An ancient Siva temple associated with Sage Vyaghrapada

CHENNAI: River Palar, once the lifeline of the ancient area called Tondaimandalam, comprising a large part of north Tamil Nadu, had a number of villages, towns, and cities which flourished along its banks. One such small village is Pulipurakovil which has a temple for Siva called Vyaghrapurishwara. Inscriptions in this temple mention the name of this deity as Thiruppulippagava Nayanar and Thiruppulippagavar. Vyaghra in Samskrit and puli in Tamil mean tiger. It is known that Sage Vyaghrapada who had the legs of a tiger, was a great devotee of God Nataraja in Chidambaram, along with another famous sage named Patanjali. Incidentally, there is one more temple with the name Vyaghrapurishwara in Thiruppulivanam near Uttiramerur which is about 30 km away. The Vyaghrapurishwara temple in Pulipurakovil faces east with a small gopuram at the entrance. The wide outer prakaram (enclosure) has the bali-pitham, dvajastambham and a small mandapam for Nandi. Further inside is a Vijayanagara era mandapam, with sculptures of various deities, and modern sanctums for Ganesha and Muruga, leading to the main sanctum with a small Siva Linga worshipped as Vyaghrapurishwara. Close to this shrine is the sanctum for Goddess Parvati called Balakuchambal. The mandapam immediately in front of the principal deity has the processional images of Nataraja and Sivakami with Patanjali and Vyaghrapada in front. The central shrine is in an apsidal shape, called Gajaprishta vimanam in technical parlance. The outer walls have devakoshtas (niches) for Ganesha, Dakshinamurti, Vishnu, Brahma and Durga. The inner prakaram, around the gajaprishta sanctum, has an image of Kala Bhairava and a small Nandi who sees the main Siva Linga through a hole in the wall. The outer prakaram has a samadhi for a Siddhar. Several inscriptions have been found in this temple, mostly on the outer walls of the central sanctum. The earliest belongs to the reign of Maravarman Sundara Pandya. Another epigraph which belongs to the reign of a chieftain named Rajanarayana Sambuvarayar who ruled vast areas in Tondaimandalam in the 14th century, mentions the taxes to be paid by the houses on the four streets surrounding the temple. Stone records of the Vijayanagara rulers, Bukka Raya II and Virupaksha I (who both ruled for very short periods in the 15 th century) are also here. There is an epigraph of the powerful Vijayanagara Emperor Deva Raya II (Prauda Deva Raya) who ruled from 1422-1446 AD. It can be understood from these inscriptions that Pulipurakovil was called Pattur which was a northern part of Madhurantaka Chaturvedimangalam, situated in the geographical area called Kalattur Kottam, a subdivision of Jayamkonda Chola Mandalam.

clean-ganga-mission-to-start-special-dolphin-ambulance

Cleaning Ganga involves preserving its rich biodiversity, particularly its endangered inhabitant, Dolphins. The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), the main body for cleaning the holy river, is set to start a special Dolphin Ambulance to rescue injured aquatic animal. Labelled as the national aquatic animal of India, Ganga Dolphin is also found in the river system of India, Bangladesh and Nepal. Under the ambitious project approved for conservation of the Ganga River Dolphin, a specialised vehicle will be developed to assist dolphins in distress. The project titled 'Advancing Rescue System for the Protection of Stranded Ganges River Dolphins' has an estimated budget of Rs 1 crore. The project will focus on raising awareness for dolphin conservation and community capacity building through training. The NMCG during its board meeting also approved an innovative and highly significant project for the conservation of endangered turtles in the Ganga basin in Uttar Pradesh. The objective of this initiative is not only to rehabilitate endangered turtle species but also to reintroduce three highly threatened species, alongside establishing a spatial monitoring and reporting tool at the National Chambal Sanctuary. This project is estimated to cost Rs 78.09 lakh, an official statement said. Among the other projects approved include: a project for assessing the environmental flow of the Chambal, Son, Damodar and Tons rivers. With an estimated budget of Rs 11 crore, the objective of this project is not only to evaluate the environmental flow of these rivers but also to prepare hydrological and hydrodynamic models that allow scientific evaluation of flow systems. This will involve studying the existing water stream and natural flow patterns, which will not only improve water quantity and quality but also document the biodiversity within these river systems, ensuring that their ecosystems remain balanced and rich. During the meeting, a proposal for the third season of the travelogue series Rag-Rag Mein Ganga - Ek Jeevan Dhara was also approved. This new season will present the importance of the Ganga and the conservation efforts from a fresh perspective. The season will focus on ecological balance, protection of aquatic life, eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and promoting active community involvement.

Congress demands repoll at 37 booths in Vijaypur assembly by-poll in Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL:A day after more than 77% voter turnout was reported in the assembly by-poll in the Vijaypur constituency of Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior-Chambal region, the opposition Congress has demanded a re-poll at 37 polling booths of the constituency. The unprecedented violence particularly in tribal, minority and scheduled caste voters villages which started before the by-poll continued after the polling also, said state Congress president Jitu Patwari alleged on Thursday. He said that the houses of the Jatav community were set ablaze and the statue of Dr BR Ambedkar was vandalized in a village by the BJP people, a few hours after the polling. He also said that a sector officer was assaulted in front of the cops during polling, which speaks volumes about how the BJP people unleashed a reign of violence to stop tribals, minority and SC voters from exercising their franchise on Wednesday. Much before the polls, we had demanded sealing the MP-Rajasthan border to stop the entry of criminals from the adjoining state, but the election authorities didnt do anything and the result was that criminals from Rajasthan working for the ruling party terrorised and attacked tribal voters in various villages to stop them from voting against the BJP, Patwari said. Patwari said that a list of 37 polling stations where voting has been marred by violence, booth capturing and bogus voting has been submitted. We have demanded from the Election Commission of India (ECI) re-polling at these 37 polling stations. We were confident of winning the Vijaypur by-poll by over 50,000 votes, but despite violence and unfair practices in polling, were certain to win the by-election by 25,000-plus votes. Well hold a state-wide protest on Friday to protest targeting of tribal, SC and minority voters by the BJP people, Patwari said. The ruling BJP, however, denied the Congress state presidents allegations. States cabinet minister Prahlad Singh Patel said in Delhi, It's unimaginable why the ruling party which is confident of winning the elections will resort to violence and unfair practices. Since Congress knows that its losing both Vijaypur and Budhni by-elections, its making false allegations to dent the ruling partys image. For six terms our candidate in Vijaypur constituency Ramniwas Rawat was a Congress MLA from the same seat, by accusing the BJP candidate of resorting to violence and unfair practices, does the Congress want to say that he won the last six polls as Congress candidate in similar manner, he added. The Sheopur district police superintendent (Vijaypur is part of Sheopur district) Virendra Jain, meanwhile, said that a few hours after the polling on Wednesday, some disturbance between two rival groups was reported in Gohta village. Our teams rushed to the village but found reports of houses of a particular community having been set afire, being false. Only a large portion of Bajra straw was burning in the village. On Thursday morning, our teams again rushed to the same village on the village chowkidars complaint about the vandalization of a stone plaque bearing Dr BR Ambedkars image, which was found true. Some anti-social elements seem to have committed the act to disturb the peace in the village. A case has been registered against the unidentified accused and investigations are underway, Jain told TNIE. Importantly, over 76% of polling was reported in Budhni and Vijaypur assembly by-polls on Wednesday in MP. In Vijaypur, six-times former Congress MLA and current forest minister in the states BJP government Ramniwas Rawat is the ruling party candidate against the Congresss tribal leader Mukesh Malhotra, who is an ex-BJP leader.

Bhopal Diary | Scindia stays away from Vijaypur bypoll campaign

Despite Vijaypur assembly seat (one of the two seats where bypolls were held on Wednesday) being part of Gwalior-Chambal region, one of the senior BJP leaders from the area and Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stayed away from party candidate and MP forest minister Ramniwas Rawats campaign. Rawat, the six-time former Congress MLA, despite being close to Scindia family, did not follow Scindia from Congress into the BJP in March 2020. Not only did Rawat stay back in Congress, but was also critical of Scindia for crossing over to BJP in 2020. Scindia was opposed to Rawats induction in the BJP during Lok Sabha polls. IIM-Indore signs MoUs with two foreign univs The Indian Institute of Management-Indore (IIM-M) recently signed two MoUs with Kristiania University College, Norway, and Soochow University, China. The collaborations have elevated IIM-Is network to 60 partner institutions across 24 countries. The MoU with the Norwegian institution aims to promote academic exchanges and collaborative research, encouraging the exchange of faculty and students. The pact with the Chinese university is likely to contribute to the high-quality development of respective regions while addressing global challenges. Actor Pankaj Tripathi is the face of MP tourism Acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi has been chosen the brand ambassador of Madhya Pradesh tourism. Some of his acclaimed movies, including Stree, Stree 2, Lukka Chuppi, Oh My God 2 and Ludo, have been shot extensively in the state only. Im deeply honoured to be chosen as the face of Madhya Pradesh Tourism. MP is not just a destination for meits a place that holds countless memories and connections, both personally and professionally. Having spent so much time here filming projects , Ive experienced the landscapes, warmth of people, and cultural richness that define MP, Tripathi said. Anuraag singh Our correspondent in Madhya Pradesh singhanuraag.jaurno@gmail.com

Over 76 per cent polling reported in twin assembly by-elections in Madhya Pradesh

