Hamirpur, Chamba DC offices get bomb threat; police search premises

Authorities in Hamirpur and Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, evacuated district commissioner offices following bomb threats received via email. Chamba DC Mukesh Repaswal reported the threat, prompting police to cordon off the area and initiate search operations. A similar evacuation occurred in Hamirpur, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's home district, with dog squads and fire brigades deployed.

Aptus Value, Chambal Fertilisers among 10 smallcap stocks where FIIs increased stake in Q4

Foreign institutional investors raised their holdings in several Nifty500 smallcap stocks during Q4 FY25, with Aptus Value Housing, Sammaan Capital, and JB Chemicals seeing notable stake increases.

Travelling to Himachal this weekend? Expect delays at checkpoints as state police go on high alert after Pahalgam attack

Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh Police have heightened security measures across the state, particularly in border areas and popular tourist destinations. Border districts like Chamba and Kangra are on high alert, with increased surveillance, patrolling, and stricter checks at inter-state borders.

Grandfather was a dacoit in Chambal, now grandson has cracked UPSC, quit Rs 88 lakh job to become IAS, his AIR is

He is married and has a child, and did most of his studying through self-study and online resources, staying strictly aligned with the syllabus.

Thunderstorm, hailstorm batter parts of Himachal Pradesh causing widespread damage

CHANDIGARH: A squall accompanied by heavy rain and hailstorms lashed several parts of Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday night, causing widespread damage and power outages were across the state. Shimla remained without electricity for several hours. The weather department has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning in parts of the state on April 18 and 19. Meanwhile, heavy rains also lashed Punjab and Chandigarh. The squall struck Shimla around 11:15 PM plunging the town into darkness, the power supply was restored 10 hours later. The thunderstorm uprooted trees causing damage to vehicles, and blew off the roofs of makeshift houses. In the upper Shimla region, high-velocity winds caused significant damage to apple and stone fruit trees like plum and apricot. In many areas, fruit was knocked off the trees. Apple growers in Jubbal and Rampur reported major losses. The weather office has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds in Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Solan, Sirmaur and Kinnaur districts on April 18 and 19. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely in Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Lahaul-Spiti districts during this period. On April 20 light to moderate rains are likely at many places and at few places on April 21 and 22 due to fresh Western Disturbance, as a cyclonic circulation lies over the region. There was an appreciable fall in the minimum temperatures. Lahaul and Spitis Keylong was coldest at night with a low of 0.5 degree Celsius. As per MeT, Seobagh in Kullu district recorded the highest rainfall of 28.8 mm, followed by Lahaul-Spitis Kukumseri 23.8 mm, Narkanda 18 mm, Mandi 17.6 mm, Dharamshala 17 mm, Chamba 16 mm, Kalpa 15.6, Kufri 15 mm while the tourist resorts of Kasauli received 14.4 mm rain, Dalhousie 10 mm, Shimla 9.6 mm and Manali 6.8 mm. Heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds, lashed many parts of Punjab and Chandigarh late yesterday night and in the early today morning. As per the MeT Department Chandigarh received 8.3 mm of rain, however, the sky became clear in the morning and residents woke up to sunny weather. While Amritsar received (4.5 mm), Pathankot (3.2 mm), Gurdaspur (18.8 mm) and Rupnagar (6 mm) and in neighboring Haryana, Ambala received a light shower.

Trees Uprooted, Roads Blocked In Shimla As Storm Hits Himachal Pradesh, IMD Issues Orange Alert

Himachal Weather: Yellow and orange alert have been in place for several districts across state including Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, and Lahaul-Spiti.

Akhilesh accused CM Adityanath govt of indulging in large-scale mining in Chambal ravines

Akhilesh Yadav questioned whether the small and large hills near the historic Sumer Singh Fort had been ransferred to regions like Basti and Gorakhpur in collusion with lower and higher-ranking officials

Akhilesh accuses Adityanath government of indulging in large-scale mining in Chambal ravines

LUCKNOW: Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday alleged large-scale illegal mining and environmental destruction in the Chambal ravines in Etawah, accusing UP government-led officials of facilitating the disappearance of entire hills. In a strongly worded post on X, Yadav questioned whether the small and large hills near the historic Sumer Singh Fort had been []

Akhilesh Yadav accuses Adityanath government of indulging in large-scale mining in Chambal ravines

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the Uttar Pradesh government of enabling illegal mining and environmental destruction in Etawahs Chambal ravines, claiming entire hills near Sumer Singh Fort have vanished due to official collusion. Sharing a video of the altered landscape, Yadav slammed the BJP for environmental damage and corruption, questioning how the lost hills could ever return.

Himachal Day 2025: Date, venue, significance, messges to share with loved ones and more

Himachal Day, celebrated annually on April 15th, commemorates Himachal Pradesh's formation as an Indian province, highlighting its cultural heritage and progress. In 2025, the state-level celebration will be held in Pangi Valley, Chamba district, emphasizing the government's commitment to inclusive development in remote areas.

Ahead of Ambedkar Jayanti, Madhya Pradesh names newest wildlife sanctuary after Dr B R Ambedkar

BHOPAL: Ahead of Dr. B.R. Ambedkars 134th birth anniversary, the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government has named its 25th wildlife sanctuary in his honour, dedicating it to the Father of the Indian Constitution. The state forest department issued on Friday, a notification declaring 258.64 square km of protected forest area in the North Sagar forest division of the Bundelkhand region as Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Wildlife Sanctuary. The protected forest area of two development blocks of Sagar district, including Banda and Shahgarh, will form part of the new sanctuary. Following Friday's two-page notification, the new sanctuary will be the first wildlife sanctuary, national park or wildlife sanctuary in MP to be named after Dr BR Ambedkar -- who was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow town of MPs present Indore district. While it would be the first wildlife sanctuary in MP to be named after Dr BR Ambedkar, the neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, already has Dr BR Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary in the Kunda area of the Pratapgarh district. The new sanctuary, declared through a notification on Friday, assumes particular significance, as it will serve as the protected and secured wild corridor between Panna Tiger Reserve in Bundelkhand region and the recently declared Madhav Tiger Reserve in the Gwalior-Chambal region. A tiger-cheetah corridor is the ambitious idea of central and state governments in the Gwalior-Chambal region of MP and adjoining Rajasthan, spanning from Madhav National Park-Tiger Reserve in Shivpuri district to the Ranthambore National Park-Tiger Reserve in Rajasthans Sawai Madhopur district, via the first of home African cheetahs in India the Kuno National Park in MPs Sheopur district. Once Madhav Tiger Reserve and Panna Tiger Reserve get connected with the new wild corridor the Dr BR Ambedkar Wildlife Sanctuary it will lead to the emergence of perhaps the longest and largest tiger corridor of North-Central India. According to sources in the state forest department, the MP CM Dr Mohan Yadav is likely to publicly unveil the new wildlife sanctuary on the Ambedkar Jayanti on Monday. This newest development of declaring a new wildlife sanctuary in the tiger-cheetah-leopard-wolf-gharial and vulture state, is the third major development in wildlife and forest conservation in the central Indian state, after declaring of two new tiger reserves Ratapani Tiger Reserve in central MP and the Madhav Tiger Reserve in the Gwalior-Chambal region. Not just that, but the state is likely to get two more wildlife sanctuaries by the end of this month in form of the Omkareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary (a project which has been pending since decades) between Dewas and Khandwa districts of western and southwestern MP and the Jahangarh Wildlife Sanctuary which will neighbor the Kuno National Park in Sheopur district. While Omkareshwar Sanctuary which is proposed to come up in 614.07 square kms will serve as the western limit of tiger movement in MP, the Jahangarh Sanctuary is planned to come up in 6.32 square kms.

