shree Jewelers. Weapons, cartridges, mobile phones, a Pulsar bike, and a Grand Vitara were seized. The accused confessed to the crime. Gang leader Uttam Yadav and one accomplice remain absconding. A special team continues raids to capture them. All arrested have been sent to judicial custody.
NIA Files Charges Against Maoist for Aiding Terror*
The NIA has filed a supplementary charge sheet in Ranchi against Maoist Rajesh Deogam for aiding terror activities, handling arms, and extorting money. Linked to Maoist Misir Besra, Deogam’s disclosures led to seizures of cash, explosives, and communication tools. He actively supported Maoist operations in Jharkhand. The investigation, taken over in July 2024, remains ongoing.
Electricity May Get Costlier in Jharkhand
JBVNL has filed a review petition against the 6.34% electricity tariff hike approved by JSERC, calling it insufficient. The utility seeks a 40.02% increase to cover rising costs, which may lead to further burden on Jharkhand’s power consumers.