Bhopal: More than 76 per cent polling was reported in the two assembly by-elections in Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday. While union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans bastion Budhni reported 75.05 per cent voting, the Vijaypur seat reported a slightly higher 77.42 per cent voter turnout till the filing of this news report. While the by-poll to Budhni seat of central MP was necessitated by the resignation of ex-MP CM and current Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan following his election to Lok Sabha earlier this year, Vijaypur seat of Gwalior-Chambal went to by-poll due to resignation by its six-times sitting Congress MLA Ramniwas Rawat, who as the state forest minister in present MP government is in the fray now as BJP candidate. Polling in Vijaypur, however, was marred by group clashes, protests by villagers and allegations of bogus voting and booth capturing. The Sheopur district election officer Kishor Kanyal, while refuting reports of booth capturing and bogus voting, admitted that a clash between two groups resulted in injury to at least four persons in one place. He also added that some minor incidents were reported from other places in the constituency, but the polling process remained unaffected. Till now no case has been registered against anyone anywhere. As a precautionary measure, both the prime candidates, the BJPs Ramniwas Rawat and Congresss Mukesh Malhotra, were confined to separate guest houses in two different parts of the constituency, Kanyal said. Also, both the state presidents of BJP and Congress, VD Sharma and Jitu Patwari respectively, were prevented by administration and police from entering the limits of Vijaypur assembly constituency of Sheopur district earlier in the day. The opposition Congress partys delegation led by its state media wing head Mukesh Nayak, submitted a detailed six-point complaint earlier in the day at the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO-MP) office in Bhopal. Talking to journalists after submitting the complaint, Nayak said, What happened in Vijaypur during the by-poll is unprecedented, never has anything like this happened in the history of electoral politics of the country. Police along with BJPs goons stopped the tribal and minority community voters from exercising their franchise. Our candidate in Vijaypur was kept in police custody and many of our party workers were unnecessarily targeted and detained by police in Vijaypur. Even in Budhni constituency, an Angawadi worker seated inside one of the booths, was campaigning for the BJP. The female voters were being told by that particular Anganwadi worker that failure to vote for the BJP will see them lose their benefits under the Ladli Behna Scheme from next month, Nayak alleged. Meanwhile, according to local media reports, voters of the Telipura polling booth protested outside the Virpur police station of the Vijaypur assembly constituency and later blocked the Sheopur-Morena road. The protesting tribal voters accused the OBC Rawat community (the community to which the forest minister and BJP candidate belong to) of stopping the tribal voters from exercising their franchise. In Andhipura village, villagers alleged that ruling BJP workers didnt allow them to vote, while similar allegations were made by voters of two other tribal-dominated villages, including Khadi.

Six killed, one injured after car collided with truck in Dehradun

DEHRADUN: A devastating road accident occurred near Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Chowk late Monday night, claiming six lives. The victims included three boys and three girls, all in their twenties. Police received instant information about the incident and rushed to the scene. The accident was horrific, and our team responded immediately, said a police official. According to the Kotwali police, the accident occurred at around 2 am. We pulled all seven occupants out of the car and rushed them to the hospital, the official added. Doctors declared six people dead on arrival, while one youth remains in critical condition. It was a devastating crash; the car was completely mangled, a police source said. The collision involved a truck and an Innova car, which was carrying a group of seven youngsters out for a drive. The victims included Guneet Kumari (19), Navya Goyal (23), and Kamakshi (20), all girls from different areas in Dehradun. The boys who lost their lives were Kunal Kukreja (23) from Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, Atul Agarwal (24), and Rishabh Jain (24), both from Dehradun. One student, Siddhesh Agarwal (24), a resident of Dehradun, sustained serious injuries and was rushed to the hospital for treatment. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident.

Kaun Banega Crorepati 16: Vikrant Massey shares I have spent 20 years in the industry and this is the first time I am meeting Amitabh Bachchan face-to-face

IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma and actor Vikrant Massey graced the latest episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 16. Manoj reminisced about his childhood in Chambal and how the show aided his UPSC preparations. Vikrant, who portrayed Manoj in the film '12th Fail,' shared his emotional connection with the story and his own journey of assuming responsibility at a young age.

Bypoll battle: Chouhan, Pilot hit campaign trail

BHOPAL: Ahead of bypolls on November 13 in Madhya Pradesh, BJP and Congress hit campaign trail in the state with focus on Budhni. While former Rajasthan deputy CM Sachin Pilot campaigned in Vijaypur assembly constituency of Gwalior-Chambal region on Thursday, former MP CM and current union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan campaigned in his bastion Budhni. Interestingly, he had campaigned for Congress candidate and then five-time former MLA Ramniwas Rawat, who switched to BJP, from the same constituency during the 2023 assembly polls. Addressing a gathering in Gurjar community dominated Goras village, Pilot said, Vijaypur and adjoining Rajasthan share an inseparable Roti-Beti bonding.You vote the Congress candidate to victory and four years later, well bring Congress back to power in Rajasthan. He added, BJPs graph in the entire country is declining and the INDIA grouping will win the upcoming elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. I have been to Jamshedpur (Jharkhand) and there is a one-sided wave prevailing in that state. Meanwhile, Chouhan is campaigning for his loyalist and BJP candidate Ramakant Bhargava. Budhni witnessed ghar vapasi of an ex-BJP politician Deepak Joshi, the former MP minister son of ex-CM Late Kailash Joshi. Joshis return in presence of Chouhan is likely to strike a chord with the Brahmin voters.

Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan Form Joint Panel for Coordinated Cheetah Conservation Efforts

BHOPAL: In light of recent incidents involving cheetahs from Madhya Pradesh wandering into Rajasthan, a joint committee has been established to oversee and enhance the conservation of these animals. This collaborative effort aims to manage the wildlife corridor connecting both states, officials reported on Tuesday. The committee will assess the potential for new habitats to facilitate future relocations of cheetahs from Madhya Pradeshs Kuno National Park (KNP) and Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary. It will also provide recommendations for habitat improvements, including upgrades to existing environments, an official statement said. Under Indias ambitious cheetah reintroduction initiative, eight cheetahs from Namibia were introduced to KNP in Sheopur district in September 2022. Another twelve cheetahs arrived from South Africa in February 2023. However, incidents involving cheetahs straying have prompted the need for closer coordination between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Notably, a cheetah entered Rajasthans Karoli district in May 2023 and was safely brought back to KNP, while a similar event occurred in December 2023 in Baran district. The newly formed committee will draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to facilitate studies on wildlife corridors for cheetah movement and conservation. Discussions will also focus on training officers and frontline staff involved in cheetah monitoring and protection along the corridors linking Kuno and Rajasthan. In addition, the committee plans to explore potential joint tourism initiatives in regions like the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary, Kuno National Park, and Ranthambore National Park. The committee is co-chaired by the Principal Chief Conservators of Forest and Chief Conservators (Wildlife) from both states. Other members include senior wildlife officials from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, representatives from the National Tiger Conservation Authority, and an expert from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun. Over the past two years, KNP has witnessed the birth of 17 cheetah cubs, marking a positive milestone in Indias cheetah reintroduction project. However, the initiative has also faced challenges, with eight adult cheetahs and five cubs reported lost within the same period. Currently, KNP is home to 24 cheetahs, including cubs, according to officials. MORE M.P. NEWS...... Elephant Deaths in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve: Field Director Suspended Amid Investigation MP-Cabinet Approves 35% Reservation for Women in Govt-Jobs Madhya Pradesh CM Announces 4% DA Hike for State Employees Ahead of Diwali

MP-Rajasthan joint panel formed for coordination on cheetah project

Bhopal: In the wake of incidents of cheetahs from Madhya Pradesh straying into neighbouring Rajasthan, a joint corridor management committee of both the states has been formed to work for conservation of the felines, officials said on Tuesday. The panel will also discuss development of suitable areas for future shifting of cheetahs from Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park (KNP) and Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary area and recommend measures for improvement including the pre-augmentation base, an official said in a statement. Under the ambitious cheetah reintroduction project, eight Namibian cheetahs were released into enclosures at the KNP in Sheopur district on September 17, 2022. Later, another 12 cheetahs were brought to the park from South Africa in February 2023. In May this year, a cheetah from the KNP strayed into Karoli district of Rajasthan and was later rescued. In December 2023, a cheetah strayed into Rajasthan's Baran district and was later brought back to the KNP. The official said a joint committee comprising officials from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan has been constituted for corridor management of the cheetah project. The panel will discuss and prepare a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan for a study about the development and management of corridors for the movement and conservation of cheetahs. It will discuss capacity building of officers and front-line staff engaged in monitoring, patrolling and other works for the management of cheetahs moving through the existing corridor from Kuno to Rajasthan, the official said. The committee will also evaluate the possibilities of joint tourist routes in the areas bordering both states like the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary area, Kuno National Park and Ranthambore National Park, etc. The principal chief conservator of forest and chief conservator (wildlife) of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have been appointed as the joint chairpersons of the committee. The other officials nominated as members of the panel include the additional principal chief conservator of forest (wildlife) of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, director (Lion Project-Cheetah Project) Shivpuri, representatives of the National Tiger Conservation Authority for the two states, and a representative nominated by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun, the official said. According to officials, 17 cheetah cubs were born on Indian soil over the last two years at the KNP. However, the project has also seen setbacks with eight adult cheetahs and five cubs dying during the same period. At present, there are 24 cheetahs, including cubs, in the KNP, as per the officials.

Power Grid, Tata Steel, Gujarat Gas, Shipping Corporation Among 90+ Companies To Declare Q2 Results Today

