Opposition blames EVMs for its defeat, says Anurag Thakur

Opposition blames EVMs for its defeat, says Anurag Thakur Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Friday welcomed the Supreme Court's decision regarding EVMs. We welcome the decision of the Supreme Court. The opposition tried to spread confusion and blame EVMs for its defeat but now the Supreme Court has made it clear and has rejected the petition, he said. Slamming the INDI alliance, he said, My request to the opposition is that if they want to fight elections, then fight on issues, fight on ideology. We are working to take India forward under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Service, good governance and welfare of the poor are the identities of the Modi government. On the other hand, they must have changed the name from UPA to INDI alliance but the face and thinking are the same. The public is not ready to accept them, he added. Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, he said, If he is getting defeated in Wayanad then he must try to fight from any other seat. If he is taking support from the banned organisations like SDPI and PFI then, it in itself raises a question that just to win elections he has demeaned himself to such a level. Earlier, Thakur expressed his enthusiasm and encouragement for voters amid the Lok Sabha elections, urging them to come out in large numbers despite the extreme heat. Notably, Himachal Pradesh has four Lok Sabha seats: Hamirpur, Mandi, Shimla, and Kangra. The BJP had won all four seats in 2019. The elections to the four Lok Sabha seats of Himachal Pradesh and by-polls to the six assembly constituencies that fell vacant with the disqualification of six rebel Congress MLAs will be held on June 1. Voting for the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 began at 7 am on Friday across 88 Parliamentary Constituencies spread over 12 States and Union Territories. (ANI)

Himachal Pradesh: IMD predicts thunderstorms, rain in 10 districts during next 48 hours

Himachal Pradesh: IMD predicts thunderstorms, rain in 10 districts during next 48 hours The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday predicted thunderstorms, hail and rainfall in 10 districts of the state during the next 48 hours. Thunderstorms with lightning, hail and strong wind (30-40kmph) are very likely at isolated places over Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan, Una during the next 48 hours, said IMD Shimla. Meanwhile, severe heatwave conditions are likely to continue over East and South Peninsular India during the next 5 days, the India Meteorological Department said on Friday. According to the IMD, heatwave to severe heatwave conditions will likely prevail in many places over Gangetic West Bengal, in some parts of Odisha, and in isolated pockets over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal during the next 5 days. The IMD has also predicted a fresh spell of rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds is likely to occur over the Western Himalayan region from April 26-29 and the plains of Northwest India from April 26-28 and adjoining Central India from April 26-27. IMD further said that fairly widespread to widespread light to moderate rainfall/snowfall accompanied by isolated thunderstorms and lightning and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) is very likely over Arunachal Pradesh and scattered to fairly widespread rainfall over Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura during April 26-30 2024. It added that isolated light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is very likely over Sikkim on April 28, 2024. It added that heavy rainfall is likely over Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya on April 28-30, 2024. (ANI)

Religious Tourism spots like Varanasi and Ayodhya may soon outshine Goa and Agra

Religious Tourism spots like Varanasi and Ayodhya may soon outshine Goa and Agra By Nikhil Dedha Recent data shows that post COVID religious inclinations of Indians have become stronger resulting in an accelerated momentum towards religious tourism. According to the Ministry of Tourism data, last year 8.5 crores of tourists visited Varanasi(Kashi), around 4.5 crore people visited Prayagraj and more than 1.5 crores of people have visited Ayodhya Ram temple since the consecration ceremony. Many experts feel Varanasi will outdo Goa, Agra, and Shimla. During the COVID period when the temples were closed down, our Prime Minister thought let's make the temples a place where everybody would like to visit. So we came up with the idea of having the Kashi Vishwanath corridor. It has changed the entire tourism scenario of the state and in year 2023 we had more than 10 crore tourists said Preeti Srivastava, Deputy Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh to ANI. Government of Uttar Pradesh is promoting the new golden triangle of Prayagraj, Kashi and Ayodhaya as a golden triangle of religious tourism. Now everybody is benefiting. Even the small washerman, he's also getting business because he's washing the linen of the hotels. The vegetable seller, everybody is benefiting. The rickshaw pullers, the flower sellers and local Prasad shops. Now the new golden triangle is coming up that is Ayodhya, Prayagraj and Varanasi said Preeti. The transformative impact of projects like the Kashi Vishwanath corridor, has revitalized Varanasi's tourism sector, leading to a substantial increase in tourist footfall and allied economic activities. The surge in tourism has not only boosted local businesses but also generated substantial revenue for the state. As per the data by the Ministry of Tourism 1,439 million people participated in religious tourism in India during 2022, it is more than double from 677 million in 2021. In 2022, religious tourism destinations earned Rs1.34 lakh crore in revenue, up from Rs65,070 crore in 2021. In 2022, Varanasi had 82 million visitors, which is almost four times the number of visitors in 2019. This number accounted for almost 26% of all arrivals in 2022, compared to less than 4 per cent in 2019. Varanasi's tourist footfall has surpassed Agra, which is home to the Taj Mahal, and has made it the most visited city in Uttar Pradesh. PM Narendra Modi also mentioned in his address on the 103rd episode of radio program 'Mann Ki Baat' that Now more than 10 crore tourists are reaching Kashi every year. The number of devotees visiting pilgrimages like Ayodhya, Mathura, Ujjain is also increasing rapidly. Due to this lakhs of poor are getting employment. According to the industry experts the religious tourism sector is expected to generate a revenue of Rs 59 billion by 2028 and create 140 million temporary and permanent jobs by 2030. Under central government's Swadesh Darshan Scheme, an outlay of Rs 5294 crore has been allocated for the development of theme-based tourist circuits. A total of 76 projects have been sanctioned under the project which covers popular religious destinations across different states of India. These includes Buddhist circuit, Ramayana circuit and Krishna circuit. The Ministry of tourism has also started the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) scheme to improve the religious tourism experience by identifying and developing pilgrimage sites across India.(ANI)

Shimla: Tibetans in exile hold peace march on 35th birth anniversary of Panchen Lama

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Congress did not release MPLAD funds for public welfare, development in Shimla: HP BJP

Congress did not release MPLAD funds for public welfare, development in Shimla: HP BJP Former Himachal Pradesh Urban Development Minister and BJP leader Suresh Bhardwaj slammed the Congress party in the state on Thursday, claiming that MPLAD money was not released for public development and welfare in the Shimla constituency while the Congress was in power. While addressing the media in Shimla, the BJP leader said, The late Krishan Dutt Sultanpuri from the Congress party represented Shimla parliamentary constituency six times but did not spend MPLAD funds for development in the area. Notably, the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) is a government-funded program that gives each Member of Parliament (MP) an annual entitlement of Rs 5 crore. The funds are released in two instalments of Rs 2.5 crore each, and are non-lapsable, meaning they can be carried forward to the next year if not released in a given year. The MPLADS's goal is to enable MPs to recommend development projects in their constituencies that address local needs and create lasting community assets. Bhardwaj further said that it was the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) who introduced the MPLADs to the people in the district and that the current sitting BJP MP for the Shimla constituency, Suresh Kumar Kashyap has equally distributed funds to the people for development. Adding further he said that the Congress party has fielded the late KD Sultanpuri's son, Vinod Sultanpuri as a candidate from the Shimla Parliamentary segment. Every MP gets a local area development fund. After 1990, the MP fund was started with one crore per annum and now it is 5 crore rupees. KD Sultanpuri represented Shimla parliamentary constituency six times and now his son is the Congress candidate. During the MPship of Sultanpuri, no such funds were distributed, said Suresh Bhardwaj. Whereas BJP MP, Suresh Kashyap has distributed MP funds equally in the constituency he distributed and spent 19,30,45,875 rupees under MP fund. 72,66,500 rupees for Shimla district, 54,47,875 rupees for Solan and 65,93,084 rupees for the Sirmaur district were spent equally as per population ratio, he said. The BJP leader also said that Suresh Kashyap has played an important role in bringing Shimla under the Smart City project as an MP. Rs 309 crore was spent for IIM Nahan, Green Corridor NH707 has been built and a Medical devise park is being built at Nalagarah in Himachal Pradesh under the special efforts of Suresh Kashyap as a BJP MP, Bhardwaj said further. (ANI)

Exiled Tibetans offer prayers for missing 11th Panchen Lama on his 35th Birthday

Exiled Tibetans offer prayers for missing 11th Panchen Lama on his 35th Birthday A group of exiled Tibetans on Thursday, offered prayers in Jonang Monestry at Shimla's Dingu on the occasion of the 35th birthday of 11th Panchen Lama, who was abducted by the Chinese authorities at the age of six, as claimed by the Tibetans. The Panchen Lama is the second most important spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism, after the Dalai Lama. The Shimla chapter of Tibetan Women Association and Tibetan Youth Congress jointly organized the prayers for the spiritual leader. Buddhist monks of Jonang Buddhist monastery and other men and women of Tibetan community, by offering prayers and chanting mantras are demanding the international community to put pressure on China to release the 11th Panchen Lama. We are offering prayers for the long life of our Yong monk the 11th Panchen Lama. It's been almost 28 years since the young lama who was captured by Chinese Authorities at the age of six. None of us know his whereabouts, we request the UNO and international supporters to find out and let us know if he is alive or not. We are offering prayers and requesting the International community to let us know about the 11th Panchen Lama, said Tibetan activist Tenzin Namgyal. Today is the 35th birthday of the 11th Panchen Lama. He is important for us and is the second highest monk for us after the Dalai Lama, he has been missing since 1995. Each year we offer prayers for his birthday and celebrate his birthday and are looking forward to knowing his whereabouts. He was kidnapped by the Chinese and he is imprisoned since then. We are offering prayers for his wellbeing, Tibetan Buddhist Monk Battur Lama said. Gendhun Chockyi Nyima (11th Panchen Lama) was born in Lhari village in Nagchu region of Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) on April 25th 1989. At the age of six in May 1995 he was recognized as the reincarnation of 10th Panchen Lama by Tibetan spiritual head, the 14th Dalai Lama. Denouncing the recognition of the Panchen Lama in 1995, Chinese had already installed the other Panchan Lama Gyatsen Norbu. The Tibetan allege that since then Chinese authorities had allegedly abducted the boy monk, demand to know about the whereabouts of the 11th Panchen Lama and demand his immediate release. (ANI)

Travel tips: Himachal is known for its beautiful tourist places, definitely visit these 8 places here.

Summer holidays are about to begin and if you are planning to visit some cool place to escape this scorching heat, then what could be better than Himachal? Himachal Pradesh is counted among the famous travel locations of North India. It attracts everyone's attention due to its beauty, tourist places and attractive places. The natural beauty of Himachal with its high valleys and hills provides peace and tranquility to the people coming here. Himachal Pradesh is a very favorite destination for tourists as well as pilgrims. So if you want to get some respite from the heat and want to spend some happy moments with your family, then come visit these places of Himachal: Dalhousie Dalhousie is a small town in Himachal Pradesh, which is considered like heaven for the tourists coming here. Dalhousie is surrounded by its natural scenery, meadows, flowers, fast-flowing rivers, and magnificent misty mountains. Dalhousie is considered to be one of the best places in Himachal for honeymoon. If you are planning to visit natural beauty and ancient attractions then famous Dalhousie is the perfect place. Spiti Valley Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, is surrounded by the Himalayas on all sides and is situated at an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level. The cold desert, snow-clad mountains, winding roads, and picturesque valleys of Spiti Valley excite the tourists visiting here. This is a place in Himachal Pradesh where there are about 250 days of sunshine in a year, making it one of the coldest places in the country. You can go to Spiti by motor vehicle only during summer and this place is covered with thick snow for about 6 months of the year. Bir Billing Valley Nestled amidst natural beauty, Bir is a small village in Himachal Pradesh which is also known as the paragliding capital of India. Bir is situated at an altitude of 5,000 feet amidst serene landscapes, snow-clad hills, and artistic temples. Bir is famous for recreational activities including trekking, paragliding, mountain biking, and hand gliding. Here too, there is something for people of all age groups, like you can stroll along the lake shore, go shopping on Mall Road, and go to the popular cafes here. Kasauli Kasauli remains a tourist center throughout the year. This village is full of foreign tourists. Parvati Valley of Himachal begins from Kasol village. The beauty of Parvati Valley and Parvati River is the main attraction here. One spent here -It will be a moment to remember. You will remember the unique feeling here throughout your life. Tourists from all over the world come here for the same feeling. There is a bridge in Kasol due to which it is divided into Old Kasol and New Kasol. Manali Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in the country, situated amidst the snow-covered slopes of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. Manali is situated at an altitude of 1950 meters above sea level which is a part of the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Manali is an extraordinary natural destination with its lush green forests, flower-strewn meadows, blue-colored streams, and the constant scent of freshness. Manali is like a paradise for nature-loving tourists and couples. From museums to temples, from river adventures to trekking trails, from villages to rugged lanes, this hill station attracts tourists. The sound of the flowing water of the Kullu River and the sounds of birds will attract you. Dharamshala Dharamshala is a very special tourist place in Himachal, which is situated at a distance of 17 km from Kangra. Situated at an average altitude of 1,475 meters above sea level, Dharamshala is situated on a beautiful stretch of land in the Kangra Valley, which mesmerizes tourists for its spectacular beauty. The snow-laden Dhauladhar mountains here make this place very special. Besides, Dharamshala is also the holy place of the Dalai Lama. Dharamshala is one of the most serene destinations where you will find the perfect amalgamation of natural beauty and culture in North India. Mcleod ganj That part of Kangra in Himachal Pradesh which is the most popular tourist destination. Due to the residence of Tibetans here, it is also called Mini Lhasa. People go here for spirituality, exposure to the Himalayas, adventure, and beautiful views. This place is the main center of Buddhist devotees and the reason behind this is that it is the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama of Buddhists. Due to this, there is a crowd of devotees here. Kasauli Kasauli, a hill cantonment town on the road from Chandigarh to Shimla, is a peaceful holiday destination away from the hustle and bustle of the world. Kasauli is a small town in the south-western part of the state of Himachal Pradesh, located in the relatively lower reaches of the Himalayas. Situated amidst beautiful deodar forests, Kasauli is known for its grand Victorian buildings built by the British, whose mysterious and tranquil atmosphere attracts everyone. (PC: Lifeberrys)

Congress kept minorities as only as vote bank: BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan

Congress kept minorities as only as vote bank: BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan As the war of words continues to rage between Congress and BJP over the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comment on the former's manifesto, former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry and BJP Lok Sabha candidate from South Chennai, Tamilisai Soundararajan on Wednesday accused the Congress of having kept minorities only as a vote bank. For the past 50 years, almost half a century, Congress ruled this country. What status they have given the minorities? They kept them only as vote bank, Soundararajan told ANI here. But our PM Modi made them proud by providing all schemes to them and people are very happy. Even our minority brothers and sisters are voting for BJP, in Gujarat, in Goa, in Uttar Pradesh. They are not thinking that they are separate from BJP or the PM. The Congress is panicking about unity. So, they want to divide the society as they usually do, she added. Soundararajan said that schemes of the BJP government at the Centre are inclusive. First of all, our Prime Minister's schemes are of inclusive growth. Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas; nobody has been excluded...For the past 50 years, almost half a century, Congress ruled this country. What status they have given the minorities? They kept them only as vote bank, she said. A major political controversy has erupted after Prime Minister Modi at an election rally in Rajasthan's Banswara last week alleged that the Congress wants to take away the gold and property of people and distribute it among hose having more children. Reacting to Congress and others' complaint to the EC over the PM Modi's statement, Soundararajan said, They should know that the PM has not pinpointed any community, any religion...He is saying that the first preference should be to the poor...He has improved the lifestyle of minorities. PM Modi and the BJP have criticised the Congress manifesto saying the poll document smacks of appeasement and that if it came to power, it would redistribute people's wealth and also give reservations to Muslims from the quota for SC, ST, and OCB communities. However, Congress hit back accusing PM Modi of polarising the electorate based on religion. Congress leader P Chidambaram on Wednesday dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to point out one paragraph in his party's manifesto that can be concluded as appeasement to a particular section. Ask him (PM Narendra Modi) to point out one paragraph in the manifesto which will lead to the conclusion that we are appeasing any section, Chidambaram told reporters in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh We recognise there is social division, social inequality, and economic inequality in this country. The most affected people are SCs, STs, and the poor irrespective of religion... If bringing justice to every section of society is considered appeasement, then so be it, he added. (ANI)

Chidambaram dares PM Modi to show appeasement in Congress manifesto

Shimla: Congress leader P Chidambaram on Wednesday dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to point out one paragraph in his partys manifesto that can be concluded as appeasement to a particular section. Ask him (PM Narendra Modi) to point out one paragraph in the manifesto which will lead to the conclusion that we are appeasing any Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Travel tips: How do couples reach Manali? Know about places and activities that enhance romance

