Patna Airport Sees Surge in Passenger Traffic Amid Travel Season

The 9th edition of the Jazz India Circuit commenced on Tuesday, bringing together Indian and international musicians for a series of performances across multiple cities. The festival features collaborations blending Indian classical elements with contemporary jazz, experimental fusion and global rhythms. Organisers said the circuit aims to create a platform for cultural exchange while expanding jazz audiences in India. Concerts are being held in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, drawing music enthusiasts and students alike. Artists participating in this year’s edition highlighted the growing appetite for genre-blending performances in the country. Cultural experts noted that such festivals contribute to India’s evolving live-music ecosystem and strengthen ties between global and local artistic communities. © Images used for illustrative purposes only. Copyrights belong to their respective owners.

In an effort to promote mental wellbeing and rehabilitation among incarcerated individuals, the Bihar Prison Department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a reputed yoga and wellness organisation to introduce structured yoga and meditation programmes in correctional facilities across the state. The agreement was formalised today in Patna with senior officials from the jail administration, the partnering wellness institute, and representatives from the state home department in attendance. Under the terms of the MoU, certified yoga instructors will visit select prisons on a scheduled basis to conduct sessions focusing on breathing techniques, mindfulness practices, gentle asanas and guided meditation tailored for inmates. The aim is to help participants manage stress, improve emotional regulation, enhance concentration and build resilience within the constraints of custodial environments. Relevant training materials and wellness guidance will also be provided to prison staff to support continuity and reinforcement of practices during non-session hours. Prison authorities said that holistic wellbeing strategies like yoga and meditation can contribute positively to the rehabilitation process by fostering calmness, reducing aggression and supporting personal transformation. Officials noted that several studies have suggested such practices may reduce recidivism and improve overall institutional harmony when regularly implemented. Selected facilities will pilot the programme initially, with a view to expanding phased rollout across more institutions based on feedback and outcome assessment. Inmates who choose to participate will be able to attend sessions voluntarily, with special emphasis on inclusivity and respect for individual capacities. The MoU emphasises regular monitoring, feedback loops and adherence to safety protocols to ensure that sessions are accessible, beneficial and aligned with correctional mandates. Family members of inmates, social workers and prison counsellors welcomed the initiative, saying it could offer constructive avenues for personal growth, emotional stability and preparation for reintegration into society upon release. Officials underscored that this wellness initiative complements other educational, vocational and counselling services already offered in Bihar’s prisons, reflecting a broader commitment to humane, evidence-based approaches to correction and rehabilitation policy.© Images used for illustrative purposes only. Copyrights belong to their respective owners.

Gold and silver prices in India remained elevated today as demand for safe-haven assets continued amid global economic uncertainty. Analysts attribute the steady rise to international market movements, currency fluctuations and investor preference for secure investment options during volatile periods. Jewellery demand has also remained stable due to the festive season, which adds to domestic price support. City-wise rate variations were observed across the country, influenced by local taxes and logistics. Financial experts advise buyers to monitor price trends closely, especially as international inflation patterns and geopolitical developments continue to influence bullion markets. Despite higher prices, many retail investors are choosing to allocate small portions of their portfolio to gold for stability. Silver has also recorded strong demand due to its industrial applications and investment appeal. Trade analysts predict that metal prices may remain firm in the short term unless global economic indicators shift significantly. Buyers planning larger purchases have been encouraged to compare local market rates and consider gradual accumulation rather than bulk buying. Gold trading volumes are expected to rise further during the wedding season. © Images used for illustrative purposes only. Copyrights belong to their respective owners.