Bhopal Diary | Whats in a name? A lot, CM Yadav suggests

It is not uncommon for political leaders in India to go on a renaming spree, rechristening roads, railway stations and villages. But in Madhya Pradesh, the government is going a step further by rebranding schools. CM Mohan Yadav raised eyebrows on Tuesday as he announced at a state-level event in Bhopal the decision to rename the CM Rise Schools after Lord Krishna and Balrams Vedic guru, Acharya Sandipani. Launched by the past Shivraj Singh Chouhan government, these schools will now be known as Sandipani schools. Yadav said the move will prompt the students to reflect on Lord Krishnas days at Ujjains Sandipani Ashram. RSS worker accuses Mishra of harassment Former state Home Minister Narottam Mishra may have suffered a shock defeat in the 2023 Vidhan Sabha polls, but it seems that he still calls the shots in the Datia district of the Gwalior-Chambal region. An elderly RSS worker, Raghuvar Dayal Bhargava, has accused the local administration of targeting his property at the behest of Mishra. Bhargava broke down in tears during a recent interaction with Congress Rajya Sabha MP and former state CM Digvijaya Singh in Datia as he shared his plight. Singh has demanded that a panel be set up to probe the matter. Congress to hand over more powers to dist chiefs? Keen to rebuild the party organisation at the grassroots level, the Congress is considering handing more powers to its district unit presidents in the BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh. The Opposition party may let its district party chiefs have more say in the party matters, such as organisational appointments and deciding which candidates to field in what elections. Efforts are on to improve communication between the district party presidents and the state and national party leadership. The Congress is expected to hold a meeting in this regard in Delhi that will be graced by the partys national president, Mallikarjun Kharge, and senior party leaders in the state. Anuraag Singh Our correspondent in Madhya Pradesh singhanuraag.jaurno@gmail.com

LG visits families of JKP personnel martyred in Kathua

*Assures all assistance, support Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 31: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today visited the families of J&K Police Martyrs SgCT Balvinder Singh Chib, SgCT Jaswant Singh, HC Jagbir Singh, and SgCT Tariq Ahmed, at their native villages in Kana Chak, Londi, Mattu Khour and Chamba Katra. The Lieutenant Governor offered his condolences to the bereaved family members and paid homage to the valiant martyrs who made supreme sacrifice for the nation while fighting the terrorists in Kathua. [] The post LG visits families of JKP personnel martyred in Kathua appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Last rites of 4 police martyrs performed with full State honours

CM lays wreaths on bodies, visits residences of cops Avtar Bhat JAMMU, Mar 29: The last rites of four police personnel who attained martyrdom on Friday while fighting Pakistani terrorists in Jakhole village in Kathua district were performed with full State honours in their respective native villages of Chamba in Panthal block of Reasi district, village Mattu in tehsil Khour of Jammu district, Londi and Kanna Chak villages in Hiranagar tehsil of Kathua district today. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel [] The post Last rites of 4 police martyrs performed with full State honours appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Grief engulfs Kathua, Jammu, Reasi as families mourn martyred policemen

Will kill 100 Pakistani terrorists to avenge my brothers killing Bivek Mathur JAMMU, Mar 28: Grief engulfed the homes of four brave police personnel who attained martyrdom while fighting Pakistani terrorists in Jakhole village of Kathua district on Friday. Their families, though grief-stricken, expressed immense pride in their sacrifice for the nation and demanded a strong response against Pakistan, similar to the one after the Pulwama attack. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp In Chamba village of Block Panthal [] The post Grief engulfs Kathua, Jammu, Reasi as families mourn martyred policemen appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Seven devotees, including four children, missing after boat capsizes in MP's Matatila Dam

BHOPAL: Multiple rescue teams are searching in moonlight (with the help of big torch-lights and tractors lights) for seven devotees, including four children, who have been missing in the deep waters of the Matatila Dam on Madhya Pradesh-Uttar Pradesh, after a boat capsized on Tuesday evening. The incident happened around 8 pm when 15 devotees from the Lodhi caste in Rajawan village, under the Khaniyadhana area of MPs Shivpuri district, embarked on a small boat. They were traveling to the Siddh Baba temple on an island in the deep waters of the Matatila Dam, built on the Betwa River. The boat had travelled just a short distance when it capsized in the deep waters. While eight of those onboard either swam to safety or were rescued by fishermen, seven others went missing. All seven of them continue to be untraceable, deputy inspector general (DIG-Gwalior Range) Amit Sanghi told TNIE. Sanghi and other senior MP police officials of the region are camping at the spot to supervise the search and rescue operations by multiple teams, including the state Disaster Emergency Response Force (SDERF) team. The seven devotees who have been lost in the dams waters, included three women Sharda Lodhi (55), Lila Lodhi (40), Ram Devi Lodhi (35) - and four children - Kumkum Lodhi (15), Cheena Lodhi (14), Kanha Lodhi (7) and Shiva Lodhi (8). All the missing as well as the rescued devotees belonged to an extended Lodhi caste family of Rajawan village of MPs Shivpuri district. Right now, our priority is to search for the seven missing devotees and rescue them. After that, we will inquire into the reasons for the mishap. Preliminary findings suggest that the small boat was not just overcrowded, but also had some hole, which caused water to fill and the boat to overturn, a senior MP police official present at the spot added. Devotees in some parts of Shivpuri district in MPs Gwalior-Chambal region, have long been following the tradition of going to the Siddh Baba Temple on an island in the Dam, on the eve of the festival of Rang Panchami, which will be celebrated on Wednesday.

Shekhar Kapur attacks OTT platform for editing Bandit Queen without his permission: 'Would they have the guts to...'

Starring Seema Biswas, Bandit Queen revolved around the life of Phoolan Devi, the dreaded Chambal dacoit-turned-Member of Parliament.

IMD issues 'yellow' alert in Himachal, heavy rain likely in 4 districts on Friday

The India Meteorological Department has issued a 'yellow' alert for heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur, Chamba, Kangra, and Mandi districts. Thunderstorms and lightning are predicted at isolated places from Monday to Friday. Snowfall is expected in the higher regions, including Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur districts, while police have advised caution near Rohtang due to snowfall near the Atal Tunnel.

Stocks To Buy: Aditya Birla Capital, Bharat Dynamics, Chambal Fertilizers & Mazagon Dock

Analysts have buy calls on these stocks this Monday.

3 killed, 3 injured as car plunges into gorge in Himachal's Chamba

Six people were travelling in the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso registered in Jammu and Kashmir when the accident took place

Himachal Board cancels Class 12 English exam due to possibility of paper leak

The Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education has canceled the Class 12 English exam statewide for March 2025 due to a potential paper leak at an examination center in District Chamba. The Board is investigating the incident and will announce a new examination date shortly.

First ever survey finds 6324 riverine dolphins in country

NEW DELHI: India has released its first-ever estimation report on riverine dolphins, revealing a total of 6,327 dolphins. This includes 6,324 Ganges River dolphins and three Indus River dolphins. The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has designated the Chambal River Conservation Zone as a Dolphin Conservation Zone to implement targeted protection efforts. Additionally, India has tagged 12 near-extinct Great Indian Bustard birds for the first time to study their reproductive behaviours. Project Dolphin was launched on 15 August 2020, with Rs 4.8 crore allocated under the CSS: Development of Wildlife Habitats. With local participation, it has conducted the worlds largest freshwater survey, covering 8507 km across eight states, 28 rivers by boat, and 30 rivers by road. The report doesnt reveal the number of marine dolphins. In December last year, India achieved a ground-breaking milestone by successfully satellite-tagging the first-ever Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) in Assam under Project Dolphin. The report identified key dolphin hotspot states as Assam, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Lakshadweep. The MoEFCC has prepared a Comprehensive Action Plan (2022-2047) and shared it with relevant Ministries for execution. The plan focuses on species protection, habitat improvement, monitoring, patrolling, and awareness programs. In October 2023, India participated in discussions on the Global Declaration for River Dolphins in Bogota, Colombia, where it reiterated its commitment to global dolphin conservation. A 200 km stretch in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh has been recommended for designation as a Dolphin Conservation Zone for targeted protection efforts. Besides, India has also achieved a milestone in conserving the Great Indian Bustard (GIB). For the first time, 12 Great Indian Bustards were tagged - two in Gujarat and 10 in Rajasthan, providing key insights into their reproductive behaviour. The grassland bird is near-to-extinct, and its habitat is spread across Rajasthan and Gujarat. The major threats emerged due to an electric grid line passing across the habitats. Breeding Success at State-of-the-Art Centers Two state-of-the-art conservation breeding Centers in Jaisalmer now house 44 Great Indian Bustards, 30 of which were hatched from wild-laid eggs and 14 from captive-reared birds.

'Bandit Queen' Kusuma Nain dies due to tuberculosis; She was known for killing 15 fishermen in Phoolan Devi style

Kusma Nain, who was once the notorious 'bandit queen' of Chambal Valley spread over Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, died due to illness at Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in Lucknow on Sunday, a jail official ...