If you have recently got married and are planning to go on honeymoon, then visiting some places in India in this season is the best option. However, while planning your honeymoon, choose the place as per your time and budget. The couple has taken long holidays for the wedding, in such a situation, if you are not getting more days off from the office to go on honeymoon or are troubled by the burden of wedding expenses and the budget is also not high, then choose such places. Where you can enjoy more in less days, that too in budget. Hill stations of Himachal Pradesh will be perfect for going on honeymoon. Shimla and Manali are among the most popular hill stations of Himachal. You can go to Manali to spend loving time with your spouse in a peaceful environment away from too many crowds. Before going to Manali, couples should collect complete information about how they can travel to Manali from their city. How much will it cost to go to Manali, what and where can you go in Manali, and how couples can enjoy it, complete information will be available in this article. How much time is needed to visit Manali? Couples get many honeymoon offers in Manali for romance in the mountains. If you are going to Manali on honeymoon then leave at least 2 to 3 days. This time is best suited for romantic activities and admiring the beauty of Manali. Places to visit in Manali on honeymoon Many beautiful Manali honeymoon places provide a better experience to couples like the famous Rohtang Pass, Gulaba, Kothi, and Rafala Falls. Hidimba Devi Temple There is Hidimba Devi temple in Old Manali which is open for tourists from 8 am to 6 pm. It may take 1 to 2 hours to travel around. This pagoda-style temple has been made of wood. The view around it is worth seeing. Manu Temple, Maa Sharwari Temple, and Tibet Monastery are also located nearby. Jogini Falls Jogini Falls, located on Vashishtha Road, is at a distance of 2.8 km from Manali. This famous place of Devi Jogini village and Shaktipeeth gives a lovely experience to couples. Solang Valley Solang Valley is 14 km away from Manali, which takes 3 to 4 hours to reach. You can enjoy adventure sports from 9 am to 5 pm. One can do paragliding, skiing, parachuting, and horse riding here. This valley is one of the best places in India for paragliding. Bhrigu Lake It takes 2-3 hours to reach Bhrigu Lake, located in Kullu, 22 km from Manali. Maharishi Bhrigu had meditated here. From here couples can also go camping and see strawberry plantations on the way. Romantic activities for couples in Kullu Manali Apart from visiting the famous places of Manali, couples can also enjoy many romantic activities. Treehouse Kullu Manali Valley is surrounded by greenery, where couples can stay in tree houses during their honeymoon and spend time with each other in a serene and lush green area away from the crowd. You will find tree houses in Caten. Holding your partner's hand or falling into their arms while watching the sunrise or sunset from the mountains can be a very romantic experience. Manali also offers this kind of experience. How to reach Manali Air- If you are going to Manali by flight then Bhuntar is the nearest airport which is 50 km from Manali. From here you can take a taxi to Manali. Rail route- If you are going to Manali through railway transport then reach Joginder Nagar railway station from many major cities of the country. If there is no direct train from your city to Jogindernagar then reach Chandigarh and Ambala railway station. By Road- If you want to go to Manali by road, then the distance from Delhi to Manali is 532 km. One can reach Manali by taking a 16-hour night journey by bus. Apart from state transport buses, many private buses also leave for Manali from Delhi. You can also travel to Manali in your car. (PC: ISTOCK)

Escape the Summer Heat

Nestled amidst the serene hills of Shimla lies Mashobra. Dubbed Quiet Shimla, this underrated paradise offers a calm place from the chaos of urban life, with its pristine landscapes and... The post Escape the Summer Heat first appeared on Asian Lite USA .

Congress is a sinking ship, leaders leaving party, alleges BJP

Congress is a sinking ship, leaders leaving party, alleges BJP Rakesh Jamwal, the BJP's chief spokesperson, alleged that the Congress party is a sinking ship and the leaders are leaving the grand old party. Due to the policies of the Congress, leaders are leaving the Congress and joining the BJP, Rakesh Jamwal said. While addressing the media in Shimla, Jamwal said, Today, AICC Secretary Tajinder Bittu joined the BJP. The BJP has declared its candidates, while Congress is not able to select them. There is a lot of contradiction in the statements of Congress leaders. The Chief Minister is saying that he has not received help from the Centre, on the contrary, the PWD Minister is saying that he has brought help from the Centre, he remarked. In these 15 months, Congress has given only false guarantees. It is not understood what has been achieved by the government in 15 months, Jamwal said.While targeting the Congress candidate from Mandi Vikramaditya Singh, Rakesh Jamwal said, He talks big that after winning from Mandi, he will raise public issues at the Centre, but first he should reveal the secret as to why he resigned from the ministerial post. This is a mystery. It remains a mystery till date. Even Pratibha Singh refused to contest the elections. Pratibha Singh had said in her statement that the workers are angry and elections cannot be contested with MP funds. The way Vikramaditya is commenting on Mandi BJP candidate Kangana Ranaut about what she eats and what she wears, he should also realise that Vikramaditya Singh has inherited politics and not through struggle, whereas Kangana has gotten politics through struggle, he said. He said that Vikramaditya Singh should contest elections on issues instead of making personal remarks. (ANI)

104 roads blocked in Himachal after widespread rain, snowfall; MeT sounds yellow alert

104 roads blocked in Himachal after widespread rain, snowfall; MeT sounds yellow alert Normal life was disrupted in Himachal Pradesh on Saturday as higher reaches received snowfall and rain lash mid and lower hills, blocking 104 roads and three national highways, officials said. The vehicular movement to Keylong was suspended due to a massive landslide at the Selfie Point near Sissu on Manali- Keylong highway, they said. As many as 104 roads, including 99 in Lahaul and Spiti, are closed due to snowfall, according to the state emergency operation centre. Movement on Gramphu-Losar, Darcha-Sarchu and Rohtang Pass were blocked in Lahaul and Spiti, it said. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has deployed men and machinery to clear the blockade and traffic is expected to resume in next two to three hours, a spokesman of BRO said. The local meteorological station has issued a yellow warning of thunderstorm at isolated places on April 22 and 23. It has forecast rain in mid hills and rain and snowfall in higher reaches for the next six days from April 21 to April 26 as a fresh western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from April 22. Koksar received 19 cm of snowfall, followed by Gondla recording 16.5 cm, Keylong 8.5 cm and Kukumseri 2.4 cm, according to weather data. As widespread rains lashed mid and lower hills, Bharmaur and Chamba were the wettest with 25 mm rain, Tissa 24.3 mm Solan 24 mm, Rajgarh 20.4 mm, Kalpa 20.2 mm, Renuka 19.4 mm, Kukumseri 19.3 mm, Reckong Peo, Dalhousie, Koksar and Shillaro 19 mm. Shimla and its surrounding areas received intermittent rain accompanied by lightning and the sky remained heavily overcast. Farmers and fruit growers are a worried lot as stormy conditions and hailstorms are harmful for apple and wheat crop.

BJP's Victory in Rajya Sabha Elections Challenged in Himachal Pradesh High Court

Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh High Court issued a notice to respondent MP and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Harsh Mahajan on a petition filed by Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi. The matter has been listed for May 23, 2024. There is an election petition in the court in which we have challenged the elections of Rajya Sabha. We are on the principle of Law. There are no disputed facts in it; all are admitted facts only on provisions of Law. The court has recorded our preliminary submission and notices have been issued to the responses, said Neeraj Gupta, Advocate for the petition. The notice has been issued to the elected candidate Harsh Mahajan ji. After the elections, both candidates got equal votes. We have the view that the procedure followed during the draw of lots was not right and we have challenged the elections. The matter was listed in the court of Justice Ajay Goyal ji and the next date of hearing is May 23, Gupta added further. Senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi filed the petition in Himachal Pradesh High Court on April 6 challenging the 'draw of lots'. The senior Congress Leader lost the Rajya Sabha elections on February 27 after the cross-voting by the Congress Rebels. Singhvi and BJP's Candidate Harsh Mahajan got equal 34 votes each but Mahajan won in the draw of lots in accordance with the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961. In his petition, Singhvi challenged the fundamental question of winning and losing through the draw of lots. In voting for Rajya Sabha elections earlier in February this year, the BJP, which has just 25 MLAs, managed to secure nine additional votes. The vote ended in a 34-34 tie, with three Independents and six Congress MLAs cross-voting for the BJP. Six Congress MLAs--Sudhir Sharma, Rajinder Rana, Davinder K Bhutto, Ravi Thakur, Chaitanya Sharma, and Inder Dutt Lakhanpal--cross-voted during the polls. The MLAs were disqualified and subsequently joined the BJP, where they were named the candidates in the Bypolls. Delhi Weather Update: Scorching Heat Continues, Relief Expected Soon Low Voter Turnout Worries NDA Leaders in Bihar These old methods will keep your house cool, it will feel like AC

Congress is mother of corruption.. says BJP's Himachal Pradesh Vice President Rajeev Bhardwaj

Congress is mother of corruption.. says BJP's Himachal Pradesh Vice President Rajeev Bhardwaj The Vice President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Himachal Pradesh and candidate from Chambal Lok Sabha Seat, Rajeev Bhardwaj, launched a scathing attack on the Congress party, labelling it as the mother of corruption. While speaking at a public meeting in the Nurpur city of Himachal Pradesh on Friday, Bhardwaj said, Congress has an old relationship with corruption, and Congress is the mother of corruption. The BJP's PM Modi has put a lock on Congress' looting system. Corruption became the identity of the country during the Congress government. Before 2014, there were scams worth crores of rupees. The former Prime Minister of the Congress himself said that if one rupee is sent from Delhi, only 15 paise reach the poor, so the public needs to recognise who's 'Panja' stole money in between, he added. Accusing the Congress of siphoning off public funds, he stated that if there was a Congress government in the country, they would have looted 28 lakh crore Rupees out of these 34 lakh crore. The BJP government has sent 34 lakh crore rupees directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries in the last ten years. If there was a Congress government in the country, Congress would have looted 28 lakh crore rupees out of these 34 lakh crore. Since independence, Congress has understood that it has a licence to loot the country, Bhardwaj said. After coming to power in 2014, Modi cancelled the licence of Congress' loot and this has only been possible because of the immense support of the public. This time too, the public will overwhelmingly vote for the BJP from Kangra and the BJP will once again form the government at the center, he added. He further alleged that Congress' criticism of Modi stemmed from its inability to continue its alleged looting practices. It is only because the shop of loot has closed that Congress is now abusing Modi. But Congress does not know that crores of people and mothers and sisters of the country are standing as a shield for Modi. Since the earning of these scammers and middlemen has been stopped, their temper has reached the seventh sky. Such is the situation of Congress Party in both the country and Himachal Pradesh, Bhardwaj said. Expressing optimism about the party's prospects in the upcoming elections and reaffirming the public's endorsement of Modi's leadership, Rajeev Bharadwaj said that the enthusiasm of BJP workers shows that Narendra Modi will be the Prime Minister of the country for the third time. Himachal Pradesh has four Lok Sabha seats-Hamirpur, Mandi, Shimla, and Kangra. The polling for four Lok Sabha seats in Himachal Pradesh, along with six Assembly seats that fell vacant following the disqualification of Congress MLAs, will be held on June 1. (ANI)

Worlds highest polling station in Himachal has 52 voters

Shimla: Worlds highest polling station Tashigang, located at a height of 15,256 feet above sea level, in Himachal Pradeshs Lahaul-Spiti district, which is part of the Mandi parliamentary constituency, has 52 registered voters, said Assistant Election Officer Harsh Negi on Friday. There were 45 voters in Tashigang in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Of these, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Travel tips: Neither too cold nor too hot, these places are best for traveling in April for just Rs 5000

The temperature starts increasing from April. Mild summer starts from this month. The normal temperature in most of the plain areas is more than 30 degrees Celsius. Although there is not very humid heat. For those who hesitate to step out of the house in the severe cold of January- February, the month of April is a better time to travel. There is neither too much cold nor too humid heat in this month. Due to this, one does not have to face the problem of sweat and dehydration while traveling. You can also go on a weekend trip this month. There is a chance to travel and the weather is also suitable for traveling, in such a situation, if you are planning a trip but are worried about the budget, then there is no need to worry. In this article, you are being told about some such tourist places, that you can visit in April, that too in a budget of just Rs 5000. Pachmarhi Pachmarhi is the only hill station in Madhya Pradesh. Located on the Satpura hills, away from the peaks of Pachmarhi, one can see only greenery at this hill station. The month of April is suitable to see the magnificent carvings and waterfalls in the caves of Pachmarhi. Here you can also enjoy hiking and trekking. The nearest railway station to reach Pachmarhi is Pipariya. Bhopal or Jabalpur are the nearest airports by flight. Although there is a good road to Pachmarhi, you can enjoy the natural views while going by road. It will not cost much to visit and stay here. Hospice Dharamshala, a beautiful hill station located in the valleys of Himachal, is the best place to visit in April. Dharamshala is also called Mini Tibet. Tibetan flags keep waving all around here. You can visit this relaxing place amidst the mountains to see bustling markets, museums, and monasteries. Bus to Dharamshala is easily available from Delhi, Shimla, and Dehradun, which is also within budget. Hotel rent is also not very high. Mussoorie Mussoorie of Uttarakhand is also called the 'Queen of Hills'. Cold winds blow in Mussoorie in April. While roaming the streets of Mussoorie on Scooty during the day, the cool breeze amid the golden sunshine makes for a wonderful journey. Here you can visit Lal Tibba, Kempty Fall, Company Garden, and Dalai Hills. Apart from this, one can also visit Dhanaulti and Surkanda Mata temples. For adventure, you will also be able to enjoy many sports on a budget. The cost of living, traveling, and eating in this hill station can be less than Rs 5000 thousand. Buses and taxis are easily available from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Mussoorie. Mount Abu The month of April is also a better time to visit Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan. There are dense forests around Mount Abu surrounded by a peak made of granite. There are many holy and ancient temples of Jains and Hindus here. Away from the scorching sun and heat, Mount Abu is a cool and close-to-nature city, with Abu Road being the nearest railway station to reach it. One can also reach here by road. Other places If the budget is high then the month of April is best suited to visit Darjeeling, Ravangla, Cherrapunji, Gulmarg, Ooty, and Tawang. Apart from this, the month of April is the right time to visit Nainital and Ooty. (PC: ISTOCK)

Vikramaditya drags RSS, VHP into beef-eating row

Shimla: PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Congress candidate from the Mandi parliamentary constituency, has dragged the RSS and the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) into the beef-eating controversy. Keen to know their stand I am not concerned with what someone eats or drinks, but I would like to know whether the RSS and the VHP will support [] The post Vikramaditya drags RSS, VHP into beef-eating row appeared first on Northlines .

Himachal: Congress to hold day-long meeting in Shimla to discuss poll strategies for Mandi, CM Sukhu to preside over

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Sarovar Hotels launches Call of Majestic Mountains campaign

Sarovar Hotels has launched the Call of Majestic Mountains campaign, promising exclusive discounts on their hill hotels across India. This initiative indicates travelers to indulge in the breathtaking beauty of Bhimtal, Dalhousie, Lonavala, Manali, Mussoorie, Palampur, Shimla, and Srinagar, with unbeatable deals on accommodation and dining. Under this banner, guests can enjoy a generous 25%... The post Sarovar Hotels launches Call of Majestic Mountains campaign first appeared on Hospitality Biz India: Latest News & Analysis . The post Sarovar Hotels launches Call of Majestic Mountains campaign appeared first on Hospitality Biz India: Latest News & Analysis .

Ludhiana court awards death penalty to woman for burying alive toddler

Chandigarh: A Ludhiana court in Punjab on Thursday awarded a death sentence to a woman for the horrific murder of a two-and-a-half-year-old girl by burying her alive. Sessions judge Munish Singal convicted the 35-year-old woman, Neelam, a resident of the Shimlapuri area, last week for killing the child. The court held her guilty on the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Process of filling forms for grant of Rs 1,500 to women can continue in Himachal: Poll panel

Shimla: The Election Commission has given the go ahead for filling up of forms for grant of Rs 1,500 financial assistance to women but with the rider that no new beneficiaries must be added till the model code of conduct is in force. The state government had approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) on [] The post Process of filling forms for grant of Rs 1,500 to women can continue in Himachal: Poll panel appeared first on Northlines .

ARTRAC investiture ceremony held in Shimla

Seven training establishments of the Indian Army were awarded for exceptional contribution in enhancing training ethos

Himachal Pradesh celebrates 77th anniversary of its creation in Shimla

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Low voter turnout: Why you should care?