A total of 98 companies including some of the biggest names from India's steel and power sector companies will declare their results for the quarter that ended September on Wednesday. The list of companies announcing their second quarter results on Nov. 6 includes Tata Steel Ltd., Jindal Steel & Power Ltd., and Power Grid Corp. Ahead of their Q2 results, here is a look at how these major companies performed in the June quarter. Jindal Steel & Power's Quarterly Results In the June quarter of the current financial year, Jindal Steel & Power Ltd. had witnessed a decline in net profit. The company reported a 21% year-on-year fall in its bottom line to Rs 1,338 crore as compared to Rs 1,692 crore in the same quarter last year. Revenue rose 8% at Rs 13,618 crore during this period versus Rs 12,588 crore in the same quarter last year. Jindal Steel & Power's Q1 FY25 Highlights (Consolidated, YoY) Revenue increased 8% to Rs 13,618 crore versus Rs 12,588 crore (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 13,194 crore). Ebitda rose 8% to Rs 2,839 crore versus Rs 2,628 crore (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 2,719 crore). Ebitda margins were flat at 20.9% versus 20.9% (Bloomberg estimate: 20.6%). Net profit down 21% to Rs 1,338 crore versus Rs 1,692 crore (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 1,319 crore). Tata Steel, Power Grip Corp, Jindal Steel, Apollo Hospitals Q2 Results Today Earnings Estimates Tata Steel's Quarterly Results In Q1, Tata Steel reported a 7.9% fall in revenue to Rs 54,771.4 crore versus Rs 59,489.7 crore in the same period last year. Net profit increased 75% YoY to Rs 6,694.5 crore from Rs 5,173.9 crore. Tata Steel's Q1 FY25 Highlights (Consolidated, YoY) Revenue fell 7.9% to Rs 54,771.4 crore versus Rs 59,489.7 crore (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 56,339.7 crore). Net profit rose 75% to Rs 918.6 crore versus Rs 524.8 crore (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 1,215.4 crore). Ebitda increased 29% to Rs 6,694.5 crore versus Rs 5,173.9 crore (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 6,379.9 crore). Ebitda margins were at 12.1% versus 8.7% (Bloomberg estimate: 11.3%). Power Grid's Quarterly Results Power Grid Corp. reported a slight downtick in its Q1 revenue to Rs 11,006 crore from Rs 11,048 crore in the same quarter a year ago. Net profit of the company was up 3.5% at Rs 3,724 crore versus Rs 3,597 crore on a YoY basis. Power Grid's Q1 FY25 Highligts (Consolidated, YoY) Revenue was down 0.4% to Rs 11,006 crore versus Rs 11,048 crore (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 11,778 crore). Ebitda fell 0.8% to Rs 9,602 crore versus Rs 9,683 (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 10,183 crore). Margin at 87.2% versus 87.6% (Bloomberg estimate: 86.5%). Net profit was up 3.5% to Rs 3,724 crore versus Rs 3,597 crore (Bloomberg estimate: Rs 3,893.3 crore). List Of Companies Declaring Q2 Results on Nov. 6 Among the list of companies declaring their Q2 results on Nov. 6 are Aadhar Housing Finance Ltd., ABC Gas International Ltd., Adcon Capital Services Ltd., Sri Amarnath Finance Ltd., Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., Avalon Technologies Ltd., BITS Ltd., Blue Chip Tex Industries Ltd., Blue Star Ltd., Bombay Cycle & Motor Agency Ltd., Chambal Fertilisers & Chemicals Ltd., Cochin Malabar Estates & Industries Ltd., Delta Corp., Dhanuka Agritech Ltd., Dhoot Industrial Finance Ltd., Divyashakti Ltd., Dugar Housing Developments Ltd., Elango Industries Ltd., Endurance Technologies Ltd., Ester Industries Ltd., FDC Ltd., Gandhar Oil Refinery India Ltd., Gayatri Sugars Ltd., and GE Power India Ltd. Also declaring results are Gujarat Pipavav Port Ltd., Granules India Ltd., Gujarat Gas Ltd., Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd., GP Petroleums Ltd., Hi-Tech Pipes Ltd., ID Info Business Services Ltd., Infra Industries Ltd., India Radiators Ltd., Invigorated Business Consulting Ltd., India Pesticides Ltd., Jackson Investments Ltd., Jay Bharat Maruti Ltd., Jayabharat Credit Ltd., JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Jindal Steel & Power Ltd., JJ Finance Corp., JK Lakshmi Cement Ltd., JMJ Fintech Ltd., Jyoti Structures Ltd., Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd., Karnimata Cold Storage Ltd., Kemp & Co., Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Ltd., Kovilpatti Lakshmi Roller Flour Mills Ltd., KP Energy Ltd., KP Green Engineering Ltd., KPI Green Energy Ltd., Kreon Financial Services Ltd., Krishna Ventures Ltd., Majestic Auto Ltd., and Media Matrix Worldwide Ltd. Some other companies that will be announcing their earnings include NDR Auto Components Ltd., Neuland Laboratories Ltd., Oasis Securities Ltd., Organic Coatings Ltd., Pan India Corp., Pasupati Acrylon Ltd., Pacheli Industrial Finance Ltd., Power Grid Corp., Pricol Ltd., Prima Agro Ltd., Prima Industries Ltd., Radix Industries India Ltd., Rain Industries Ltd., Ranjit Securities Ltd., Raymed Labs Ltd., Revati Organics Ltd., RITES Ltd., RPSG Ventures Ltd., Shivalik Bimetal Controls Ltd., SBL Infratech Ltd., Shipping Corporation of India Land and Assets Ltd., Singer India Ltd., Shelter Infra Projects Ltd., Sonata Software Ltd., Southern Magnesium & Chemicals Ltd., Spel Semiconductor Ltd., Spencers Retail Ltd., Saptarishi Agro Industries Ltd., Sukhjit Starch & Chemicals Ltd., and Tarc Ltd. Among other companies declaring results are Tata Steel Ltd., TeamLease Services Ltd., Thangamayil Jewellery Ltd., Tiaan Consumer Ltd., Trident Ltd., Umang Dairies Ltd., Usha Martin Ltd., Virinchi Ltd., Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility Ltd., Waterbase Ltd., Welspun Investments and Commercials Ltd., and Zuari Agro Chemicals Ltd. Stocks To Watch: Tata Steel, HUL, Titan, NTPC, Hindustan Zinc, GAIL, Oil India . Read more on Earnings by NDTV Profit.

Tata Steel, Power Grip Corp, Jindal Steel, Apollo Hospitals Q2 Results Today Earnings Estimates

Notable Q2 earnings today are of Tata Steel, Power Grid Corp, Jindal Steel & Power, Apollo Hospitals and Chambal Fertilisers. Check the estimates shared by analysts.

Bhopal Diary |Patna Mohli residents last Diwali in their village

For residents of Patna Mohli village in Sagar district, this was perhaps the last time they celebrated Diwali and associated festivities in their village. Their village is among those that will soon be part of the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, leading them to look for alternative locations. Joining in their last Deepawali, Annakoot and Govardhan Puja celebrations in their village, was the former minister and their veteran BJP MLA Gopal Bhargava, who turned emotional while recounting his four decades old bonding with the village, which is last village of his Rehli assembly constituency. No entry into Mahakal without RFID wristbands Devotees at the treasured early morning Bhasma Arti at the world-famous Mahakal Temple in Ujjain, will have to wear smart RFID wristbands into the temple. After Deepawali, the temple management has introduced the new system for Bhasma Arti to prevent unauthorized and fraudulent entry of people during the early morning prayers. According to the temple management sources, the new system is being introduced to ensure only those who are issued the authentic entry passes actually attend arti. Also, it is aimed at shielding devotees from touts. MP Congress chiefs Diwali with tribals in Vijaypur With the tribal voters holding the key to the partys poll prospects in the November 13 Vijaypur assembly seat by-election, state Congress chief Jitu Patwari celebrated Diwali with the community in the by-poll bound constituency of Gwalior-Chambal region recently. He also asked the tribal voters to teach the ruling BJP the befitting lesson on November 13. From decades, the Vijaypur seat has been synonymous to its six-time Congress MLA Ramniwas Rawat, who is this time the BJP candidate after becoming states forest minister. Taking on Rawat is ex-BJP man and tribal politician Mukesh Malhotra, who is now the Congress candidate. Anuraag singh Our correspondent in Madhya Pradesh singhanuraag.jaurno@gmail.com

Congress targets BJP bypoll candidate over jumbo deaths in Bandhavgarh

BHOPAL: With turncoat politician and Madhya Pradeshs forest minister Ramniwas Rawat being the ruling BJPs candidate in one of the two assembly bypolls in Madhya Pradesh on November 13, his former party and opposition Congress has started targeting him over the deaths of 10 elephants in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (BTR). Its sad that 10 elephants symbolising Lord Ganesha died at BTR ahead of Deepawali. We worship Lord Ganesha, but forest minister Ramniwas Rawat couldnt protect the elephants, which had come from Chhattisgarh and Karnataka. The government should question careless forest officials, LoP and former forest minister Umang Singhar said on Friday. State Congress chief spokesperson Bhupendra Gupta, too, raised the issue of the elephant deaths to corner Rawat, who is the BJP candidate from Vijaypur seat of Gwalior-Chambal in the November 13 byoll. Rawat is six-time Congress MLA from the seat from which he resigned after being made forest minister in the current BJP government in July 2024. He ended his decade-long association with the Congress during the Lok Sabha polls. Rawat will take on former BJP leader Mukesh Malhotra, a tribal, in the bypoll. The seat has a sizeable chunk of Saharia tribal voters. These voters who have largely been loyal to BJP, may rally behind the Congress candidate this time. The Vijaypur seat also houses the Kuno National Park, the first home of cheetahs after their re-introduction in Indian wilds in September 2022. Meanwhile on Friday, forest department staff at the BTR burnt standing Kodo millet crop, which was consumed in large volume by the 13-strong elephant herd on Monday in an agricultural field, hours before they started dying on Tuesday.

Happy Diwali: HRTC Adds 155 Extra Buses for Diwali Travel in Himachal Pradesh

In a recent announcement, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has rolled out 155 additional buses to cater to the rising travel demand during the Diwali festival. This service, which begins on Tuesday, aims to enhance the travel experience for passengers during this busy season. Tickets can be booked online, allowing travelers to secure their seats in advance and avoid the last-minute rush. Additional Services HRTC's extra services primarily target the popular routes between Delhi and various locations in Himachal Pradesh, which often see heavy traffic during Diwali. On October 30, the corporation will deploy 60 extra buses from Delhi to key districts, including Palampur, Baijnath, Jogendranagar, Pathankot, and Dharamshala. Passengers can choose from both standard and luxury buses for routes to Dharamshala, ensuring comfort during their journey. From Chandigarh, HRTC will operate 70 extra buses on October 29 and 30, covering several destinations within Himachal Pradesh. On the first day, two buses will serve Chamba and Dharamshala. The following day, four additional buses are scheduled for Bilaspur, providing ample options for travelers heading home or visiting family during the holiday. Furthermore, 25 extra buses will be added for the town of Baddi on both days, improving travel convenience in that area. Regular Bus Services These additional services are set to run outside HRTCs regular bus schedules, helping to ease congestion on usual routes and improving travel for the Diwali rush. With these extra options, HRTC aims to make holiday travel more efficient and safer for everyone. In addition to increasing bus services, HRTC has also revised its fare structure, which will affect both passenger fares and luggage charges. Some ticket prices may see significant hikes, with certain fares potentially doubling. Recently, a proposed toilet tax has sparked political debate in Himachal Pradesh, prompting the Chief Minister to address concerns raised by the BJP and provide clarifications. HRTC's addition of 155 extra buses highlights its commitment to ensuring that families can travel conveniently to celebrate Diwali together. This initiative underscores the important role of public transportation in facilitating festive gatherings and maintaining connections among people during significant occasions like Diwali. Through these efforts, HRTC plays a crucial part in fostering the spirit of celebration and togetherness in the region. Diwali, Chhath Puja 2024: Indian Railways Runs 200 More Special Trains, Check List Here Diwali Delights: A Culinary Journey Through India's Diverse Festive Flavors Ayodhya's Deepotsav: A Dazzling Display of 28 Lakh Diyas and 18 Colorful Tableaux To Show

Young couple dies by suicide after jumping from train in MP

Bhopal: A young couple reportedly jumped from a moving train into the Dhasan River in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh, on Saturday afternoon, in an apparent suicide pact. Shocked passengers and villagers on the riverbank witnessed the couple leap from the Howrah-Chambal Express as it crossed a bridge near Harpalpur railway station, about 200 km from Gwalior, on the UP-MP border. Villagers immediately informed the police and attempted to rescue the couple, but the fall proved fatal. Their bodies were recovered and sent to Naugaon Hospital for postmortem examination. Police have identified the young man as Sanjeev Ahirwar, 20, from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, while the young woman's identity remains unknown. Authorities are investigating the circumstances behind the suspected suicide pact and are exploring potential motives.