IMD Issues Orange Alert for Heavy Rain and Snow in Himachal Today

NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rain and snowfall in some parts of Himachal Pradesh on March 3. Thunderstorms and lightning are also expected in certain areas. Even though the weather was dry on Sunday and temperatures increased, the alert has been issued due to the effects of recent heavy snowfall and rain on February 26, 27, and 28. The warning is mainly for Chamba, Kangra, and Lahaul-Spiti districts. Road Closures and Disruptions Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi said that repair work is in full swing, but 365 roads (including 3 national highways) are still blocked. Furthermore, 1,377 power transformers and 269 water supply schemes have been affected. The Revenue Minister also said that some avalanches occurred, but thankfully, there were no casualties or property damage. However, a man named Sant Ram fell into Jodh Nallah near Saach in the tribal Pangi Valley. Local people rescued him and helped him reach Saach. A government helicopter then airlifted him to Kullu, where he was admitted to the hospital. Rainfall and Temperature Update Some areas received light rain: Aghar 17 mm Pachhad 15 mm Jaton Barrage 3.4 mm Kufri 3.2 mm Chamba 2 mm The rest of the state had dry weather, and Una was the hottest place, recording 28.4C, which is 2.3C above normal. The coldest place was Keylong, with a low temperature of -11.8C. Weather Forecast The IMD predicts: March 3 Light to moderate rain or snow in some places. March 4 Moderate rain or snow in many areas. March 5-8 Dry weather expected. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir will also experience different weather patterns over the next seven days, with changes in temperature, humidity, and sky conditions. The IMD advises people to keep track of forecasts for better planning.

Snowfall triggers landslides in HP as parts of north get rain; 4 dead 5 still missing in Uttarakhand avalanche

NEW DELHI: Heavy rains and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh triggered landslides and caused roadblocks on Saturday, disrupting normal life in the state, as several other parts of north India received showers. In Uttarakhand, 50 workers trapped in an avalanche in the Chamoli district were rescued, but four of them died on Saturday as rescuers raced against time to save the remaining five. The strategic 270-km Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which was shut on Thursday evening following heavy snowfall and multiple landslides in the Ramban district, was reopened for light motor vehicles after the weather improved, and road restoration work was carried out. Parts of Delhi, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh received showers on Saturday. A day after an avalanche buried 55 labourers alive at a BRO camp in Mana village in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, 50 of them were pulled out of the snow, but four of them died. The search is on for the remaining five. The avalanche hit the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) camp between Mana and Badrinath between 5.30 am and 6 am on Friday, according to the Army. Thirty-three of them were rescued by Friday night. Rain and snowfall hampered the rescue efforts on Friday, and the operation was suspended as the night fell. As the weather cleared up on Saturday morning, the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel based in Mana resumed the rescue operation, District Disaster Management Officer N K Joshi said. Six helicopters, including three of the Indian Army Aviation, two of the IAF and one civil copter hired by the Army, are engaged in the rescue operations, an Army spokesperson said. Located three kilometres from Badrinath, Mana is the last village on the India-Tibet border at a height of 3,200 metres. Uttarakhand avalanche: Four laborers succumb to injuries, five still missing In neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, heavy rains and snowfall disrupted normal life in several parts of the state, triggering landslides, blocking roads and huge mounds of debris swept by gushing waters damaging vehicles in Kullu. A massive landslide triggered by incessant rains and cloudbursts at Rokaru in the Kangra district damaged several vehicles and endangered 12 houses. The affected families have been relocated to safer places, and restoration work is in progress, said Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hem Raj. One person was reported missing near the Shiva Hydropower project in Palampur, and a search operation has been launched to trace him, officials said. Tribal Pangi valley in Chamba was cut off following heavy snowfall, and electricity and telecommunication services have been disrupted. A landslide at Tohlu nullah blocked the Kiratpur-Manali National Highway, leaving tourists stranded. A total of 112 roads were closed in Kullu, and work is in progress to power 1,646 transformers. The Kullu-Manali Road was also closed, and traffic was being diverted via Naggar while the electricity supply was yet to be restored in Manikaran and Manali, officials said. Meanwhile, the state received moderate to heavy snowfall and rain during the past 24 hours. In Jammu and Kashmir, the restoration of the 66-km Banihal-Nashri stretch on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was intensified on Saturday morning after the weather conditions improved. Heavy rains had triggered shooting stones, mudslides and landslides at a dozen places, including Kishtwari Pather, Moum Passi, Hingni, Panthiyal, Mehar and Dalwas, while snowfall between Qazigund and Ramsu left the road slippery. A side of the road near Mehar has caved in, while a major landslide has blocked one tube of the Kunfer-Peerah tunnel. The road repair was hampered by continuous rains on Friday, officials said. Ramban deputy commissioner Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary said there are at least 16 locations along the 66-km road stretch that were rendered vulnerable by the rains. The national capital saw light rain on Saturday morning as the minimum temperature settled at 16.6 degrees Celsius, 4.1 notches above the seasonal average. Delhi recorded 2 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours till 8.30 am on Saturday. Rainfall measurements at various weather stations included 1.8 mm at Safdarjung, 1.0 mm at Palam, and 4 mm at Pitampura. Light to moderate rainfall was recorded in parts of Rajasthan on Saturday, where a maximum of 28 mm rainfall was recorded in Churu, followed by 18 mm in Chirawa (Jhunjhunu), the weather department said.

Heavy rains, snowfall triggers landslides in Himachal, 112 roads blocked in Kullu

Heavy rains and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh caused significant disruption, including landslides and roadblocks, particularly in Kullu, Kangra, and Chamba districts. Several houses and vehicles were damaged, and essential services like electricity and water supply were affected. Efforts are ongoing to clear the debris and restore normalcy.

Jammu-Srinagar National Highway Still Closed

JAMMU, Mar 1: Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is still closed due to landslides and shooting stones at multiple locations, with restoration work currently in progress. Authorities have advised commuters to avoid traveling on the highway until clearance operations are completed. In addition to Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, several other key roads, including the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road that connects Kashmir to Leh, Bhaderwah-Chamba Road, Mughal Road, and Sinthan Road, also remain closed due to snowfall and adverse weather conditions. Jammu Srinagar NHW is [] The post Jammu-Srinagar National Highway Still Closed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Heavy snowfall, rains trigger landslides in Himachal Pradesh, key roads blocked

Shimla, Feb 28: Heavy snowfall and rains in Himachal Pradesh triggered landslides and blocked key roads and national highways on Friday, throwing normal life out of gear in many areas. Intermittent heavy snowfall and rains for the third day have blocked highways. About 200 roads have been closed due to heavy snowfall across the state, cutting off several areas in Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba and Shimla districts from the rest of the state, officials said. Officials said all [] The post Heavy snowfall, rains trigger landslides in Himachal Pradesh, key roads blocked appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Heavy Rains, Snowfall Cause Chaos in Himachal, Roads Blocked, Vehicles Swept Away

KULLU - HIMACHAL PRADESH: Heavy rains and snowfall have caused major problems in Himachal Pradesh, leading to landslides and road closures. Many highways and key roads were blocked on Friday, making it difficult for people to travel. For the third day in a row, the state has been experiencing heavy rain and snowfall, affecting normal life. Around 200 roads have been shut down, cutting off areas like Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba, and Shimla from the rest of the state, officials said. Due to the bad weather, all schools and colleges have been closed in Chamba and Manali. However, CBSE board exams will still take place as planned. Authorities have also warned people about possible avalanches in higher regions above 2,300 meters and advised them to stay indoors and take precautions. Many major roads are blocked due to snow. The Hindustan-Tibet road (NH-5) is closed at Narkanda, while roads connecting Dodra-Kwar and Deha-Chopal are also not accessible. The Theog-Hatkoti Highway near Kharapathar village, which is at an altitude of 8,770 feet, has also been shut down. In Kullu, heavy rains have flooded areas like Akhara Bazaar and Gandhi Nagar. Water from overflowing rivers entered the streets, damaging parked vehicles. Authorities have stopped vehicle movement beyond Nehru Kund because of fresh snowfall in places like Solang Nallah, Gulaba, Atal Tunnel, and Rohtang. A landslide at Banala has also blocked the Manali-Kiratpur National Highway, and work to clear it has been delayed due to falling rocks, police said. Many roads in remote valleys remain blocked due to snowfall and continuous rainfall. View this post on Instagram A post shared by News Track Live (@newstracklive) According to weather reports, Kothi received the highest snowfall of 120 cm by 8:30 am, followed by Khadrala (115 cm), Keylong (75 cm), Kalpa (46 cm), Kukumseri (38.8 cm), Sangla (23.5 cm), and both Nichar and Moorang (15 cm each). Lower and mid-hill areas are also facing problems due to heavy rains. Seobagh recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 113.2 mm, followed by Bhuntar (113.2 mm), Banjar (112.4 mm), Jogindernagar (112 mm), Salooni (109.3 mm), Palampur (99 mm), Chamba (97 mm), Baijnath (75 mm), Kangra (74 mm), Rohroo (70 mm), Kufri (59 mm), and Shimla (54.5 mm). The sky remains dark and cloudy, and the meteorological department has issued an orange alert for heavy snowfall in Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, and higher areas of Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kangra districts. Light to moderate rain is expected, with heavy rainfall at some isolated places in Chamba, Kullu, Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Kangra districts.