NEW DELHI: In the worlds largest democracy, one may say the Lok Sabha elections serve as a cornerstone of political participation and representation. However, beneath the veneer of democratic fervour lies a pressing concern; the persistent issue of low voter turnout. As the Election Commission of India grapples with ensuring the sanctity and inclusivity of the electoral process, the challenge posed by dwindling voter participation looms large, raising questions about the health of Indias democracy. Voter turnout in Lok Sabha elections has been far from uniform across regions and demographics. While some constituencies witness enthusiastic voter engagement, others struggle with electorate apathy and disinterest. Delhi, being the national capital disappoints largely. The reasons behind low voter turnout in the city are multifaceted and complex, ranging from logistical barriers to systemic disenchantment. However, the one factor which holds down the shoes of the city electorate the most is a phenomenon coined as urban apathy. The voter ennui Last year, the Chief Election Commissioner said the key reason for low voter turnout in assembly and parliamentary elections in urban and semi-urban areas was what he called, urban apathy. He pointed out, of the 20 constituencies with the lowest voter turnout, 11 were urban areas. This trend of low voter turnout was also visible in constituencies with a significant urban population. Tikender Singh Panwar, a former deputy mayor of Shimla, writes that urban apathy is not a result of individual subjectivity but a manifestation of the depoliticised environment and the belief that nothing can happen. As a result, people lack interest in urban issues and problems, such as poverty, crime, environmental degradation, and politics, which affect the cities and its residents. This phenomenon is also a reflection of large-scale informalisation of the major sectors that provide employment in the cities, making it a daunting task for individuals to survive and obtain the bare minimum. The complexity of urban issues can make residents feel overwhelmed and helpless. Anonymity and disconnection are widespread in large cities, leaving individuals wanting a greater sense of belonging. This sense of alienation can also be attributed to the way city structures are being constructed. For example, the city development process is so elitist that even middle-class sections feel disconnected, let alone the large sections of the working class, Panwar says. Theres a tendency within certain sections of society to consider election-day as a vacation from duties, especially if it falls during weekends. They leave town, visit families. This is very prevalent among the middle class. This is a major reason for urban apathy in metropolitan cities like Delhi, said Atul Goyal, president, United Residents Joint Action (URJA). The citys poll body also finds a tremendous challenge in ensuring maximum turn out in the Delhi booths which have seen an upwards of 70 polling percentage only once, in 1977, after the Emergency was lifted. The main cause behind low voting here is urban apathy. People living in posh area rarely come out to vote. Its reflected in the assembly-wise polling pattern as well, said Kinny Singh, Returning Officer, West district. However, the Chief Electors Office (CEO) is now using all methods to enhance electorate participation. Officers said while efforts are on to maximise engagement of every group, first-time voters are being prioritised, to inculcate in them belongingness towards the electoral process and create a lasting sense of duty towards exercising their franchise. First-time adult It seems, Indias youngest eligible voters, aged 18 or 19, are hesitant to exercise their electoral rights. According to ECI data, less than 40% of these 18 and 19-year-olds have registered for the 2024 general elections across the country, with certain states such as Delhi and Uttar Pradesh lagging behind with ever lower enrollment rates of 21% and 23% respectively. In order to woo the young, the poll body is using every bit of its creativity and ingenuity coupled with the resources at its dispensation to strike a chord among the new generation. Surprises, gifts, and all Election officers are set to roll out a unique initiative for those born on May 25, the day the city goes to polls. A surprise awaits the registered voters born on May 25. The only condition, you must come and cast your vote. The initiative comes under a broad are of projects, the Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) by the CEO, to encourage a significant electoral turn out. Kinny Singh, District Magistrate (West), one of the brains behind the initiative, said the move is a goodwill gesture to encourage the voters. This is a small initiative which we have planned as a goodwill gesture for the people having their birthdays on the Delhi poll day. The day of the surprise will be informed to voters. To verify the birth date, sharing Aadhar number has been made mandatory. However, individuals will have to show their inked fingers to prove that they indeed voted, she added. Registration forms for participation have been made available, both physically with the BLOs (Booth level officers), and on the web. People will have to fill in their details including the EPIC number (Voter ID number). Influencing youth Delhi-based influencers, popular on social media platforms for content on fashion, food, travel, technology, and so on, with followers running into hundreds of thousands are being roped in by the election office to educate voters about significance of casting their vote in the massive poll exercise. Influencers are being urged to create content on poll awareness and design fun and creative challenges related to voting which can go viral and encourage more and more people to take parts in voting. However, caution was observed before engaging these influencers in election activity. We looked through the profiles and selected those who are neutral and do not post objectionable content, a senior official said. According to officials, the educational content crafted to inform voters about the proper exercise of their voting rights spans a wide array of topics, including, importance of elections, electoral process, understanding the ballot, voting rights and voter suppression, voter registration, evaluating candidates and campaigns, NOTA awareness, among others. We have observed a massive change in the media landscape and content consumption habits since last elections. The social and digital media revolution has changed the media mix and the components of outreach campaigns. There was a need to leverage social media tools for better engagement of citizens, particularly the youth, to motivate them for electoral participation. Since many youth are glued to reels on Instagram, the message could reach a wide section of voters, an official from CEO said. Walkathon, podcasts Mekala Chaitanya Prasad, District Magistrate (South), said variety of initiatives, walkathons and podcasts, hosted on music streaming platform Spotify, are being used to generate the awareness. We just concluded one such event with a theme of Walk to Vote. The purpose was to engage the young bees and educate them about the responsibility of voting. During the walkathon, students took the forefront, raising spirited slogans for voter education and distributed informative materials and pamphlets to the public, shopkeepers, and passersby, thus fostering a culture of informed citizenship, he said. Besides, election officers have also started a podcast of community radio programmes focused on different voter groups including persons with disabilities (PwD) and third genders. We identified the number of community radios operating in South Delhi district to fulfill our objective to target local voters. We got in touch and collaborated with one of the community radios and they aired the programme, Humara Swabhiman Matdan. This initiative has dedicated episodes catering to the concerns of PwD voters, elderly voters, transgenders, youth and also first-time voters. Since community radio has limited coverage, the programme has also been uploaded on Spotify, a digital music, podcast, and video streaming service, with an advantage of wide coverage, and accessibility of information to the youngsters with just a touch, Kshitij Gyanraj Sa, Nodal officer (SVEEP), shared with us. Interviews of election officials, including those working at the grass-root level like BLOs are also being considered to inform citizens about the scale and extent of the polling process in the Inidan general elections, he added. Including citizen bodies, RWAs Localities around high profile addresses inhabited by the relatively more affluent class, generally fares very poorly when it comes to exercising their poll power. The posh South Delhi locales have been one such area. Historically, the constituency is infamous for low voter turnouts. Only a single instance can be cited when the constituency voted above 60%, and that was in the 2014 parliamentary election. By-elections aside, the polling history of the South Delhi Lok Sabha seat suggests here, the voting percentage increases in one election, only to inevitably decrease in the next elections. The voter turnout of South Delhi constituency has always swung between crest and trough, posing a significant challenge before the election commission. Election officers said, in such localities, engaging RWAs can make a difference in generating awareness. The flip-flop that we have recorded in the voting pattern of the South Delhi constituency is a challenge to break. There has been an increase and subsequent decrease in the polling percentage in parliamentary elections. In 2014, there was an enthusiasm among voters which led to over 62% turnout at the polling booths. However, this enthusiasm waned in the next parliamentary elections in 2019 when the voter turnout reduced to just over 58%. To overcome this challenge, we plan to engage RWAs and start door-to-door campaigning in order to sensitize voters of South Delhi. In the coming days, we will also set-up multiple camps in the area, a senior official said. Some other initiatives We have set-up Electoral Literacy Club in schools and colleges to encourage first-time and prospective voters. The idea is not just to educate them about the importance of voting, but also to communicate the message through them to their elders, and motivate them as well to exercise their franchise. Besides, we are conducting separate awareness programmes targeting groups such as elderly citizens, working professionals, women, and third gender voters. Our officers are going to college festivals and using the platform to sensitise people about electoral process, said Kinny Singh Reaching out till last voter is very important. Like neighbouring cities of Ghaziabad and Noida, the poll body can also create booths in residential societies in Delhi. It will provide some relief to prospective voters against the summer heat, enabling them to travel less and avoid crowds which are also major deterrents for citizens from engaging in the poll process. Finding a proper space to park vehicles at the polling stations adds to the woes. So I believe if booths are set-up in gated communities, turnout can match expectation or even go beyond that, he said.

Heavy rain, thunderstorms likely in parts of Himachal

Heavy rain, thunderstorms likely in parts of Himachal An orange alert warning of heavy rain in the state on Sunday and Monday has been issued by the weather office. According to the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, some isolated parts of the state are likely to experience heavy rain, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hail and gusty winds at the speed of 40-50 km per hour on Sunday and Monday. Intermittent light rain was witnessed in some parts of the state in the last 24 hours. Kothi recorded 9.5 mm of rainfall followed by Manali with 7 mm, Bilapsur with 5.5 mm, Dalhousie with 5 mm, Chamba with 3 mm and Bhuntar with 2.5 mm. Palampur and Sarahan received 2 mm of rain, while Shimla and Kufri experienced only traces of precipitation. A total of 116 roads, including three national highways, remain closed in the state. Of these, 111 are located in the snow-bound tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti, as per the data shared by the state's emergency operation centre. There has been no significant change in the minimum and maximum temperatures in the state.

It's 'King' versus 'Queen' in HP's Mandi as Cong fields royal heavyweight against actor Kangana

It's 'King' versus 'Queen' in HP's Mandi as Cong fields royal heavyweight against actor Kangana The stage is set for a battle royale in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi Lok Sabha seat as the Congress has pitted state minister Vikramaditya Singh, the titular king of the erstwhile princely state of Bushahr, against BJP candidate and actor Kangana Ranaut. Himachal Pradesh PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh is the son of six-time chief minister Virbhadra Singh and Pratibha Singh, the sitting MP from Mandi and the Congress' state unit president. Historically, the Mandi constituency has favoured scions of erstwhile princely states, electing royals in 13 out of 19 elections, including two bypolls since 1952. Vikramaditya Singh, the two-time MLA from the Shimla (rural) assembly segment, is not new in the parliamentary constituency as his father and mother each won the seat thrice. In the 2021 Lok Sabha bypoll to the seat, Singh had campaigned extensively for his mother. Even before his candidature was announced, Vikramaditya Singh was involved in a spat with the actor-politician of Bollywood film 'Queen' fame with neither pulling any punches. While Singh had termed Ranaut ''queen of controversies'', the BJP's Mandi candidate indirectly termed the state minister as ''Chota Pappu''. Last Thursday, Ranaut launched a blistering attack on Vikramaditya Singh, and said, ''Yeh tumhare baap-dada ki riyasat nahin hai, ke tum mujhe dara, dhamka ke vapis bhej doge (This is not the estate of your father or grandfather that you will threaten me and send me back). The BJP candidate's retaliation came in response to Vikramaditya Singh's jibe a few days earlier about her reported comments over beef-eating. ''I pray to Lord Ram to give her wisdom and hope she goes back pure from 'Dev Bhoomi' Himachal to Bollywood because she will not win the elections as she knows nothing about the people of Himachal,'' Singh had said. Indirectly dubbing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Vikramaditya Singh as ''Pappu'', Kangana had said there is one ''Bada Pappu'' in Delhi and the ''Chhota Pappu'' in Himachal says she eats beef. She asked why he was not showing evidence of her consuming beef. Terming Vikramaditya Singh as '''ek number ka jhootha' (liar No. 1)'' and ''paltubaaz'' (one who repeatedly changes stance), she wondered what can be expected from him when ''Bada Pappu'' talks about destroying ''Nari Shakti'' (women power). ''I have made my name in the film industry without the help of my father and mother... I want to join politics and serve the people,'' she said and asserted that politics is an expression of service and anyone from a king to a beggar is entitled to that expression. The factors working in favour of Ranaut are former Himachal Pradesh chief minister and senior BJP leader Jai Ram Thakur's hold over Mandi and that the party has won all the nine assembly segments under the parliament constituency. BJP leader Khushal Thakur, a Kargil war hero who lost to Pratibha Singh by a margin of 7,490 votes in Lok Sabha bypolls held in November 2021, has rendered his support to Ranaut. ''There are over one lakh ex-servicemen in this Parliament constituency'', he had told the PTI earlier. Moreover, BJP leader and the titular king of Kullu Maheshwar Singh, who earlier opposed Ranaut's candidature, has extended his support to her. Of the 17 assembly segments under the Mandi Lok Sabha seat, eight are reserved for Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled castes. Since 1952, the parliamentary seat has been represented by Raj Kumai Amrit Kaur of Kapurthala dynasty and Raja Joginder Sen Bahadur of the princely state of Mandi once each, Raja Lalit Sen of Suket twice, Virbhadra Singh and his wife Pratibha Singh thrice each and Maheshwar Singh thrice. Three-time MP from Mandi and former Union minister Sukh Ram, two-time winner Ram Swaroop and Ganga Singh were the exceptions and did not hail from royal families.

Congress fields Himachal Pradesh min, MLA from Mandi, Shimla Lok Sabha seats

Congress has fielded Vinod Sultanpuri from Shimla Lok Sabha seat and Vikramaditya Singh against Kangana Ranaut in Manali.

Cong fields Himachal Pradesh minister, MLA from Mandi, Shimla Lok Sabha seats

Cong fields Himachal Pradesh minister, MLA from Mandi, Shimla Lok Sabha seats The Congress on Saturday fielded its MLA from Himachal Pradesh's Kasauli Vinod Sultanpuri from Shimla Lok Sabha seat and pitted state minister Vikramaditya Singh against BJP candidate and Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut in Manali. Two-time MLA from Shimla (Rural) assembly segment and PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh is the son of six-time chief minister Virbhadra Singh and Pratibha Singh, the sitting MP from Mandi and the Congress' state unit president. He is the titular king of the erstwhile princely state of Bushahr and has also represented Himachal Pradesh in Rifle and Trap shooting Competition in the National Shooting Championship. An alumni of St. Stephen's College, Delhi and a post-graduate in history, Vikramaditya Singh was Himachal Pradesh Youth Congress president from 2013 to 2018. He did his schooling at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. He is not new in the mandi parliamentary constituency as his father and mother each won the seat thrice. In the 2021 Lok Sabha bypoll to the seat, Singh had campaigned extensively for his mother Pratibha Singh. On the other hand, the Congress' Shimla (SC) Lok Sabha seat candidate Vinod Sultanpuri, the son of former MP Krishan Dutt Sultanpuri, was elected to the Himachal Pradesh Assembly for the first time in 2022. He has been fielded against incumbent MP and former state BJP chief Suresh Kashyap. Sultanpuri completed his schooling at Lawrence School Sanawar and did his LLB from ILS Law College, Pune. He was Youth Congress' Solan district unit chief from 2006 to 2008 and the outfit's national secretary from 2009 to 2011. The BJP has announced candidates for all four Lok Sabha candidates in Himachal Pradesh, the Congress is yet to announce its candidates from Hamirpur and Kangra. The BJP had won all four Lok Sabha seats in 2019 with a thumping majority. However, the death of Ram Swaroop Sharma necessitated the 2021 Mandi parliamentary bypolls which Pratibha Singh had won.

Congress Fields Vikramaditya Singh Against Kangana Ranaut for Mandi Lok Sabha Seat

NEW DELHI: The contest for the Mandi Lok Sabha seat in Himachal Pradesh promises to be more intense, with the Congress pitting state minister Vikramaditya Singh to take on BJPs Kangana Ranaut. Besides Mr Singh, the Congress on Saturday also announced a list of 15 more candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls. The Mandi seat is a matter of prestige, as Mr Singh is a sitting MLA and the son of the late Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh and state unit chief Pratibha Singh. We discussed the names that we had shortlisted. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi were also present at the meeting. Some names are final and some names will be discussed again. From Mandi, Vikramaditya Singh's name has been made final as everyone was in favour of a young face from Mandi, the Congress Himachal Pradesh unit chief said. Mr Singh became the titular kind of the erstwhile princely state of Bushahr (a town in Shimla) after his father's death. He holds a master's degree in history from Delhi's St Stephen's College. He was the only Congress MLA who attended the Ram temple inauguration ceremony in Ayodhya, defying the party line. In February, Mr Singh had announced his resignation. Speculation was rife that he was going to join the BJP along with a few rebel MLAs, a move that could have brought down the Congress government in the hill state. The infighting ensued soon after the Congress lost the Rajya Sabha elections owing to cross-voting. The crisis was managed with the intervention of the top leadership. Mr Singh withdrew his resignation and stayed with the party. The Congress' on Saturday nominated former Union minister and Lok Sabha MP Manish Tewari from Chandigarh. The seat was earlier held for two terms by BjP MP and actor Kirron Kher. Senior Congress leader and former Union minister Pawan Bansal, the unsuccessful Congress candidate from Chandigarh, is now replaced by Mr Tewari. The party has fielded Paresh Dhanai to take on Union minister Purushottam Rupala from Rajkot. The Congress central election committee (CEC) met in the national capital on Saturday under the leadership of Mr Kharge. It finalised the names of a few Lok Sabha candidates from Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Chandigarh. The CEC meeting for Himachal Pradesh was attended by Mr Kharge, Mrs Gandhi, and AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal. Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, deputy chief minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Ms Singh and AICC in-charge Rajeev Shukla were the others present in the meeting. The Haryana CEC was attended, besides the top party leaders, by PCC chief Uday Bhan, ex-CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Randeep Surjewala and Kumari Selja. Insiders claim three seats in Haryana have also been finalised but not declared yet. These include Deependra Singh Hooda from Rohtak, Ms Selja from Sirsa and Varun Molana from Ambala.