Rise in human-wildlife conflicts in HP as black bear, leopard populations thrive: Wildlife census

CHANDIGARH: Human-wildlife conflicts are increasing in Himachal Pradesh, with Asiatic black bears and leopards being major contributors, according to the recent wildlife census titled Population Estimation and Assessment of Human-Wildlife Conflict released by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI). The report highlights that these animals, whose primary prey consists of sheep, goats, cattle, and occasionally dogs, are increasingly coming into conflict with humans, particularly in the districts of Kullu, Chamba, Mandi, Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti, and parts of Sirmaur. The census identified approximately 529 black bears and 510 leopards across the state, with 307 bears and 333 leopards being individually recorded. The study reveals that leopards are responsible for conflicts in 30.85% of the affected areas, while black bears account for 18.65%. Among the attacks, 83.79% target sheep and goats, followed by cattle at 13.20%, and horses at 4.75%. Leopards also occasionally prey on dogs, with 3.40% of such incidents reported, though there are no records of dog predation by black bears. The report states, The human settlements constructed in isolated areas near forests are a key factor behind attacks, highlighting that the growth of human population around protected areas, encroachment, and increasing reliance on forests are significant contributors to these conflicts. Seasonal variations also influence conflict patterns. Leopards predominantly attack livestock during spring (highest in Bilaspur at 32.6%), with fewer incidents in autumn (14.2%). Bear attacks are most frequent in summer in Chamba (31.55%), followed closely by autumn (31.18%). According to the census, Shimla, Kangra, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kullu report the highest number of bear attacks, while leopard attacks are most common in Kullu, Mandi, Chamba, Una, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Kangra. In terms of bear populations, Kinnaur has the highest number with 90 bears, followed by Kullu (76), Shimla (71), Chamba (32), Kangra and Mandi (15 each), and five bears in both Sirmaur and Solan. Only one bear each was recorded in Lahaul and Spiti. For leopards, Shimla leads with 58, followed by Solan (56), Mandi (50), Sirmaur (48), and Kinnaur (44). Lower numbers were recorded in Bilaspur and Kangra (13 each), Chamba (5), and Hamirpur (4). The ZSI report further suggests that educating local communities on wildlife conservation is crucial, especially in conflict-prone districts such as Chamba, Mandi, Kullu, and Kinnaur, where 1,298 residents surveyed cited leopards as the primary threat to their livestock.

New Himalayan snake species named after Academy Award winner Leonardo DiCaprio,it will becalled...

The newly described snake species, 'Anguiculus dicaprioi' is distributed from central Nepal to Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh, whereas 'Anguiculus rappii' is distributed in Sikkim, Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh.

New snake species discovered in Himalayas, Named After Leonardo DiCaprio

A team of researchers discovered a new snake species in the western Himalayas which has been named after famous Hollywood actor and Producer, Leonardo DiCaprio for his contribution to the conservation. The species has been named Anguiculus dicaprioi or DiCaprios Himalayan snake. It was discovered by researchers from India, Germany, and the United Kingdom while searching the lesser-known species of India's reptiles during their project in 2020. Their study of the new species was published on Monday in Scientific Reports, a peer-reviewed journal. The new species was classified by the researchers under a new genus called Anguiculus, which means small snake in Latin. The study explained, The specific epithet dicaprioi is a patronym honouring Leonardo DiCaprio, an American actor, film producer, and environmentalist who has been actively involved in creating awareness about global climate change, increased biodiversity loss, and human health issues through pollution. The study also said, In addition to this, he has made funds available for field conservation activities and research. Suggested common name DiCaprios Himalayan snake. The researchers were visiting the mountainous regions in the western Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh for their ongoing project when they found a few brown-coloured snakes in the mud road. The study further mentioned, The individuals were seen basking and remained motionless until caught and made no attempts to bite. The study of these snakes, their DNA analysis, and their comparison with other snakes led to the discovery of new species. HT Lalremsanga, a professor in the Department of Zoology at Mizoram University, and a member of the team of researchers, said, Besides being found in areas of Himachal Pradesh like Chamba and Kullu, the new species has also been found in Nainital in Uttarakhand and Chitwan National Park in Nepal. The other researchers of the team are Zeeshan A Mirza, Patrick D Campbell, Harshil Patel, Gernot Vogel, Saunak Pal, and Virender K Bhardwaj. The study describes the new species as small-sized, reaching about 22 inches in length. It features a road collar with small dark brown spots, a obust skull, and a steeply domed snout. This species is found at heights of approximately 6,000 feet above sea level.

Zoo vehicle in accident, two escaped gharials caught

HYDERABAD : Two gharials (fish-eating crocodiles) being transported to the Bannerghatta biological park in Karnataka had a brief taste of freedom after their vehicle met with an accident and fell on its side in Nirmal district. The crates in which the animals were kept broke open, giving officials moments of panic. However, both reptiles were recaptured soon after, with help of forest officials from Nirmal, who rushed to the accident site. No one was injured in the accident and the driver of the vehicle that went off the road, received some very minor scratches, a forest department official from Nirmal said. Even more fortunate, according to the official, was the fact that the vehicle that met with the accident was the one carrying the gharials, and not the second vehicle that was transporting a tiger, and a jungle cat. Had it been this vehicle and the cage with the tiger broke, then the story would have been very different, the official said. Nirmal forest range officer Ramakrishna said as soon as they received information, they rushed to National Highway-44 in Mamidigutta area where the accident occurred. We took with us two cranes to lift the vehicle and help with the rescue, he said. In all, eight gharials, one white tiger and a jungle cat were being transported to Bannerghatta Biological Park from the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park in Patna as part of an animal exchange programme, the official said. The transport vehicles were being followed in a car by a team, led by a veterinarian, and staff from the two zoos who contacted the Telangana forest department for help after the accident. The gharial is a crocodile with a long narrow mouth and a snout that looks like a pot, after which it got its name. This fish eating crocodile considered critically endangered, is mostly found in three tributaries of river Ganga Chambal, and Girwa in India, and in Rapti-Narayani in Nepal and India has reserves in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan for protecting the Gharial, according to the Wildlife Institute of India. The team transporting the animals continued their journey after an alternate vehicle to carry the crocodiles was arranged for, the official said. The accident occurred as the driver was reportedly fatigued, and lost concentration. He crashed the vehicle into cement bollards by the road after which the vehicle fell on its side next to the road.

Viral video shows MP Congress MLA Babu Jandel using objectionable language about Lord Shiva

BHOPAL: Politics in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh has heated up following a viral video, purportedly showing opposition Congress MLA Babu Jandel using objectionable language about Hindu deity Lord Shiva. In the 11 seconds viral video which was also shared on social media platform X, by state BJP spokesperson Narendra Saluja, the second-time Congress MLA Babu Jandel, who seems visibly drunk, can be heard using objectionable language and making obscene gestures about Lord Shiva. ... ... , , ... pic.twitter.com/GqFhJBJthh Narendra Saluja (@NarendraSaluja) October 16, 2024 The viral video was enough to trigger angry protests from the ruling BJPs rank and file in the state. The BJP workers led by the first-time Indore III MLA Rakesh Golu Shukla burnt the concerned Congress MLAs effigy. We demand immediate action against the concerned MLA by the Congress, failing which we will ensure that whenever he comes to Indore, his face is blackened for insulting Lord Shiva and Sanatan Dharma, Shukla said. In the state capital Bhopal, meanwhile, the state BJP chief VD Sharma raised the issue, asking the Congresss state and national leadership whether it was running a Mohabbat ki Dukan or Galiyon ki Dukan (shop of love or abuses). We want to know from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge as well as the leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi what action will be initiated against the Congress MLA from Sheopur seat of MP. The concerned Congress MLA, Babu Jandel, who is a second-time legislator from the Sheopur seat of the Gwalior-Chambal region, termed the video as doctored. This video is very old and is from inside my house, where I was seated along with my trusted friends. We were talking about Satsang, coming from a rural background, I couldve used rustic language. Im an ardent Shiva Bhakt myself and cannot even dream of denigrating my worshipped deity. This video which is viral is actually doctored. The state Congresss media wing head Mukesh Naik (who has himself been a religious preacher in the past) also defended the party MLA, saying This is a five years old video and possibly depicts the MLAs haas, parihaas, vyang and vinod (funny and lighter) moments. He has donated 5 acres of land to build a Shiva Temple. The concerned video has been leaked by one of his friends, who is now in the BJP and wants to render the BJP electoral benefits in the coming by-election from Vijaypur assembly seat, which neighbours Jandels Sheopur seat. State Congress spokesperson Abhinav Barolia, meanwhile, countered the BJPs attack on the issue, by questioning what action had the ruling party taken against its own leaders, including ex-minister Kusum Mehdele, current MLA Pradeep Patel and 2023 assembly polls candidate Monika Shah Bhatti, for making objectionable remarks about Hindu deities, Lord Shiva, Lord Ram and Sita Mata in the past. He also dared the BJP leaders to make public the entire 20-minute video of Jandel along with his friends, instead of just sharing some portions of the long video. The latest viral video and its timing assume particular significance, as it has gone viral, nearly a month before the November 13 by-election to Vijaypur seat of the Sheopur district of the Gwalior-Chambal region. The by-poll bound constituency neighbours Jandels seat Sheopur. Former Congress veteran and sixth-time sitting MLA Ramniwas Rawat (currently the states forest minister) who joined the BJP during the LS polls is the BJP candidate from his citadel Vijaypur. Just a day back, the loudmouthed Congress MLA Babu Jandel, had announced that he would get his face blackened if the Congress lost the November 13 by-polls in the neighbouring Vijaypur constituency.