Himachal Pradesh: Heavy rains, flash floods wreak havoc in Kullu, several vehicles washed away, WATCH viral video

About 200 roads have been closed due to heavy snowfall across the state, cutting off several areas in Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba and Shimla districts from the rest of the state

Jammu & Kashmir grapples with heavy snow, incessant rains; two dead

JAMMU: A woman and her son were killed, and 12 people rescued from swollen water bodies as incessant rains lashed wide parts of Jammu for the third day on Friday, officials said. The high altitude areas also received moderate to heavy snowfall, prompting closure of various roads, including the strategic 270-km Jammu-Srinagar national highway, they said. Shano Devi (50) and her son Raghu (25) were killed when a boulder from a hillock hit their two-wheeler near Moungari in Udhampur district early Friday. At least 11 non-migrant labourers were rescued by a joint team of police and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) from Ujh river in Rajbagh area of Kathua district early Friday, the officials said. They said the labourers were putting up in a shed adjoining a construction site and their lives were in danger due to the increase in the water level following incessant rains. A driver of a dumper was also rescued by police and SDRF personnel in a joint operation in Niki Tawi area in Jammu this morning. The driver Mohan Lal, a resident of Gole-Gujral, was rescued in a daring effort after his dumper got submerged in river Tawi around 5. 40 am, the officials said. They said no fresh traffic was allowed on Jammu-Srinagar national highway owing to accumulation of snow between Ramsoo and Qazigund, shooting of stones, landslides and mudslides at various places between Nashri and Banihal. The traffic on the highway was suspended around 7 pm on Thursday, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded, the officials said. The traffic on Batote-Doda road was also closed due to landslides at Ragi Nallah, while several other roads, including Bhaderwah-Chamba, Mughal road and Sinthan road also remained closed due to heavy snowfall in the higher reaches, the officials said.

Orange warning issued for heavy snow, rains in parts of Himachal

The local MeT has issued an orange warning of heavy to very heavy rains and snow at isolated places in Mandi, Kangra, Kullu and Chamba districts

Stocks To Buy: Abbott India, Bajaj Finance, Bharat Forge, Chambal Fertilizers

Analysts have buy calls on these stocks this Thursday.

HC orders probe into tribal land deal in Gwalior-Chambal

BHOPAL: The Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed Ashok Nagar district collector to probe cases where lands belonging to tribals are being grabbed or disposed of by influential individuals. Ashok Nagar district collector shall conduct an inquiry into the instances or cases of last ten years, where lands belonging to members of ST community are being grabbed or disposed of by influential persons, including those holding different offices, the Gwalior bench of the high court said in its Tuesday order. It will also be the collectors duty to conduct inquiry in respect of bonded labourers working in such agricultural fields/households or any other place under the domination of such powerful persons. The collector shall have to ensure that no bonded labour work in his district as it is contrary to constitutional and statutory provisions. The collector should file a detailed reply within two weeks, a bench said. The HC order came following submissions by the counsel for the state about cases of land grab in Ashok Nagar of Gwalior-Chambal region. The counsel submitted that it was a common practice that lands of tribals are being grabbed by influential people or they are being persuaded to dispose of their land on meagre sum. A tribal, Chotelal Adivasi, had filed a habeas corpus petition, alleging that his wife Munni Bai is under illegal confinement of some people. However, his wife informed that she was not under anyones illegal confinement, but living at her brothers residence in Mungaoli area. She also informed the court that her husband is serving Hardeep Randhawa as bonded labour, owing to which she wants protection, as she is facing threat to life. During the course of court hearing, the possibility of Randhawa actually being behind the filing of the petition by Chotelal Adivasi, came to the fore. That Dharampal Sharma and Gaurav Sharma tried to influence and intimidate the petitioner in the courtroom indicates that they wanted to keep the petitioner and corpus (petitioners wife) silent about their possibly evil designs, the court observed.

Stock Radar | Chambal Fertilizer is trading near the breakout zone; is it time to buy?

Stock Radar: Long-term trend intact! Chambal Fertilizer trading above 200-EMA

National Embroidery month: Celebrating the rare traditional embroideries of India!

The delicate embroideries of India have a history to behold, that tells the centuries old stories of varied artistry and craftsmanship depicting the rich and diverse cultures of India. Some of these are the rarest of the rare, having lost their significance and are hidden somewhere in the weaving looms or in the corners of the subcontinent. As we come to an end to the National Embroidery month, it is time that we recognize the talent of the craftsmen who create and art through a thread and needle in hand. Let us take you to an embroidery journey from the North to the South of India, exploring some of the rare and the most traditional embroideries of India: Crewel Embroidery (Kashmir) The Crewel embroidery has been in existence since the 11 th century, being an indigenous craft of Kashmir. The art form in its prime was once admired by the Mughal Emperors as well as the Queen Elizabeth of England. Crewelwork is a kind of free surface embroidery crafted on wool, with no particular style of patterns. Earlier, the embroidery was done on linen twill, but now silk, cotton velvet, silk organza are also used. Now the embroidery is done on cushions, curtains and other home dcor items. Chamba Rumal Embroidery (Himachal Pradesh) The royal women of the Chamba region of Himachal Pradesh flourished this traditional embroidery since the 17 th century in princely hill states. It has a distinct style with small rectangles and squares, embroidered with silk threads, thin metal wires or metallic yarn identical on both the sides. It was mostly used in wedding gifts and ceremonial coverings, especially brides dowry. The embroidery often depicted gods and goddesses in its patterns drawn by women and children, later skilled craftsmen. The Chamba embroidery has lost its significance, sacredness and essence, with families keeping the art alive only fir survival. Shamilami Embroidery (Manipur) Shalimali is basically a blend of weaving and embroidery featuring animal designs. It was once considered to be a symbol of high class, that people wore for their recognition of bravery and heroism by the King. The embroidery was adorned on a three paneled traditional shawl for the warriors with some bold tribal motifs that were incorporated as a belief to offer protection in a battle. Similar versions can be observed in Nagaland as well. Khneng Embroidery (Meghalaya) Khneng (meaning border) is a 200-year-old Khasi embroidery that belongs to Mustoh village of Meghalaya. The Khasi community practices the craft, with the designs reflecting their belief and connect to nature. It was inspired by a local insect called Kitiar. Mustoh is the only known village practicing Khneng embroidery, deeply rooted in the culture of Khasis. Khneng is traditionally done on eri silk shawls. Sujini Embroidery (Bihar) Sujini embroidery originated in the 1920s in the Bhunsura village of Bihar originally as a form of quilting. The simple elegant styles on vibrant shades of silk and cotton are known for the kantha running stitch. The motifs featured include geometric shapes and symbols of nature. Sujini embroidery often depicts storytelling by women, about resilience and overcoming hardships. The craft almost became extinct and was revived in 1988. It is now protected under the GI Act. Pipli Embroidery (Odisha) The Pipli embroidery has its origins back to 12 th century from the Pipli village of Odisha. Bright patterned fabric pieces are stitched together on a plain cloth, mostly velvet. Mirror and lacework is also done, along with stitching of patterns. Based on the patchwork it began to be known as Chandua. Originally, pipli work began to be done in the Jagannath Puri culture during the Rath Yatra, the designs reflected the same. And nowadays, Pipli embroidery can be found in home dcor items. Rabari Embroidery (Gujarat) Rabari embroidery is practiced by the nomadic Rabari or Rewari community of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The colorful, vibrant and vivid patterns of Rabari very much reflect upon the women who make it. Traditionally, the designs, motifs and patterns depicted upon the mythological and historical events of the past. Mirrors of all shapes and sizes are also added to the embroidery, for the belief that it will protect from evil spirits. Gujarat is also home to another traditional embroidery, the Karchobi embroidery which was introduced in the 17 th century. It is a type of Mochi embroidery that belongs to the Kutch region. Karchobi embroidery could be observed on bridal outfits, temple chariots and tent hangings. Kasuti Embroidery (Karnataka) Kasuti translates to Kai, meaning hand and suti which is weave or wrap. The embroidery has its origin back to the Chalukya rule from the 6 th to 12 th century in North Karnataka. In Kasuti embroidery, there is a single thread which involves the counting of each thread on the cloth. Both sides of the cloth look identical, as the stitching of the patterns is without any knots. It was inspired by the local rangoli patterns, with those of a chariot, palanquin, lamps began to be formed through stiches like Gavanti, Murgi, Negi among others. Toda Embroidery (Tamil Nadu) The name of the embroidery is derived from the tribe that embroiders it, the Toda or Todu community of Nilgiris. You can witness sacred red and black patterns on shawls called poothkuli. Designs made by them reflect on their ancestors tattoos that are believed to guide spirits to the afterlife. Practiced by women, the embroidery has its own unique style called pugur, which means flower. The designs also stylize sun, moon, stars and the eyes of peacock feathers. The rarest embroidered threads are the most delicate and fragile. In the modern era, the traditional embroideries need to be cherished and appreciated a lot more. Also, it is time to preserve the craft and its craftsmanship for the coming generations, so that the legacy and tradition continues aheadbefore they turn into absolute oblivion.