Congress releases another list of candidates; fields Vikramaditya against Kangana Ranaut

Congress releases another list of candidates; fields Vikramaditya against Kangana Ranaut The Congress on Saturday released another list of 16 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections. The party has fielded youth leader Vikramaditya Singh in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi Lok Sabha seat against BJP candidate Kangana Ranaut. Vinod Sultanpuri will contest from the Shimla seat. Congress MP Manish Tewari will contest from Chandigarh seat. In Gujarat, the grand old party has fielded Ramji Thakor from Mahesana, Himmatsinh Patel from Ahmedabad East, Pareshbhai Dhanani from Rajkot and Naishadh Desai from Navasari. The Congress also announced candidates for the by-elections in Gujarat. Dineshbhai Tulsidas Patel has been fielded from Vijapur, Rajubhai Bhimanbhai Odedra from Porbandar, Haribhari Govindbhai Kansagara from Manavadar, Mahendrasinh Harsinh Parma from Khambhat and Kanubhai Pujabhai Gohil from Vaghodia. In Odisha, Congress has announced the candidature of Mohan Hembram from the Keonjhar seat, Srikant Kumar Jena from Balasore, Anant Prasad Sethi from Bhadrak, Anchal Das from Jajpur, Sashmita Behera from Dhenkanal, Sidharth Swarup Das from Kendrapara, Rabindra Kumar Sethy from Jagatsinghpur, Sucharita Mohanty from Puri and Yasir Nawaz from Bhubaneswar. Earlier, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre is working towards benefitting selected businessmen in the country adding that key public infrastructure in the country has been handed over to them to make profits. Addressing an election rally in Bhandara, Rahul Gandhi said, This BJP and PM Modi is running government for few businessmen in this country. One of them is Adani...go home and google what is the price of Adani shares. In this country, 22 people have as much wealth as 70 crore people. PM Modi's only job is to divert attention and Adani has only job to take money out of your pockets. The Congress party released its manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections in Delhi on April 5. Congress has made a slew of promises in its manifesto including a legal guarantee for MSP, 50 per cent reservation for women in government jobs, repealing Agnipath scheme, doubling GDP in next ten years, strengthening anti-defection law, restoring status quo ante with China, mobile phones for students from class IX to XII and amending the GST regime. (ANI)

These places in India are best for honeymoon, spend quality time with your partner

Planning your honeymoon is an exciting endeavor, as it marks the beginning of your journey together as a married couple. India, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and romantic settings, offers an array of options for couples seeking a memorable honeymoon experience. Whether you're looking for serene beaches, picturesque hill stations, or historical landmarks, India has something to offer for every couple. Here are some of the best honeymoon destinations in India where you can spend quality time with your partner: 1. Shimla: Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Shimla is a charming hill station that exudes old-world charm. Take a romantic stroll along the Mall Road, explore the lush greenery of the surrounding hills, or enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. 2. Goa: Famous for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese heritage, Goa is a favorite destination for honeymooners. Relax on the sun-kissed beaches, indulge in water sports, or explore the quaint churches and forts dotting the landscape. 3. Kerala: Known as God's Own Country, Kerala is blessed with natural beauty and tranquility. Cruise along the backwaters in a traditional houseboat, witness the mesmerizing sunset at Kovalam Beach, or rejuvenate with Ayurvedic spa treatments. 4. Udaipur: Dubbed as the Venice of the East, Udaipur is a city of lakes and palaces that exudes romance at every corner. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, visit the majestic City Palace, or enjoy a candlelit dinner overlooking the shimmering waters. 5. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: For couples seeking seclusion and adventure, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Snorkel or scuba dive together to explore the underwater world, or simply unwind on the secluded beaches. 6. Agra: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is synonymous with love and romance. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece at sunrise or sunset, explore the majestic Agra Fort, or take a romantic walk in the lush gardens surrounding the monument. 7. Darjeeling: Surrounded by tea plantations and towering mountains, Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station in West Bengal. Enjoy a scenic ride on the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, visit the colorful monasteries, or trek to Tiger Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view. 8. Ranthambore: For wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Ranthambore National Park offers a unique honeymoon experience. Embark on thrilling wildlife safaris to spot majestic tigers and other exotic wildlife in their natural habitat. 9. Jaipur: Immerse yourself in the royal heritage of Jaipur, the Pink City of India. Explore the magnificent Amber Fort, stroll through the bustling bazaars, or enjoy a romantic dinner at a heritage hotel overlooking the cityscape. 10. Ladakh: For couples who crave adventure and breathtaking landscapes, Ladakh is a dream destination. Explore the dramatic terrain on a road trip, camp under the starlit sky, or embark on a trek to remote Himalayan villages. 11. Munnar: Located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is renowned for its tea plantations, misty hills, and colonial charm. Take a romantic walk amidst the lush tea gardens, visit the picturesque Mattupetty Dam, or trek to the stunning Echo Point. 12. Puducherry: Formerly known as Pondicherry, Puducherry is a quaint coastal town with a unique blend of French and Indian cultures. Explore the colonial architecture of the French Quarter, relax on the serene beaches, or indulge in yoga and meditation retreats. 13. Rishikesh: Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a spiritual hub known for its yoga and meditation centers. Embark on an adventurous river rafting expedition, visit the ancient temples, or meditate by the banks of the sacred Ganges River. 14. Ooty: Popularly known as the Queen of Hill Stations, Ooty is a charming destination nestled amidst the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. Take a romantic boat ride on Ooty Lake, explore the lush botanical gardens, or ride the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway. 15. Manali: Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests, Manali is a paradise for honeymooners seeking adventure and romance. Enjoy thrilling activities like paragliding and skiing, visit the ancient Hadimba Temple, or soak in the natural hot springs of Vashisht. 16. Jaisalmer: Experience the magic of the desert in Jaisalmer, a golden city in the heart of the Thar Desert. Explore the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, take a camel safari into the sand dunes, or camp under the starlit sky for a truly unforgettable experience. 17. Mahabaleshwar: Perched atop the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is a serene hill station known for its lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and strawberry farms. Take a romantic horse ride to the scenic viewpoints, savor fresh strawberries and cream, or simply enjoy the cool mountain breeze. 18. Mussoorie: Known as the Queen of the Hills, Mussoorie is a charming hill station nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Take a romantic cable car ride to Gun Hill, stroll along the Mall Road, or visit the serene Kempty Falls for a refreshing dip. 19. Kanyakumari: Located at the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari is famous for its stunning sunrise and sunset views over the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean. Visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, explore the colorful markets, or simply relax on the pristine beaches. 20. Coorg: Also known as Kodagu, Coorg is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka known for its lush coffee plantations, mist-covered hills, and serene waterfalls. Trek to the scenic viewpoints, visit the ancient temples, or indulge in birdwatching amidst the verdant forests. Embark on a romantic journey to one of these enchanting destinations in India and create memories that will last a lifetime. 5 Weirdest Things in the World That Will Blow Your Mind From Fried Stones to Fish Eyes: Unveiling the 7 Weirdest Breakfasts Around the World

Two sisters, niece shot at in Himachal's Kinnaur, brother held

Two sisters, niece shot at in Himachal's Kinnaur, brother held A man was arrested for allegedly opening fire on three women of his family over a personal dispute in Himachals Kinnar area, police said on Saturday. According to the police, the incident occurred on Friday in Purbani village, when Raj Chander opened fire on his two sisters and a niece while the family was preparing for the wedding of Chanders nephew. The injured were rushed to the Indira Gandhi Medical College & Hospital in Shimla and later referred to Reckong Peo District Hospital. One of the two sisters Krishan Leela and niece Sweety sustained serious injuries while the other sister Bharti is said to be out of danger, police said. A case has been registered against Chander under the sections of the Indian Penal Code. He was arrested on Friday evening, they said. The general public has been told to deposit their arms following the implementation of the model code of conduct for Lok Sabha polls and assembly by-elections. A total of 1205 arms have been deposited in Kinnaur district as per data released by the election commission.

Echor expands to Shimla, adds a boutique hotel with 42 keys

Echor Hotels & Resorts, known for its unique and luxurious hospitality experiences, is thrilled to announce the addition of a new hotel in their portfolio, Echor The Zion Shimla. This new hotel in Shimla comes after a comprehensive five-year search for the perfect location, underscoring Echors dedication to bringing unparalleled luxury and serenity to... The post Echor expands to Shimla, adds a boutique hotel with 42 keys first appeared on India's Top Travel News Source: TravelBiz Monitor .

Summer Travel: Top 10 Summer Vacation Destinations in India

As the mercury climbs and the days stretch longer, it's time to indulge in the vibrant tapestry of summer experiences that India has to offer. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of the Andaman Islands, there's a destination for every traveler seeking to escape the heat and revel in the beauty of nature. Here are the top ten summer vacation destinations in India that promise unforgettable experiences: Leh-Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir: Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Leh-Ladakh offers a surreal landscape of barren mountains, azure lakes, and ancient monasteries. Adventure enthusiasts can embark on thrilling treks, bike rides through winding roads, and soak in the serenity of Pangong Lake. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: Known as the Queen of Hill Stations, Shimla exudes colonial charm with its British-era architecture, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Take a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road, explore the picturesque valleys, and hop on the historic toy train for a memorable journey. Goa: A perennial favorite among beach lovers, Goa comes alive in the summer with its vibrant nightlife, water sports, and delectable seafood. Lounge on the sun-kissed beaches of Calangute and Baga, delve into the cultural heritage of Old Goa, and savor the laid-back vibe of this coastal paradise. Darjeeling, West Bengal: Renowned for its tea plantations and the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Darjeeling offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range, take a joyride on the toy train, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Manali, Himachal Pradesh: Surrounded by towering peaks, gushing rivers, and lush forests, Manali is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Trek to the breathtaking Rohtang Pass, indulge in thrilling water sports on the Beas River, and explore the quaint villages dotting the landscape. Andaman Islands: With their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, the Andaman Islands offer a tropical paradise like no other. Dive into the azure depths to discover colorful coral reefs, relax on the sun-drenched shores of Radhanagar Beach, and embark on a surreal journey to Neil Island. Munnar, Kerala: Wrapped in a blanket of emerald green tea plantations and misty valleys, Munnar is a serene retreat in the Western Ghats. Explore the lush landscapes on a scenic drive, trek to the scenic viewpoints of Echo Point and Top Station, and rejuvenate your senses with a refreshing cup of tea at a local plantation. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Nestled on the banks of the holy Ganges River, Rishikesh is a spiritual hub and adventure capital rolled into one. Seek solace in the tranquil ashrams, partake in exhilarating water rafting adventures, and find inner peace through yoga and meditation by the riverside. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir: Dubbed as the Venice of the East, Srinagar captivates visitors with its mesmerizing Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and charming houseboats. Cruise along the tranquil waters, stroll through the blooming gardens, and delve into the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting city. Coorg, Karnataka: Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg beckons with its mist-covered hills, coffee plantations, and cascading waterfalls. Trek to the scenic viewpoints of Raja's Seat and Mandalpatti, savor the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or serene retreats, these top ten summer vacation destinations in India promise a plethora of experiences to suit every traveler's taste. So pack your bags, soak in the sunshine, and embark on a journey to discover the beauty and diversity of Incredible India. Stay Hydrated: Top Foods to Beat the Heatwave of 2024 When Should You Drink Coconut Water in the Summer?

Best summer vacation destinations in India

Shimla, kullu, manali and other hill stations in India for perfect summer vacations

Echor expands to Shimla, adds a boutique hotel with 42 rooms, banquets & views

Echor Hotels & Resorts, known for its unique and luxurious hospitality experiences, is thrilled to announce the addition of a new hotel in their portfolio, Echor The Zion Shimla. This new hotel in Shimla comes after a comprehensive five-year search for the perfect location, underscoring Echors dedication to bringing unparalleled luxury and serenity to... The post Echor expands to Shimla, adds a boutique hotel with 42 rooms, banquets & views first appeared on Hospitality Biz India: Latest News & Analysis . The post Echor expands to Shimla, adds a boutique hotel with 42 rooms, banquets & views appeared first on Hospitality Biz India: Latest News & Analysis .

Ex-Akali Mins son among 5 arrested with drugs in Shimla

Chandigarh: Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Shimla Police arrested five people, including a Punjab Police constable, a son of former Shiromani Akali Dal Punjab cabinet minister and a woman, with drugs from a hotel room in Shimla. According to a police statement on Wednesday, those arrested in the Tuesday night raid Prakash Singh Langha, son []

Ex-Akali Dal Punjab Minister's son among 5 arrested with drugs in Shimla hotel

Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Shimla Police arrested five people, including a Punjab Police constable, a son of former Shiromani Akali Dal Punjab cabinet minister and a woman, with drugs from a hotel room in Shimla.

Punjabs ex-minister Sucha Singh Langahs son found selling drugs in Shimla; 4 others arrested

Chandigarh, Apr 10: Parkash Singh, son of former SAD minister Sucha Singh Langah, and four others, including a girl, were arrested by the Himachal Police in Shimla on charges of possessing drugs. The police have recovered 42 gram of heroin from their possession. They were staying in a hotel. Police raided them on a tip [] The post Punjabs ex-minister Sucha Singh Langahs son found selling drugs in Shimla; 4 others arrested appeared first on Northlines .

Himachal Pradesh: Ex-Punjab Minister Sucha Singhs son among 5 arrested with heroin in Shimla

The News Mill

Ex-Punjab Minister Sucha Singh's Son Among 5 Arrested with Heroin in Shimla

The arrests were made after a police patrolling party raided a room in a hotel near Panchayat Ghar, Old Bus Stand on Tuesday

Talk to India, resolve issues bilaterally: Saudi Arabia-Pakistan joint statement takes a New Delhi flavour after MBS-Shehbaz Sharif meet

Saudi and Pakistan's joint statement makes no reference to the UNSC resolution on Kashmir, something that has been standard formulation for Islamabad. Instead, it urges bilateral resolution of issues, echoing the Shimla Pact, which is New Delhi's line.

Best Waterfall: You will get relief in summer under these top and spectacular waterfalls of Himachal.

Top waterfall in Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh is a major state of India as well as a popular tourist destination. This state is famous all over the world because of its immense beauty, amazing views and attractive places. Just as the high mountains, dense forests and charming views add to the beauty of Himachal Pradesh, similarly many waterfalls located in this state also do the same. There are many such waterfalls in the beautiful valleys of Himachal Pradesh, which is a dream for many people. In this article, we are going to tell you about some of the top waterfalls of Himachal, below which you will get complete relief from the heat. Bhagsunag Waterfall If the name of the most beautiful and famous waterfall located in Himachal Pradesh is taken, then the name of Bhagsunag Waterfall is included first. This beautiful waterfall is located at a distance of about 3 km from McLeodganj, Himachal. When water falls from a height of more than 30 feet in Bhagsunag Waterfall, the surrounding view is simply worth admiring. This waterfall is also famous because many people come here to take a bath. The real form of this waterfall can be seen during monsoon. Chadwick Falls The beauty and popularity of Chadwick Waterfall are so popular that it is also called the pride of Shimla. Situated amidst the dense forests of Shimla, it is at a distance of about 7 km from Summer Hills. When water falls on the ground from Chadwick Falls, located at a height of more than 1 thousand meters above sea level, the surrounding view fascinates everyone. It is one of the major tourist destinations of Shimla. Many people come here in summer to take a bath in cold water. Its beauty is at its peak during monsoon. Rahala Waterfall Manali city of Himachal Pradesh is so popular that not only local but also foreign tourists come to visit here. Rahla Waterfall, located at a short distance from Manali, is considered the pride of Manali. Rahala Waterfall, situated at an altitude of more than 2 thousand meters above sea level, is formed by the melting of the glacier. Any tourist who comes to Manali to visit comes to admire the beauty of Rahla Waterfall. More number of tourists reach here in summer. Satdhara Falls Satdhara Waterfall, located in the beautiful valleys of Dalhousie, is one of the most popular waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh. Situated amidst snow-capped mountains and huge pine trees, this waterfall will bring you to life. The water of Satdhara Waterfall appears crystal clear. Many people keep coming here to get relief from the heat. Let us tell you that the forest located around Satdhara Waterfall is famous all over India because of its medicinal properties. Image-@dharamshalaloca,life2everything

'Time has come for PM Modi to hit fours, sixes, to take India to new heights': Anurag Thakur

'Time has come for PM Modi to hit fours, sixes, to take India to new heights': Anurag Thakur Union Minister Anurag Thakur said that the Prime Minister has played 'one-day' in the past 10 years, adding that the time has come to 'hit fours and sixes' to take India to new heights. Batting for Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's third term in the run-up to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Anurag Thakur said, In these two terms, PM Modi has laid a strong foundation for India so that it can become a developed India. It is the season of IPL and in the last 10 years, PM Modi has played like one-day and now the time has come to hit fours, and sixes because a strong foundation has been laid. Now the time has come to take India to new heights, he remarked. Himachal Pradesh has four Lok Sabha seats: Hamirpur, Mandi, Shimla, and Kangra. The BJP had won all four seats in 2019. The elections to the four Lok Sabha seats of Himachal Pradesh and by-polls to the six assembly constituencies that fell vacant with the disqualification of six rebel Congress MLAs will be held on June 1. (ANI)

Hill Stations near Pinjore: Make these wonderful hill stations located around Pinjore, Haryana a travel destination.