Indian Skimmers Get Lower Manair Under Focus

Hyderabad: Recently, over 110 endangered Indian skimmers, which represent 4.4 per cent of its world population, were sighted at the Lower Manair Dam (LMD) in Karimnagar. This is the second recorded instance of these birds in Telangana, with the first sighting occurring in Manjeera, Sangareddy. Last year, 25 skimmers were spotted at LMD. However, this location was not categorised as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA), unlike the other 18 listed areas. Telangana is home to three Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) - Manjeera, Pocharam, and Pakhal - while Amrabad is a shared IBA with Andhra Pradesh. Overall, the region has a total of 18 IBAs, with the majority located in Andhra Pradesh. Parveen Shaikh, a scientist at Bombay Natural History Society, told Deccan Chronicle: Not all the places where birds are spotted can be declared as an IBA, Now that 110 Skimmer birds are spotted in LMD, this will be taken into consideration for the future list. We are also trying to understand the reason why they are choosing LMD. As we continue to monitor these birds, it will be fascinating to observe their movements, especially as they may remain in the region until January,she added. After their first sighting at LMD in January 2023, we are hopeful they will return to the same spot again, as they tend to use the same area during winters. This year, a local birder reported seeing them last week and he reported it on the eBird platform. When we visited the place, we counted them to be a total of 110. Sri Ram Reddy, a bird watcher said. Indian skimmers are wetland birds typically found in coastal estuaries and larger sandy rivers across western and eastern India. During the winter months, they migrate throughout India, nesting in rivers such as the Chambal and Mahananda. Their breeding season runs from March to June, and they prefer to lay their eggs on river islands. The Indian skimmer is particularly interesting because of its distinctive feeding method, according to those who study birds. With a long lower beak which is significantly longer than the upper one, these birds skim the water's surface while flying, using their beak to catch fish. This behaviour, known as skimming, allows them to access their prey efficiently. The Indian skimmer is listed as an endangered bird, with its population declining by 34-46 per cent over the past three generations. Current estimates suggest fewer than 2,450-2,900 mature individuals are alive around the world. The decline is primarily due to habitat loss and changes in water levels caused by dams, irrigation, and sand mining. These factors lead to flooding and low water levels, both of which pose threats to their nesting colonies by exposing them to predators and human disturbances.

Stock Alert: TCS, IREDA, Anand Rathi Wealth, Mazagon Dock ,Exide Inds, Infosys

Bandhan Bank, Birla Soft, Chambal Fertilizers, GNFC, Granules, Hindustan Copper, IDFC First Bank, Manappuram, PNB, RBL Bank, Sail, Tata Chemical.

'Funds from Centre are Himachals right, not charity': CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

CHANDIGARH: Attacking the BJP-led NDA Government and the top BJP leadership Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today said that the funds allocated by the central government to Himachal Pradesh are the state's rightful entitlement, not an act of charity. He said that Himachal Pradesh is an integral part of the federal structure, where each state has both rights and responsibilities. Where does the union government collect its taxes from? It is the states' contributions that form the central revenue. Therefore, states have a legitimate claim on this tax revenue. The union government is not distributing charity but returning what is due. The Revenue Deficit Grant is a rightful entitlement of the people of Himachal Pradesh, and we are also entitled to our share in central taxes, he asserted. He also criticized Jagat Prakash Nadda, stating that as a Minister in the union government and the National President of the BJP, Naddas recent statements are inappropriate. Sukhu further said, Those who have recently become Naddas advisors were previously associated with the Congress party. It would be wise for him to stay cautious of such advices. In response to a question, Sukhu said that the previous BJP government had poorly managed the health sector, and it will take time for Himachal Pradesh to recover. He said that the state government has allocated Rs. 200 crores each for the completion of the Chamba and Hamirpur medical colleges. These funds have been sourced from the states resources. We are also recruiting doctors and nurses using our own funds to ensure better healthcare services for the people of the state. The union government is not providing these funds, he emphasized. Sukhu stated that ever since the Congress Party secured 40 seats in Himachal Pradesh, he has been subjected to personal attacks. There have been ED raids in Nadaun, and discussions about toilet taxes have arisen. These allegations seem aimed at influencing the Haryana assembly elections. Not a single person in Himachal Pradesh has been charged such a tax. It was the previous Jai Ram Thakur government decided to impose a sewerage tax on additional toilet seats, which our government has now waived, he said. He also clarified that the state government has neither withdrawn the electricity subsidy for the common people nor issued water bills. However, the subsidies for five-star hotels and luxury properties have been rationalised. Should five-star hotels and luxury properties be receiving such subsidies? he questioned. Meanwhile, former Union minister Anurag Thakur said that the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh took loans worth over Rs 27,000 crore in the last 18 months. While addressing public meetings at several places in his parliamentary constituency Hamirpur, including in Nadaun, the home assembly seat of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, yesterday evening , Thakur said,`` During the tenure of only 18 months so far, the state government has taken a loan of more than Rs 27,000 crore, despite that this government does not have the budget to get development work done in the state. The Congress government does not give anything, but it continuously makes plans to collect from the people. The condition of roads is bad in the entire state and the chief minister's assembly constituency Nadaun is no exception. There is a burden of taxes everywhere, be it electricity, water, roads, education or health. Electricity subsidy given by the previous BJP government has been stopped and the rural population has been burdened with water charges.

'Funds from Center are Himachals right, not charity,' says Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

CHANDIGARH: Attacking the BJP-led NDA Government and the top BJP leadership Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today said that the funds allocated by the central government to Himachal Pradesh are the state's rightful entitlement, not an act of charity. He said that Himachal Pradesh is an integral part of the federal structure, where each state has both rights and responsibilities. Where does the union government collect its taxes from? It is the states' contributions that form the central revenue. Therefore, states have a legitimate claim on this tax revenue. The union government is not distributing charity but returning what is due. The Revenue Deficit Grant is a rightful entitlement of the people of Himachal Pradesh, and we are also entitled to our share in central taxes, he asserted. He also criticized Jagat Prakash Nadda, stating that as a Minister in the union government and the National President of the BJP, Naddas recent statements are inappropriate. Sukhu further said, Those who have recently become Naddas advisors were previously associated with the Congress party. It would be wise for him to stay cautious of such advices. In response to a question, Sukhu said that the previous BJP government had poorly managed the health sector, and it will take time for Himachal Pradesh to recover. He said that the state government has allocated Rs. 200 crores each for the completion of the Chamba and Hamirpur medical colleges. These funds have been sourced from the states resources. We are also recruiting doctors and nurses using our own funds to ensure better healthcare services for the people of the state. The union government is not providing these funds, he emphasized. Sukhu stated that ever since the Congress Party secured 40 seats in Himachal Pradesh, he has been subjected to personal attacks. There have been ED raids in Nadaun, and discussions about toilet taxes have arisen. These allegations seem aimed at influencing the Haryana assembly elections. Not a single person in Himachal Pradesh has been charged such a tax. It was the previous Jai Ram Thakur government decided to impose a sewerage tax on additional toilet seats, which our government has now waived, he said. He also clarified that the state government has neither withdrawn the electricity subsidy for the common people nor issued water bills. However, the subsidies for five-star hotels and luxury properties have been rationalised. Should five-star hotels and luxury properties be receiving such subsidies? he questioned. Meanwhile, former Union minister Anurag Thakur said that the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh took loans worth over Rs 27,000 crore in the last 18 months. While addressing public meetings at several places in his parliamentary constituency Hamirpur, including in Nadaun, the home assembly seat of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, yesterday evening , Thakur said,`` During the tenure of only 18 months so far, the state government has taken a loan of more than Rs 27,000 crore, despite that this government does not have the budget to get development work done in the state. The Congress government does not give anything, but it continuously makes plans to collect from the people. The condition of roads is bad in the entire state and the chief minister's assembly constituency Nadaun is no exception. There is a burden of taxes everywhere, be it electricity, water, roads, education or health. Electricity subsidy given by the previous BJP government has been stopped and the rural population has been burdened with water charges.

Bhopal Diary: Will MP BJP have its first-ever woman chief?

Investment proposals of Rs 23k cr for Bundelkhand First ever regional industry conclave in MPs Bundelkhand region has attracted investment proposals worth over Rs 23,000 crore, which when actualized are expected to generate over 27,800 jobs in the region, that has since decades witnessed large scale migration of local workforce to other states. The day-long conclave in Sagar on Friday saw the biggest Rs 3,200 crore investment proposal in steel manufacturing sector for Niwari district, Rs 2,000 crore investment proposal in cement sector for Panna district and Rs 1,700 crore proposal for setting up a B2B data centre in Sagar district. Will MP BJP have its first-ever woman chief? With several names in talks among the BJP circles for state party chiefs post (which is likely to be finalised soon), names of some key women politicians too have cropped up. The names include two former MP ministers Archana Chitnis and Usha Thakur (both upper caste politicians), two sitting MPs, OBC leader Kavita Patidar (first time RS MP) and Sandhya Rai (second-time LS member), besides first-time sitting MLA Riti Pathak. MP BJP has never had a women chief, but with the central leadership known to spring surprises, a woman heading the BJP doesnt seem impossible. Speculation over ex-BJP MLAs video with Congress Though the by-election to Vijaypur assembly seat of Sheopur district is yet to be announced, the local BJP circles in the district are concerned over a recent video showing its 2018 winner Sitaram Adivasi mingling with local Congress leaders. Adivasi who defeated Congress veteran Ramniwas Rawat in the 2018 polls from Vijaypur seat is a powerful tribal leader from the assembly seat forming part of the Gwalior-Chambal region. His visible proximity to the Congress will not be good news for sixth-time Congress MLA Rawat, who joined BJP ahead of LS polls and was made a cabinet minister in the state government in July.