Heavy snowfall cuts off Lahaul Valley, Manali-Leh Highway closed

CHANDIGARH: The Manali-Leh Highway has been closed for vehicular traffic following heavy snowfall in higher areas of several districts in Himachal Pradesh, cutting off Lahaul Valley from the rest of the state and leaving both locals and tourists stranded. With snow accumulation reaching up to 60 cm on the road connecting the North Portal of the Atal Tunnel to Keylong-Jispa, the route has become impassable. The tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti is experiencing severe weather conditions. In response, the Lahaul-Spiti police have issued a travel advisory urging all travellers to avoid the Manali-Leh route until further notice. The closure has significantly impacted transportation, halting vehicular movement on the affected stretch. Road users have been advised to remain patient and stay updated through official channels regarding road conditions and weather. Tourists planning to travel in or out of the area have been urged to adjust their plans accordingly. Deputy Commissioner of Lahaul-Spiti, Rahul Kumar, stated that efforts to restore road connectivity would begin as soon as weather conditions improve. The Border Roads Organisation and the PWD are on standby and will deploy their workforce and machinery to clear key roads once the weather permits, he said. Kumar also cautioned people against unnecessary travel, particularly into high-altitude areas prone to snow avalanches. Following heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Manali, roads beyond Nehru Kund have been closed to most vehicles. Additionally, National Highway 5 (Hindustan-Tibet Road) has been shut at Narkanda due to snow, with traffic now being diverted from Sainj to Shimla via Luhri. Since Wednesday night, Shilaroo recorded 5 cm of snowfall, followed by Gondla with 3 cm, Kalpa 1.3 cm, and Sangla 0.3 cm. The upper areas of Manali, Narkanda, Rohru, Chansal, and Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti also witnessed snowfall. Several areas across the state received light to moderate rainfall, with Dalhousie recording the highest at 22 mm, followed by Sundernagar with 21 mm, Bharmour 18.2 mm, Dharamshala 16.8 mm, Manali 16 mm, Mandi and Kangra 14.4 mm each, Bhuntar 13.6 mm, Bilaspur 13 mm, and Una 10 mm. The state capital, Shimla, was lashed by thunderstorms and received mild rainfall. The Met Office has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall, snowfall, and thunderstorms in the districts of Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, and Mandi on Thursday. It also warned that a fresh Western Disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from 24 February onwards. The state has recorded an average rainfall of 33 mm during the winter season from 1 January to 20 February, significantly below the normal of 154 mma deficit of 79 per cent.

Ammonia gas leak at Kota fertilizer plant leaves dozens of school children ill

KOTA: Panic gripped parts of Kota, Rajasthan, on Saturday following a hazardous ammonia gas leak from the Chambal Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited (CFCL) factory in Gadepan. The toxic gas spread to a nearby government higher secondary school, leaving numerous students struggling to breathe. Dozens fell ill, with several losing consciousness and others vomiting. A total of 25 students were reported to be unwell, and 14 were admitted to CFCLs hospital. Among them, six critically ill students were later referred to Kota District Hospital. The leak occurred during school hours when the children were attending their morning classes. The school, located just a stones throw from the factoryseparated by only a boundary wallwas immediately affected. Alarmed, worried parents rushed to the hospital, while some students received initial treatment at the CFCL plant's medical facility. Dr. R.K. Sharma from CFCLs hospital confirmed the admission of 14 children, with one staff member also affected. Thankfully, all the patients are now stable, he said. Early reports indicate that the incident began with an unusual smell in the area, noticed by local residents and students alike. Many students had earlier complained of dizziness and headaches, but the situation worsened rapidly around 11:30 a.m., when several children fainted. The school principal, Ranjana Sharma, reported that the gas leak happened at the time of the morning assembly. When CFCL management was contacted, they downplayed the situation, claiming that the gas release was part of a routine process and that any emission had been minimized. However, the gravity of the situation soon became clear as more students began collapsing, prompting the school administration to declare an immediate holiday. Deputy Superintendent of Police, Rajesh Dhaka, reported that the first signs of distress appeared around 10:30 a.m. when a few studentswho had stepped out to fetch waterbegan experiencing breathlessness upon returning to class. As the number of affected students swelled, efforts to transport them to medical care intensified. Hemant Kumar, a school employee, recounted the harrowing experience of transporting several students to the hospital. I carried children on my shoulders and made multiple trips to the hospital. Eventually, I began feeling dizzy and my throat burned, he said. District Collector Dr. Ravindra Goswami visited the affected areas, including the factory and local hospitals, and confirmed that the exact cause of the leak is yet to be determined. He assured that the Pollution Control Board has been notified and an investigation will be carried out. While CFCL has promised a thorough inquiry, local residents are up in arms, demanding immediate and strict action against the company. The incident has raised serious questions about the safety of children attending schools in proximity to industrial facilities. As the investigation unfolds, the key concern remains whether authorities will take meaningful action or if this incident will fade into the background, as so many others before it.

16 students fall sick after ammonia gas leak from fertilizer plant in Rajasthans Kota

The government senior secondary school and the plant of Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Limited share boundaries. The children complained of nausea and fainted after inhaling the gas just after the morning assembly ended. State Education Minister Madan Dilawar said the company will face action if negligence on its part is proved.

Madhya Pradesh deputy LoP Hemant Katare, family booked in ISBT land allotment case

Bhopal: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Madhya Pradesh has registered a case against Hemant Katare, Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Vidhan Sabha and a second-time Congress MLA from the Gwalior-Chambal region, along with his family members, over alleged irregularities in the allotment of land under the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) project in Bhopal. The case, which dates back to 2004, was registered following a complaint filed by C.R. Dutta, a resident of Harsh Vardhan Nagar, Bhopal. The complaint was forwarded to the EOW by the states General Administration Department (GAD). A preliminary enquiry into the matter was initiated in 2015, and after a long investigation, a regular case was filed on Wednesday against Katare, his brother Yogesh Katare, his mother Meera Katare, and sister-in-law Ruchi Katarewho are all partners in the commercial entity M/S High-Speed Motors. Several officials from the Bhopal Development Authority (BDA) at the time, including then CEO K.P. Rahi and OSD Manoj Verma, have also been named as co-accused. According to the EOW, investigations established that the plot allotted to M/S High Speed Motors under the Kushabhau Thakre Inter-State Bus Terminal scheme was granted in violation of existing regulations. The land use was allegedly changed to commercial, and the price of the allotted plot was determined without a tender process, giving undue benefits to the company. The accused have been booked under Sections 420, 468, and 471 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), among other related provisions. Reacting to the FIR, Hemant Katare alleged that the case was politically motivated. The matter dates back to 2004. Even the preliminary enquiry was registered in 2015. Why did it take so long for the EOW to register a case? This is a clear-cut matter of political vendetta against me and my family, he said. He further stated, Even during the previous BJP regime, not one, but six cases were registered against me, all of which were later quashed by the court. This case will also meet the same fate. Even my late father, the then Leader of Opposition Satyadev Katare, was targeted in a similar manner by the BJP government when he raised concerns about the Vyapam scam. Katare also pointed out that his septuagenarian mother had been named in the case, claiming it was an attempt to silence him. The case has been registered against me and my family, including my elderly mother, just to intimidate me. But I wont be gaggedI will continue to expose corruption vociferously. The Congress leader has been vocal about the recent high-profile case involving former transport department constable Saurabh Sharma, who amassed massive wealth. Katare has alleged links between Sharma and ministers from both the present and past BJP governments.