Best Places around Pinjore Haryana: Haryana is a major state of India. The beauty and historical facts of this state are so popular that people from almost every corner of the country keep coming here to visit. Haryana shares its borders with beautiful states like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, apart from Delhi and Punjab. Therefore, exploring the many beautiful places of Himachal and Uttarakhand located on the border of Haryana is considered no less than heaven. Pinjore of Haryana is also a city which is very close to Himachal Pradesh. In this article, we are going to tell you about some wonderful hill stations located around Pinjore, which you can make a weekend travel destination. Kasauli When it comes to visiting the most beautiful and popular hill station located around Pinjore in Haryana, the name of Kasauli is taken first. It falls in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh state. High mountains, dense forests, grasslands lakes and waterfalls add to the beauty of Kausli. You can enjoy the cool breeze here even in the scorching heat. In Kasauli, you can explore the best places like Christ Church, Sunset Point and Monkey Point. Here you can also enjoy adventure activities. Distance-The distance from Pinjore to Kasauli is about 36 km. Solan Solan, situated at an altitude of more than one thousand meters above sea level, is a beautiful and charming hill station. Being close to Pinjore, many people come here to visit during weekends. Solan is known for its beauty as well as greenery and amazing views. The weather here remains pleasant even in the scorching heat, hence it is considered best to visit here in summer. In Solan, you can explore the best places like Mashobra, Kalpa and Parwanoo. Distance-The distance from Pinjore to Solan is about 48 km. Chail Chail, situated in the beautiful valleys of Himachal Pradesh, is no less than a paradise. High mountains, grasslands, dense forests lakes and waterfalls also add to the beauty of this hill station. Chail is also a honeymoon destination of Himachal. In Chail, you can explore the best places like Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharaja Palace, Kali KaTibba and Sadhupul Lake. You can also enjoy trekking and hiking in Chail. You can also enjoy adventure activities in Chail. Distance-The distance from Pinjore to Chail is about 86 km. Shimla When the most famous and world-famous hill station around Pinjore is mentioned, the name of Shimla is taken first. Shimla, popular as the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is famous all over the world for its beauty. High mountains, big cedar trees, dense forests lakes and waterfalls add to the beauty of Shimla. In Shimla, you can explore wonderful places like The Ridge, Jakhu Hill, Mall Road, Kufri, Summer Hill and Shimla State Museum. Let us tell you that this is one of the most visited hill stations in India. Distance-Distance-The distance from Pinjore to Shimla is about 92 km.

Six arrested under NDPS Act in HP's Shimla

Six arrested under NDPS Act in HP's Shimla Six people were arrested here on Saturday in connection with the interstate drug trade, police said. The arrests were made after investigations of the backward and forward linkages following the arrest of accused Prikshit Dhani, a resident of Kotkhai on February 14, after recovery of 12 grams of Chitta (heroin) from his possession, they said. The accused have been identified as Aditya Chauhan (25), Paras Justa (27), Abhay Chauhan (26), Vishva Raj Singh (32), Ashutosh Sanolta (24) -- all residents of Kotkhai in Shimla district -- and supplier Sahil Kumar (26), a resident of Chandigarh, police said. Shimla Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi confirmed the report and said further investigation is on into the matter. Gandhi said that a case under Section 29 (abetment and criminal conspiracy) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act has been registered against the accused. ''The accused were involved in a wide drug racket in Kotkhai, '' he added.

Top waterfall in Himachal Pradesh: You will get relief in summer under these top and spectacular waterfalls of Himachal

Himachal Pradesh is a major state of India as well as a popular tourist destination. This state is famous all over the world because of its immense beauty, amazing views and attractive places. Just as the high mountains, dense forests and charming views add to the beauty of Himachal Pradesh, similarly many waterfalls located in this state also do the same. There are many such waterfalls in the beautiful valleys of Himachal Pradesh, seeing which a dream is for many people. In this article, we are going to tell you about some of the top waterfalls of Himachal, below which you will get complete relief from the heat. Bhagsunag Waterfall If the name of the most beautiful and famous waterfall located in Himachal Pradesh is taken, then the name of Bhagsunag Waterfall is included first. This beautiful waterfall is located at a distance of about 3 km from McLeodganj, Himachal. When water falls from a height of more than 30 feet in Bhagsunag Waterfall, the surrounding view is simply worth admiring. This waterfall is also famous because many people come here to take a bath. The real form of this waterfall can be seen during monsoon. Chadwick Falls The beauty and popularity of Chadwick Waterfall are so popular that it is also called the pride of Shimla. Situated amidst the dense forests of Shimla, it is at a distance of about 7 km from Summer Hills. When water falls on the ground from Chadwick Fall, situated at a height of more than 1 thousand meters above sea level, the surrounding view fascinates everyone. It is one of the major tourist destinations of Shimla. Many people come here in summer to take a bath in cold water. Its beauty is at its peak during monsoon. Rahala Waterfall Manali city of Himachal Pradesh is so popular that not only local but also foreign tourists come to visit here. Rahala Waterfall, situated at a short distance from Manali, is considered the pride of Manali. Rahala Waterfall, situated at an altitude of more than 2 thousand meters above sea level, is formed by the melting of the glacier. Any tourist who comes to Manali comes to admire the beauty of Rahla Waterfall. More number of tourists reach here in summer. Satdhara Falls Satdhara Waterfall, located in the beautiful valleys of Dalhousie, is one of the most popular waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh. Situated amidst snow-capped mountains and huge pine trees, this waterfall will bring you to life. The water of Satdhara Waterfall appears crystal clear. Many people keep coming here to get relief from the heat. Let us tell you that the forest located around Satdhara Waterfall is famous all over India because of its medicinal properties. Image-@dharamshalaloca,life2everything

Girl Crushed To Death By Government Car Near Sukhvinder Sukhu's Shimla Home

A three-year-old girl, sleeping on the roadside near the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister's official residence in Shimla, was allegedly run over by a government car today, the police said.

To get relief from the scorching heat of April, plan to visit these places near Delhi

As April's blazing temperatures sweep across the plains, residents of Delhi seek refuge in nearby destinations that offer respite from the relentless heat. From serene hill stations to historical marvels, here are the top places near Delhi where you can cool off and rejuvenate: 1. Shimla: The Queen of Hill Stations Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Shimla beckons with its lush greenery and pleasant climate. Explore the colonial charm of Mall Road, embark on a scenic hike to Jakhu Temple, or simply unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings. 1.1 Mall Road: Shop and Stroll Indulge in shopping for local handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs as you stroll along Mall Road, soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills. 1.2 Jakhu Temple: Seek Blessings Trek to the hilltop Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan range along the way. 2. Mussoorie: The Queen of Hills Dubbed as the Queen of Hills, Mussoorie offers a perfect escape from the scorching heat with its cool climate and picturesque landscapes. Take a leisurely walk on Camel's Back Road, visit the iconic Kempty Falls, or explore the historic Landour Bazaar. 2.1 Camel's Back Road: Sunset Strolls Embark on a serene walk along Camel's Back Road, named after its distinctive camel hump-shaped rock formation, and witness mesmerizing sunsets against the backdrop of the Himalayas. 2.2 Kempty Falls: Nature's Oasis Immerse yourself in the cascading beauty of Kempty Falls, where icy mountain waters plunge into crystal-clear pools, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. 3. Nainital: The Lake District of India Famed for its emerald lakes and lush surroundings, Nainital is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Explore the serene Naini Lake on a boat ride, trek to Tiffin Top for panoramic views, or shop for exquisite candles at Mall Road. 3.1 Naini Lake: Serenity Unleashed Embark on a tranquil boat ride across Naini Lake, surrounded by verdant hills and mirrored reflections, for an enchanting experience amidst nature's splendor. 3.2 Tiffin Top: Scenic Vista Hike to Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat, for a bird's-eye view of Nainital town and the majestic Himalayan peaks, offering a perfect setting for picnics and photography. 4. Rishikesh: The Yoga Capital of the World Escape the summer heat and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul in the serene environs of Rishikesh. Explore the spiritual ashrams, partake in adventurous activities like river rafting and bungee jumping, or simply meditate by the holy Ganges River. 4.1 Ganga Aarti: Spiritual Bliss Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat as priests offer prayers to the sacred river, accompanied by rhythmic chants and the flickering glow of oil lamps, creating an aura of divine tranquility. 4.2 River Rafting: Thrilling Adventure Embark on an adrenaline-pumping river rafting expedition along the rapids of the Ganges, offering an exhilarating experience amidst the pristine wilderness of Rishikesh. 5. Jaipur: The Pink City Step into the regal grandeur of Jaipur, adorned with magnificent palaces, vibrant bazaars, and rich cultural heritage. Explore the majestic Amber Fort, marvel at the intricate architecture of Hawa Mahal, or shop for traditional handicrafts at Johari Bazaar. 5.1 Amber Fort: Majestic Splendor Immerse yourself in the opulence of Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you traverse its sprawling courtyards, intricate palaces, and majestic ramparts, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan's royal legacy. 5.2 Hawa Mahal: Architectural Marvel Admire the breathtaking faade of Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds, with its intricate lattice-work windows, designed to allow royal women to observe street festivities while remaining veiled from public view. As the mercury soars in April, these enchanting destinations near Delhi offer a perfect retreat to beat the heat and create unforgettable memories amidst nature's splendor and cultural richness. TOP FIVE MUST DO COURSES AFTER 12 TH Army Unveils Ambitious Reforms to Strengthen Combat Capabilities Preview of Mahindra XUV 3XO Sub-Compact SUV Ahead of April 29 Launch

India's most popular hill station, you should also plan to visit in April, you will feel happy after seeing the view

When April arrives in India, it brings with it a delightful invitation to explore the serene beauty of its hill stations. Among the plethora of options, there are a few that stand out for their popularity and allure. Whether you seek tranquility, adventure, or simply a respite from the scorching heat, India's hill stations in April offer an unforgettable experience. Let's delve into the charm of these captivating destinations that promise to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The Allure of India's Hill Stations India's hill stations are renowned for their picturesque landscapes, temperate climates, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled amidst lush greenery and towering peaks, these retreats offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With April marking the onset of spring, these hill stations come alive with blooming flowers, clear skies, and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to visit. 1. Shimla: Queen of the Hills Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, reigns as one of India's most beloved hill stations. Its colonial charm, panoramic views, and pleasant climate make it a favorite among travelers. In April, as winter bids adieu and spring unfolds its magic, Shimla adorns itself with vibrant hues of nature. From leisurely strolls along the Mall Road to thrilling activities like paragliding and trekking, there's something for everyone in this enchanting hill station. 2. Darjeeling: Jewel of the East Darjeeling, nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, beckons with its unparalleled beauty and cultural richness. Famous for its tea plantations, toy train rides, and stunning vistas of the Kanchenjunga, April transforms Darjeeling into a paradise on earth. The clear skies offer panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, while the aroma of freshly brewed tea permeates the air, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. 3. Ooty: Queen of the Nilgiris Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a charming hill station nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. Blessed with emerald landscapes, rolling hills, and a pleasant climate throughout the year, Ooty is a perennial favorite among tourists. In April, the weather is mild, making it perfect for exploring the lush botanical gardens, boating on the serene Ooty Lake, or taking a ride on the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway. 4. Manali: Gateway to Adventure Manali, situated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is synonymous with adventure and natural beauty. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and meandering rivers, Manali offers a plethora of activities for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. In April, as the snow starts to melt, the landscapes come alive with blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for trekking, river rafting, and camping amidst nature's bounty. 5. Munnar: Haven of Tranquility Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and breathtaking vistas. April showers Munnar with gentle rains, enhancing its natural beauty and creating a serene ambiance. Visitors can embark on leisurely walks through the tea estates, explore the Eravikulam National Park to spot the elusive Nilgiri Tahr, or simply soak in the tranquility of this idyllic hill station. Planning Your April Escape As you plan your April getaway to India's enchanting hill stations, keep in mind a few essential tips to ensure a memorable experience: Pack Accordingly: Although April brings mild weather to most hill stations, it's advisable to pack layers to accommodate fluctuations in temperature. Book Accommodation in Advance: Due to the popularity of these destinations, especially during the peak tourist season, it's prudent to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. Explore Local Cuisine and Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying traditional cuisine, visiting local markets, and interacting with the friendly locals. Stay Hydrated: Despite the pleasant weather, it's essential to stay hydrated, especially if you're engaging in outdoor activities. Respect Nature: While enjoying the beauty of these hill stations, remember to be responsible travelers and leave no trace behind. Respect the local flora and fauna, and contribute to the preservation of these pristine environments. Experience Bliss in India's Hill Stations As April unfolds its magic across India's hill stations, it presents a golden opportunity to embark on a journey of discovery and rejuvenation. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or simply wish to immerse yourself in the splendor of nature, these enchanting destinations have something special in store for every traveler. So pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable adventure, and let the beauty of India's hill stations in April fill your heart with joy and contentment. RBI Guv Assures Minimal Impact on Wheat Prices Amid Heatwave Predictions, Urges Vigilance on Vegetable Costs Heat Wave: Essential Tips to Safeguard Children During India's Sweltering Heatwave Adopt these exercises to reduce neck fat, effect will be visible in 2 days

Snow falls at these places even in summer, you can plan to visit in just Rs 5 thousand

When we think of snow, we often envision cozy winter days and chilly temperatures. But did you know that there are places where you can experience the magic of snow even in the midst of summer? And what's even better you can explore these winter wonderlands without burning a hole in your pocket. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure as we uncover seven affordable destinations where snowfall is a year-round affair. 1. Shimla, India: Hill Station Paradise Shimla, nestled in the picturesque Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is renowned for its colonial charm and stunning mountain vistas. Despite the summer heat elsewhere, Shimla's lofty altitude ensures a cool climate and occasional snowfall even in the warmer months. With budget-friendly accommodations and a plethora of outdoor activities, including trekking and skiing, Shimla offers an unforgettable snowy retreat without breaking the bank. 2. Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand: Southern Hemisphere Snow Haven Mount Ruapehu, located in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, is a haven for snow enthusiasts year-round. Home to the country's largest ski areas, Whakapapa and Turoa, this volcanic wonderland offers affordable skiing and snowboarding adventures amidst breathtaking scenery. With budget accommodation options nearby and various hiking trails to explore during the summer months, Mount Ruapehu promises an affordable and unforgettable snowy escape. 3. Lesotho, Southern Africa: Africa's Snowy Secret Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa lies Lesotho, a country known as the Kingdom in the Sky for its lofty altitude and stunning landscapes. Despite its location near the equator, Lesotho experiences snowfall during the winter months, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience Africa's snowy side. With budget-friendly accommodations and a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and snowboarding, Lesotho is an affordable and off-the-beaten-path destination for snow seekers. 4. Mount Hotham, Australia: Down Under Snow Delight Mount Hotham, situated in the Australian Alps of Victoria, is a hidden gem for snow enthusiasts seeking an affordable escape. With reliable snowfall during the winter months and a range of budget-friendly accommodations and dining options, Mount Hotham offers an unforgettable snowy adventure without the hefty price tag. Whether you're skiing, snowboarding, or simply admiring the breathtaking scenery, Mount Hotham promises an affordable and unforgettable snowy retreat. 5. Svalbard, Norway: Arctic Snowscape Svalbard, located midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is a remote archipelago renowned for its stunning Arctic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Despite its far-flung location, Svalbard experiences snowfall year-round, offering visitors a chance to experience the magic of the Arctic regardless of the season. With budget-friendly accommodations and a range of outdoor activities, including dog sledding and snowmobiling, Svalbard promises an affordable and unforgettable snowy adventure. 6. Mount Charleston, Nevada, USA: Desert Snow Oasis Mount Charleston, just a short drive from the bustling city of Las Vegas, is a surprising oasis of snow in the midst of the Nevada desert. With its lofty altitude and cooler temperatures, Mount Charleston experiences snowfall during the winter months, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience snowy landscapes just a stone's throw from the Las Vegas Strip. With budget-friendly accommodations and a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding, Mount Charleston promises an affordable and unforgettable snowy escape. 7. Tusheti, Georgia: Caucasus Mountain Gem Tusheti, nestled in the rugged Caucasus Mountains of Georgia, is a remote and breathtakingly beautiful region known for its pristine landscapes and traditional mountain villages. Despite its off-the-beaten-path location, Tusheti experiences snowfall during the winter months, offering visitors a chance to experience the magic of the Caucasus in a snowy wonderland. With budget-friendly guesthouses and a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and skiing, Tusheti promises an affordable and unforgettable snowy adventure. Pack Your Bags and Embrace the Chill From the lofty peaks of Shimla to the Arctic landscapes of Svalbard, these seven affordable destinations offer snow enthusiasts the chance to experience winter wonderlands year-round without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, grab your winter gear, and embark on an unforgettable snowy adventure that won't cost a fortune. Taapsee Pannu Ties the Knot: A Peek Into Her Punjabi Wedding Bliss Priyanka Chopra Jonas Joins Barry Avrich's Documentary 'Born Hungry' as Producer How to style saree with pant suit? Learn tricks from Taapsee

Another earthquake hits Himachal Pradeshs Chamba within 2 days

Shimla: Tremors were felt in parts of north India as a 5.3-magnitude earthquake hit Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday. The earthquake struck at 9.34 pm, the National Center for Seismology (NCS) said. Also ReadEarthquake of magnitude 3.5 hits Himachal Pradeshs Lahaul & Spiti Mild tremors were also felt in Chandigarh and parts of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

5.3-magnitude earthquake hits Chamba in HP

5.3-magnitude earthquake hits Chamba in HP Tremors were felt in parts of north India as a 5.3-magnitude earthquake hit Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday. The earthquake struck at 9.34 pm, the National Center for Seismology (NCS) said. Mild tremors were also felt in Chandigarh and parts of Punjab and Haryana. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km in Chamba district, officials of the meteorological department in Shimla said. No loss of life or property has been reported from any part of Himachal Pradesh in earthquake that lasted a few seconds, officials said. ''I felt a strong jolt lasting a couple of seconds. Just when I was thinking of rushing downstairs, the tremors stopped,'' said Sanjay Kumar, a Chandigarh resident. An 8-magnitude earthquake on this day in 1905 in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra had led to large-scale death and destruction. According to NCS records, more than 20,000 people had died in the disaster in the Western Himalayas.

