Malda (WB), May 16: At least 11 people were killed on Thursday afternoon after being struck by lightning in different places across Malda district of West Bengal, a government official said.

The district administration has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased, he said.

"So far, 11 people have been killed due to lightning strikes. A number of injured people are being treated at various hospitals. Some of the injured are in critical condition," the official told PTI.

Three persons — Chandan Sahani (40), Raj Mriddha(16) and Manajit Mandal (21) — were killed in Malda’s Sahapur area, while another person identified as Asit Saha (19) died in Gajol after he was struck by lightning while working in a mango orchard, he said.

Eight-year-old Rana Sheikh in Manickchak's Mohammed Tola and a couple, Nayan Roy (23) and Priyanka Singha (20) of Harishchandrapur, also losted their lives due to lightning, the official added.

In Haddatola, lightning killed Atul Mandal (65) and Sheikh Sabrul (11) while Sumitra Mandal (45) lost her life in Mirdadpur, he said.

In Englishbazar's Milki, a man identified as Pankaj Mandal (23) was killed.

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Mumbai: Ratan Tata, the revered 86-year-old former chairman of the Tata Group, passed away at Breach Candy Hospital on Monday due to age-related health complications. His demise marks the end of an era for the Indian business world.

Tata, known for his integrity, leadership, and philanthropy, was a towering figure in Indian industry. He was admitted to the hospital recently, where he was undergoing treatment.

Confirming the news, Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Enterprises, took to social media to express his condolences. In a heartfelt tweet, Goenka said, "The clock has stopped ticking. The Titan passes away. #RatanTata was a beacon of integrity, ethical leadership, and philanthropy, who has imprinted an indelible mark on the world of business and beyond. He will forever soar high in our memories. R.I.P."

More details on the funeral arrangements are awaited as the nation mourns the loss of one of its greatest icons.