A second home for the cheetahs

Atop the Malwa plateau on the banks of the Chambal river, Madhya Pradeshs Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is poised to welcome the second batch of translocated cheetahs in India. Mehul Malpani travels to the sanctuary to gauge the excitement of forest officials, who claim cheetahs lived in the region centuries ago, juxtaposed with the anxiety of residents in the surrounding villages who say the preparations have impacted their livelihood

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Here are all the top 'buy' calls from analysts you need to know about on Thursday.

More cheetah cubs released in wild at Kuno

BHOPAL: In a first, three cheetah cubs were set free into the free-range forests of Madhya Pradeshs Kuno National Park (KNP) after more than seven decades on Wednesday. Earlier, MP CM Dr Mohan Yadav released two female cubs, including Aasha, the Namibian mother of three cubs and South African female Dheera into the wild at the KNP in Sheopur district of states Gwalior-Chambal region. The development came after South African female Veera gave birth to two healthy cubs at the same national park which has been the home to African cheetahs since September 2022. The five cheetahs released will join the South African male coalition Agni and Vayu who were released from the big enclosures into the free ranging forests in December 2024. We are feeling happy after releasing the female cheetahs and three cubs in the open jungles of Kuno. The jungle will be inhabited by these cheetahs and Palpur-Kuno will get a new identity in the tourism sector, said the CM.

Himachal's Tourist Hotspots Receives Fresh Snow, Met Department Predicts Thunderstorms Ahead

Isolated places in Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti, and Chamba districts received snow.

Fresh snowfall in popular tourist towns of Himachal; Met issues thunderstorm warning

Shimla, Feb 5: Fresh snowfall was recorded in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, with the Met office issuing a yellow alert for thunderstorm and lightning in some districts on Wednesday. Isolated places in Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti, and Chamba districts received snow. According to the Met office, snowfall was recorded in the famous tourist resort towns of Narkanda and Kufri in Shimla district, Dalhousie in Chamba, and Manali and adjoining areas in Kullu. There were also reports [] The post Fresh snowfall in popular tourist towns of Himachal; Met issues thunderstorm warning appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

ED conducts searches in Madhya Pradesh in money laundering probe against milk products company

BHOPAL: The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at multiple locations across Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday as part of a money laundering investigation into a milk products company and its promoters-directors. They are accused of supplying adulterated milk products both domestically and internationally. The ED conducted searches at multiple premises related Jayshri Gayatri Food Products Pvt Limited, its promoters and its directors in the state capital Bhopal, adjoining Sehore district and Morena district of the Gwalior-Chambal region. The searched premises included the companys manufacturing unit in Sehore district, the premises of the promoters and directors in Bhopal, besides related premises in Morena district. The searches were carried out six months after the states economic offence wing (EOW) had conducted similar searches at the premises related to the same private company and its officials at multiple places in MP. The searches were part of the investigations into allegations about the concerned company manufacturing and selling adulterated milk products. It has also been alleged that milk products were being exported to more than 20 countries, including countries in South East Asia, the Middle East and Africa, using fake laboratory reports. The EOW has already registered a case of cheating, forgery and conspiracy to use forged documents as originals. According to informed sources, there is also information about the company having made major payments to some entities in an African nation.

Dadenggre-ko district songchina dabie CM-na memo ona

TURA: Dadenggre Civil Sub-Division-ko chugimik district-ni gadangona radoatchina dabienba All People Movement for Dadenggre District (APMDD) aro dingtang dingtang NGO aro Nokma dilgiparang nangrimenba, adokni Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma-na memorandum-ko onangaha. Chief Minister-na sedoatgipa chittio APMDD-ni parakatani gitade, Dadenggre Civil Sub-Division-ko 1982 bilsion bikotahani gimin ian adoko gitchambatsranggipa Civil Sub-Division-rangoni damsa ongenga aro ia [] The post Dadenggre-ko district songchina dabie CM-na memo ona appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Bhopal Diary: DyCM challenged by woman MLA over grants

DyCM challenged by woman MLA over grants Deputy CM and Health Minister Rajendra Shukla was taken aback during a recent event at the Sidhi district hospital. At the programme, Riti Pathak, a two-time former MP and first-time BJP MLA from the Sidhi seat, questioned Shukla about the status of Rs 7 crore sanctioned for upgrading facilities at the district hospital. I have written multiple letters to you, but am still awaiting a response. As a public representative, its my right to question you, she remarked. According to political observers, this is possibly the first time that a woman MLA from the BJP has publicly challenged Shukla a prominent figure in Vindhya region. Vidhayak Pratinidhis for police stations Pritam Lodhi, BJP MLA from Pichhore seat of Gwalior-Chambal region, is making headlines for appointing his representatives at police stations in Shivpuri district. The legislator, who faces multiple criminal charges, has designated Vidhayak Pratinidhis for three police stations -- Mayapur, Bamorkalan, and Khaniyadhana. In three letters addressed to the district collector, the MLAs states these representatives will participate in meetings of the police stations concerned. However, this move has faced criticism not only for the opposition Congress but also from various factions within in the local BJP unit. Remove earthworms, dig deeper for pythons Remove the earthworms, then dig deeper for the pythons, said former CM Uma Bharti as she likened the elusive crorepati former transport department constable, Saurabh Sharma to an earthworm. Indicating that an in-depth investigation may reveal significant figures associated with Sharma, Bharti said, I urge Mohan Yadav to remove the earthworm (Sharma) from its pit. Only then will it be able to dig deeper to uncover the big pythons lurking beneath. Sharma is being sought by multiple investigative agencies, including I-T department and ED.

Bhalessa Meri Jaan A tribute to ethno linguistic culture of Bhalessa

Sadaket Malik Bhalessa, Historically recognized as a paragna in the jagir of Maharaja Amar Singh, it carries the legacy of Queen Bhalla of Raja Nagpal, who traversed these lands en route to Chamba. The Takri records and accounts of travelers like Frederick Drew bear evidence to the ethnic richness and the Pahari dwellers of this land besides the pahari linguistic Paradise as classified by Dr GA Grierson. Today, with Bhalessa Meri Jaan, Raja Sarfaraz, Sonali Dogra, and Ishfaq Kawa have [] The post Bhalessa Meri Jaan A tribute to ethno linguistic culture of Bhalessa appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Himachal to become the third state in India to legally cultivate cannabis for industrial and medicinal use

CHANDIGARH : Himachal Pradesh will become the third state in India, after Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh, to undertake controlled, legal cultivation of cannabis for industrial and medicinal use. The state hopes to generate additional revenue of about Rs 500 crore per annum. Due to its suitable agro-climatic conditions, cannabis grows naturally in regions such as Kullu, Manali, Mandi, Chamba, Shimla, and Sirmaur. The state cabinet approved the proposal yesterday. The cabinet has authorised the revenue department to undertake controlled cannabis cultivation in the state and to conduct a pilot study on cannabis cultivation, which will be jointly carried out by two universities: Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Krishi Vishvavidyalaya at Palampur in Kangra district, and Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture at Nauni in Solan district. The study will assess and recommend the future roadmap for this initiative, and the agriculture department has been designated as the nodal agency for cannabis cultivation. This decision was made during the state cabinet meeting held at Dharamshala in Kangra district on Friday. At present, Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh are engaged in cannabis cultivation, primarily for use in the pharmaceutical sector to prepare medicines. Sources indicate that the agriculture department, designated as the nodal agency, will work out the modalities for beginning cannabis cultivation. The department has been given six months to prepare all the required guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs), including selecting the cannabis species most suitable for the pharmaceutical sector. Additionally, the department will establish seed banks to supply farmers who will be issued licenses, ensuring that the seeds provided contain a low narcotic content. Another significant challenge will be procuring hemp seeds with less than 0.3% THC content to prevent their use for narcotic purposes. The state will also need to create specialised labs to produce high-quality seeds suitable for the medicinal and industrial sectors, according to sources. Furthermore, the state government will need to amend the state Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Rules, 1985, for this purpose and ensure strict regulation, including specialised excise staff for monitoring and enforcement. Last year, the state assembly adopted a resolution endorsing the recommendations of the committee headed by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi to amend the NDPS rules for this purpose. The committee had submitted its report to the state government on September 22, 2023. The report recommended cannabis cultivation for industrial and medicinal use under Sections 10 and 14 of the NDPS Act. The committee suggested allowing the cultivation of cannabis for industrial purposes, such as obtaining fibre or seed or for horticultural purposes, in compliance with Section 14 of the NDPS Act, with cultivation limited to open areas. The committee prepared the report after visiting Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand to gather firsthand insights from experts involved in non-narcotic cannabis cultivation.