Vodafone Idea Ltd leads losers in 'A' group

Indus Towers Ltd, Chambal Fertilisers & Chemicals Ltd, IIFL Finance Ltd and Nava Ltd are among the other losers in the BSE's 'A' group today, 19 September 2024.

Will Bobby Deol Play the Villain in Raghava Lawrences 25th Film?

Excitement is building in both Tollywood and Bollywood with the recent announcement of Raghava Lawrence's 25th film, accompanied by a striking poster declaring, Big Action Adventure Begins. Directed by Ramesh Varma and produced by Koneru Satyanarayana, the project has already become the talk of the town, especially with whispers about Bollywood actor Bobby Deol possibly taking on the role of the antagonist. Touted as a pan-Indian film, Adventure will cater to Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam audiences. According to sources, its becoming a trend for pan-Indian projects to cast well-known Hindi film stars, and Bobby Deol is reportedly being considered to play the villaina pivotal role in this massive production. The film will be titled Adventure and set in the 1980s, adding a nostalgic flair to the storyline. Adventure will be shot primarily in the scenic regions of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, with Gwalior's Chambal region being a key location for the films action-packed sequences. This big-budget film is said to draw inspiration from classic adventure films, in the vein of Indiana Jones. Expect thrilling action, captivating landscapes, and a grand narrative. National Award-winning actress Keerthy Suresh has been approached to play the female lead, reportedly as a doctor. While she has expressed interest in the storyline, her participation is contingent on her existing commitments. Fans eagerly await confirmation of her role. Produced under the banners of A Studios LLP, Neeladri Productions, and Hawwish Productions, Adventure is slated to begin filming in November 2024. With the possibility of Bobby Deol portraying a formidable villain and Raghava Lawrence leading this ambitious project, anticipation is sky-high. Will Bobby Deol officially sign on to play the villain? Only time will tell, but the buzz surrounding Adventure is already palpable!

Stock Alert : Torrent Power, FirstSource Solutions, JK Tyre Inds, Carborundum Universal, Reliance Infra

Aarti Industries, Balrampur Chini Mills, Bandhan Bank, Birla soft, Chambal Fertilizers and Chemicals, Gujarat National Fertilizers and Chemicals (GNFC), Granules India, Hindustan Copper, LIC Housing Finance, RBL Bank.

Stock Alert: Adani Power, Dixon Tech, CDSL, Laurus Labs, Trident, Nazara Tech

Aarti Industries, Balrampur Chini Mills, Bandhan Bank, Chambal Fertilizers and Chemicals, Granules India, Hindustan Copper, RBL Bank

Stock Alert: BPCL, SBI Cards, BLS Intl, H.G. Infra Engg, Tata Power, HCL Tech

Aarti Industries, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail (ABFRL), Balramur Chini Mills, Bandhan Bank, Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals, Granules India , Hindustan Copper, RBL Bank.

Biocon, PFC, Chambal Fert; top picks by Ajit Mishra of Religare Broking

The pharma sector is showing notable resilience, with Biocon taking the lead. The stock has broken out from a bullish rectangle pattern, accompanied by a strong surge in volumes

Met warns of flash flood risk in Himachal, 109 roads shut amid heavy rains

It also issued a 'yellow' alert of heavy rain, thunderstorm and lightning at isolated places in nine out of 12 districts in the state, barring Kinnaur, Chamba and Lahaul and Spiti till Tuesday

Weather Office Warns Of Flash Flood Risk In Parts Of Himachal Pradesh

The meteorological office in Shimla on Monday warned of low to moderate flash flood risk in several parts of Himachal Pradesh, including Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur and Kinnaur, until Tuesday afternoon.

Over 100 roads closed after rains, MeT warns of flash flood in eight districts in Himachal

SHIMLA: A total of 109 roads including National Highway 707, were closed on Monday in Himachal Pradesh following rains, the state emergency operation centre said. The local meteorological office warned of low to moderate flash flood risk in parts of Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan, Kullu and Kinnaur till Tuesday. It also issued a 'yellow' alert of heavy rain, thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places in the state till Tuesday. Besides National Highway 707 being blocked between Hatkoti in Shimla district and Poanta Sahib in Sirmaur district, 55 roads were closed in Sirmaur, 23 in Shimla, 10 each in Mandi and Kangra, nine in Kullu, one each in Lahaul and Spiti and Una districts, as per the data shared by the state emergency operation centre (SEOC). As many as 427 power supply schemes have also been disrupted in the state, the SEOC said. Meanwhile, heavy rains lashed parts of parts of Sirmaur, Bilaspur and Mandi districts while moderate rainfall was recorded in several places of the state in the past 24 hours since Sunday evening. Nahan in the Sirmaur district logged 143.5 mm of rain being the wettest place in the state, followed by 130 mm of rain in Naina Devi, 83 mm in Pachhad, 72.6 mm in Poanta Sahib, 66 mm in Dhaulakuan, 55.1 mm in Kataula, 46.2 mm in Sundernagar, 34 mm in Pandoh, 33 mm in Chamba, 32 mm in Bharmaur and 30 mm in Palampur. Himachal Pradesh's rainfall deficit so far since the onset of monsoon in the state on June 27 stands at 23 per cent with the state receiving 482.1 mm rainfall against an average of 623.9 mm. As many as 151 people have died in rain-related incidents this year and the state has suffered losses to the tune of Rs 1,265 crore, officials said. According to the weather department of the 12 revenue districts in the state, 11 recorded a rainfall deficit and only Shimla district received 10 per cent excess rainfall.

Adani Group to invest 3,500 cr. in Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior-Chambal region

Move is likely to generate more than 3,500 jobs

UDP, MDA-oni ongkatjawa, onggijanade kurang ongen: Rymbui

SHILLONG: United Democratic Party (UDP) MDA baksa bakrimaoni ongkatjawa indiba adokni silroro-namrorognina kam kaanio jamanchakani dongode uarangni giminde sorkarini kosako kurang ongen. Mongolbar salo koborni manderangna aganengon, UDP adolni dolsa gitchambatsranggipa regional party onga, unigimin party-ko bilakatna tikkelenga aro rebaenggipa Assembly election-ona ongipa gadangonin tarisoenga ine UDP dilgipa, Lahkmen Rymbui aganaha. Sorkarini maiba onggija policy-rangko [] The post UDP, MDA-oni ongkatjawa, onggijanade kurang ongen: Rymbui appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Himachal Faces Continued Heavy Rains, Yellow Alert Issued For Isolated Areas

The MeT warned of low to moderate flash flood risk in parts of Chamba, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts till Wednesday.

Himachal Pradesh: 31 Killed In 51 Events Of Cloudburst, Flash Floods Since Onset Of Monsoon

Lahaul and Spiti witnessed 22 such incidents, the highest in the state, followed by 11 in Kinnaur, six in Una, three each in Kullu and Mandi, two in Sirmaur and one each in Chamba, Hamirpur, Shimla and Solan districts, it said.

MP govt orders officials to check on Madrasas forcing students to get religious education

BHOPAL: The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to act against government aided Madrasas, which are forcing students to get religious education or attend religious worship without students or guardians' consent. Acting on repeated communications and recommendations by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), Commissioner Shilpa Gupta issued a detailed order on Friday. According to the directions, physical inspection and verification will have to be carried out at all government-aided Madrasas to ensure that no Madrasas are violating Article 28(3) of the Constitution of India. As per Article 28(3) of the Constitution, No person attending any educational institution recognised by the State or receiving aid out of State funds shall be required to take part in any religious instruction that may be imparted in such institution or to attend any religious worship that may be conducted in such institution or in any premises attached to it unless such person or, if such person is a minor, his guardian has given his consent thereto. The Friday order also states for physical verification and inspection of the recognized government-aided Madrasas and relevant records to ensure that none of the students have been fraudulently enrolled for obtaining government grants. The Commissioner (DPI) Shilpa Gupta has mentioned that the action is being initiated statewide following communication by the NCPCR and news reports about government-recognized/aided Madrasas fraudulently registering/enrolling non-Muslim students for obtaining government grants. It had also written to the state government about non-Muslim students being forced to get religious education and attend religious prayers without their parents' or guardian consent. A total 9476 non-Muslim students were found enrolled in 1534 Madrasas across Madhya Pradesh Taking to the social media platform X over the Madhya Pradesh governments decision to act tough with the erring Madrasas, NCPCR chairperson Priyank Kanoongo wrote, Commendable step by the courageous MP CM Dr Mohan Yadav. Thank you very much for this prompt action on NCPCRs recommendation. All other states need to appreciate and replicate it. The states school education department had recently decided to cancel the recognition of 61 Madrasas in Sheopur and Ratlam districts for running on paper, just to get government grants. According to the information provided by the Madhya Pradesh government to the NCPCR in January 2024, a total 9476 non-Muslim students were found enrolled in 1534 Madrasas across the state in 2022-23. Maximum non-Muslim students were found to be enrolled in districts of Gwalior-Chambal region, including 2068 students in 68 Madrasas of Morena district, 1812 students in 78 Madrasas of Bhind district, 644 students in 28 Madrasas of Guna district, 523 students in 25 Madrasas of Ashok Nagar district and 369 students in 92 Madrasas of Sheopur district. In Vindhya region (which also borders UP like the Gwalior-Chambal region) 1426 non-Muslim students were found enrolled in 111 Madrasas, while 428 students were found registered in 49 Madrasas of the adjoining Satna district. Among the unrecognized Madrasas, a maximum 37 non-Muslim students were enrolled in one Madrasa of Bundelkhand regions Niwari district, while 19 students were enrolled in two Madrasas of Tikamgarh district of the same region.

Himachal Pradesh Met Office Issues 'Yellow' Alert For Heavy Rain In 10 Districts

The Met office also cautioned of a low-flash flood risk in parts of Chamba, Kangra, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts until Saturday.