Adventure Tour Packages from Delhi to Chandigarh: - Plan an adventure trip from Delhi and Chandigarh in April, go through these packages

If you are planning to go on an adventure trip with a group of your friends, then you can go with the Indian Railways package. In this, you only have to book a tour package, after this the entire travel preparations will be done by Indian Railways. In today's article, we will give you detailed information about the new tour package of Indian Railways. Traveling through these packages is beneficial because in this you get a chance to visit many places simultaneously. Ladakh/Leh Tour Package This package is starting from 27th April. This is a tour package of 6 nights and 7 days. Every week you can go on a trip through this tour package. Package Fee- For this package, per person fee will have to be paid Rs 52,400. You will get a chance to stay in the camp for just Rs 52,400. The package includes hotel, flight tickets, food and sightseeing expenses. It is very easy to book a package from the official website of Indian Railways. Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg and Srinagar Tour Plan If you want to see the beautiful view of lush green mountains in spring, then you can go on a tour with this package of Indian Railways. This package is starting from Chandigarh on 20th April. This tour package is for 5 nights and 6 days, during which you will get a chance to visit Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg and Srinagar together. Package Fee If travelling with three people, you will have to pay Rs 30,800 per person. For just Rs 30,800 you will get a round trip ticket, 5 breakfasts and 5 dinners and a chance to spend one night in a houseboat. Hotel expenses are also included in the package. This is the best package to hang out with friends. Kanechi Tour Package In the package, you can enjoy rock climbing, rappelling, Burma Bridge, rope walking, ring walk, trampoline and zip line. The package will include an opportunity to spend 2 nights in a luxury tent. 03 breakfast, 03 lunch and 03 dinner. Morning and evening tea and sightseeing bus facility This package is for 2 nights and 3 days. Manali and Shimla Tour Package For this package, you can book tickets from Chandigarh every day. This tour package is for 7 nights and 8 days. Package Fee The package fee per person for travelling with three people is Rs 24115. The package of just Rs 24115 includes round trip tickets, 7 breakfasts 07 dinners and hotel expenses. Image Credit- Freepik

Crack Academy Honours 50 Educationists at its Award of Excellence Ceremony

With 17+ years of experience, Crack Academy provides excellence in education under its CSR initiative Mere Seher ke 100 Ratan . The program has already been launched in Shimla for the students of Himachal Pradesh and in Chandigarh for the students of Punjab. Moreover, paving the way to empower the pioneers in education.

Travel tips: These are the favorite Indian places of foreign tourists, the views here sink into the heart.

Everyone likes to travel and all Indians want to be able to visit every corner of the country. India has a lot to offer for tourism. Somewhere there is a seashore to visit and somewhere there are high mountains. Somewhere there are dense forests, where all kinds of animals can be seen, while somewhere it rains throughout the year or there are deserts. This is the reason why a large number of foreign tourists reach here every year. Apart from all this, due to the hospitality of the people of India, delicious food, history, architecture, yoga, various festivals, etc., India has become one of the favorite places of foreign tourists. Today in this episode, we are going to tell you about some such places in the country that are favorite destinations of Indians as well as foreign tourists. Let us know about these places... Varanasi Varanasi is also known as Kashi and Banaras. This thousands of years old city is situated on the banks of river Ganga. It is one of the famous pilgrimage sites of Hindus. Here is the temple of Kashi Vishwanath, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Here you will find temples in every street, hence it is also called the city of temples. People come to Banaras not only from the country but also from abroad for liberation and salvation. Famous for its distinct culture, this city attracts millions of tourists. Udaipur There would hardly be any person in India who would not wish to visit Udaipur at least once in his life. In fact, after coming here, you will yourself say that if you had not visited Udaipur, how would you have visited it? Udaipur is called the Kashmir of Rajasthan. Due to the presence of many beautiful water lakes here, it is also called the city of lakes. Apart from lakes, there are many forts, palaces, gardens, and adventures nearby. Rishikesh Rishikesh is famous all over the world for meditation and yoga. That's why it is also known as the Capital of Yoga. This city is a big center of yoga and meditation. Rishikesh has the highest number of foreign tourists visiting. There are many options for adventure here too. If you want to learn and understand spirituality or want to enjoy the peace of the valleys and do rafting etc. then the city of Rishikesh is waiting for you. Ram Jhula is most famous here, people come from far and wide to enjoy it. Pushkar Pushkar is so much liked by foreign tourists that many settle here forever. You can see more foreign tourists here than Indians. They can even be seen speaking Hindi and following our rituals. Pushkar is only 15 km away from Ajmer district, but here you will not feel that you are so close to a big city like Ajmer. Because the environment here will be completely different from the urban environment. The world's only Brahma temple is also located here. There are 55 ghats and about 400 temples around the Pushkar Lake of Tirtharaj Pushkar. Agra The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders. UNESCO has also given it a place in its heritage. The art, miniature paintings, crafts, etc. here also attract foreigners a lot. There is no dearth of tourist places in Agra. Not only local people but also foreigners from faraway countries come to see the Taj Mahal. The beauty of Taj Mahal is famous all over the world. Apart from the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Taj Museum, Itimad-ud-Daula, Akbar's Tomb and Red Fort of Agra along with Kinari Bazaar are also places worth seeing. Jaipur The most prized jewel of historic India, the 'Pink City' of Jaipur mesmerizes foreign tourists with its unique architectural sights, including the pink sandstone Hawa Mahal that resembles a real honeycomb and the hill fort known as the Amer Fort. , is the best example of this. Rajputana military architecture, with the astronomical designs of Jaigarh Fort, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar. The city is a thriving center of traditional Indian handicrafts, jewelry, art, and sculpture. Goa Goa, known as the 'Queen of Beaches', is the first choice of every foreign tourist. Sun, sand, sports, and surfing on the beach of Goa are liked by every generation of today. If you are tired of visiting hilly areas like Manali and Shimla again and again, then Goa will be a new experience for you which is not snowy but marine. Will experience. The nightclubs here, cheap liquor, and parties going on till late at night on the beach attract foreigners a lot. That is why whenever you ask a foreigner about India, he will mention Goa at least once. Jodhpur International tourists love the ethnic charm of Jodhpur. The otherworldly 'Blue City' of India, known for its magnificently built fort of Mehrangarh, steeped in history, has always attracted foreign tourists searching for the quintessential historical gems of India. Tourists are also attracted to the ancient Clock Tower, Jaswant Thada, and Umaid Bhawan Palace apart from the magnificent Rajasthani handmade art jewelry, ethnic clothes, and exclusive souvenir items. The 'blue' houses of Jodhpur are a photographer's delight. (PC: Lifeberrys)

April Travel Places: Neither too cold nor too hot, these places are best for traveling in April for just Rs 5000

The temperature starts increasing from the month of April. Mild summer starts from this month. The normal temperature in most of the plain areas is more than 30 degrees Celsius. Although there is not very humid heat. For those who hesitate to step out of the house in the severe cold of January-February, the month of April is a better time to travel. There is neither too much cold nor too humid heat in this month. Due to this, one does not have to face the problem of sweat and dehydration while travelling. There are also festivals like Chaitra Navratri, Eid Al Fitr, Baisakhi, Ram Navami in the month of April. Holidays for these festivals are also available in some offices. Apart from this, you can also go on a weekend trip. There is a chance to travel and the weather is also suitable for travelling, in such a situation, if you are planning a trip but are worried about the budget, then there is no need to worry. In this article, you are being told about some such tourist places, where you can visit in the month of April, that too in a budget of just Rs 5000. Pachmarhi Pachmarhi is the only hill station in Madhya Pradesh. Located on the Satpura hills, away from the peaks of Pachmarhi, one can see only greenery at this hill station. The month of April is suitable to see the magnificent carvings and waterfalls in the caves of Pachmarhi. Here you can also enjoy hiking and trekking. The nearest railway station to reach Pachmarhi is Pipariya. Bhopal or Jabalpur are the nearest airports by flight. Although there is a good road till Pachmarhi, you can enjoy the natural views while going by road. It will not cost much to visit and stay here. Dharamshala Dharamshala, a beautiful hill station located in the valleys of Himachal, is the best place to visit in April. Dharamshala is also called Mini Tibet. Tibetan flags keep waving all around here. You can visit this relaxing place amidst the mountains to see bustling markets, museums and monasteries. Bus to Dharamshala is easily available from Delhi, Shimla and Dehradun, which is also in budget. Hotel rent is also not very high. Mussoorie Mussoorie of Uttarakhand is also called 'Queen of Hills'. Cold winds blow in Mussoorie in April. While roaming on the streets of Mussoorie on Scooty during the day, the cool breeze amid the golden sunshine makes for a wonderful journey. Here you can visit Lal Tibba, Kempty Fall, Company Garden, Dalai Hills. Apart from this, one can also visit Dhanaulti and Surkanda Mata temples. For adventure, you will be able to enjoy many sports in the budget. The cost of living, traveling and eating in this hill station can be less than Rs 5000. Buses and taxis are easily available from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Mussoorie. Mount Abu The month of April is also a better time to visit Mount Abu, the only hill station of Rajasthan. There are dense forests around Mount Abu surrounded by a peak made of granite. There are many holy and ancient temples of Jains and Hindus here. Away from the scorching sun and heat, Mount Abu is a cool and close to nature city, with Abu Road being the nearest railway station to reach it. One can also reach here by road. Other places If the budget is high then the month of April is best suited to visit Darjeeling, Ravangla, Cherrapunji, Gulmarg, Ooty and Tawang. Apart from this, the month of April is also the right time to visit Nainital and Ooty. (PC: iStock)

Accidents in Himachal Pradesh drop by 14% in first 3 months this year

Accidents in Himachal Pradesh drop by 14% in first 3 months this year Himachal Pradesh has reduced the number of accidents by 14 per cent by taking action based on analysis of road crash data, officials said Tuesday, comparing statistics of the first three months of this year with the corresponding period of 2023. As per police data, in the first three months of 2024, accidents have reduced by 14 per cent, fatalities by 27 per cent and injuries by 18 per cent, a statement issued here said. Police have not shared the number of accidents, deaths and injuries of the period. Director General of Police Sanjay Kundu said that directives had been issued to police officials at the grassroots level to take proactive measures to prevent road crashes and reduce fatalities. A concerted effort by law enforcement agencies coupled with community engagement and awareness programmes and targeted strategies have contributed to this positive outcome, Kundu said. Kundu commended the efforts of the HP Traffic, Tourist & Railways Police in analysing road crash data effectively, facilitating informed decision-making to mitigate road accidents and fatalities. Police said implementation of new technological measures and modern equipment provided through the World Bank-funded HP State Road Transformation Project (HPSRTP) has also contributed towards the reduction of road accidents. The HPSRTP project, with a total sponsored amount of Rs 47.79 crore, is a 5-year programme being executed by the HP Traffic, Tourist and Railways Police. The use of technology-based enforcement, online compounding of e-challans, weekly review by police headquarters, road safety activities through corporate social responsibility (CSR), real-time information dissemination through social media platforms and wider community participation were the other reasons behind the reduction of road accidents, police added. In Shimla district, there was a 29 per cent reduction in accidents, 8 per cent decrease in fatalities and 42 per cent drop in injuries till March 31, Shimla Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi said in a statement. Gandhi said efforts to improve voluntary compliance of road safety strategies helped in reducing.

Himachal ex-BJP MLA's wife Indu Verma joins party, says going to Congress fold was mistake

Himachal ex-BJP MLA's wife Indu Verma joins party, says going to Congress fold was mistake Indu Verma, wife of three-time Himachal Pradesh BJP MLA Rakesh Verma, on Tuesday joined the party along with her supporters in the presence of BJP state chief Rajiv Bindal. She had joined the Congress before the 2022 assembly polls and had later contested as an independent candidate from Theog assembly constituency after the Congress nominated former Himachal Pradesh Congress president Kuldeep Rathore from the seat. ''Joining the Congress was a mistake but 'subah ka bhula agar sham ko ghar aa jaye to use bhula nahi kehtey' (It is never too late to mend),'' she said, and added that me and my workers would work for the victory of the party without any expectations. Contesting as an Independent, Indu Verma had secured 20 per cent of the total 65987 votes polled in the 2022 assembly elections. Earlier, she remained a zila parishad member twice, besides being the president of the Shimla unit of the BJP Mahila Morcha. She also runs the 'Mahila Jagrukta Manch', an NGO in the state. Her husband Rakesh Verma had won his first election in 1993 on the BJP ticket from Theog constituency, defeating Congress leader and former minister Vidya Stokes.

Best budget honeymoon places from Haryana: - If you are planning a cheap trip from Haryana for a honeymoon, then these 3 places in India are the best

You must also be planning to go on honeymoon after marriage. But due to budget, you are not able to understand where to go. Planning a honeymoon on a low budget is a bit difficult. Because in this, along with the travel expenses, you also have to consider the expenses of travelling, food and hotel. Therefore, no matter how low a budget you plan a trip, it still goes above Rs 20 thousand. But this will not happen now. In today's article, we will tell you about such places, where your expenses will be less and the views will also be beautiful. Visit these places in Himachal Pradesh Himachal trips may be cheaper for the people of Haryana. Because its distance is about 367 km. The most special thing about this place is that whenever you go here, the weather and view will win your heart. Keep these things in mind - While planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh, keep in mind that do not book a cab here. This is because the cabbies here charge Rs 500 only for a short distance. If you know how to ride a scooter or a bike and can ride it in the mountains, then go here and take a bike on rent. Anyway, the beautiful views of the mountains can be enjoyed only on an open bike. If you come here from Haryana on an AC bus, you will have to pay 800 to 1000 rupees for a ticket. You will have to pay Rs 300 to 400 for a government bus. Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh- From Haryana, you should plan a honeymoon at places like Dharamshala, Kasol, Solan, Dalhousie and Shimla. This place is best to visit on a low budget. The total cost of visiting Himachal Pradesh will be up to Rs 15 thousand. Rajasthan You can also go to Rajasthan to plan a honeymoon trip on a low budget. If you do not want to go to hilly places, then this place is best for you. You can come here by both train and bus. Keep in mind that here too you can rent a bike or scooter to roam around. The total cost for two people to visit here will be up to Rs 15 thousand. This is because you will get train tickets from Haryana for Rs 300 to 400. You will get the hotel for 1000 to 1500 rupees. Lonavala You can also plan to go to Lonavala from Haryana. But the total expense of travelling here with two people will be Rs 15,000 to 20,000. The distance from Haryana to Lonavala is 1,528.9 km. Image Credit- Freepik

Himachal Weather: Western disturbance will remain active in the state from April 3 to April 4, weather will change again from March 7.

Yellow alert for rain and snowfall has been issued in eight central and high mountain districts of Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Mandi, Kullu and Chamba on April 3 and 4. The weather is expected to remain clear in the plain districts till April 4. The weather remained clear in most areas of Himachal Pradesh [] The post Himachal Weather: Western disturbance will remain active in the state from April 3 to April 4, weather will change again from March 7. first appeared on informalnewz .

'Aircraft, land, flats': ED attaches Alchemist group's assets worth Rs. 30 Cr in money laundering case

NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached assets worth Rs. 29.45 Crore of Alchemist group in a case of money laundering, an official said on Saturday. According to the official, the attached movable and immovable properties include an aircraft Beech King Air C- 90A, flats, and land situated in the districts of Shimla, Sirmaur, (Himachal Pradesh) and Katni (Madhya Pradesh). Notably, the Alchemist group is headed by Kanwar Deep Singh, Ex-Member Rajya Sabha, All India Trinamool Congress (AITC). A total of 18 flats have been provisionally attached by ED which were purchased by Alchemist Realty Ltd in the Parsvnath Royale Project in Panchkula, Haryana, the official said. Further, land measuring around 250 bighas and 78 bighas situated in Keonthal, Shimla Rural district, and Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh respectively has been attached. The federal probe agency had initiated an investigation on the basis of FIRs registered by CBI, Lucknow, Kolkata Police, and UP Police under various sections of IPC against multiple individuals and group companies of the Alchemist Group. According to the official, the probe revealed that the Alchemist Group allegedly collected funds amounting to more than Rs 1800 Crore from investors or victims in its companies namely, Alchemist Holdings Limited and Alchemist Township India Limited on the false promise of providing high returns and giving flats, villas, and plots to the public/investors/victims. However, as per ED, the investors were never returned their money and the funds siphoned off/diverted to various group companies of Alchemist Group. The ED investigation further revealed that the Alchemist group had floated a number of companies in various fields for acquiring properties out of the proceeds of crime it acquired from the victims or investors on the false promises. It has also been revealed that huge parcels of land were purchased by Alchemist group in the name of third parties so as to camouflage and mask the real ownership of such properties, the official said. Pertinent to mention here that the ED had also recently attached Rs. 10.29 Crore belonging to All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) party in the case. The official further said that the Alchemist group had used the proceeds of crime to make payments to aviation companies on behalf of AITC. Further investigation is underway, the official added.