Himachal Pradesh: People threaten to launch mass agitation against hydroelectric projects

CHANDIGARH: People are up in arms against the Himachal Pradesh government's plan to commission mega hydroelectric projects in the Chenab basin located across Kullu, Chamba,Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti and Shimla districts. The projects ranging from 6.5 MW to 400 MW pose significant threat to the delicate ecosystem of the region as it is home to fragile Himalayan glaciers and diverse biodiversity. The local residents, social activists and environmentalists have expressed serious concern over the projects. They have threatened to launch a mass agitation in Lahaul Spiti if the state government goes ahead with the plan. Talking with this newspaper, Advocate Sudarshan Thakur, a member of the people's movement against the 400 MW Seli hydro project around a decade back says, he main reason for opposing these large-scale hydroelectric projects in the Chenab basin is the seismic vulnerability of environmentally fragile Lahaul and Spiti as it is situated in seismic zones 4 and 5. This makes it highly susceptible to earthquakes and has a potential for widespread environmental damage. Moreover, the other reasons for opposing the project include climate change and unbridled development carried out with an eye on local tourism potentials. Thus these projects could exacerbate the regions vulnerability to natural disasters such as landslides and floods, the advocate said. Instead of going for big projects the government should look at the possibilities of small projects which are of 10 to 25 MG upto a maximum of 100 MG which does not require construction of dams and are environment-friendly. Already in few villages cracks have appeared in houses in Lindoor village, he added. Guman Singh, an environmentalist and coordinator of Himalaya Niti Abhiyan said, These mega hydel projects should be banned above 6000 feet height across Himalayan region especially in the Chenab basin of Lahaul Spiti as it is frangile area and can cause soil erosion, landslides also in depletion of glaciers and making a glacier of lakes and they can burst any time. As human activity will increase in this region the depletion of glaciers will also increase many fold as temperatures will rise. These mega-projects can cause habitat destruction, deforestation, and even displacement of communities. The government should not set-up these hydro projects in the eco-sensitive zones like Lahaul Spiti. Look at Kinnaur, how hydro projects have turned that place into a constant landslide zone, he said. Stressing the importance of promoting eco-tourism and emphasizing the need for sustainable development practices in the region, The Save Lahaul and Spiti Society, President BS Rana said, we strongly oppose the commissioning of mega hydroelectric projects in the Chenab Basin as these projects pose far more risk than beneficial. Many local residents believe that large-scale hydropower projects could irreversibly damage the environment of the Himalayan region, impacting water quality, agriculture and wildlife. The state government had recently announced 22 hydro-projects in Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, and Shimla districts ranging from 6.5 MW to 400 MW, with a combined capacity of 828 MW. Out of the proposed 22 projects, nine projects with a total capacity of 595 MW in the Chenab basin of Lahaul Spiti and 8 projects of 169 MW capacity will come up in the Satluj river basin, four projects of 55 MW in the Ravi basin, and one project of 9 MW in the Beas basin. Successive state governments in the last two decades have allotted at least seven hydro projects in Lahaul Spiti in Jispa, Rashel, Tandi, Bardang, Miyar, Tindi, Seli, and Reoli villages. But none of these projects have taken off due to stiff resistance from the locals.

Caste-based social boycott alleged over consumption of Dalit man's prasad in Madhya Pradesh village

BHOPAL: Residents of a village in Madhya Pradeshs Chhatarpur district have claimed they have been ostracised in their own village at the behest of the village sarpanch for consuming prasad (religious offering) given by a Dalit man. Around 20 families from Atrar village, who have alleged social boycott by another section of the village, come from a mix of communities, including scheduled castes, upper castes (particularly Brahmins), and other backward castes (OBCs). The issue began when a group led by the former village sarpanch, who belongs to the scheduled caste, accused the other group, led by the current Brahmin sarpanch, of ostracising them. They claimed this exclusion happened after they consumed laddoos distributed as prasad by an Ahirwar caste man (Ahirwars belong to the scheduled caste), following the fulfilment of a long-standing wish some months ago. On the other hand, the group led by the current sarpanch has denied the allegations, approaching the Chhatarpur district police. They have asserted that the accusations against them are false and stem from long-standing differences between the two factions. Both the police and the Chhatarpur district panchayat have initiated investigations into the matter. Confirming complaints from both sides, Chhatarpur district police superintendent Agam Jain said on Sunday that investigations are underway. The group alleging ostracisation claims they have been excluded from social events, such as marriages, due to their consumption of the prasad. It is worth noting that the former village sarpanch, who leads the group alleging ostracisation, has been at odds with the current sarpanch for years. The groups have had bitter disagreements, particularly after the current sarpanch and his supporters opposed the former sarpanch for allegedly squatting on Gram Sabha land several years ago. Furthermore, an upper-caste man from the group alleging ostracisation was previously accused in a murder case, which he believes was falsely lodged against him due to the rivalry with the other group. A police officer stated, Old conflicts of interest between the two groups may be behind this alleged ostracisation. Both groups have kept their distance from each other for a long time due to these long-standing tensions. Chhatarpur district, where the village is situated, is part of the Bundelkhand region. This region, along with Gwalior-Chambal, Vindhya, and parts of Malwa, is sharply divided along caste lines and has witnessed violent rivalries in the past based on caste differences. In a related incident from eight years ago, a nine-year-old scheduled caste boy from Damoh district in Bundelkhand drowned in a well after being denied access to a hand pump at his school due to his Dalit status.

State govt to allocate 22 new hydropower projects of 828 MW capacity: CM Sukhu

SHIMLA, Jan 2: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday said the state government is set to allocate 22 new hydropower projects with a total capacity of 828 MW. The projects, ranging from 6.5 MW to 400 MW, are located across the districts of Kullu, Chamba, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, and Shimla. He said the largest allocation comprising nine projects with a total capacity of 595 MW is planned for the Chenab river basin. Additionally, eight projects totalling 169 MW [] The post State govt to allocate 22 new hydropower projects of 828 MW capacity: CM Sukhu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Bhopal Diary | BJP to get new state prez in the beginning of 2025

Long-drawn speculations about who will be the next state BJP chief are likely to end in the beginning of the new year. According to sources , the successor to the incumbent and second-time Khajuraho MP VD Sharma is likely to be decided after January 14, when the inauspicious period of Kharmas will have ended. Though the leadership in Delhi is known to spring surprises, the names doing the rounds in party corridors, include former ministers Narottam Mishra, Lal Singh Arya, Arvind Bhadauria (all from Gwalior-Chambal region), and tribal politicians, including ex-union minister Faggan Singh Kulaste. BJP alleges Congress link in crorepati constable case Recent raids at the premises of former transport department constable-turned-businessman Saurabh Sharma has sparked yet another dispute in the long-drawn political rivalry between first-time BJP MLA from Pichhore seat of Shivpuri district Pritam Lodhi and six-time former Congress legislator from the seat, KP Singh Kakkajoo. Lodhi has linked the unaccounted wealth seized from Sharma to former minister Kakkajoo and also demanded a probe into it. Lodhi had lost two straight elections to Kakkajoo, before winning the seat in 2023, when the veteran Congress leader shifted to the Shivpuri seat. BJP MLA to fund language lessons in tiger reserve Former minister and senior most BJP MLA in the state Gopal Bhargava has announced plans to usher English and foreign languages to students of higher secondary schools located in areas close to the Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary (one of the two sanctuaries forming part of Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve). Inspired by PM Modis call to boost tourism potential of the state, particularly in Bundelkhand region, the nine-time legislator from Sagar district Bhargava announced that he would fund teaching of English and foreign languages at schools to help the students pursue careers in tourism sector. Anuraag singh Our correspondent in Madhya Pradesh singhanuraag.jaurno@gmail.com

Jammu-Srinagar highway reopens; flight services resume

The 270-km Jammu-Srinagar highway reopened on Sunday after a day-long closure due to heavy snowfall, allowing stranded vehicles to proceed to their destinations. However, several other important inter-district routes, including the Mughal Road, Sinthan Pass, Sonamarg-Kargil inter-UT road, and Bhaderwah-Chamba inter-state road, remained closed for vehicular traffic due to heavy snowfall.