Bangla unrest hits mustard cake business in Gwalior-Chambal belt

BHOPAL: Bangladesh turmoil has hit the business of mustard cakes factories and thousands of workers in Gwalior-Chambal region of Madhya Pradesh. Chandan Chaudhary left Bihar with his wife and children to work in one of the units in Morena district. However, with the unrest hitting business of mustard oil cake, he fears losing his job in future. The work has slowed down and if the situation does not improve in Bangladesh soon, it would cast a shadow on our survival. Another worker, Ram Tirath Singh at the solvent plant said, We earlier used to earn around Rs 700 daily, but the work has stopped for a month now. We dont know what the future holds for us. A local truck driver Jabbar Singh, who has been engaged in transport of raw materials and finished products says, My truck has been on a halt for more than two weeks. Dont know what to do now. The Gwalior-Chambal region is the prime mustard cultivating base of the central Indian state. While the region is home to 50 mustard oil mills, it also houses around 150 units which produce khali (mustard cake/de-oiled cake). More than 50 of these units are operating in Morena district. The DOCs which are by-products of the mustard oil are largely exported to Bangladesh, where it is particularly used as poultry, fish and animal feed. Around 150 units are engaged in production of DOC/mustard cakes daily, producing over 3,500 tonnes in the region. Around 90% of the produce is exported to Bangladesh, but since July 20, the supply has been stopped. If the situation does not improve in Bangladesh, then not only will the mustard cake/DOC industry suffer, but newer international markets will have to be urgently searched to reduce this industrys dependence on Bangladesh, said Pravin Agrawal, the head of MP Chamber of Commerce and Industries. According to sources, the losses may well be running into around `150 crore affecting the future of over 20,000 workers.

Heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh leads to closure of over 140 roads

Over 140 roads, including two national highways, are closed in Himachal Pradesh following landslides and flash floods triggered by rains in several parts of the state since the past week, officials said on Wednesday. The local meteorological office has issued a 'yellow' alert for heavy rain in isolated parts of the state till Sunday and also warned of low flash floods in parts of Sirmaur district till Thursday. Iintermittent rains continued to lash parts of the state since Tuesday evening and Dharamshala recorded 40.2 mm of rain followed by Kangra (35.9 mm), Narkanda (23.5 mm), Brahmani (19.2 mm), Sujanpur Tira (16 mm), Bharari (15.2 mm), Palampur (14.4 mm) and Rampur (11.2 mm). The State Emergency Operation Centre said 73 roads were closed in Shimla, 22 in Mandi, 20 in Kullu, 14 in Sirmaur, five in Kangra, three in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti each, two in Chamba districts on Wednesday morning. It said 209 power and 47 water supply schemes were also affected. The rainfall defici

Himachal floods: 213 roads closed including national highway, Met issues yellow alert

SHIMLA: Rain-induced landslides and flash floods led to the closure of 213 roads in Himachal Pradesh, with the local Met office issuing a 'yellow alert' in many isolated parts of the state till August 19. Due to the heavy rainfalls, the state emergency operation centre said that 89 roads were closed in Shimla, followed by 42 in Sirmaur, 37 in Mandi, 26 in Kullu, six in Kangra, five in Chamba and four each in Kinnaur and Lahaul & Spiti. Since Monday evening, Naina Devi recorded the highest rainfall at 96.4 mm, followed by Dharamshala (25 mm), Kandaghat (10.4 mm) and Kahu (9.2 mm), whereas, Kinnaur district remained cut off from Shimla following a landslide in Negulsari. Power and water supplies were also adversely affected due tp the lashing rains. Vehicular traffic on the Shimla-Kalka National Highway moved at a snail's pace after fog in several areas reduced visibility. Officials said 110 people were killed in rain-related incidents and the state suffered losses of about Rs 1,004 crore between June 27 till August 12.

Heavy rain continues to lash Himachal Pradesh, 338 roads closed: Officials

Landslides and flash floods triggered by heavy rain since Sunday led to the closure of 338 roads, including four national highways in Himachal Pradesh, officials said. Several areas in Una are waterlogged, they said on Monday. Rescue operations to locate about 30 people who went missing after the July 31 flash floods in Kullu, Mandi and Shimla districts are being conducted but there has been no major success. So far, 28 bodies have been recovered, the officials said. More than 100 people have been killed in rain-related incidents and the state suffered losses of about Rs 842 crore between June 27 and August 9, they said. The State Emergency Operation Centre said of the 338 roads closed, 104 were in Shimla, 71 in Mandi, 58 in Sirmaur, 55 in Chamba, 26 in Kullu, seven each in Solan and Lahaul & Spiti, five in Kinnaur, four in Kangra and one in Bilaspur district. It added that 488 power and 116 water supply schemes were also disrupted on Monday. The reginal Met office has issued a .

Visuals of women cleaning guns bring cops on toes in MPs Gwalior-Chambal region

BHOPAL: Viral videos and pictures of two women washing and brandishing guns in two separate districts of Madhya Pradesh have brought to the fore shocking tales of thriving gun culture in the state. One of the videos that went viral on social media led the police to bust an illegal arms unit in the Morena district while another video prompted the cops in the adjoining Datia district to initiate a search operation to find the woman in the video, dubbed by many as katta queen. The video from Morena district which went viral on social media shows a woman washing a clutch of newly made kattas (country-made pistols) while in the background, a man (who is possibly the womans husband) can be heard giving her directions as to how to clean the pistol. As the video started doing rounds on social media, cops of the Mahua police station swung into action. After verification of the video, the police team on Friday night raided a house in the Ganeshpura area from where an illegal arms unit was being operated for the last six months, according to Mahua police station in-charge Pawan Singh. Three country made pistols and many half-made guns were seized from the house along with equipments and raw materials used to make the guns illegally. The police also nabbed the womans husband Shakti Sakhwar and his father Biharilal Sakhwar and registered a case under the Arms Act. Cops are now probing other linkages of the busted arms unit, particularly as the Morena district, is neighboured by Rajasthan on one side and UP on the other side. In the adjoining Datia district of the same Gwalior-Chambal region, viral pictures showing a woman brandishing a gun went viral on Saturday. According to informed sources, the pictures showing the woman smiling with a katta (country-made pistol) in hand is from Gopalpura village of Jigna police station area of Datia district, which also neighbours UP. The viral pictures prompted people on social media to dub the woman in the picture as katta queen. According to ASP-Datia district Sunil Shivhare, investigations have begun to ascertain the veracity of the pictures and find out who is the woman wielding the gun.

Karnataka Couple Fight Hours After Wedding, Man Kills Wife Using Sickle Before Ending Life

Naveen and Likhita's love-cum-arranged marriage took place in Chambarasabahalli, Kolar Gold Fields, with both families in attendance, according to media reports.

Karnataka: 27-yr-old murders 18-yr-old wife with machete hours after wedding

With the wedding vows still fresh, the newlyweds house turned into a crime scene when a 27-year-old man murdered his 19-year-old bride using a machete on Wednesday, August 7, in Kolar district of Karnataka. The accused has been identified as Naveen. According to reports, the couple got married in Chambarasabahalli village in Kolar Gold Fields 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 .

Newly-wed man kills wife in Kolar, dies in hospital in Bengaluru

The deceased Naveen and Likhita had a love-cum-arranged marriage, which was attended by parents and relatives of the couple, in Chambarasabahalli in Kolar Gold Fields (KGF)

Chambal Fertilisers gains 4% on healthy Q1FY25 performance; details here

The rise in the stock price came after the company posted healthy numbers in the June quarter of financial year 2025 (Q1FY25).

Congress Takes Stir Route to Revive Party in MP

Bhopal: The beleaguered Congress in Madhya Pradesh has lined up a series of programmes to hold rallies and agitations in different parts of the state in the coming days with an objective to galvanise party workers at the grass root level. The party plans to launch stirs in major cities in the coming days to highlight the local issues keeping in view its strategy to regain the lost ground in these regions and boost the morale of the party cadres who appeared disillusioned following its debacle in the recently held Assembly elections and Lok Sabha polls in the state, a senior Congress leader told this newspaper. As part of the move, the Congress on Tuesday held a massive demonstration in Indore in protest against the alleged corruption in the Indore Municipal Corporation and the hike in taxes in the annual budget of the civic body. Around 10,000 party activists including Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Jitu Patwari and Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Umang Singhar joined the stir in Indore, K K Mishra, media advisor to PCC president, said. Sources said that the Congress planned to focus on Indore-Malwa and Gwalior-Chambal in the first phase to revive the party there by holding rallies and demonstrations in the two regions in coming days. Our strategy is to hold rallies and stirs in different parts of the state in the coming days is to revive the party by boosting morale of the cadres who appeared demoralised following setbacks the party had suffered in the two success elections held for the Assembly and Lok Sabha in the state recently, a senior Congress functionary told this newspaper, unwilling to be quoted. The party plans to hold a Jan Akrosh (public anger) rally at Ujjain, the home town of chief minister Mohan Yadav, on August seven to highlight the local issues, Mr Mishra said. Similarly, the party is going to launch a demonstration in Bhind under Gwalior-Chambal region on August nine to raise the local issues, he added. Congress had suffered severe drubbing in the December, 2023 Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh by winning only 63 out of 230 seats whereas the ruling BJP secured 163 seats. In the recently held LS polls in the state, Congress had drawn a blank, leading BJP to win all the 29 seats.

Chambal Fertilisers & Chemicals consolidated net profit rises 32.40% in the June 2024 quarter

Sales decline 11.74% to Rs 4933.23 crore

Himachal Pradesh Cloudburst: IMD issues yellow alert for next few days, relief expected on this day; check full forecast

Intermittent rains lashed parts of Himachal Pradesh with Hamirpur receiving the highest rainfall at 54 mm since Friday evening, followed by Berthin and Dharamshala 19 mm each, Neri 11 mm, Kangra 9,7 mm, Kukumseri 9.6 mm, Sundernagar 8.1 mm, Manali and Chamba 6 mm each and Bajaura 5 mm.