HP minister Vikramaditya calls comments against Kangana unfortunate

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh minister Vikramaditya Singh on Saturday said the derogatory comments made against actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut were unfortunate even as he questioned her absence during the 2023 floods in the state. Ranaut has been fielded by the BJP as its candidate from the Mandi Lok Sabha seat. She will take on Congress state chief Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

172 roads closed as snow, rain lash parts of Himachal Pradesh

172 roads closed as snow, rain lash parts of Himachal Pradesh Higher reaches and tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh received a fresh spell of snow while low and middle hills were lashed by intermittent hailstorm and moderate rains on Saturday. The MeT office has predicted a wet spell in the state till April 4, barring April 1. A Himachal Roadways Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus on Saturday morning turned turtle near Maling in Kinnaur district after skidding in the snow, authorities said. No casualty was reported. Incidents of wind blowing roofs were reported from Solan district and trees falling on vehicles from Sirmaur district, they said. Traffic came to a halt at the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang near Manali following heavy snow. Gondla in Lahaul and Spiti received 15 cm of snow followed by Kalpa 10 cm, and Kothi and Kukumseri, each of which received 5 cm of it, in the past 24 hours. A total of 172 roads, including four national highways, have been closed for vehicular traffic in the state since Friday night, according to the state emergency operation centre. Most of these roads are in difficult terrain of Lahaul and Spiti. A total of 662 transformers are out of order in the state. Intermittent rain accompanied by lightning and gusty wind were witnessed in the state' capital Shimla and some other places. A hailstorm made commuting difficult in Solan. The Local MeT office has issued an 'orange warning' with thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hail, heavy rain and gusty wind (40-50 kmph) at places in seven out of 12 districts of the state.

Himachal: Mandis royal families can create difficulty for Kangana

Shimla:The influence of BJP dissidents and the erstwhile royal families in the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency can make the road tough for Bollywood actor turned-politician Kangana Ranaut who is making her electoral debut as the BJP candidate from the high-profile seat. Maheshwar Singh, a former BJP state president, three times MP and scion of the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Himachal: 3 independent MLAs protest outside the assembly demanding that the speaker accept their resignations

Three Independent MLAs sat on a day-long protest outside the Himachal assembly in Shimla demanding that the Speaker accept their resignations.

168 roads closed as snow, rains lash parts of Himachal Pradesh

168 roads closed as snow, rains lash parts of Himachal Pradesh Higher reaches and tribal areas received fresh spell of snow while low and middle hills were lashed by intermittent hail and rains on Saturday as the local MeT office predicted wet spell in Himachal Pradesh till April 4. A Himachal Roadways Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus turned turtle near Maling in the Kinnaur district after skidding on Saturday morning in the snow but no casualty was reported, an official said. Traffic came to a halt at the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang near Manali following heavy snow. Kalpa and Kukumseri received 5 cm of snow followed by Keylong with 3 cm of snow in the past 24 hours. A total of 168 roads, including three National Highways, were closed for vehicular traffic in the state on Friday night as per the data of the state emergency operation centre. Most of these roads are in a difficult terrain in Lahaul and Spiti, where 159 roads are still to be opened. Intermittent rains accompanied by lightning and gusty winds were witnessed in the state's capital Shimla and some other places, and hailstorm made commuting difficult in Solan. The Local MeT office had issued an orange warning of thunderstorms accompanied with lightning, hail, heavy rains and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) at isolated places in seven out of 12 districts in the state on Saturday.

CBI chargesheets 20 institutes, 105 individuals in Himachal Pradesh scholarship scam

NEW DELHI: Following the conclusion of its investigation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday has filed charge-sheets in the Himachal Pradesh multi-crore scholarship scam and named 20 institutions and 105 individuals as accused. According to the charge-sheet, those who have been made accused, include the owners of educational institutes, the staff of Directorate of Higher Education, Shimla; bank officials and other private persons involved in the misuse of funds under scholarship and reimbursement scheme of fees launched by the Centre and implemented through the state government to help the students of SC, ST and OBC categories. The CBI alleged that the scam started in 2012-13, when the scholarships for SC, ST and OBC students of the state for pre-metric and post-metric students under 36 schemes were not paid to the eligible students. Noting that that 80 per cent of the scholarship money was paid to the private institutions, the CBI alleged that the scam was unearthed following reports that the students of the government schools in the tribal Spiti valley in Himachal Pradeshs Lahaul and Spiti district had not been paid a scholarship for the five years. A case was registered by the CBI in 2019 on request of the Himachal Pradesh government against the private educational institutions in the state for fake and fraudulent claims of scholarships of around Rs 181 crore during 2013 to 2017, a senior agency official said. Searches were conducted at about 30 places which led to the recovery of incriminating documents and subsequently, 19 accused, including the chairman, vice-chairman, directors and employees of the educational institutes; bank officials and officials of the education department were arrested. Twenty two educational institutions were on the CBI radar for not only committing irregularities but also for allegedly asking the students to pay money for the release of scholarship.

BJP stalled central assistance during 2022 Monsoon disaster: Sukhu

SHIMLA, Mar 29: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday accused the state BJP of stalling the central assistance for the monsoon disaster and playing politics during the worst-ever natural calamity. Sukhu said the state government announced a special relief package of Rs 4,500 crore from its resources despite a financial crunch, and [] The post BJP stalled central assistance during 2022 Monsoon disaster: Sukhu appeared first on Northlines .

Best places to visit in April with family: - Make these wonderful places of the country destination points with your family during the April holidays

April is a month of the year when it starts getting hot in almost every part of the country. There are holidays in children's schools also this month. Children's holidays mean time to travel. Yes, during holidays, children start insisting on their parents to go out for a trip. In such a situation, many parents start looking for some best places to visit. If you are also planning to travel with family during the April holidays, then you can explore these wonderful places from Himachal Pradesh to Uttarakhand and South India. Nainital If you are planning to visit the beautiful valleys of Uttarakhand during the April holidays, then you can take a trip to Nainital. Nainital is such a hill station, where the family members will rejoice after visiting. In Nainital, which is situated at an altitude of more than 2 thousand meters above sea level, one can enjoy a cool breeze in April. Children will thank you after visiting Jim Corbett National Park located in Nainital. You can also enjoy boating with children in Nainital. Apart from this, you can explore places like Cave Garden and Tiffin Top. You can also do adventure activities here with the family. Dalhousie Dalhousie, situated at an altitude of more than 6 thousand feet above sea level, is one of the most beautiful places in India. The beauty of Khajjiar located in Dalhousie is so popular that it is also called the mini Switzerland of the country. Even during April when it is extremely hot in other parts, the temperature in Dalhousie remains between 10C to 25C. You and your kids will surely be ecstatic after roaming in the cool breeze of Dalhousie. In Dalhousie you can explore amazing places like Khajjiar, Panchpula Waterfall and GanjiPahari. Alleppey If you are planning to visit the beach with your family during the April holidays, then you should reach Alleppey in Kerala. This beautiful sea place is also known as Alappuzha. The beauty of Alleppey is so popular that it is also called Venice of the East. This beautiful city is famous all over India for its beautiful backwaters, beaches and lagoons. You can also enjoy the Nehru Boat Race in this beautiful city. In Alleppey, you can explore wonderful places like houseboats, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Vembanad Lake with the family. You can also enjoy water sports here with your family. Darjeeling When it comes to travelling in East India, the name of Darjeeling is taken first. Darjeeling, located in the beautiful valleys of the Himalayas, is a beautiful hill station and also a popular hill station. High mountains, dense forests lakes and waterfalls add to the beauty of this hill station. The family members will jump with joy after travelling in the toy train running in Darjeeling. In Darjeeling you can visit the best places like Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Happy Well and Rock Garden. Shimla Be it any month of the year, visiting Shimla is a different pleasure. In April, you can have a lot of fun and excitement with your family in Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. at an altitude of more than 2 thousand meters above sea level, the temperature in Shimla remains between 15C to 25C even in the hottest summer. In Shimla, you can explore wonderful places like Kufri Mall Road, Jakhu Hill, Jakhu Temple and Summer Hill. You can also do adventure activities here with the family.

Kangana Ranaut drags Rahul Gandhi into Mandi row

Shimla: As Kangana Ranaut launched her campaign for the Lok Sabha election 2024 in Himachal Pradeshs Mandi, the actor tore into the Congress leadership citing the recent controversy that Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate stirred by her unwitting comments on Kangana. The Congress could not accept her nomination from Mandi and started indulging in cheap politics, [] The post Kangana Ranaut drags Rahul Gandhi into Mandi row appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Himachal multi-crore scholarship scam: CBI files charge sheet against 20 institutes, 105 individuals

Himachal multi-crore scholarship scam: CBI files charge sheet against 20 institutes, 105 individuals The CBI has concluded its investigation in the Himachal Pradesh multi-crore scholarship scam with the filing of charge sheets against 20 institutions and 105 persons, officials said on Friday. The charge sheets have been filed against the owners of educational institutes, the staff of Directorate of Higher Education, Shimla; bank officials and other private persons involved in the misuse of funds under scholarship and reimbursement scheme of fees launched by the Union government and implemented through the state government to help the students of SC, ST and OBC categories, a statement issued by the CBI said. The scholarship scam started in 2012-13, when the scholarships for Schedule Caste (SC), Schedule Tribe (ST) and Other Backward Class (OBC) students of the state for pre-matric and post-matric students under 36 schemes were not paid to the eligible students. Eighty per cent of the scholarship money was paid to the private institutions. The scam was unearthed following reports that the students of the government schools in the tribal Spiti valley in Himachal's Lahaul and Spiti district had not been paid a scholarship for the past five years. A case was registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the year 2019 on the request of the Himachal Pradesh government against the private educational institutions in Himachal for fake and fraudulent claims of scholarships of about Rs 181 crore during the year 2013 to 2017. Searches were earlier conducted at about 30 places on the premises of some people which led to the recovery of incriminating documents. Subsequently, 19 accused, including the chairman, vice chairman, directors and employees of the educational institutes; bank officials and officials of the education department were arrested. The scholarships of about 32,000 students were not credited in their accounts and 80 per cent of the scholarship money was paid to private institutions. Twenty two educational institutions were on the CBI radar in the scholarship scam for not only committing irregularities but also for allegedly asking the students to pay money for the release of scholarship. The investigations had revealed that fake letterheads were used by several educational institutions to show false affiliation in order to mislead the education department which failed to ensure physical verification of the infrastructure and the strength of students. The other discrepancies included non-submission of Aadhaar numbers of the students by the institutions, using same Aadhaar accounts to withdraw the scholarships of multiple students who did not exist and opening of fake accounts in three nationalised banks. The then superintendent grade-II in the higher education department, Arvind Rajta, who was dealing with disbursement of scholarships, had given over Rs 28 crore of scholarship money to nine fake institutions in which his wife had 33 per cent stakes. Rajta had earlier been arrested in the case. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is also investigating the case to probe the money laundering angle, had made arrests in the past. The ED had initiated money laundering investigation on the basis of an FIR registered by the CBI under sections 409 (misappropriation), 419 (cheating by personation), 465 (forgery), 466 (forgery in electronic documents) and 471 (using forged document as genuine) of IPC on May 8, 2019.

Kangana Ranaut launches LS poll campaign with roadshow in Mandi

Shimla: Actor Kangana Ranaut began her Lok Sabha election campaign in Mandi constituency on Friday with a roadshow, hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Jai Shri Ram and asserting that the BJPs main agenda is development. A large number of people turned up to see the Bollywood actor, a four-time National Award winner who was Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Pratibha vs Kangana duel on Mandi poll stage likely

CHANDIGARH : Himachal Pradesh Congress president Pratibha Singh may again be fielded from the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency where the BJP has named Kangana Ranaut as its candidate, according to party leaders. The coordination committee has shortlisted Pratibha Singh, the incumbent Mandi MP, for the seat, party sources said, though she had earlier expressed her unwillingness to contest Lok Sabha polls. The Congress is likely to pit Una MLA Satpal Raizada against BJP MP and Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on the Hamirpur seat. Sources said that the first meeting of the coordination committee of the Congress was held in Chandigarh on Wednesday in which AICC in-charge of Himachal Rajeev Shukla, Pratibha Singh and CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu were present. A consensus was reached on the candidature of Pratibha and Raizada, the sources said. The second meeting of the committee will be held in Delhi on April 5 or 6. After that, central election committee of the Congress will take the final decision and the party will announce all the candidates before April 10, leaders familiar with the matter said. It is learnt that the Congress might field some BJP rebels in the assembly bypolls to be held for six seats. The BJP has fielded the six Congress rebels, who joined the BJP, for the bypolls. According to sources, the Congress is yet to shortlist candidates for Shimla and Kangra seats. The names of Asha Kumari and Sanjeev Chuahan are doing the rounds for Kangra. Amit Nanda, Vinod Sultanpuri and Dayal Pyari are in the party panel for Shimla. L-G orders probe Delh Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has sought a detailed investigation report from Delhi Police commissioner Sanjay Arora in connection with an allegedly derogatory social media post made by Congress leader Supriya Shrinate against actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut, Raj Niwas officials said on Thursday. A controversial comment was posted on social media platforms from Shrinates accounts against Ranaut, who has been fielded by the ruling BJP as its candidate from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh. On partys command Days after announcing her decision to not seek re-election from the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency, Himachal Pradesh Congress president Pratibha Singh on Thursday said if the partys central leadership wanted her to contest from the seat, she would follow their directions. If the central leadership of the Congress asks me to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Mandi seat, I will follow their directions. I have always followed what the high command said and now too I will do what they say, she said.

Bank Holidays: Banks will remain closed for so many days in April, check the complete list here...

There are only a few days left in March. Also, the financial year 2023-24 is about to end. It is being told that there will be no bank holiday in many states on April 1. If we talk about the entire month of April, then in this month of 30 days of April, according to RBI, there will be holidays for 14 days. During this period, banks will remain closed due to Navratri, Eid, and other special occasions. On which day and on which occasion, where will the banks be closed by RBI (RBI Latest Updates)? Let us know about it through the bank holiday list in April (bank holiday list in April 2024). Banks will remain closed for a total of 14 days in April Date Day Holiday Bank closure in the entire country or state Monday, April 1, 2024, will be a holiday due to the closure of bank accounts at the end of the financial year. Kochi, Kohima, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi, Panaji, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi, Srinagar and Thiruvananthapuram. Banks will be closed on Friday, April 5, 2024, due to the birthday of Babu Jagjivan Ram and Jamaat-ul-Vida. Hyderabad-Telangana, Jammu and Srinagar Banks will remain closed across the country on 7 April 2024, a Sunday, a weekly holiday. 9 April 2024 Tuesday Gudi Padwa/Ugadi Festival/Telugu New Year and 1st Navratri Banks will remain closed in Belapur, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Imphal, Jammu, Mumbai, Nagpur, Panaji and Srinagar. Banks will remain closed in Kochi and Kerala on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, for Eid. Thursday, April 11, 2024, is Eid, a bank holiday across the country. Banks will remain closed across the country on 13 April 2024, Saturday, the second Saturday of the month. Banks will remain closed across the country on 14 April 2024, a Sunday, a weekly holiday. Banks will remain closed in Guwahati and Shimla on 15 April 2024, Monday, Himachal Day. 17 April 2024 Wednesday Shri Ram Navami Ahmedabad, Belapur, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Gangtok, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kanpur, Lucknow, Patna, Ranchi, Shimla, Mumbai and Nagpur. There will be a bank holiday in Agartala on Saturday, April 20, 2024, for Garia Puja. Banks will remain closed across the country on 21 April 2024, a Sunday, a weekly holiday. Apart from this, there will be a bank holiday on 27th April and 28th April 2024. The fourth is Saturday, April 27, and Sunday, April 28. In such a situation, all the banks across the country will remain closed. Online services will continue when banks are closed Many important works cannot be done when banks are closed. In such a situation, you can do bank-related work sitting at home through mobile or net banking. You can use an ATM to withdraw cash. Apart from this, you can also make digital payments through credit cards and debit cards. PC Social media

Himachal varsity professor sent to police custody for sexual assault of student

Shimla, March 27: A court on Wednesday sent Central University Himachal Pradesh (CUHP) chemistry professor Rajender Kumar, who was arrested on charges of sexual assault of a student, to police custody till March 30. According to the police, charges against the accused have been framed under Section 376 (Punishment for sexual assault) of the Indian [] The post Himachal varsity professor sent to police custody for sexual assault of student appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Himachal minister targets BJP's Kangana Ranaut by comparing her to actor MP Sunny Deol

