Patna

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has expanded its operational footprint to Patna, Raipur, and Dehradun, aiming to strengthen India’s agricultural export ecosystem. The move seeks to support local farmers, food processors, and exporters by providing easier access to APEDA’s services, including quality certification, export facilitation, and market linkages. Analysts note that this regional expansion could enhance export volumes of key commodities such as fruits, vegetables, spices, and processed foods.

Just two months after its high-profile inauguration, a section of Patna’s double-deck flyover has reportedly sunk following persistent rainfall, raising serious concerns about construction quality, engineering oversight, and public safety. The incident has reignited debate over infrastructure accountability, especially in a region frequently tested by monsoon-related challenges. As authorities scramble to investigate the cause, questions are being raised about whether the structure was rushed to completion or lacked rigorous quality control.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to participate in a significant “chakka jam” protest in Patna on Wednesday, opposing the newly enacted labour code and the expedited special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. The demonstration, supported by the INDIA bloc and Left parties, aims to challenge policies viewed as undermining democratic rights and labour protections. Alongside Gandhi, prominent state and national opposition figures including Tejashwi Yadav and Rajesh Kumar will mobilize efforts across Bihar.

The assassination of prominent Patna businessman Gopal Khemka outside his residence has reignited intense political criticism and scrutiny of Bihar’s law enforcement under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi condemned the state government, branding Bihar the “crime capital of India” due to escalating violence and inadequate police response. Despite swift action by Special Task Force and Special Investigation Teams, no breakthrough has been reported over 36 hours after the murder.

In a strategic push to deepen its regional logistics infrastructure, Flipkart has launched a new fulfilment centre in Patna, Bihar. Spanning 4.5 lakh square feet, the facility is expected to support over 6,600 local sellers and create more than 1,100 direct and indirect employment opportunities. The warehouse will streamline operations across multiple product categories—from mobile accessories to large appliances—serving more than 1,000 pin codes in the region.

A sweeping strike by over 2.7 million power sector employees across India is scheduled for July 9, protesting the Uttar Pradesh government’s plan to privatise two major electricity distribution companies (discoms). The move targets Purvanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd (PVVNL) and Dakshinanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd (DVVNL), which collectively serve 42 of the state’s 75 districts. Workers and union leaders allege collusion between government officials and private entities aiming to sell discom assets at undervalued prices.

Vodafone Idea (VIL) has expanded its 5G network to Chandigarh and Patna, with plans to bring 5G services to Delhi and Bengaluru by May 2025. This follows a successful 5G launch in Mumbai, where the service has already gained significant traction. With over 70% of eligible users enjoying the new service, VIL is enhancing its market position by offering unlimited 5G data on select plans. The company aims to capture the growing demand for high-speed connectivity, including applications such as streaming, gaming, and cloud services.