Jammu-Srinagar Highway Reopens After Day-Long Closure Due To Snowfall

JAMMU, Dec 29: The 270-km Jammu-Srinagar highway was on Sunday reopened for vehicular traffic after a day-long closure due to heavy snowfall, allowing stranded vehicles to proceed to their respective destinations, officials said. However, several other important inter-district routes, including the Mughal Road, Sinthan Pass, Sonamarg-Kargil inter-UT road, and Bhaderwah-Chamba inter-state road, remained closed for vehicular traffic due to heavy snowfall. The highway has been reopened today following the clearance of snow accumulated on various stretches of the road, [] The post Jammu-Srinagar Highway Reopens After Day-Long Closure Due To Snowfall appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Srinagar-Jammu National Highway Thrown Open, Vehicles Allowed From Both Sides

JAMMU, Dec 29 : After remaining closed for 2 days, 270-kilometre long Srinagar-Jammu National Highway was thrown open for vehicular traffic on Sunday. Officials of the Traffic Department said that passenger vehicles have been allowed to ply on the highway from both sides. They advised commuters to follow lane discipline, as overtaking could cause congestion. They also urged drivers to exercise caution due to slippery road conditions between Banihal and Qazigund. Mughal Road, Sinthan Road, Sonamarg-Kargil Road, and Bhaderwah-Chamba Road [] The post Srinagar-Jammu National Highway Thrown Open, Vehicles Allowed From Both Sides appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Himachal Police rescues 8,000 tourists, 1,500 vehicles stranded by snowfall at Kullu

CHANDIGARH: Himachal Pradesh Police rescued around 8,000 tourists and 1,500 vehicles stranded due to heavy snowfall at Solang Nala of Kullu district on the Manali-Leh highway. Sources said that heavy snowfall affected Lahaul Valley and the Manali area. Traffic was abruptly halted due to a snowstorm leaving vehicles and tourists trapped. The local administration swiftly began rescue operations, by deploying teams of the Kullu Police to ensure the safety of the tourists and other passengers. A senior police official confirmed that all the tourists and vehicles were safely evacuated from snow-bound Solang Nala and transported to a secure location in Manali, away from the affected area. Traffic towards Solang Valley and Lahaul Valley on the Manali-Leh highway beyond Nehru Kund will be restricted in view of public safety. Sources noted that the road is maintained by the BRO, but it lacks evacuation facilities for emergencies, as all-wheel-drive vehicles, snow-clearing equipment, and salt are required to manage heavy snowfall. The district administration had issued warnings to tourists and locals, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel in the area due to the ongoing snowfall and hazardous road conditions. The authorities have been working to clear the highway and restore normalcy, but have cautioned that similar disruptions may occur if the snowfall persists. The administration is monitoring the situation closely and is coordinating with weather agencies to ensure prompt action in case of further weather-related disruptions. Earlier in post of X, Kullu Police wrote, Due to fresh snowfall today on 27.12.2024, about 1000 tourists and other vehicles were stuck in Solang Nala. There were about 5000 tourists in these vehicles. The vehicles and tourists have been rescued by Kullu Police and taken to safe places. The rescue operation is still going on. Heavy rainfall and snowfall were recorded in at least six districts of the state on Friday, including Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla, and Kinnaur. The IMD has issued an orange alert for snowfall and cold waves in the state on December 27 and 28. From December 29, a renewed cold wave is expected to impact the plains, including Bilaspur, Hamirpur, and Una districts. These areas, along with Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba, are likely to experience severe cold conditions until January 1. The IMD also warned of dense fog in isolated areas on January 1, which could reduce visibility and worsen travel conditions. The IMD has advised residents and travellers to remain cautious and take necessary precautions, especially in snow-affected regions, where road blockages and disruptions are expected.

MP Cabinet Approves Rs 35,000 Cr Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Projects

Bhopal : Sixteen projects proposed under the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project were on Thursday accorded administrative approval by the Mohan Yadav cabinet here. The state cabinet which met here under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav gave administrative approval to these projects by endorsing the revised Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project to be undertaken in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Briefing the reporters after the cabinet meeting, state water resources minister Tulsi Silawat said that the MoU was signed on January 28, 2024 between the Centre, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to prepare a detail project report for the revised Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project cum Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project. The Centre will bear 90 percent of the cost of the project whereas Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan will bear ten percent of costs of the project to be done in their respective states. The project proposes to provide irrigation in 4.73 lakh hectares in 1865 villages under ten districts of Guna, Shivpuri, Morena, Ujjain, Sehore, Indore, Dewas, Agar Malwa, Shajapur and Raigarh in Madhya Pradesh. Under the project, modernization of the Chambal right canal system would also be undertaken to ensure irrigation of 3.62 lakh hectares under 1205 villages of districts of Bhind, Morena and Sheopur in the state. The estimated cost of the projects proposed to be undertaken in Madhya Pradesh in the river linking project is Rs 35,000 crore. The cabinet also accorded approval to the Madhya Pradesh Birth and Death Registration Rules, 2024.

Himachal seeks free land transfer, grant-in-aid for cantonment areas

CHANDIGARH: The process of bringing six cantonment areas in Himachal Pradesh under municipalities has hit a roadblock. The state government has requested the Union Ministry of Defence (MoD) to transfer civilian area land along with its title rights free of cost to the state during the proposed excision of these cantonment boards. Additionally, it has demanded a special grant-in-aid from the Centre to cover establishment expenses. The move follows a new condition introduced by the ministry, stipulating that the land ownership rights would remain with the Union government even after transferring assets and liabilities from the army to the state governments. Sources revealed that Principal Secretary, Urban Development, Devesh Kumar, wrote to the Director, Defence Estates, Western Command, Yogesh Kumar, on November 27. The letter pointed out that the central government is only transferring the proprietary rights of the land to the state government for providing civic amenities and municipal services in the excised areas without transferring title rights. A copy of the letter, accessed by this newspaper, stated, In this context, on perusal of the guiding principles for excision of civil areas from cantonments and their merger with adjoining state municipalities issued by the Government of India, it seems that the Government of India is only transferring the proprietary rights to the state government over the assets for providing civic amenities and municipal services in the excised area without transferring the title rights over the land to the state government. You would agree that land is a basic factor for the socio-economic development of any area and, in the case concerned, due to rapid urbanisation in and around the cantonment boards, the ownership of land with MoD (GoI) may impede the development of social infrastructure (such as schools, anganwadis, hospitals). In addition, the laying of systems for better sanitation, drinking water, roads, and paths would also make the implementation process cumbersome. The letter further emphasised the need for full implementation of central and state-sponsored schemes for the welfare of civilians residing in these cantonments. It stated, The cantonment boards in the present scenario need the full-throttle application of the central and state-sponsored schemes for the welfare of the civilians residing in these cantonment boards, which requires the transferring of ownership over the built-up (except military stations) and vacant land to the state government, free of cost, on the analogy of cantonment board-khas Yol (Dharamsala) in the year 2023. Additionally, the state government highlighted the need for a special grant-in-aid from the Union Government to manage the establishment expenses, as the liabilities of the cantonment boards amount to Rs 30 crore annuallysix times higher than their revenue generation of Rs 5 crore. The letter also stressed the necessity of assessing the geotechnical feasibility before finalising timelines for separating assets. It stated that providing accessibility to military stations, alternate access to civilian areas, and joint civic amenitiesespecially in Jutogh and Dalhousie cantonmentsneeded careful planning. This correspondence was in response to a letter sent by the MoD to the Himachal Chief Secretary on July 5, asking for feedback on the proposed excision. Earlier, on June 25, the ministry had introduced the condition that land ownership rights would remain with the Union government even after transferring assets and liabilities to the state governments. This marked a shift from the ministrys earlier stance, under which proprietary rights over all assets in excised areas were to be transferred to state governments and municipalities free of cost. Himachal Pradesh has six cantonment boardsKasauli, Dagshai, and Subathu in Solan district; Jutogh in Shimla district; and Bakloh and Dalhousie in Chamba district. The separation of civil and army areas within these cantonments has been a longstanding demand of locals, as they lack ownership rights and are excluded from state-sponsored welfare schemes. Notably, on April 28 last year, Khas Yol Cantonment Board in Kangra district became the first in the country to be de-notified. Its civil area was excised from the cantonment and merged with the local panchayat body.