Himachal minister targets BJP's Kangana Ranaut by comparing her to actor MP Sunny Deol Himachal Pradesh minister Vikramaditya Singh on Wednesday targetted BJP's Mandi candidate Kangana Ranaut by indirectly comparing her to Sunny Deol, another actor-politician in the BJP camp, who has been criticised for his absences from Parliament and his Lok Sabha constituency. The Congress leader shared on social media a purported notice from Deol appointing a ''representative'' for attending meetings in his Gurdaspur constituency on his behalf. ''I pray to Lord Ram that such situation does not arise in Mandi,'' PWD minister Singh said Wednesday on Facebook, asking people of the constituency to think hard before casting their vote. Singh's mother Pratibha Singh is the Himachal Congress chief and the present MP from Mandi. She recently announced she would not contest the Lok Sabha polls this time. The Congress is yet to announce its candidate for the Mandi seat. The letter was posted on Facebook on Wednesday, days after Ranaut was named the BJP candidate from the Mandi seat by the party. The purported communique by Deol on his official note pad and addressed 'To Whom It May Concern' said, ''I hereby appoint Shri Gurpreet Singh Palheri son of Shri Supinder Singh R/O village & post office Palheri, District Mohali Punjab as my representative to attend meetings and follow important matters pertaining to my parliament constituency, Gurdaspur with concerned authorities.'' ''I pray to Lord Ram that such a situation does not arise in Mandi,'' Singh said while reacting to the letter, and added that the people of Mandi have to think hard before choosing their candidate. Talking to reporters, Singh, son of former chief minister late Virbhadra Singh asked where Kangana was at the time of the monsoon disaster when the people of Mandi needed her. Last week, Pratibha Singh had announced that she has decided not to contest the Lok Sabha elections as the ground situation was ''not favourable'' and the workers are disheartened. Her statement had put the Congress in a tight spot. ''I have withdrawn my name and conveyed to the high command that I will not contest the elections and would fully support any candidate which the party central leaders consider suitable'', Singh had told the media persons here. Polls are very crucial for the survival of the government and if she remains confined to the Mandi Parliament constituency only, she will not be able to discharge her responsibility of campaigning in the byelections and ensure victory of the party candidates, she had maintained. Talking to media persons, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu had on Tuesday said Ranaut is the daughter of Himachal, her mother and father live here. Ranaut's father was the general secretary of Mandi District Congress Committee, he added. Elections to the four Himachal Lok Sabha seats -- Shimla, Mandi, Hamirpur and Kangra -- and assembly byelections to six assembly constituencies will be held in the last phase on June 1. The BJP has announced all four Lok Sabha and six assembly candidates. The six assembly seats of Dharamshala, Lahaul and Spiti, Sujanpur, Barsar, Gagret and Kutlehar became vacant after six Congress MLAs Sudhir Sharma, Ravi Thakur, Rajinder Rana, Inder Dutt Lakhanpal, Chetanya Sharma and Devinder Kumar Bhutto were disqualified for defying a whip to vote in favour of the government during the cut motions and the budget. These six MLAs along with three Independents had voted in favour of BJP nominee Harsh Mahajan in the recently-concluded Rajya Sabha elections. They joined BJP on March 23 and were given tickets from their respective constituencies on Tuesday. With the disqualification of the six Congress MLAs, the strength of the ruling Congress came down from 40 to 34, including the Speaker who can vote only in the case of a tie during a floor test in the 68-member Assembly. The BJP has 25 members.

Dermis Oracle's Inaugural Corporate Gathering At ITC Shimla: A Triumph Of Innovation

The event kicked off with inspiring keynote addresses delivered by the esteemed founders, Mr Ankit Sunita Mahesh Tripathi and Ms Kaksha Patel.

A Historic Retreat in Shimlas Verdant Haven

Set amidst lovingly-tended gardens, the rooms offer unparalleled privacy and intimacy. Exquisitely manicured lawns, fragrant nooks and a fire pit provide the perfect setting for a brisk game of croquet,... The post A Historic Retreat in Shimlas Verdant Haven first appeared on Asian Lite USA .

Rebellion in HP BJP, ex-minister quits after 6 Congress rebels picked for bypolls

Shimla: A former BJP minister in Himachal today resigned as rebellion erupted in the party rank and file after the top leadership fielded all six disqualified Congress legislators for the June 1 Assembly byelections. The moment the BJP's list of candidates for the Assembly byelections was released today, party leaders vented anger against the move [] The post Rebellion in HP BJP, ex-minister quits after 6 Congress rebels picked for bypolls appeared first on Northlines .

BJP Fields All 6 Cong. Rebels in Himachal Assembly Bypolls

New Delhi: The BJP has nominated for the bypolls, the six former Congress Himachal Pradesh MLAs, who had joined the party after they were suspended and disqualified for cross-voting against the Congress Rajya Sabha pick. Other than Himachal Pradesh, the BJP central election committee (CEC) on Tuesday also named its candidates for the Assembly polls in Sikkim and bypolls in other states, including Gujarat, West Bengal and Karnataka. In Himachal Pradesh, the BJP nominated all six former Congress MLAs Sudhir Sharma from Dharamshala, Ravi Thakur from Lahaul and Spiti, Rajinder Rana from Sujanpur, Inder Dutt Lakhanpal from Barsar, Chetanya Sharma from Gagret and Devinder Kumar Bhutto from Kutlehar. These MLAs and three Independents had voted in favour of the BJP nominee Harsh Mahajan in the Rajya Sabha polls held in the state on February 27, triggering a crisis for the Congress-led government in the state. The three independents Ashish Sharma (Hamirpur constituency), Hoshiyar Singh (Dehra) and K.L. Thakur (Nalagarh) had submitted their resignations on March 22 and joined the BJP the next day. The Himachal Pradesh Assembly bypolls will be held on June 1, along with the election to the four Lok Sabha seats in the state Hamirpur, Shimla, Mandi and Kangra. With the disqualification of six Congress MLAs, the strength of the ruling party came down from 40 to 34, including the Speaker who can vote only in the case of a tie during a floor test, in the 68-member Assembly. The BJP has 25 members. Ever since the Rajya Sabha polls, the BJP and the Congress have been trading charges with the ruling party slamming the Opposition for hatching a conspiracy to topple the democratically elected government in the state by using money power and maintaining that the public will not forgive the Congress rebels for their betrayal. In Gujarat, the BJP's candidates for bypolls to five seats also includes Arjun Modhvadiya, Chatursinh Chavda and Arvind Ladani, who had recently joined the party from the Congress. The BJP named its candidates for the bypolls to two seats in West Bengal and one seat in Karnataka, besides for nine Assembly seats in Sikkim. The party has named former minister Narasimha Naik, also known as Raju Gowda, as its candidate for the Shorapur Assembly bypoll in Karnataka, which is to be held on May 7. The party has named Bhaskar Sarkar and Sajal Ghosh for the Bhanawangola Baranagar seats bypolls in West Bengal. Assembly elections in Sikkim are held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls. The BJP recently broke its alliance with the state's ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha.

BJP files complaint with HP chief electoral officer over Cong leaders' remarks against Kangana

Shimla, Mar 26 (PTI) The BJP's Himachal Pradesh unit on Tuesday filed a complaint with the state's chief electoral officer, seeking legal action against the Congress leaders Supriya Shrinate and H S Ahir after demeaning remarks on Kangana Ranaut and Mandi were posted on their social media handles. Actor Kangana Ranaut is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi on a BJP ticket. The BJP's complaint said that the Congress leaders have misused social media to try and demean its Lok Sabha candidate Ranaut. These remarks, derogatory and sexually oriented, which undermine the dignity of a woman are also in violation of the mandatory guidelines of the Model Code of Conduct. These individuals used vile and vulgar language on social media platforms against Kangana Ranaut which is also a clear infringement of her right to dignity and decency as envisaged in Chapter III of the Constitution of India, the party stated. It accused the Congress leaders of intending to assassinate Kangana Ranaut's character. The BJP also said that the highly objectionable and indecent statements clearly show that the Congress has no respect towards the law of the land. Former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Jai Ram Thakur, in a statement, condemned the remarks on Mandi that were posted on Shrinate's social media account and said she has made a big mistake as people visit Mandi, also known as choti Kashi, with faith. The BJP is examining the legal angles and moving towards registering a case in this matter, said Thakur who is also the leader of opposition in Himachal Pradesh. It is unfortunate that being a woman herself, the Congress spokesperson has made such remarks against another woman and now she is trying to retract by saying that someone has used her other account, the BJP leader. The people of Himachal Pradesh will not spare the Congress and it will have to face the consequences not only in Mandi but in the entire state and other parts of the country in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, he said. Earlier, in her clarification, Shrinate had said that many people have access to her Facebook and Instagram accounts, and someone from them made the inappropriate post. As soon as I came to know, I deleted that post. Everyone who knows me, also knows very well that I can never make personal and indecent comments towards any woman. I wanted to know how this happened, she had said. Thakur also asked what action Shrinate has taken against those who used her account and what she has to say about the comments made in reply to her social media posts. Ranaut also hit out at Shrinate, saying every woman, irrespective of her background and profession, deserves dignity. The Congress has been in the crosshairs after demeaning remarks on Ranaut and Mandi were posted on the social media handles of its leaders Supriya Shrinate and H S Ahir. Party leader Sandeep Dikshit said the party has always believed there is no place for such language in public discourse and the matter should end with Shrinate clearing the air. PTI BPL NSD NSD Disclaimer: This article is published from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by the Deccan Chronicle team

Fire at ceiling fan manufacturing unit in HP's Baddi, one injured

Shimla, Mar 26 (PTI) A worker was injured in a fire at a ceiling fan manufacturing factory in Himachal's Baddi on Tuesday evening, police said. The incident took place in Katha in the Baddi industrial area of Solan district, they said. Police said a paint thinner caught fire while some work was underway and property worth crores was gutted. It took six fire tenders almost two hours to douse the flames, they said. Additional Superintendent of Police, Baddi, Ashok Verma said the fire was brought under control and the injured worker was undergoing treatment at a hospital. A case has been registered and investigations are underway, he added. PTI BPL IJT IJT Disclaimer: This article is published from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by the Deccan Chronicle team

BJP writes to ECI seeking transfer of officers in Shimla LS constituency to ensure free, fair elections

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NSUI activists disrupt Himachal Congress rebel's press meet in Shimla, BJP files police complaint

Shimla, Mar 26 (PTI) NSUI activists on Tuesday barged into the compound of a restaurant here and disrupted a BJP press conference in which a former Congress MLA who has now switched sides was present, according to a complaint lodged by the BJP with police. The incident took place hours after the BJP announced the candidature of six former Congress MLAs who were disqualified from the Himachal Pradesh assembly for defying a party whip on cut motions and budget last month. Ravi Thakur, one of the six Congress rebels, and BJP Rajya Sabha member-elect Harsh Mahajan were present at a press conference organised by the BJP in a restaurant here when the student wing of the Congress protested against him. Thakur, along with five other Congress rebels, had voted in favour of BJP Rajya Sabha nominee Mahajan during the recently-concluded Rajya Sabha polls. They joined the BJP on March 23. On Tuesday, Thakur was named as the BJP candidate from Lahaul and Spiti assembly constituency for the upcoming bypolls. In a written complaint to Shimla SP Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, BJP state media in-charge Karan Nanda said the BJP had organised a press conference in Ashiana Restaurant at the Ridge in which Thakur and Mahajan were present. Nanda said around 3.15 pm, several NSUI activists, who were organising a blood donation camp at the Ridge, scaled the restaurant's wall and tried to forcibly enter the restaurant raising slogans against Thakur. He said he himself tried to stop them and also pleaded with them but they were adamant and even tried to break the entrance door of the restaurant. He has urged the SP to take strict action against the youth who were involved in the incident. Meanwhile, Himachal BJP president Rajiv Bindal and former chief minister Jai Ram Thakur have strongly condemned the attack on Thakur by the NSUI activists and alleged that the premeditated attack was state-sponsored, a statement issued here said. They said the ruling Congress, having lost majority, has also lost mental balance. The ruling party is frustrated as a defeat in the Lok Sabha and assembly byelections is staring in its face. It is indulging in hooliganism and creating lawlessness, they added. While Congress leaders Supriya Srinate and H S Ahir made derogatory remarks against actor and BJP candidate from Mandi Lok Sabha seat Kangana Ranaut, the NSUI activists attacked Thakur. The situation would have taken an ugly turn if Thakur was not provided security of the central forces, Jai Ram Thakur said, adding that anarchy like conditions are being created in the state. PTI COR BPL KSS KSS Disclaimer: This article is published from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by the Deccan Chronicle team

BJP seeks transfer of officers in Shimla parliamentary constituency, writes to EC

BJP seeks transfer of officers in Shimla parliamentary constituency, writes to EC The Himachal BJP on Tuesday wrote a letter to the Election Commission of India seeking the transfer of officers in the Shimla parliamentary constituency to ensure free and fair polls. ''It is to be brought to your kind notice that most of the officers, who are at the helm of affairs in conducting the elections in the Shimla parliamentary constituency belong to Shimla and Solan districts,'' the BJP state secretary said in a letter to the Election Commission of India (ECI). Few such officers are Shimla Superintendent of Police who hails from Arki in Solan district, Shimla Deputy Commissioner who hails from Shoghi in Shimla district, and the DC Solan and Sirmaur are from Shimla district, the letter said. You are requested to immediately transfer all these officers in order to ensure free and fair elections in Himachal Pradesh in the Lok Sabha as well as by-elections for the six assembly seats has been announced, the letter added. The Shimla parliamentary constituency includes seven assembly segments of Shimla district and five assembly segments of Solan and Sirmaur districts.

Former Himachal minister quits BJP to protest ticket to Congress rebel, will contest bypolls

SHIMLA: Former Himachal Pradesh minister and BJP leader from Lahaul and Spiti assembly constituency, Ram Lal Markanda, on Tuesday quit the party to protest the fielding of Congress rebel Ravi Thakur who had defeated him on the seat in the last assembly election. Hours after the BJP announced assembly tickets to all the six former Congress MLAs, disqualified from the House, Markanda quit the party and announced that he will contest the bypoll from Lahaul and Spiti, possibly as a Congress candidate. Markanada was the agriculture and tribal development minister during the previous BJP government led by Jai Ram Thakur. He had lost the 2022 assembly elections to Thakur, who was then in the Congress, by a margin of 1542 votes. He was a frontrunner for the BJP ticket from Lahaul and Spiti. He resigned from the BJP as Congress rebel Thakur was named in the BJP list for assembly bypoll from the assembly constituency. The Himachal Pradesh Assembly bypolls will be held on June 1, along with the election to the four Lok Sabha seats in the state -- Hamirpur, Shimla, Mandi and Kangra. I have left the BJP today along with my supporters and would definitely contest the assembly polls, he told PTI over the phone. A meeting of Lahaul and Spiti core committee has been convened tonight to chalk out the future strategy, Markanda said. It is unfortunate that the BJP is taking such people who are against reservation and had hurled abuses against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the past, he said. I will contest the assembly bypolls for sure. There is a possibility of my contesting from the Congress party, he said. My people want me to contest elections for the development of Lahaul and Spiti, he said. BJP fields ex-Congress MLAs in Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat bypolls Talking to media persons here, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also said some BJP leaders are in contact with the Congress. The BJP on Tuesday named its candidates for the assembly bypolls in several states and fielded the six MLAs from the seats they held as Congress members before their disqualification. Thakur is a two-time legislator and was the chairman of state Congress Seva Dal and vice chairperson of National Commission for Schedule Tribes. Besides Thakur from Lahaul and Spiti, the BJP nominated Sudhir Sharma from Dharamshala, Rajinder Rana from Sujanpur, Inder Dutt Lakhanpal from Barsar, Chetanya Sharma from Gagret and Devinder Kumar Bhutto from Kutlehar. All the six of the Congress dissidents switched over to the BJP on March 23, nearly a month after being disqualified from the Himachal Pradesh Assembly for defying a party whip to be present in the House and vote in favour of the government during the cut motions and the budget. These MLAs and three Independents had voted in favour of BJP nominee Harsh Mahajan in the Rajya Sabha elections held in the state on February 27, triggering a crisis for the Congress-led government in the state. With the disqualification of the six Congress MLAs, the strength of the ruling party has come down from 40 to 34, including the Speaker who can vote only in the case of a tie during a floor test, in the 68-member assembly. The BJP has 25 members in the House. Congress' disqualified Himachal MLAs join BJP

Himachal | BJP Fields 6 Former Congress MLAs In By-Polls

SHIMLA, Mar 26: In a sign of increasing troubles for the ruling Congress in Himachal Pradesh, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday fielded six disqualified Congress rebel MLAs in the Assembly by-polls, days after the joined the party. All six now disqualified Congress MLAsRajinder Singh Rana, Sudhir Sharma, Chaitanya Sharma, Ravi Thakur, Inder Dutt Lakhanpal, and Davinder Bhutto had cross-voted in in the Rajya Sabha election in favour of BJP candidate Harsh Mahajan against Congress senior leader Abhishek Mani Singhvi. [] The post Himachal | BJP Fields 6 Former Congress MLAs In By-Polls appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Kangana Ranauts electoral debut from Mandi: Former BJP MP sarcastic

Shimla, Mar 25 (UNI) Apparently peeved over the BJP nominating Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut as its Lok Sabha candidate from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, party leader and Kullu royal family scion Maheshwar Singh has taken to sarcasm targeting the central leadership. The party has also conducted a survey, so it is possible that Kangana is... The post Kangana Ranauts electoral debut from Mandi: Former BJP MP sarcastic first appeared on Central India's Premier English Daily .