Rains lash western, central India; Srinagar-Leh highway closed after cloudburst in J-K

NEW DELHI: Heavy rains lashed western and central parts of India on Sunday while a cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir led to the closure of the arterial Srinagar-Leh national highway, cutting off the Kashmir Valley from Ladakh and rendering the Baltal base camp for the Amarnath Yatra inaccessible. Five people died in rain-related incidents in 24 hours till Sunday evening in Uttar Pradesh while six of its districts were still affected by floods. The death toll in last week's landslides in Kerala's Wayanad and Himachal Pradesh rose to 221 and 13, respectively, while more than 400 people, including pilgrims, stranded on the rain-ravaged trek route to Uttarakhand's Kedarnath, were evacuated. So far, more than 10,000 people have been rescued from Kedarnath, Bhimbali and Gaurikund. The trek route to Kedarnath suffered extensive damage as a result of a cloudburst in Junglechatti near Lincholi last Wednesday. Army personnel were deployed at an inundated residential area in Maharashtra's Pune amid heavy downpours and water discharge from the Khadakwasla dam, officials said. In view of the discharge of water from Khadakwasla, Mulshi, Pavana and other dams in the Pune region, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde directed authorities to be alert and shift people from dangerous zones to safer places with the assistance of NDRF, SDRF and the Army, if needed. Officials of Maharashtra's irrigation department said 35,000 cusecs of water was discharged from the Khadakwasla dam following heavy rainfall in the catchment areas in the past fortnight. The ghat section in Pune district received heavy rainfall in the last two days. The Nashik district administration has appealed to people to stay alert amid a rise in the water level of the Godavari river due to heavy rains. An official said that in the wake of incessant rains, 4,000 cusecs of water was released from the Gangapur dam leading to the swelling of the Godavari, increasing the risk of a flood-like situation downstream. In Jammu and Kashmir, some buildings suffered damage while the Srinagar-Leh national highway was closed following a cloudburst in Ganderbal district that triggered a flash flood. The highway's closure has cut off the Kashmir Valley from Ladakh while the Baltal base camp for Amarnath yatra has also been rendered inaccessible. Death toll in Uttarakhand monsoon havoc climbs to 19; over 9,200 pilgrims rescued In Uttar Pradesh, Ballia, Lakhimpur Kheri, Farrukhabad, Sitapur, Bijnor and Barabanki districts are still flooded. According to the state's irrigation department, the Ganga river was flowing above the danger mark at Kachla Bridge in Budaun. Heavy rainfall in Jharkhand has led to the swelling of a couple of rivers in the state, forcing the East Singhbhum district administration to issue an alert for people residing in the low-lying areas. The water level in Kharkai and Swarnarekha rivers has been rising for the last couple of days due to incessant rains in the state. According to an official release, the water level in the Swarnarekha river was at 116.58 metres at 9 am on Sunday against the danger mark of 121.50 metres. The water level of the Kharkhai was flowing at 126.83 metres against the red mark of 129 metres, it added. Around 3,500 cusecs of water was released into the Swarnarekha river from the Chandil Dam in the adjoining Seraikela-Kharswan district of Jharkhand. People residing in the catchment areas have been asked not to venture out near the rivers, and duly follow the directives issued by the administration. In neighbouring West Bengal, rainfall occurred at most places in all the districts with a few places in Birbhum witnessing heavy showers. The Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) released 1.2 lakh cusecs of water from the Panchet and Maithon dams along the Jharkhand-West Bengal border on Sunday morning after heavy discharge of water from Tenughat upstream. A total of 90,000 cusecs of water was released from Panchet and Maithon on Saturday. Several south Bengal districts, including Purba and Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum, Paschim and Purba Medinipur, Bankura, Hooghly and Howrah have been impacted by the release of water by DVC. The death toll due to flash floods triggered by cloudbursts in three districts of Himachal Pradesh increased to 13 with the recovery of four more bodies from Mandi and Shimla districts. Over 40 people are still missing after a series of cloudbursts occurred in Kullu's Nirmand, Sainj and Malana, Mandi's Padhar and Shimla's Rampur subdivision on the night of July 31 and wreaked havoc. The rescue operations are still underway and sniffer dogs, drones and other equipment are also being used to locate the missing people. According to officials, 410 rescuers from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, CISF, Himachal Pradesh Police and home guards are involved in the hunt. A total of 87 roads are still closed in the state. The local meteorological office has warned of heavy showers, thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh till August 8. Intermittent rains lashed parts of Himachal Pradesh with Hamirpur receiving the highest rainfall at 54 mm since Friday evening, followed by Berthin and Dharamshala at 19 mm each, Neri 11 mm, Kangra 9.7 mm, Kukumseri 9.6 mm, Sundernagar 8.1 mm, Manali and Chamba 6 mm each and Bajaura 5 mm. Rescue operations in landslide-hit areas of Kerala's Wayanad district continued for the sixth day as authorities intensified efforts to recover bodies and also prepared a mass grave for unidentified remains. Hundreds of personnel from various forces, including the NDRF, Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Special Operations Group, were deployed in the disaster-struck areas. According to State Revenue Minister K Rajan, 221 bodies and 166 body parts have been recovered so far. The number of missing people has gone down to 180 from the earlier 206 after authorities were able to get in touch with some of them over the phone, he said. The India Meteorological Department has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall in eastern, northeastern and northern parts of the country on Monday while isolated places in Bihar Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh are likely to witness thunderstorms accompanied by lightning. Himachal cloudbursts: Death toll rises to 11, searches on for over 40 missing

Over 190 roads closed in Himachal, Met predicts heavy rain till August 7

Of the 191 roads closed for vehicular traffic in the state, 79 are in Mandi, 38 in Kullu, 35 in Chamba and 30 in Shimla, five in Kangra and two each in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts

Himachal Pradesh: Cloudbursts & ravaging rain fury

CHANDIGARH: Multiple cloudbursts overnight in Himachal Pradeshs capital Shimla, Kullu and Mandi districts not only killed four people but also led to the disappearance of at least 50 people. Manali is cut off from the rest of the country while the state government has put the Army and Air Force on standby. According to the state emergency operation centre, the cloudbursts took place in Nirmand, Sainj and Malana areas in Kullu, Padhar in Mandi and Rampur in Shimla districts. More than a dozen houses were washed away and two bridges were damaged as incessant rains swelled up the Parvati river at Sainj. The flash flood has damaged the highway at Malana. Earthmoving equipment were washed away near a hydro project Jhakri in Rampur in Shimla district. The partially washed-away Manali-Chandigarh highway is seen alongside a swollen Beas River at Manali, following a recent cloudburst in Kullu district, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024 The worst hit is the Malana-II power project. Amid a sharp rise in the dams water level, people have been advised to stay away from the river and nearby areas. While rescue operations began gingerly, parts of the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway were washed away at many points. A building collapsed at Sabji Mandi in Manikaran in the raging Parvati in Kullu. Fed by heavy rains, the swollen Beas threatens Kullu forcing closure of Shimla-Junga road following reports of vehicles being buried in debris in Rajnagar in Churah assembly constituency in Chamba. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said: At least 50 people are missing and two are dead in an early morning cloudburst in Kullu, Shimla and Mandi districts. Around 35 people are missing in Rampur in Shimla, 9 in Mandi and one is Kullu. High alert in Kedar valley Swollen rivers have crossed danger marks at several places, prompting the government to sound a high alert in the Kedar valley, and suspend the Kedarnath Yatra. Rescue efforts are underway to evacuate pilgrims stranded along the Char Dham routes, with helicopters being used in the operation. Sources said that since Thursday morning, SDRF and other relief teams have shifted 320 Char Dham pilgrims to safe locations.

Casanova of Kuno: Male Cheetah Pavan Fathers Seven Cubs in National Park

Bhopal: Namibian cheetah Pavan in Kuno National Park (KNP) in Madhya Pradesh has proved to be the most productive father by fathering seven cubs of two female cheetahs in the KNP. The offspring of Pavan, named Oban in Namibia, now comprise half of the cheetah cub population in the national park. Six-year-old Pavan fathered three cubs, born in one litter to female cheetah Aasha on January three, 2024 and the second litter of four cubs of Jwala, born on January 22 this year. Pavan is fondly called Casanova of Kuno by the foresters in the national park as it has been found that the female cheetahs in KNP feel comfortable with it and enjoy its company, a forest officer of the national park said on Monday. The feline is the only male cheetah who has charmed two female cheetahs in the national park and fathered their cubs, he added. Pavan, being young, well built and perfectly wild in nature, easily attracts female cheetahs, KNP field director Uttam Kumar Sharma told this newspaper. The feline weighs around 60 kg, exhibiting its robustness. Pavan has also proved the adage, when the going gets tough, the tough get going, by navigating the last two torturous summers in Kuno in the wild with ease, when the other cheetahs in the national park were enjoying their stay in the comforts of the Soft Release Bomas (SRBs) or enclosures. Pavan is known for its adventures and bravery. The cheetah always liked traversing long distances and even once strayed into the neighbouring state of Rajasthan by crossing the dangerous Chambal river, Mr Sharma recounted. The feline was later brought back to Kuno, but remained in the wild. Pavan often gives the forest officers sleepless nights by frequently straying out of KNP to explore the new areas. According to a Namibian expert, who was associated with the cheetah introduction project initially, Pavan was born at Erindi Private Game Reserve in Namibia March 2018 as a second generation wild- born cub. Pavan is now known for its ability to hunt, travel and hold its territory on its own, the Namibian cheetah expert said. Jwala, in its first litter, fathered by male cheetah Freddie which died later, gave birth to four cubs, of which only one survived. Similarly, South African female cheetah Gamini gave birth to six cubs, fathered by South African cheetah Pavak. Eight cheetahs from Namibia and 12 others from South Africa were relocated to Kuno National Park under cheetah introduction project in 2022. Seven cheetahs have perished due to various reasons. Currently, Kuno has 27 cheetahs including seven females, six males and 14 cubs.

Quota for Agniveers in police, State armed forces, says M.P. Chief Minister

Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior-Chambal region, which has a large number of armed forces aspirants, had seen massive protests after the announcement of the Agnipath Scheme

Heavy Rain Expected in 6 Himachal Pradesh Districts Today and Tomorrow

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: According to the Meteorological Center Shimla, heavy rain is expected in 6 districts of Himachal Pradesh today and tomorrow. These districts are Sirmaur, Solan, Shimla, Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi. Light to moderate rain is expected in most parts of the state till July 27. Monsoon Rainfall ... Read more